MEGURI2040 公布第二階段成果：四艘實證船取得國土交通省自動運航船認證

常見問題

Q: What is MEGURI2040?

A: MEGURI2040 is a project promoted by The Nippon Foundation since 2020, aiming to realize unmanned navigation and stable transportation of people and goods by addressing urgent issues in the maritime industry, such as crew shortages and accidents caused by human error.

Q: What does "autonomous navigation Level 4" mean in this context?

A: Autonomous navigation Level 4 implies a high degree of automation where the vessel can operate independently under specific conditions, with human monitoring and the ability for intervention when necessary. The system integrates surrounding awareness, navigation status display, future behavior prediction, and route planning for autonomous decision-making.

Q: How is the safety of autonomous vessels ensured?

A: Safety is ensured through an integrated operational system that includes onboard systems, communication systems, and shore-based support systems. These vessels operate in conjunction with shore-based centers via stable communication lines (satellite and mobile), allowing for simultaneous monitoring and support of multiple vessels, thus enhancing redundancy and safety.

Q: What was Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' role in the project?

A: Mitsui O.S.K. Lines participated in the existing domestic container ship working group. They collaborated with other companies to automate existing domestic container ships through retrofitting, leveraging their expertise in operational and ship management. They also oversaw the project, conducted risk assessments, and prepared for the autonomous ship inspection.

Q: What are the benefits of autonomous shipping as envisioned by this project?

A: The project aims to solve social issues in the maritime industry, including crew shortages due to an aging population, reducing the labor burden on seafarers, and preventing maritime accidents. Ultimately, it seeks to realize safe and secure maritime transportation.