DCPA simulation model for automatic collision avoidance decision making systems using fuzzy sets

Decision making in collision avoidance is one of the major problems in ship manoeuvring. The basis of ships collision avoidance decision making at sea is the Collision Regulations which prescribe that two encountered vessels should pass at a safe distance. In this paper, several fuzzy sets are introduced to simulate the mariners´ collision avoidance decision making behaviour and their psychology. Simulation models are established on an action to avoid collision in head-on, creasing and overtaking situations, in restricted waters in traffic separation schemes, in restricted visibility and with obstacles. This work lays a theoretical foundation on for the development of marine traffic simulation and automatic collision avoidance systems. Finally, an investigation on the mariners´ behaviour is reviewed, and a simulation conducted to compare with other studies