Towards utilizing autonomous ships: A viable advance in industry 4.0

Abstract

ABSTRACT The maritime world is rapidly evolving, and the impact of new technologies on the reduction of manning onboard vessels, leading eventually to unmanned large ships, has taken huge steps forward. Autonomous cargo ships, also known as autonomous container ships or maritime autonomous surface ships, are ocean-going vessels that carry containers or bulk cargo with little or no human interaction. This paper seeks to explore the impact of autonomous ships on the shipping industry by comparing and finding feasibility with the industry 4.0. The primary and most useful features of autonomous ships have been identified. Moreover, the advantages of autonomous ships have been shown and explained with their impacts. Some upcoming challenges are also pointed out. Extreme situation scenario (like the COVID-19 scenario) has been briefly discussed. Finally, an overall SWOT analysis is conducted.