code_of_practice_V3_2019

5.2 INTERNATIONAL DEFINITION OF AUTOMATION LEVELS IN INLAND NAVIGATION
5.2.1 Automated navigation covers a wide range of technical solutions and addresses cases ranging from a simple
navigation assistance to a fully automated navigation. Although technology synergies are expected with the
maritime sector, CCNR has emphasized the specificities of inland water transport that should be taken into
account, such as:
n The composition of crews
n Navigation in enclosed and restricted conditions
n The passage of locks
n The height of the water level and under bridges
n The manoeuvrability of vessels.
5.2.2 During its plenary meeting in December 2018, CCNR adopted a first international definition of levels of automation
in inland navigation by its resolution 2018-II-16 in order to ensure a clear understanding of automated navigation
as a whole and support further work, including the analysis of the regulatory needs. It was aimed at improving
safety and functionality of navigation of the Rhine and European inland navigation in whole, promoting innovation
and ensuring the uniformity and consistency of the legal framework and technical standards applicable on the
Rhine. This definition is valid till 31 December 2020, given that it may be subject to modifications based on the
experience and knowledge acquired.
5.2.3 CCNR invited the European Commission, the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE), the Danube Commission,
the Mosel Commission, the International Sava River Basin Commission, CCNR observer States, the European
Committee for the development of standards in the field of inland navigation (CESNI) and associations recognized
by CCNR to apply this definition in the context of relevant initiatives or work, in particular, in the regulatory
activities.
5.2.4 The definition of automation levels in inland navigation is given below. For this purpose, the following terms and
definitions are applied:
n “Dynamic navigation tasks”: the set of tactical vessel operations, such as operation of the rudder apparatus,
propulsion, anchor winches or elevating wheelhouse. The complexity of these tasks depends upon the context
considered (for example, the manipulation of anchor winches can be excluded, where the use of anchors is
forbidden anyway).
n “Context-specific”: confined navigational conditions such as navigation on specific waterway sections or lock
crossing, as well as vessel arrangements with convoys or platooning. The context includes the infrastructure
relevant for automation, for example, the type and capacity of radio transmission networks.
n “Navigational environment”: fixed and dynamic conditions affecting navigation, such as the shape of a
waterway, the water level, weather conditions, visibility, vessel crossing and other factors. The navigation
automation system is able to use only a part of the available information (for example, under level 1, rate-ofturn
indicators do not use information on vessel crossing). The response to the navigational environment
includes the radiocommunication with boatmasters of other vessels.
n “Collision avoidance”: the critical task in responding to the environmental conditions (other vessels, bridges,
etc.).
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