Enhancing Ship Bridge Design for Navigation Performance

Abstract

In recent decades, rapid technology implementation in ship bridges have raised concerns about their role in contributing to human error and maritime accidents. Critical gaps emerge in our understanding of the interplay with system factors and human performance within this dynamic context. Accident investigations often overlook technology-related factors, as it is assumed that operators are already familiar with how their equipment works. This study aims to address these gaps by exploring how technology, ergonomics and human performance interact to influence navigational efficiency and safety. This study employs a qualitative approach by conducting semi-structured interviews with 20 maritime professionals. Additionally, situation awareness theory is applied to demonstrate how system complexity and poor ergonomics disrupt perception, comprehension and projection in maritime operations. The findings reveal that system complexity, lack of integration and alert overload negatively affect performance. Inconsistent user interfaces and inadequate equipment placement compromise situation awareness and increase cognitive load. Holistic design approaches with user involvement and standardization that integrates multivendor systems are identified as potential solutions. In addition, advanced technology such as AI and matrix solutions show future promise in enhancing situation awareness and operational efficiency. The thesis contributes to the empirical understanding of how ship bridge design influence navigator performance. Practical recommendations include standardizing user interfaces, improving equipment placement, adopting stricter regulations and implementing human centered design approaches to enhance navigational safety and efficiency.