Onboard trial application of a Damage Control Support System (DCSS) prototype for low-carbon and autonomous vessels

Abstract

The increasing adoption of high-risk alternative fuels (e.g., methanol, ammonia) and large-scale battery/fuel cell systems necessitates enhanced onboard damage control solutions. Simultaneously, the evolution toward Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) reduces available crew capacity for emergency responses. To address these challenges, this study developed a new Damage Control Support System (DCSS), which simplifies and visualizes previously complex procedures using intuitive interfaces. The system was installed and tested on a 1MW-class Green Test Bed (K-GTB) vessel. The DCSS includes a scenario-based response engine with thousands of fire and flooding scenarios per vessel, intuitive operational protocols using ISO 23120-compliant coded graphic symbols, and a real-time decision-support loop based on more than 30 integrated sensors. The full system was deployed on a 2,600 GT-class K？GTB vessel, fully integrated with the propulsion and engine control system and supported by a subordinate Buoyancy Support System. It demonstrated real-time emergency handling capabilities under harsh marine conditions. This paper presents the DCSS design frame？work, technological challenges during implementation, verification strategies, and implications for international standardization. Keywords: Damage control, Autonomous ship, Alternative fuel, Emergency response, Buoyancy support, Graphic symbol