Team task complexity analysis in MASS operation using a fuzzy TOPSIS method

Despite the growing interest in Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), research on the task complexity in MASS operation remains limited, creating a gap in understanding how to optimize task allocation and system design. This study aims to develop a team task complexity evaluation model applicable to Degree of Autonomy 2 (DoA 2) operation of MASS. Firstly, in the qualitative analysis section, a task complexity framework tailored to the specific features of DoA 2 MASS operational teams is proposed. Secondly, in the quantitative analysis section, an innovative evaluation model based on fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is developed. This model involves two main components. In the first part, four key characteristics are quantified to illustrate task complexity across four dimensions for MASS operational teams. In the second part, fuzzy TOPSIS is applied to aggregate and rank these characteristics, using a combined weighting approach based on subjective and entropy weights. Finally, based on the simplified structure and established task complexity framework, nine typical tasks for MASS operational teams are selected for case study to analysis task complexity. The results reveal that MASS operational team tasks involve extensive information exchange, requiring operators with professional knowledge. Among them, team collaboration tasks exhibit the highest complexity. It makes significant contributions to the optimization of task and system design for MASS operation. • A comprehensive evaluation model integrated the specific features of DoA 2 MASS operational teams is proposed. • The proposed method extends the applicability of model through the integration of Fuzzy TOPSIS. • The proposed model mitigates the interference of subjective data on evaluation. • The task complex of typical tasks for DoA 2 MASS operational teams are analysed from four dimensions.