Numerical Simulation of Collision Avoidance Behavior of Typical Ships in Construction Channel of the Yangtze River

Renovation projects are necessary to maintain the sustainable development of waterway transportation. During the construction period, certain navigable areas are occupied, which can lead to collisions between ships and working vessels. It is urgent to study navigation safety through collision avoidance due to the increasing demand for waterway transport. This paper analyzes the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of ship traffic flow in the Fujiangsha section of the Yangtze River, and the collision risk of this dangerous construction channel was evaluated. Then, a numerical model of ship collision avoidance is built, and the simulation results can well reflect the collision avoidance behaviors of typical ships in the Yangtze River at different speeds. Considering the safety and economy of ship navigation, it is recommended to place a warning ship 1 km ahead of the construction ship. This will alert passing ships to slow down to 9 knots beforehand. The proposed numerical method can be used to predict ship collision avoidance behaviors and safe distance. This will help the waterway management department scientifically evaluate the construction channel's risk and make navigation suggestions.