Functions
State which navigation, payload and recovery functions each mode performs.
Reading method · 02
Declare mode and authority
Separate manual, remote, supervised and autonomous functions, then assign authority for every transition.
Evidence statusCross-domain mission framework · vehicle, operation and jurisdiction validation requiredLast reviewed: 15 August 2026
02
FUURAA thesis
Autonomy is a function-and-authority map, not a single label attached to the vehicle.
Engineering map
Turn the title into engineering objects that can be observed, measured and reviewed.
Each layer states the boundary to establish and the evidence needed for the next decision.
Authority
Name who may start, override, abort, degrade or resume the mission.
Handover
Define cues, latency, competence and confirmation for every transfer.
Verification questions
Write the questions first, then decide whether a demo, test, pilot or operating record can answer them.
Each question needs an object, conditions, denominator, threshold and accountable decision owner.
- 01
Which functions are actually autonomous?
- 02
Who remains responsible in each mode?
- 03
What triggers a mode change?
- 04
Can the receiver reconstruct system state?
Evidence to preserve
Enable the next reader to reconstruct conditions, results, failures and the decision.
A conclusion alone loses reviewability; raw records, configuration and exclusions matter too.
- 01
Evidence package 1
Mode and function matrix
- 02
Evidence package 2
Authority and responsibility register
- 03
Evidence package 3
Handover and override test record
Scope boundary
State what this evidence still cannot be generalised to.
- 01
Remote operation, supervised autonomy and autonomous control create different evidence and responsibility requirements.
- 02
This is an engineering reading and decision framework; it does not replace application-specific risk assessment, conformity work, procurement acceptance or professional advice.
Sources and evidence status
Read standards scope, measurement evidence and application conclusions separately.
Source dates and review status remain visible; external sources open in a new tab.
01
IMO · Adopted 2026-05 · effective 2026-07-01
↗02International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships
Establishes a goal-based framework for MASS design, operation and certification, including modes, operational limits, remote centres, cybersecurity and human oversight.
International Hydrographic Review / IHO · Published 2020-11-30 · updated 2021-09-21
↗03Hydrographic survey with autonomous surface vehicles
Separates remote piloting from several autonomy levels and links supervision to traffic, hazards, weather, sensors, communications and recovery.
NOAA Ocean Exploration · Updated 2022-04-25 · verified 2026-08-15
↗Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Describes untethered AUVs executing planned missions, storing payload data, surfacing for communications and requiring later recovery and processing.