The SailEvent Hearings app is an established and effective tool for managing protests and requests for redress.
The app:
- Accepts online hearing request forms
- Publishes hearing schedules
- Notifies the parties
- Documents decisions
- Makes sure that everything is posted correctly on the Official Notice Board.
But can it do more? Can it help with the decision making process itself?
That’s where Artificial Intelligence comes in. It’s way too early to trust AI with all decision making but initial results are striking. Take these recent incidents:
CASE 1
Facts found
1234 and 789 were both on port tack approaching the gybe mark. 1234 had an inside overlap on 789 at the zone. 1234 was 2 boat lengths from the mark still on port tack when 789 gybed inside her and 1234 capsized but no injury or physical damage. No turns were taken
Committee’s decision
789 DSQ but redress for 1234 denied.
AI decision
789 is disqualified (DSQ) for breaking Rule 18.2(a)(1). 1234 is exonerated under Rule 43.1(b) for any potential breach of Rule 10.
CASE 2
Facts found
Prior to the start 274 and 262 were in the pre-start process. Both were on starboard tack with 262 to windward of 274. 262 tacked to port, followed by 274. 262 tacked back to starboard and 3 seconds later 274 started tacking to avoid 262. 262 had to alter course to windward to avoid contact with 274. No contact occurred, no boat took a penalty.
Committee’s decision
274 is DSQ
AI decision
Protest upheld. 274 broke Rule 10 and Rule 13. 274 is disqualified (DSQ).
CASE 3
Facts found
GBR1357 was on a beat to the final mark, a black inflatable. On reaching the expected location of the mark it was not to be seen. After looking for some time, and not wishing to miss the next race, GBR1357 retired. A boat well behind GBR1357 on the course found the mark drifting on the tide near the finish line, rounded it and was given a finish. The race officer was aware that the mark was out of position but took no action.
Committee’s decision
GBR1357 RDGa
AI decision
Redress is given. GBR1357 is scored points equal to the average of her points in all other races in the series (RRS 64.2), and the race is not abandoned.
Impressed? We are, so we’ve implemented an option in the Hearings app to put Facts Found to an AI assistant to see what it says. If you like the answer, then use it, if not then you are still in control.
This is an experiment to test the water. How good are AI decisions? How will protest committees react?
There is potential here for decision making to be smarter and more consistent leading to calmer and fairer hearings. And that is good for sailors and volunteers alike.
When the opportunity arises, please give this aspect of AI a try and let us know your views.
