Clearcruise augmented reality

FLIR and Raymarine’s latest innovation displays real-time video overlaid with labelled AIS targets, waypoints and navigation marks. It’s the first use we know of that applies augmented reality technology to marine electronics.

The system makes correlating charted objects

to what you can actually see much more intuitive. “It can help cruisers gain a much more familiar experience, especially when entering a new harbour,” says marketing director Jim Hands.

Clearcruise uses a stabilised high-definition video camera with a sophisticated nine-axis stabilisation system using the same hardware as the sensor used in the company’s Evo autopilot range, plus GPS data. Software takes account of heel and sea state and can identify the horizon.

The angle of the field of view is fixed, but the range of augmented reality overlays can be changed – scaling back to eliminate distant targets reduces clutter in crowded waters.

Clearly this has much potential, especially for anyone undertaking extended cruising. FLIR is a market leader in thermal imaging and plans a similar approach for night vision cameras, which could transform complex night pilotage to an even greater extent.

Prices: CAM210 HD marine video camera

£735; AR200 video stabilization module £525; Lighthouse 3.7 software – free upgrade. www.raymarine.com