MOL with new navigation system
The Japanese carrier Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) combines its efforts along with Furuno Electric to foster their advanced augmented reality (AR)-based navigation system. The AR navigation system provides visual support to crewmembers during their watch-keeping and ship operations by using AR technology to superimpose real-time video imagery and voyage information.
Large tankers, which have a deep draft, require careful ship operations in waters such as the Strait of Malacca, a highly congested shipping lane. The AR Navigation System can display combined real-time video images and vehicle course information from nautical instruments on a display in the bridge even in congested sea lanes. It allows mariners, at a glance, to ensure that they are on a safe course and alerts them to nearby vessels that could pose a risk, shallow sea areas and other potential hazards.
With Furuno, MOL will continue to study further upgrades to the system, with the goal of ensuring that the AR navigation system will contribute to marine traffic safety through “the eyes of the captains and officers” who actually use the system on board. (fd)