
Artificial Intelligence company SEA.AI has added to its machine vision systems with the SEA.AI brain. It integrates the technology with existing thermal cameras on a boat. The company demonstrated its abilities in its new Watchkeeper series of modular safety systems at the Boot Düsseldorf Show in Germany in January.
Starting at less than $5,200, the Watchkeeper lets boaters customize a SEA.AI system based on personal preferences. The system comes with a 4k low-light camera with a wide field of view of 135 degrees, providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings around the boat. With integrated GPS and Intertial Measurement Units, Watchkeeper provides navigation assistance and collision avoidance. Watchkeeper also has long-wave infrared thermal cameras that are available for boaters who require full night-vision capabilities. The systems are expected to hit the market this summer.
Collisions are blamed for more than half of all boating accidents that result in injury or fatality. SEA.AI says it helps reduce the risk of boating accidents. The suite of systems identifies and alerts operators to collision hazards, filling the gaps left by traditional systems like radar or AIS. The SEA.AI Brain analyzes the camera feed in real time, identifying potential threats and alerting the operator.
“If you can’t see it, you can’t avoid it, so we’re excited to show boaters how the SEA.AI Brain can easily transform their existing camera setups into highly intelligent, automated collision detection tools,” Marcus Warrelman, CEO of SEA.AI, said in a statement.
The SEA.AI Brain’s machine vision algorithm and AI has been in training since 2018, undergoing testing and refinement to ensure accuracy and reliability. When in use, it constantly scans a database of more than 10 million objects in real time.
Also in January, French company Exail launched its new Octans 9 Attitude and Heading Reference System gyrocompass system. It will provide data including dynamic positioning, vessel navigation and offshore platform stabilization.
It leverages Exail’s fiber optic gyroscope technology, providing precise measurements with a heading accuracy of 0.1 degree secant latitude and heave measurement accuracy of 5 percent.
Highlights include a more compact design, resulting in a 25% smaller footprint. It draws less power and has an upgraded user interface for easier integration with existing systems. Advanced filtering and alignment-in-motion ensure precise stabilization.
“Octans 9 marks a significant step forward in reliability and ease of use,” Jean-Michel Hubert, product manager at Exail, said in a statement. “With enhanced real-time heave prediction, simplified integration and an upgraded user interface, this system is built to meet the evolving needs of the marine industry, providing customers with greater operational efficiency and flexibility.”
The Octans 9 is backed by a five-year warranty and 24/7 global technical support.