MOL plans to launch the experimental use of a system that supports ship operation during voyages using augmented reality (AR) technology on a very large crude carrier (VLCC) subsequently to car carrier.
Information, such as other ships sailing around the vessel and landmarks like buoys, can be shown on displays, based on data from the Automatic Identification System (AIS).
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In addition, images of landscapes taken from the bridge can also be shown on the same displays, and these images will overlap with AR to provide visual support to crewmembers operating ships and keeping watch during voyages.
The screens will enable the officer on watch to check voyage information such as the speed of other vessels, the closest approach time, and the closest approach distance at a glance.
An experimental version of this system will be installed aboard the newbuilding VLCC Suzukasan, which is slated for delivery on October 12. The system, which supports ship operation and watch-keeping, will be installed on more vessels.
The project is part of MOL’s Ishin Next – MOL Smart Ship Project. Under the concept, MOL will adopt to newbuilding vessels, both of “advanced support technologies for safer vessel operation” and “technologies for reducing environmental impact”.
MOL will verify practical effects of these technologies every one year after the vessels are in-service, the result of which will be reported at the same time. In addition, MOL develops the technologies that proactively adopt ICTs.
