Japanese carrier MOL, part of the shipping alliance Ocean Network Express (ONE), has announced it will install an augmented reality (AR) navigation system on 21 of its very large crude oil carriers (VLCC).
According to a statement, the system displays information on other vessels sailing on a vessel’s planned route and surrounding sea areas and other ocean conditions, such as water depth.
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To do so, the system integrates information from the Automatic Identification System and radar with real-time video images from the bridge camera.
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Furthermore, it 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.
MOL’s goal is to improve safety at sea and it has been carefully refining the system’s effectiveness and preparing the relevant vessels.
It has so far been installed on one of MOL’s next-generation FLEXIE Series Car carrier, the Beluga Ace and the VLCC Suzukasen, and will be rolled-out throughout its VLCC fleet.
MOL has chosen these vessels because they require the highest level of navigational safety standards, particularly when moving through Straits of Singapore and Malacca.
Following that, MOL plans to install the AR system throughout its energy transport and bulk fleet, including LNG carriers.
