SBIR-STTR Award

This project entails a comprehensive approach to developing an innovative solution to heads-up display navigation for marine vessels that addresses the required hardware, the sources of raster and vector navigation and marine charting data, and the means to convey these data to watch standers on the bridge in a manner that enhances their performance. During Phase I we identify specific heads-up display system components suitable for use in the marine environment and capable of meeting the stringent operational requirements of vessel navigation. Raster and vector data sources for navigation, including radar contact information, and nautical charts are then considered by defining their scope, range, accuracy, and usefulness while minimizing clutter. We then create the software needed to integrate and display these data. A prototype demonstration system is developed during Phase I to illustrate our approach and validate our methods.

Potential Commercial Applications:
Commercial applications for marine heads-up display navigation to river and coastal marine operations provided by tugs, barges, patrol craft, pilot boats, fishing vessels, and numerous other such craft. There is also significant commercial potential for the use of this technology in the recreational boating industry by luxury yachts

This project entails a comprehensive approach to developing an innovative solution to heads-up display navigation for marine vessels that addresses the required hardware, the sources of raster and vector navigation and marine charting data, and the means to convey these data to watch standers on the bridge in a manner that enhances their performance. During Phase I we identified specific heads-up display system components suitable for use in the marine environment and capable of meeting the stringent operational requirements of vessel navigation. Raster and vector data sources for navigation, including radar contact information, and nautical charts are then considered by defining their scope, range, accuracy, and usefulness while minimizing clutter. We then create the software needed to integrate and display these data. A prototype demonstration system was developed during Phase I to illustrate our approach and validate our methods. Upon the conclusion of Phase II we anticipate having fully capable production hardware and software.

Potential Commercial Applications:
Significant commercial potential exists for integrating head up displays within government, commercial, and private vessels as greater integration of electronics onto ships’ bridges becomes more commonplace. Indeed, the additional safety margin afforded vessel operators through routine HUD use should reduce accident rates and enhance crew performance