Raymarine Introduces Assisted Docking System

FLIR Systems, Inc. has announced the Raymarine DockSense assisted docking system, the marine industry’s first intelligent object recognition and motion sensing assisted docking solution for recreational boating. DockSense system uses FLIR machine vision camera technology and video analytics to integrate intelligence gathered from surrounding imagery with the vessel’s propulsion and steering system to assist boat owners in tight quarter docking maneuvering. Additionally, FLIR announced that Prestige Yachts, a Groupe Beneteau brand, will become the first to demonstrate the technology.

Docking a boat can be stressful. Wind and tides make the task difficult and mishaps can become expensive repairs. DockSense is designed to augment a captain’s boat handling skills using the system’s Virtual Bumper zone technology around the vessel. Should an object like a piling or another vessel encounter the Virtual Bumper, DockSense automatically introduces corrective steering and throttle commands to avoid the object and assist the captain in guiding the vessel to the dock.
 
DockSense uses global positioning system (GPS) and attitude heading reference system (AHRS) position sensing technology to compensate for the effects of wind and currents. The system includes multiple FLIR machine vision cameras, a central processing module, and the DockSense App running on Raymarine’s Axiom navigation display. The system integrates with modern joystick propulsion systems, providing assisted steering and throttle commands.

FLIR presented Raymarine DockSense technology at the Dusseldorf Boat Show in, Germany from and will demonstrate the technology on a Prestige 460 motor yacht during the Miami Boat Show in February.