Xsens has delivered the high-performance motion sensing capabilities required to stabilize the Sentry AI lookout system, a continuous 24/7 monitoring solution for commercial vessels and private yachts.
The system relies on the Xsens MTi-2 motion sensor, a small form factor Vertical Reference Unit (VRU), to cancel out the disruptive effects of roll, pitch, and yaw caused by the sea’s swell. By providing real-time measurements, the Xsens module has enabled the AI software to maintain a stable field-of-view, which is essential for the accurate recognition and tracking of objects such as floating debris, buoys, and persons overboard.
High-Rate Data for Reliable Stabilization
The integration of Xsens technology has addressed the technical challenge of maintaining a stable camera output at a rate of 8 frames per second. The Xsens MTi-2 provides the precise data needed for motion compensation, preventing the misclassification of objects as the vessel moves through waves. This level of stabilization has allowed the AI to identify complex patterns, such as a distressed mariner waving for help, by ensuring objects remain correctly tracked over multiple frames.
Optimized for Embedded Marine Systems
Xsens was selected as the sensor provider due to the reliability and compact design of its modules, which are ideal for integration into lightweight hardware with minimal power requirements. Philipp Stampfl, Product Manager at SEA.AI, has highlighted the importance of this performance, “The first requirement is for accurate measurements at a high data rate to support compensation for the Sentry’s output, which operates at a rate of 8 frames/s output. Our rigorous evaluation showed that the Xsens module’s measurements are sufficiently accurate to produce excellent stabilisation and to enable tracking of objects, maintaining the object in the exact centre of the field of view.”
Seamless Integration in Harsh Environments
The flexible integration and consistent performance of Xsens sensors in dynamic motion conditions have made them a perfect fit for maritime applications. Stampfl has further noted, “The compact design of the Sentry system called for a sensor that could be embedded directly into our hardware with minimal space and power requirements. The Xsens MTi-2 offered the ideal balance, by delivering reliable real-time roll, pitch, and yaw data in a small form factor. Its flexible integration, combined with consistent performance in dynamic motion conditions, made it a perfect fit for our application.”
With Xsens technology on board, hundreds of vessels worldwide have improved their situational awareness and collision avoidance capabilities.
Read Improving Vessel Safety with Motion Sensing and AI Object Detection for more information.
