Projection system for the optical representation of a horizon reference in the interiors of watercraft to reduce seasickness

Abstract

Projection system for the optical representation of a horizon reference in the interiors of watercraft to reduce seasickness, comprising a detection unit for recording the movements of the watercraft, a control unit for processing the recorded data, and a projection unit for displaying an artificial horizon reference in the interior.

Description

Abstract

[0001] The invention relates to a projection system for the optical representation of a reference horizon in the interiors of watercraft to reduce seasickness.

[0002] The system comprises at least one projector that projects a horizontal reference line or equivalent optical element into the space. Sensors, particularly inertial measurement units (IMUs), gyroscopes, or accelerometers, detect the movements of the watercraft, including roll and pitch. A control unit processes the sensor data and controls the projector so that the projection is continuously adjusted to the actual horizon position. Optionally, damping of the motion tracking and person detection to mask the projection in the area of ​​detected persons can be included. The aim is to provide passengers in enclosed spaces with stable visual orientation to the horizon. 1. Technical field

[0003] The invention relates to the field of optical orientation systems in watercraft, in particular in the interiors of boats, ships and similar floating vehicles. 2. State of the art

[0004] Systems for alleviating motion sickness through artificial horizon displays are known.

[0005] Patents WO2021116549 and WO2021116550 describe solutions for motor vehicles in which horizon lines are displayed on interior vehicle surfaces, but not in a space-filling manner and not for maritime applications.

[0006] WO2021123584 concerns AR glasses that display an artificial horizon image to a single user; projection into the room is not provided.

[0007] A US patent describes artificial horizon lines in aircraft cockpits, primarily serving as instruments for pilots.

[0008] All solutions have in common that they do not provide for an immersive, room-filling projection and are not designed for maritime interiors.

[0009] For watercraft, displays at the helm or mechanical pendulum displays are currently common, primarily showing the rolling motion.

[0010] A system that detects the rolling and pitching movements typical of watercraft and projects an artificial horizon line across the entire space to provide people in cabins and lounges with a continuous visual reference line is not known in the prior art. 3. Object of the invention

[0011] The invention aims to prevent or reduce seasickness.

[0012] The aim is to provide a system that creates an immersive artificial horizon line indoors, especially for ship passengers, without portable devices or vehicle-integrated displays.

[0013] The object of the invention is to create a system that makes an optical reference of the horizon visible in the enclosed interiors of watercraft. For this purpose, the rolling and pitching movements of the hull, typical of watercraft, are detected and used as the key parameter for displaying the horizon. Additional influences, such as adaptive masking, can also be taken into account.

[0014] In this way, the viewer receives a clear and stable horizon orientation that is perceptible at all times and provides effective visual support against the occurrence of seasickness. 4. Solution to the task

[0015] The task is solved by a horizon projector that detects the movements of the watercraft and uses this data to create an optical reference of the horizon inside the vessel. This can be done in various ways: • Sensor-based solution: Using inertial measurement units (IMUs), gyroscopes, accelerometers or similar systems, movements are recorded, processed by a control unit and converted into projection. • Mechanical solution: Alternatively, a pendulum-based system can be used that mechanically detects the inclination of the ship's hull and transfers it to the projection as a reference.

[0016] The projection unit can be either mechanical (mirrors, prisms, servo drives) or electronic / optoelectronic (MEMS, DLP / DMD, LCD / LCOS or comparable technologies).

[0017] Additionally, person recognition can be integrated, enabling adaptive masking. 5. Examples of Implementation

[0018] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to schematic diagrams. The illustrations serve solely for clarification and are not to be understood as limiting the scope of protection. The specific final design of the projection system is not limited to the embodiments shown. • Fig. Boat hull with a schematic representation of typical pitching and rolling movements. The projection unit orients itself to these movements to create a stable horizon reference. • Fig. Interior view of a watercraft with one person, a window, and the projected horizon reference. The projection fills the room and provides passengers with a clear visual orientation line. • Fig.Block diagram of the system architecture with exemplary representation of electronic components. Shown are the sensors (e.g., IMU, gyroscope, accelerometer), the control unit with signal processing (sensor fusion, filter, control), the projection unit (laser / LED projector with optics), and optional additional modules such as person detection with masking logic. 6. Advantages of the invention

[0019] The invention enables a continuous visual horizon reference in the interiors of watercraft.

[0020] From a scientific perspective, it is known that the human balance system relies on the coordination of visual information, vestibular signals (inner ear), and proprioception (depth perception). A lack of visual references, especially in enclosed spaces, can lead to a perceptual discrepancy that is experienced as stressful. Providing a visual reference point of the horizon creates an additional orientation aid that supports the perception of the vehicle's movement. This can improve comfort for occupants and contributes to better orientation, both day and night. Furthermore, the visual reference facilitates tasks within the vehicle, can contribute to crew safety, and enhances the overall passenger experience. Reference symbol list for Figures 1 and 2 1 hull 2 cabins 3 Horizon Projector 4 Projected horizon line 5 Actual horizon line 6 Ship movement (pounding and rolling motion) 7 windows with actual horizon line QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2021116549

[0005] WO 2021116550

[0005] WO 2021123584

[0006]

Claims

[1] Projection system for the optical display of a horizon reference in the interior of watercraft to reduce seasickness, comprising a detection unit for recording the movements of the watercraft, a control unit for processing the recorded data and a projection unit for displaying an artificial horizon reference in the interior. [2] Projection system according to claim 1, characterized by that the detection unit includes a mechanical pendulum suspension that accommodates the inclination of the ship's hull. [3] Projection system according to claim 1, characterized by that the detection unit is implemented using sensors, in particular inertial measurement units (IMUs), gyroscopes or accelerometers. [4] Projection system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the projection unit includes mechanical deflection elements, in particular mirrors, prisms or servo drives. [5] Projection system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the projection unit includes electronic or optoelectronic deflection systems, in particular MEMS mirrors, DLP / DMD, LCD or LCOS technologies. [6] Projection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the control unit processes the recorded data using suitable filtering or fusion methods, in particular using a Kalman filter. [7] Projection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that it includes person detection which enables adaptive masking of the projection in the area of ​​detected persons. [8] Projection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the projection is designed as a 360° wraparound display in the interior. [9] Projection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat it is specifically designed to provide a visual horizon reference to reduce or prevent seasickness. [10] Projection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the optical representation of the horizon reference improves the visual orientation of passengers and thus increases the safety and stability of persons in the interior of the watercraft.

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