A Method of Ship Handling Training set in Augmented Reality

Abstract

Augmented reality has been studied as a navigational aid in the maritime sector. Little research was found on its value for simulation-based training. From a broad perspective, the research examined the potential of augmented reality for training purposes. Specifically, we studied the feasibility of learning ship manoeuvring. A crossover study was made with 24 people performing a ship manoeuvre in three experimental conditions to compare depth perception in each. Participants were asked to keep a vessel stationary in rough weather conditions with only a visual stimulus for reference. The different stimuli were - a maritime simulator displaying a 3D object, a see-through head-mounted display showing a 3D object, and a 2D object. The difference in performance between the simulator and head-mounted display showing a 3D object was not found to be statistically significant. It was significantly worse in the condition with a 2D object in the head-mounted display. It can be concluded from the findings that depth cues were just as well perceived in the head-mounted display showing a 3D object compared to the monitor-based display of a ship simulator. The conclusion provides a basis for further research on a method to learn on-board ship manoeuvring set in augmented reality. It can form an alternative training method besides on-the-job training and the maritime simulator. Future work should evaluate the effectiveness of training in scenarios requiring visual stimuli in better detail. The value of new generation see-through head-mounted displays should be assessed in light of newer stereoscopic 3D display technology.