Navigating the future in MARIN’s next-level maritime simulators

The Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN) has long been at the forefront of creating realistic and immersive simulation environments leveraging cutting-edge technology to push the boundaries of what is possible. The recent development of the Seven Oceans Simulator centre (SOSc) in Wageningen, Netherlands, marks a significant milestone in this journey. This state-of-the-art facility, officially opened by His Majesty King Willem Alexander, is designed to be the most realistic simulator center for maritime operations in the world. At the heart of this groundbreaking project are Barco's advanced projection solutions, which play a pivotal role in bringing these simulations to life.

Context

Based in Wageningen, Netherlands, MARIN (Maritime Research Institute Netherlands) is like the NASA of the seas — one of the world’s leading institutes for hydrodynamic and nautical research pushing the boundaries of safer, cleaner, and more sustainable maritime operations through intensive research and cutting-edge simulation technology.

Their new Seven Oceans Simulator centre (SOSc) was officially opened by His Majesty King Willem Alexander late last year. The SOSc facility comprises two flagship simulators – the Large Motion Simulator (LMS) and Full Mission Bridge (FMB) – and several smaller multipurpose solutions, all of which can simulate the full range of maritime operations, from simple ship handling to high-risk, multi-player offshore operations.

Over two years of planning and nearly nine months of construction, the VISCON team laid the foundation for one of the most advanced maritime simulation environments in the world. This involved blueprinting the space, designing the supporting framework and steel structures, advising on climate control to ensure optimal operating conditions, and building & integrating the state-of-the-art simulators, custom-tailored to MARIN’s highest standards.

Challenge

The project faced several challenges, including the need to create a highly realistic and immersive simulation environment that could replicate the dynamic conditions of maritime operations. The simulators had to be designed to withstand the rigors of continuous use while providing accurate and reliable performance. Additionally, the integration of advanced AV technology required meticulous planning and execution to ensure seamless operation and user experience.

Solution

Imagine standing on a ship’s bridge, waves crashing, winds howling, and the entire world moving beneath your feet. The Large Motion System (LMS) achieves that sensation, mounted on a Hexapod motion system with a seamless 360-degree view created by thirty Barco F70-4K6 projectors inside an 18m diameter, 10m high projection dome.

The Full Mission Bridge (FMS) places you in the captain’s chair, featuring a 13m-wide main projection surface, complemented by two additional rounded dome screens (5m each), simulating a realistic side view of the open sea and allowing for a highly flexible bridge setup with multiple configurations.

The Multi-Purpose Simulators (MPS) allow for ultra-precise offshore wind farm installation training that can be synchronized to simulate multi-operator crane operations — where split-second precision makes all the difference.

To calibrate and align the LMS and FMS simulators, VISCON took advantage of VIOSO’s specialist warping and blending software for simulation applications which offered the integrator perfect control over the multi-projection set-ups. The Barco and VIOSO projection expertise ensure seamless image alignment across the complex projection surfaces. 

Results

The successful implementation of Barco's F70 projectors in MARIN's simulators has resulted in a highly immersive and realistic training environment. The advanced projection technology provides stunning visuals with high resolution and brightness, enhancing the overall simulation experience. The project has been hailed as a significant achievement in maritime simulation, enabling MARIN to push the boundaries of research and training in safer, cleaner, and more sustainable maritime operations. The state-of-the-art simulators have attracted attention from maritime professionals worldwide, positioning MARIN as a leader in maritime innovation.