Fraunhofer IGD's “Maritime Graphics“ Competence Center develops solutions for the maritime economy. Under the expert direction of Dr. Uwe von Lukas, we help design and apply interactive computer graphics in all areas of the maritime industry. Our customers from the fields of shipbuilding, ship operations, and marine technology /marine research already rely on our experience and expertise in these fields. Shipping companies, suppliers, and shipyards benefit from the forward-looking innovations developed by our staff. We help them toward better products and more efficient processes, thus strengthening their position among their global competitors. Our modern and well-equipped labs support us in our daily work.

Whether it's virtual reality in shipbuilding, virtual training worlds, mixed reality for maintenance or visual data mining for analyzing multidimensional measured data, our staff members work under great pressure on further effective solutions. For example, the use of virtual reality technologies offers the option of conducting safety training on ships in virtual mode. As with a computer game, the crew can train regularly for emergencies and, most especially, at much lower cost.

In addition, the use of augmented reality can provide extensive support for maintenance work. Technicians receive the assistance they need by wearing a special set of eyeglasses. Information on the required maintenance and repair sequence is passed to them through the glasses so that they see it superimposed on the place that it refers to.

We maintain close ties to universities and other research institutions. Through our work in the “3D maritime” network, we are able to conduct a stimulating exchange of information and ideas with a great variety of partners and institutions, broad-minded users, innovative technology suppliers and research facilities.

More information about this competence center can be found at /mag