Context

Status quo

Problem

During search and rescue (SAR) operations by NGOs, the search for people in distress at sea usually requires tremendous effort. The current procedure of searching the horizon with binoculars is error-prone, exhausting and engages personnel that might be needed elsewhere.

Solution

State actors and organisations can afford special camera systems to ensure complete surveillance of the ship’s surroundings independent of the time of day. The user not only sees a stabilized video image but can also make use of functions such as the automated search, detection and tracking of floating objects.

Costs vs. quality

However, the costs for such technology and its maintenance can reach a four- to five-digit range – an obstacle for civil aid organizations which are financed entirely by donations. In addition, civil actors often have no or only restricted access to such camera systems.

Simple and cost-effective camera systems have been evaluated, but could neither achieve the desired results, nor meet the demanding conditions at sea.

Goal

The SARCAM project aims to make the search for people in distress more efficient and to ease the burden on the crew. Therefore, a cost-effective and customizable camera system will be developed to support civil sea rescue. The system will be easy to operate and will enable the crew to spot floating objects at a distance without having to stand outside and to search the horizon with binoculars. The camera system, which can be attached to the mast, automatically scans the ship’s surroundings and facilitates the detection and tracking of floating objects.

The system can be adapted to the different needs of various organizations and tailored to the specific scenarios of SAR missions. Once installed, the system will be robust enough to withstand the harsh conditions at sea but remains accessible for technical modification and updates. Thanks to voluntary and non-profit work the overall development costs are significantly reduced compared to conventional providers. The only costs that are incurred arise from purchasing and assembling the hardware, as well as from installing and (if necessary) maintaining the system.

Team

For three and a half years, SARCAM has been working on developing an affordable camera solution for ships of civil sea rescue organizations. Additionally, the project managers have volunteered in various areas of sea rescue operations and could thus gather valuable experiences. The first drafts of the system have been successfully assembled and are continuously expanded. Fortunately, since the 36C3 (36th Chaos Communication Congress of the Chaos Computer Club) the core SARCAM team has grown to five members.

Since January 2020, the team consists of mechatronic and computer science engineers as well as a master shipbuilder and an IT consultant. Thus, all necessary subject areas can be covered. We welcome new members and we are open to cooperate with other teams.

Important

SARCAM is a non-profit project currently in progress. Hardware development is both costly and time-consuming. Sponsoring and support are therefore greatly appreciated!

Camera system

The outcome of our research and implementation work, joining missions, and sending the system out to join missions, is outlined on the Hardware setup documentation page. Enjoy reading.