Severe Environment Control System (SECS)
Recent advances in computers and sensors have yielded sophisticated electronic systems that provide the operator with newfound capabilities. Navigation, communication, and systems monitoring on board various vehicles are now frequently integrated into a single system. These electronic systems vastly improve the situational awareness and effectiveness of its operator with a proliferation that spans air, land and sea vehicles. However, the operation of these systems has been hampered by inadequate controls. Variations of traditional computer interfaces (keyboard, mouse, trackball, bezel buttons, etc.) have all been exploited with moderate effectiveness. Using these devices, originally developed for the office environment, in a vehicle is both difficult and potentially hazardous to the operator.
Azimuth has developed a novel solution for the Man Machine Interface (MMI) problem in mobile applications. The SECS design leverages off a familiar interface mechanism found on many consumer electronics devices. Originally developed for Special Boat Units, SECS is built to handle the rigors of the high-speed, open cockpit patrol boat environment.
US Patent No: 7692626 B2