SEA.AI Links Machine Vision to Automatic Searchlight Tracking

SEA.AI and The Carlisle & Finch Co. have integrated SEA.AI Sentry with Carlisle & Finch’s SmartVIEW Gateway, creating a system that can automatically direct and keep a searchlight trained on a target detected by AI-powered maritime vision.

Detection connected directly to action

SEA.AI Sentry uses thermal and low-light cameras with machine-vision software to identify people in the water, unlit craft, floating debris and other difficult-to-see targets. Once an operator selects a detected target, SmartVIEW can steer a connected searchlight to the target bearing and continue following it as tracking data updates.

The companies say the integration is intended to reduce the amount of time crews spend manually operating searchlights during time-critical situations.

Search and rescue is a key use case

In a person-overboard scenario at night, Sentry can flag a potential heat signature before it becomes visible to the naked eye. The linked searchlight can then illuminate and track the target while the crew concentrates on manoeuvring, preparing recovery equipment and coordinating the response.

The same approach can also support maritime security and patrol operations where an unlit boat, jet ski or other moving target must be kept under observation.

Demonstrated at NMEA 2026

SEA.AI and Carlisle & Finch presented the integrated Sentry and SmartVIEW system at the 2026 NMEA Conference & Expo in Texas. The technology reflects a wider move towards connecting onboard sensor data with automated response systems rather than treating detection and action as separate tasks.

Official source

Source: SEA.AI.