Anschütz and Teledyne partnership to develop S-100 navigation systems

The maritime industry is entering a new phase of digital navigation. With the introduction of the IHO S‑100 standard, ship navigation is evolving from a chart-based approach towards a dynamic, data-driven environment. To actively shape this transition, Anschütz has partnered with Teledyne SevenCs, combining deep expertise in integrated navigation systems with decades of experience in hydrographic data processing and chart technology.

This shift brings richer and more dynamic data to the bridge. Turning S‑100 data into a reliable operational picture requires the combination of structured data processing and system integration, bringing together the complementary strengths of Anschütz and Teledyne SevenCs.

The two German maritime technology specialists continue their longstanding cooperation to leverage these capabilities and deliver next-generation navigation solutions made in Germany. Within SYNAPSIS (W)ECDIS NX, Anschütz integrates the hydrographic software capabilities of Teledyne SevenCs into a coherent system environment, enabling precise and well-presented information for navigators.

‘SYNAPSIS ECDIS NX and WECDIS NX are designed to support the transition to the IHO S‑100 standard’, said Matthias Grote, Product Manager for SYNAPSIS software at Anschütz. ‘S‑100 brings a significant increase in available data. The important question is how this data is handled within the navigation system and how it supports the navigator in each situation. SYNAPSIS is designed to combine multiple data inputs into a clear, consistent and operationally usable picture that actually supports navigation.’

Stephan Dimke, General Manager of Teledyne SevenCs GmbH, said: ‘The transition to S-100 is one of the most significant developments in maritime navigation in decades. We are proud that Teledyne SevenCs technology will support Anschütz in this transformation. This partnership demonstrates the strength of German maritime innovation and highlights how collaboration between leading companies can help shape the future of digital navigation.’

From ECDIS toolbox to data-driven navigation

Today’s Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) has established itself as a comprehensive toolbox on the bridge, combining chart data and integrated sensor inputs into navigation functions. While these capabilities are well proven, they remain largely based on static information. In practice, navigators must interpret and mentally combine multiple data sources to build a reliable picture of the situation.

S‑100 extends this foundation by introducing a broader range of dynamic and heterogeneous data sources, including high-resolution bathymetry, changing water levels and surface currents. These new data capabilities can support bridge teams in narrow and challenging waters and open up additional functions and use cases for navigation. In this context, the key challenge is no longer access to data, but how this information is combined and used within the navigation system.

Turning additional data into operational context

The aim is to ensure that additional data does not increase complexity on the bridge but instead improves clarity and supports decision-making. With SYNAPSIS, Anschütz addresses this by integrating S‑100 data with sensor inputs and vessel-specific parameters into a consistent operational context. This provides a clear and structured presentation of information, allowing navigators to use it directly in practical navigation.

Depth information is evaluated in relation to draught and safety settings, water level updates are reflected in safety-related calculations, and currents are considered in route assessment and manoeuvring. With S-100, data from different sources is combined in a structured manner to support situational awareness and to reduce the need for manual interpretation.

Technology foundation: SYNAPSIS S‑100 integration with Teledyne SevenCs

The Teledyne SevenCs Nautilus Kernel provides the structured processing of hydrographic data as the technical basis for S-100 data handling. Anschütz integrates this data within SYNAPSIS to create a consistent, operational system.

Anschütz is following a clear development roadmap aligned with the regulatory S‑100 timeline, ensuring that SYNAPSIS (W)ECDIS NX meets the mandatory requirements for new installations while continuing to evolve in line with operational needs.