What's a touch map table?
The Kara table is in fact a multipoint touch screen installed on a stand with a ball joint. Equipped with an electric actuator, this stand can be raised and lowered at will, while the screen can be tilted or positioned horizontally, like a table.
Made of Securit glass, the surface of the table is scratch-resistant and can be safely placed on the table for a cup of coffee. The touch system uses capacitive projected infrared technology. A system that integrates a multitude of dots and works even with wet fingers or gloves.
Around the table are USB sockets that can be used to connect mobile devices or simply recharge them. A Wifi and Bluetooth terminal are also present.
To operate this table that integrates a computer into its heart, Kara has developed a touch interface that can work with several users simultaneously. Several people can gather around the table and launch their own application in different windows. Since the windows can be oriented as they wish, it is possible to work with several people sitting around the table.
What can we do with the Kara table?
Unlike screens dedicated to navigation, which only serve 10% of the boat's operating time, the Kara table will be used 85% of the time! Indeed, this jewel of technology can do almost everything on board. We told you, this table is a real computer. It is therefore possible to run all the software on it.
Thus the chart table displays a mapping application. It will also be a weather center. It will be used to do the accounts with a spreadsheet or to do your mail with a word processor. The navigation instruments connected to the chart table will be displayed. At anchorage time, it can be used to show films. The uses seem infinite, all that remains is to design the software to make it work.
What about tomorrow?
Today, the Kara touch table is available in 3 models of different sizes: 32, 42 and 55 inches. A small 19-inch model designed to operate outdoors in the cockpit facing the helm station is also developed.
After two years of development, the product is now entering its production phase and is available for shipyards that offer it as an option on their boats. This is the case of the Allures shipyard, which has followed the project since its inception and which is presenting to the Nautic 2017 a fully equipped Allures 45.
By approaching the boat from her chart table, Kara continues her development towards the connected sailboat. This is the next step in Kara's beautiful progression.
