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Morphée Buoy with GPS Monitors Anchors and Protects Sailors. Smart Device Helps to Avoid Accidents at Anchoring
Every year, extreme weather phenomena affect vessels worldwide. Beached boats and material damages are some of the most common consequences. In this scenario, an innovative solution created in France could change how sailors deal with anchoring. The invention is called Morphée: a buoy with GPS, designed to protect boats and sailors.
The Origin of the Idea: A Night Without Sleep
The idea emerged in July 2021 during a crossing along the coast of Italy. Two students from École Centrale de Marseille, Louis Bridlance and Émile Raison, faced a tense situation as they noticed the wind picking up during the night.
With no guarantee that the anchor would hold, they spent hours monitoring the GPS and hoping not to drift.
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The next morning, with relief and exhaustion on their faces, the question arose: why isn’t there a system that immediately detects when the anchor begins to slip? From this reflection, they started to design the Morphée project. It took 18 months of research and development for the final prototype to take shape.
How the Morphée Works
Unlike traditional alarms, which rely on the boat’s position, the Morphée connects directly to the anchor. This difference is essential.
By monitoring the origin point of the problem, the GPS buoy can accurately detect the slightest sign of unwanted movement. The margin of error is only four meters.
The Morphée Essential version emits a visual and audible alert on board as soon as it detects any abnormal slippage of the anchor. For those who prefer freedom, there is the Morphée Remote.
This version sends notifications directly to the user’s cell phone. This way, it’s possible to leave the boat anchored and stroll on land with more peace of mind.
Advantages of the Buoy: Solar Energy and Recycled Plastic
In addition to the technology, the Morphée also impresses with its sustainability. The buoy is powered by solar energy. Just two hours of sunlight are enough for a full charge, ensuring autonomy of up to a week. And there’s more: it is made from recycled plastic, helping to reduce environmental impact.
With this, the invention presents itself as an intelligent, useful, and conscious tool. The creators’ proposal goes beyond protecting through boat anchoring. They want to contribute to the preservation of the marine ecosystem.
Underwater Protection and Anchor Recovery
Every year, large areas of Posidonia seagrass beds are destroyed by dragging anchors. These plants are fundamental to biodiversity and the balance of the marine environment. By alerting sailors at the first sign of slippage, the Morphée reduces this impact.
Another differential is its function as a mooring buoy. It facilitates the release of stuck anchors. Instead of pulling hard or improvising solutions, the user can use the integrated high-strength rope. With a capacity to support up to 750 kg, it allows for anchor recovery without damaging the seabed.
Recognition and Market Entry of the Connected Buoy
Tested in real conditions, the Morphée has already received recognition for its innovation. The buoy won 3rd place in the national competition Les Entrep’ and 2nd place in the Strat’Up Challenge in Seattle. After this success, it was officially launched in the market.
With an effective alert system, focus on environmental preservation, and sustainable design, the Morphée stands out as a promising solution. A practical and accessible response to a problem that has been worsening over the years.
Safety in anchoring may be entering a new era, and this small French buoy has everything to lead this transformation.
With information from Neo Zone.
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