FAQs

SEE-LEVEL is not just another Virtual Reality (VR) application; it represents a groundbreaking approach to combating seasickness, an innovation that had never been explored before. The idea of using VR to address motion sickness raised numerous technical and physiological questions, and the journey to develop SEE-LEVEL was both complex and resource-intensive. Pioneering a New Solution From the outset, we knew we were venturing into uncharted territory. How effective would VR be in treating seasickness? How quickly could it alleviate symptoms? Could it handle different sea conditions, and how would it perform for individuals who were already feeling the effects of seasickness? Moreover, there was the critical question of whether symptoms would return after using the technology. To answer these questions, we embarked on an extensive research and development (R&D) process that spanned three years and required hundreds of thousands of dollars in investment. This journey involved 80 different software builds as we experimented with various scenes, continuously refining the product based on feedback from our testers. Every detail mattered—from the height of the waves in the VR scenes to the specific colors used—ensuring that no feature inadvertently triggered motion sickness. Overcoming Technical Challenges The technical challenges were formidable. We needed to ensure that the VR headset could deliver the necessary graphics and processing power, particularly for use in the challenging environment of a moving boat. Reusing standard VR headsets presented its own set of hurdles. Could existing accelerometers work in the way we required? Could we manipulate the VR scene to synchronize with the boat’s motion, helping users habituate to seasickness-prone movements? Moreover, we had to consider the physiological effects of using SEE-LEVEL. Was the technology simply a placebo, or was there something more profound happening psychologically and physiologically when users engaged with the VR environment? We explored every aspect, from sweating, heart rate, and temperature regulation to the onset of vomiting, studying how and when SEE-LEVEL could reverse these symptoms—and how quickly it could do so. Refining the User Experience A significant part of the development process involved refining the user experience. We meticulously balanced stereoscopic versus monoscopic views, adjusted the amount of LED blue light, and carefully selected background music and narration. We even developed a special opaque menu system that wouldn’t re-induce motion sickness, and we removed all system warnings and updates that could disrupt the VR experience. Partnering with VR headset manufacturers was crucial to gaining permission to modify their operating systems, ensuring SEE-LEVEL functioned flawlessly under real-world conditions. Designing the user experience was a critical component of our work. We had to ensure that SEE-LEVEL was simple and intuitive to use, especially given the state of our users. Imagine being asked to interact with high technology that you've never encountered before while you’re in your worst state—vomiting, with glasses fogging up, perhaps unresponsive or even lying on the floor. This could have been the worst possible moment to introduce something new, but it actually turned out to be the best. We realized that the key was simplicity: a single tap to turn on the device, paired with a simple instruction, “Put this on for 15 minutes and you will feel better.” This broke through the unresponsiveness and provided sufferers with a sense of hope—that they might escape the boat they never wished they had embarked on. Remarkably, not a single person we approached who was feeling ill declined the opportunity to try SEE-LEVEL; everyone preferred the chance to feel better over remaining sick. Testing and Validation Testing SEE-LEVEL on a diverse range of people was essential. We explored the impact on different demographics, including age, gender, and ethnicity, to ensure the technology was effective across a broad spectrum of users. We even invested in a simulator to recreate seasickness in a controlled office environment, allowing us to study its reversal and make necessary adjustments. Our research extended to understanding the overlap between cybersickness, motion sickness, VR sickness, and seasickness. Each type of sickness had to be understood in detail to ensure SEE-LEVEL’s effectiveness across the board. This comprehensive testing process took two weeks just to learn how to induce seasickness on cue under the right conditions, and then reverse it using our technology. Industry Collaboration and Support Bringing SEE-LEVEL to market required collaboration with a range of partners. We acknowledge the invaluable support from various organizations and entities, including the New Zealand government c/o Callaghan Innovations, the University of Canterbury, Heritage Expeditions, Whale Watch Kaikoura, Charter World, Ports of LPC, Siemens Gamesa, Svitzer Tugs, Turner ICENI, and the NZTA. Field testing with Dr Robert Cornah, Dr Jannet McCraw, Yachting New Zealand Director Viki Moore, Coastguard Tutor Peter Marshall, Business Mentors Graham Rule & Matt Sommerville-Smith and numerous seasickness volunteers including Alex, Michaela and Jessica Jackson who took one for the team more then we can remember. Their contributions were instrumental in helping us develop, test, and validate the technology. We also conducted trials with early adopters across various settings, including private yachts, ferries, superyachts, and expedition vessels. These real-world tests confirmed SEE-LEVEL’s effectiveness, providing us with the confidence to move forward with the product launch. The Cost of Innovation The extensive and complex development process, combined with the collaborative efforts from multiple partners, justifies the cost of SEE-LEVEL. This price reflects the depth of research, the innovative technology, and the rigorous testing that went into creating a solution capable of significantly reducing or eliminating seasickness for users in real-world conditions. Furthermore, because this technology had never been developed before, we were able to secure patents, ensuring that SEE-LEVEL remains a unique and protected solution in the market. SEE-LEVEL is more than just a product; it’s the culmination of years of research, development, and testing. It represents a new frontier in the fight against seasickness, and its cost reflects the pioneering work that made it possible.

At See-LEVEL, our primary focus is on providing **effective and immediate relief** for individuals suffering from seasickness. This goal led us to the conclusion that a VR headset is far superior to a conventional app. In an article we discuss the reasons why developing a specialized VR headset was necessary.

1. How do I familiarize myself with See-LEVEL before my journey? Before you embark on your journey, it's important to get comfortable with See-LEVEL. Here’s how you can prepare: Usage: Spend some time using See-LEVEL in a calm environment. Familiarize yourself with how it feels and how it operates. Fitting: Ensure that the headset fits snugly and comfortably on your head. Adjust the straps to avoid any pressure points. Charging: Make sure See-LEVEL is fully charged before your trip. Connect it to the charger and allow it to reach full battery capacity. Volume Control: Adjust the volume to a comfortable level. Familiarize yourself with the volume controls so you can easily make adjustments during use. Re-Centering: Learn how to re-center the view if it feels off. This is a simple process that ensures you’re always looking straight ahead. IPS (Interpupillary Distance) Adjustment: Adjust the IPS to match your eye distance for optimal visual clarity and comfort. Powering On/Off & Standby: Practice turning the device on and off, as well as putting it in standby mode. This will help you conserve battery and know exactly what to do when you’re ready to use it. Using with Glasses: If you wear glasses, practice putting on the headset over them to ensure a comfortable fit. See-LEVEL is designed to be compatible with most glasses. 2. Should I try the breathing exercises and instructions before using See-LEVEL on my journey? Yes, we recommend going through the presented instructions and breathing exercises before your trip. These exercises can help you relax and make the experience with See-LEVEL more effective. Familiarizing yourself with these exercises in advance means you’ll be ready to use them if you start feeling queasy during your journey. 3. Can I listen to my own music while using See-LEVEL? Absolutely! Once you’re comfortable with See-LEVEL, you may want to listen to your own music using your headphones. This can enhance your experience and help you relax even more. Just ensure your headphones fit comfortably with the headset. 4. Should I try different positions while using See-LEVEL? Yes, experimenting with different positions can help you find the most comfortable way to use See-LEVEL. Try leaning back, lying down, and sitting upright to see which position provides the most relief. Knowing what works best for you ahead of time means you’ll be more confident and comfortable during your trip. 5. How do I ensure I'm ready to use See-LEVEL during my journey? By familiarizing yourself with See-LEVEL before your journey—knowing how to fit it, charge it, adjust it, and use it—you’ll be ready to deploy it with minimal effort and maximum confidence. This preparation ensures that when you need it most, See-LEVEL will be ready to help you feel comfortable and enjoy your journey without distraction.

1. How should the crew familiarize themselves with See-LEVEL before departure? We strongly recommend that your crew takes the time to become thoroughly familiar with See-LEVEL before setting off on any journey. Here’s how they can prepare: Usage: Crew members should practice using See-LEVEL in a controlled environment to understand how it functions and feels. Fitting: Ensure that the crew knows how to adjust the headset for a comfortable and secure fit on different users. Charging: Verify that all See-LEVEL headsets are fully charged before departure. The crew should be familiar with the charging process to maintain readiness throughout the trip. Volume Control: Learn how to adjust the volume to ensure passengers can comfortably hear the audio. This will help them assist guests with different hearing preferences. Re-Centering: The crew should practice re-centering the view within the headset. This ensures that any guest using the headset will have a correct and comfortable visual experience. IPS (Interpupillary Distance) Adjustment: Understand how to adjust the IPS to suit different users, ensuring optimal clarity and comfort for each guest. Powering On/Off & Standby: The crew should be proficient in turning the device on and off, as well as using standby mode, to conserve battery life and ensure the headset is always ready when needed. 2. Should See-LEVEL be included in the guests' induction or safety briefing? Yes, it’s essential that See-LEVEL headsets are introduced during the guests' induction or safety briefing. Explain what See-LEVEL is and how it can help alleviate seasickness. Encouraging guests to familiarize themselves with the headset early on can be highly beneficial. This not only ensures they know how to use it when needed but also reassures them that an effective solution is available if they start feeling unwell. 3. Where should the See-LEVEL headsets be placed for guests? We recommend placing the See-LEVEL headsets in each guest’s cabin. Guests often retreat to their cabins when they start feeling seasick, so having the headset readily available ensures they can access it quickly and easily. This proactive placement can significantly enhance their comfort and experience. 4. How should the crew demonstrate See-LEVEL to guests? Whenever the opportunity arises, such as during calm periods or in response to guest inquiries, the crew should check and demonstrate See-LEVEL to the guests. Demonstrations should include fitting the headset, adjusting the volume, and re-centering the display. Additionally, it’s crucial to explain how long guests should use See-LEVEL for optimal relief, especially if they did not apply it at the first signs of seasickness. In such cases, they may need to wear it longer to achieve full relief. 5. How does knowing See-LEVEL is on board enhance the guest experience? Simply knowing that See-LEVEL is available on board can greatly enhance your guests' overall experience. This knowledge helps reduce anxiety when sea conditions change, as guests will feel reassured that an effective, quick-working, and non-invasive solution is readily available. Unlike traditional remedies, See-LEVEL has no side effects and does not involve taking medication, making it an attractive option for those who prefer non-pharmaceutical interventions. Summary: By ensuring that your crew is well-versed in the use and deployment of See-LEVEL, and by integrating it into your guest experience from the moment they board, you can significantly improve passenger comfort and satisfaction. Proper preparation and clear communication about See-LEVEL will not only help in managing seasickness effectively but also contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable journey for all on board.

When evaluating See-LEVEL, it’s crucial to consider the scale of your testing and the diversity of the individuals involved. Here’s how to approach your evaluation to ensure that your results are both accurate and representative of your intended use. 1. Testing for Yourself or a Small Group: If you’re testing See-LEVEL for personal use or within a small, specific group, a single headset is typically sufficient. In smaller groups, while there may be some variance in sensitivity to seasickness, the range is generally narrow. This means that the results you observe will be accurate for this particular group, reflecting how See-LEVEL performs for similar users. Key Points: Accurate for the Group: The results will reflect the effectiveness of See-LEVEL for this specific group. You might see some small variance in effectiveness, but overall, the outcomes will be representative of the group’s general response to seasickness. Specific Insight: This approach allows you to understand how See-LEVEL works within a defined set of conditions, which can be valuable if this group is indicative of your primary user base. 2. Testing for a Fleet of Vessels: When evaluating See-LEVEL for a larger fleet, the diversity of individuals involved makes it critical to test with multiple headsets. In larger groups, you’ll encounter a wide range of seasickness sensitivities, from mild to severe, with some individuals possibly experiencing additional factors like vestibular disorders or reactions to medications. Why Multiple Headsets Are Essential: Diverse Sensitivities: In a larger, more diverse group, sensitivity to seasickness varies widely. If you rely on just one headset, the results can be heavily influenced by who uses it first. For example, if the most seasick-prone individual uses the headset first, and they don't experience immediate relief, this could create a skewed perception of See-LEVEL's overall effectiveness. Statistical Skew: Statistically, the person with the highest sensitivity is often the first to seek out the See-LEVEL headset. If only one person from the group uses the device, especially someone with extreme sensitivity, the results could range from ineffective to highly effective, depending on that individual's unique response. This can lead to an unbalanced evaluation, as other group members' potentially positive experiences go untested. Simultaneous Seasickness: Seasickness tends to affect groups simultaneously, especially in rough conditions. With only one headset, you’re limited to testing one person at a time, which can delay relief for others and lead to inconsistent data collection. Multiple headsets allow for a more comprehensive and simultaneous evaluation across the group. Statistical Insight: Group Dynamics: Testing with only one headset in a diverse group could produce results that are not truly representative of the group as a whole. The person with the most severe symptoms, who may also be the least responsive to treatments in general, could disproportionately influence the perceived effectiveness of See-LEVEL. By using multiple headsets, you ensure a broader, more accurate assessment of how See-LEVEL works across different levels of sensitivity. Summary: To achieve accurate and representative results, especially when evaluating See-LEVEL for fleet-wide adoption, it’s crucial to test with multiple headsets. This approach allows you to capture a full spectrum of responses, giving you a clearer understanding of See-LEVEL’s effectiveness across your entire passenger base. Testing with multiple headsets will show that See-LEVEL works effectively for about 80% of users, providing you with the confidence to roll out the solution across your fleet. Final Recommendation: Multiple Headsets for Larger Groups: When testing for a fleet or large group, we strongly recommend using multiple headsets. This ensures that you gather comprehensive data that accurately reflects See-LEVEL’s effectiveness across different individuals, leading to a well-informed decision about integrating See-LEVEL into your operations.

Seasickness, (also known as motion sickness), is a condition that affects some individuals when they are on a boat or ship It is believed to be caused by a conflict between the sensory inputs received by the brain. The inner ear plays a crucial role in balance and equilibrium. It contains fluid-filled canals that detect motion and changes in position. When you're on a boat, the motion of the vessel causes the fluid in the inner ear to move, sending signals to the brain that indicate movement. However, other sensory systems, such as the eyes and the proprioceptive system (which provides information about body position and movement), may not detect the same motion or may provide conflicting signals. This sensory conflict can confuse the brain, leading to symptoms of seasickness, including nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and general discomfort. The brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, which may perceive a stable environment, while the inner ear senses the motion of the boat. This mismatch of sensory information can disrupt the brain's normal processes, resulting in the symptoms of seasickness.

Seasickness, like other forms of motion sickness, can be understood in terms of several biological stages that individuals may go through. These stages are as follows: Initial Symptoms: The first stage involves the onset of early symptoms, which can include a general feeling of discomfort, uneasiness, or a sense of unease in the stomach. Individuals may also experience a loss of appetite or increased salivation. Nausea and Malaise: As seasickness progresses, individuals may enter the stage of heightened nausea and malaise. This is characterized by increased feelings of queasiness, dizziness, and a strong urge to vomit. The person may feel excessively warm, sweaty, and fatigued.

It's important to note that not everyone experiences seasickness, and the severity can vary from person to person. Some individuals may be more susceptible due to factors such as genetics, previous experiences, or sensitivity to motion. Estimates suggesting that around 25% of people experience seasickness are not uncommon. However, it's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on the specific study, population group, and criteria used to define seasickness.

Typically, individuals experience relief from seasickness within a timeframe of 12 - 20 minutes if applied after your seasickness has just started. DO NOT DELAY PUTTING THE HEADSET ON. During long offshore voyages, you may need to wear you See-LEVEL headset for extended periods. Relief may take longer (40+ minutes) on these journeys or after prolonged illness. Patience is key; relief will eventually come, especially in challenging conditions During this relief process, several distinct stages can be observed: Decreased Heart Rate: As the relief process begins, there is a notable decrease in the elevated heart rate that often accompanies seasickness. This reduction in heart rate contributes to a sense of calmness and relaxation. Decreased Anxiety, Perceived Body Core Temperature, and Dizziness: Alongside the decrease in heart rate, individuals also experience a decline in feelings of anxiety and the perceived body core temperature. Additionally, the sensation of dizziness diminishes, allowing for a greater sense of stability and equilibrium. Subsiding Nausea: One of the primary symptoms of seasickness, nausea, gradually subsides during the relief process. The discomfort and queasiness associated with this symptom fade away, contributing to an overall improvement in well-being. Heightened Feeling of Relief: As the various symptoms wane, individuals often experience a heightened sensation of relief. This sense of relief encompasses both physical and emotional aspects, bringing a profound sense of comfort and well-being. It is important to note that the timeframe and specific experiences during the relief process may vary among individuals. Factors such as the severity of seasickness, individual susceptibility, and external conditions can influence the duration and effectiveness of the relief experienced. As a guide we found that: Many users only needed to use See-LEVEL once - just to get a break from the vessel. As conditions deteriorate some users will get the same relief but seasickness comes back after a variable period, in these conditions re-apply See-LEVEL. The period between usages will slowly extend. Some 10%) of users had no effect, generally non seafaring passengers, an assortment or reasons seems to be the culprit (1) Over medicating on anti-seasickness medication (2) Extremely high anxiety levels (3) A vestibular condition that is effecting their sense of balance.

Visual Immersion: Once you put on a VR headset and activate it, you will typically be presented with a high-resolution display for each eye, creating a stereoscopic 3D effect. This gives you a sense of depth and immersion in a virtual environment. The field of view can vary between different headsets but is typically wider than what you would see with a regular monitor or TV. Our VR headsets incorporate head-tracking technology, which means that as you move your head, the virtual environment will respond accordingly, providing a sense of presence and realism. This tracking is achieved through built-in sensors, gyroscopes and accelerometers updating the scene 80 times a second.

Seasickness, motion sickness, and VR sickness are all related conditions that share similarities in terms of their underlying causes and symptoms. However, they can occur in different contexts and have some distinct characteristics.

Preparation Apply Early: Ensure the headset is used at the first signs of seasickness for maximum effectiveness. Late Application: If used late, leave the headset on for 20–40 minutes, especially in extreme cases. Setup & Availability Cabin Placement: Have headsets ready in passenger cabins for immediate access. Familiarization: Encourage passengers to familiarize themselves with the headset’s operation before needing it. Crew Spotter: Assign a crew member as a "seasickness spotter" to have headsets readily available and assist as needed. Usage Tips Movement Adjustment: Adjust up-and-down movement for optimal focus. For Children (8+): Adjust the IPD (Inter-Pupillary Distance) on the lenses for proper alignment. With Glasses: Passengers can wear glasses under the headset if it appears out of focus. Medication Compatibility: See-LEVEL can be used alongside medication if already taken. Fogging Lenses: Patients may sweat, causing the lenses to fog. Provide the included lens cloth for cleaning if needed. Battery Life: The battery should last the entire day; the unit enters standby mode when the sun protector is on. Sunlight Safety: Do not use outdoors or expose the headset to direct sunlight. Replace the sun protector immediately after use. Distractions: Avoid disturbing the user while the headset is on; they will remove it when ready. Maintenance Restart for New User: Restart the headset before handing it to a new user to access the first menu. Sharing Hygiene: If sharing the headset, use an antiseptic wipe to clean the face guard. Do not use alcohol-based solutions as they may damage the material. Charger Requirements: Use a 2A USB charger or higher. Avoid charging in hot or confined spaces. Fit & Comfort When putting the headset on a passenger, ask: Are the straps too tight or loose? Is the focus clear? Trial Considerations Collect Feedback: Trials should include responses from at least 30 people to provide reliable data. Human Variability: Expect diverse results; effectiveness varies by individual. Effectiveness Rule (50/40/10) 50%: Need See-LEVEL only once per journey. 40%: May need to reapply a few times. 10%: May not experience relief due to secondary conditions (e.g., vertigo or vision issues).

Wristbands are primarily psychological-effect placebo devices for managing seasickness. They can be helpful for individuals who expect to feel seasick, as the belief in their effectiveness often results in a placebo effect. However, their impact is limited because they do not address the physiological root cause of motion sickness. In contrast, See-LEVEL treats the underlying cause of seasickness by resetting the brain's sensory conflict. It effectively reverses both the physiological and psychological symptoms, providing a comprehensive solution beyond the placebo effect. If you wish, you can still wear your wristband while using See-LEVEL, though it will have little to no effect on the headset's performance.

See-LEVEL is an innovative approach that addresses the root cause of the problem, which is the visual disturbance experienced on a boat. This solution involves the complete occlusion of the patient's eyes and immerses them in a 360-degree virtual reality environment. The imagery presented replicates a stable and serene seascape, giving the impression of looking actually being there. By transporting individuals to this alternate See-LEVEL world, characterized by tranquility, anchored stability, and relaxation, the discomfort associated with being on a seasick vessel is gradually alleviated. Within a few minutes of exposure, the individual's focus shifts from the boat's unsettling motions to a state of relief, as they become fully engrossed in the virtual environment provided by See-LEVEL.

Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the inside and outside of the headset before and after every use. Anti-bacterial wipes may be used to clean everything except the lens. We recommend alcohol-free wipes as alcohol-based ones can leave a residue or damage the surface of the headset and the lens.

Regrettably, our endeavors to develop software for integration with third-party headsets have been unsuccessful over the past four years. Numerous factors, too extensive to enumerate in this context, have contributed to this outcome. Primarily, the operating systems of these headsets present a significant challenge that impedes the effectiveness of our software. However, the innovative solution offered by See-LEVEL circumvents this issue altogether by bypassing the inherent limitations of the headset's operating system.

The See LEVEL headset generally provides a battery life of approximately two hours during active usage. Moreover, an additional standby mode ensures that the headset remains readily available for up to 48 hours. The integrated Lithium battery is conveniently positioned at the rear of the head strap, ensuring a comfortable fit without exerting any weight on the user's face.

For optimal results, it is recommended to apply the See-LEVEL headset as soon as possible when experiencing symptoms of seasickness. Prompt application allows our technology to expedite the relief process effectively. It is crucial to acknowledge and address any seasickness concerns without hesitation. If you are prone to seasickness, it is advisable to have the See-LEVEL headset readily available and familiarize yourself with its usage. Apply the headset without delay.

Generally, See-LEVEL demonstrates an efficacy rate of 80% among the general public; however, its effectiveness is even higher among crew members with prior experience on vessels. It is important to note that individuals who infrequently travel on vessels often resort to excessive use of seasickness pills or patches, while some may have pre-existing vestibular conditions that are exacerbated by any form of vessel movement. Regrettably, there are cases where individuals, despite receiving treatment with See-LEVEL, patches, pills, or other remedies, may not find relief due to factors beyond the scope of intervention.

Following the removal of the See-LEVEL headset, the following observations can be discerned: Within the subset of the population, approximately 25%, afflicted by seasickness, our pioneering product has exhibited its effectiveness. Through meticulous testing, we have successfully alleviated symptoms for 40% of individuals after a single application, significantly broadening the product's therapeutic reach. Additionally, an additional 40% of individuals necessitated multiple applications to achieve the desired level of relief due to occasional symptom recurrence. Our observations indicate a process of habituation occurring within the body and mind as they acclimate to the new surroundings provided by See-LEVEL. Consequently, the intervals between subsequent applications progressively lengthen until See-LEVEL completes its intended function of adapting individuals to their altered environment.

Certainly, you can utilize See-LEVEL even if you have experienced vomiting. While vomiting may provide temporary relief, it is common for symptoms to resurface shortly afterward. To effectively address the underlying biological effects resulting from visual disturbance, it is advisable to promptly apply See-LEVEL as soon as you are able. By doing so, the innovative technology of See-LEVEL works to reverse these effects, leading to a swift alleviation of symptoms and a renewed sense of relief.

Certainly, See-LEVEL can be used in conjunction with other seasickness medications. It is important to note that See-LEVEL offers a distinct advantage as a non-medical solution, simulating the experience of stepping off the boat. Our testing has extensively involved individuals on offshore vessels who had previously taken medication before or during their trip. Despite the co-administration of other medications, See-LEVEL's effectiveness remained unhindered.