About BlueNav
BlueNav is a French company pioneering silent, sustainable marine propulsion systems. Their patented BlueSpin technology transforms conventional boats into hybrid or fully electric vessels without changing the original hull design. BlueNav’s vision of “Smart Hybrid Boating” combines ecological responsibility with cutting-edge usability.
An easier and safer way to control the BlueSpin engines
BlueNav is reshaping the future of marine propulsion with BlueSpin, their all-electric thruster system designed for silent, sustainable navigation. To offer boat operators an easier and safer way to control the BlueSpin engines, BlueNav sought a compact, robust joystick that could integrate seamlessly into their helm console and manage complex motor operations in hybrid navigation modes.
Althen’s HE2 joystick was selected to simplify and enhance control — merging three manual inputs into one 3-axis interface that controls two electric motors. It offers precision piloting during docking and low speed cruising, key to BlueNav’s smart boating promise.
Protected by integrated design
The HE2 joystick was mounted onto an aluminum console plate at the boat’s helm, where it is exposed to splashes but protected by design. It replaces three separate control elements — two propulsion levers (left/right) and a rotation stick — allowing the pilot to control both motors with one hand.
The joystick interfaces with BlueNav’s control software to manage various operational modes, including silent cruising and virtual anchoring, ensuring seamless and secure vessel maneuvering.
Product Used: HE2-32-S-E-2-BK Joystick
- Type: Rugged industrial joystick with 3 axes and 2 integrated buttons
- Integration: Delivered with BlueSpin 8kW and upcoming 15kW engine packages
Technical Specifications
- Dual-motor control (1 joystick = 2 engines)
- 3-axis motion + 2 push buttons
- Supports hybrid operational modes: navigation and docking
- Battery autonomy of approx. 10 hours depending on pack size
- Marine-grade ruggedization: splash-proof, ergonomic, compact form factor
- Compatible with BlueSpin 8kW and 15kW models
Operational benefits
The integration of Althen’s HE2 joystick into BlueNav’s BlueSpin propulsion system delivers a major usability upgrade by consolidating three separate control elements into one compact, intuitive interface.
Designed to withstand marine environments, the joystick enables smooth and precise control of both motors, enhancing safety and maneuverability during docking, navigation, and virtual anchoring. Its responsive handling minimizes operator training time and allows even non-professional users to pilot vessels with confidence.
Modern control ergonomics and robust performance
By combining modern control ergonomics with robust performance, the HE2 not only elevates the user experience but also increases the overall value of BlueSpin-equipped vessels. Althen’s expert support during prototyping ensured a seamless fit for BlueNav’s demanding application.
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Used joystick
In this project
HE2 Multi-Axis Finger Joystick
- With contactless hall effect sensor technology
- Pre-programmed proportional analog output/ USB
- Available in 1, 2 or 3 axis configurations
- All configurations are IP67 sealed