2019-04-16, 07:11 PM
So I have a Beneteau 351 (35') with a non-functioning ST4000 mk2 autopilot (wheel drive).
I'd love to try to use open plotter / Pypilot, and wanted people's opinions on what (if anything) I can use from the existing system:
1. If the wheel drive is functional, then theoretically I could use an ESC with openplotter to run it? As far as I can tell from the maintenance manual, the 4000Mk2 is literally just a 12v brushed DC motor. So the open plotter drive unit, or a regular ESC would work? How do you connect the ESC to the Pi? I assume the PWM inputs connect to the GPIO pins somehow?
2. The system has some type of rudder feedback unit, assume it was part of the ST4000 system. Anyone know what signal it's providing, and whether open plotter could use it?
3. In other forums, no one seems to talk about wheel drive autopilots, everyone talks about linear actuators. But a T0 actuator from B&G is like $1500, plus I see no easy way to mount it to the rudder. Is there a downside to wheel drive units? I'm new to this size boat and it seems like it's a good idea, but is it slower? less powerful maybe? not as good in rougher seas?
4. Is it worth trying to use the existing fluxgate compass? I just ordered a 9255 IMU for my Pi3, so I'm assuming that's going to be better?
5. Is there any way to leverage the ST4000 control head at the helm? I.e. does it output it's control signals as NMEA 0183? My open plotter does not have a sunlight readable display or weatherproof controller, so it's at the nav station. So how are you guys controlling the autopilot from above decks?
Lots of newbee questions!
Thanks
Simon
I'd love to try to use open plotter / Pypilot, and wanted people's opinions on what (if anything) I can use from the existing system:
1. If the wheel drive is functional, then theoretically I could use an ESC with openplotter to run it? As far as I can tell from the maintenance manual, the 4000Mk2 is literally just a 12v brushed DC motor. So the open plotter drive unit, or a regular ESC would work? How do you connect the ESC to the Pi? I assume the PWM inputs connect to the GPIO pins somehow?
2. The system has some type of rudder feedback unit, assume it was part of the ST4000 system. Anyone know what signal it's providing, and whether open plotter could use it?
3. In other forums, no one seems to talk about wheel drive autopilots, everyone talks about linear actuators. But a T0 actuator from B&G is like $1500, plus I see no easy way to mount it to the rudder. Is there a downside to wheel drive units? I'm new to this size boat and it seems like it's a good idea, but is it slower? less powerful maybe? not as good in rougher seas?
4. Is it worth trying to use the existing fluxgate compass? I just ordered a 9255 IMU for my Pi3, so I'm assuming that's going to be better?
5. Is there any way to leverage the ST4000 control head at the helm? I.e. does it output it's control signals as NMEA 0183? My open plotter does not have a sunlight readable display or weatherproof controller, so it's at the nav station. So how are you guys controlling the autopilot from above decks?
Lots of newbee questions!
Thanks
Simon