2021-04-05, 05:01 PM
Hi,
Thanks for your reply.
I wasn't sure if I could use PyPilot to ensure that the boat would stay on track and away from land. If this is possible, then I shall continue to look at the software. If there is any way I can use this pre-built software and maps of the coast line then that will save me a lot of hassle trying to code my own.
I have had a look at AdruPilot, but it seems that you need a basestation which monitors the device. It also seems that it will only do waypoint navigation, and it will not take avoiding land into account.
Yes, I understand that the boat will be at the mercy of the wind and current for a lot of the time. I'm hoping that it will be alive for enough time to stay away from land as much as possible.
I did consider your points but since I will need to keep it topped up with solar power and will have to check in with location data, I can't make it fully submersible. I was hoping to give it as low a profile as possible to keep the wind contact as low as possible. I was also considering a micro wind generator to harness some of the wind power in addition to the solar power to assist with recharging.
I quite quickly dismissed sail power - I realise that this would be the most efficient propulsion system and would allow the boat to move with very little electrical output, but I honestly don't think I have enough money and expertise to implement an automated sailboat.
Thanks again for your thoughts.
Dòchas
Thanks for your reply.
I wasn't sure if I could use PyPilot to ensure that the boat would stay on track and away from land. If this is possible, then I shall continue to look at the software. If there is any way I can use this pre-built software and maps of the coast line then that will save me a lot of hassle trying to code my own.
I have had a look at AdruPilot, but it seems that you need a basestation which monitors the device. It also seems that it will only do waypoint navigation, and it will not take avoiding land into account.
Yes, I understand that the boat will be at the mercy of the wind and current for a lot of the time. I'm hoping that it will be alive for enough time to stay away from land as much as possible.
I did consider your points but since I will need to keep it topped up with solar power and will have to check in with location data, I can't make it fully submersible. I was hoping to give it as low a profile as possible to keep the wind contact as low as possible. I was also considering a micro wind generator to harness some of the wind power in addition to the solar power to assist with recharging.
I quite quickly dismissed sail power - I realise that this would be the most efficient propulsion system and would allow the boat to move with very little electrical output, but I honestly don't think I have enough money and expertise to implement an automated sailboat.
Thanks again for your thoughts.
Dòchas