In a typical sailboat race, the course is marked with a sequence of buoys that must be anchored to the seabed, and which can get pushed round by winds or currents. MarkSetBot addresses these issues, with internet-connected robotic buoys.
Every MarkSetBot unit consists of a high-visibility yellow, inexperienced or orange inflatable race marker buoy, set on a pair of inflatable pontoons.
Extending down between these pontoons is an electrical motor pod, which is powered by an onboard 100-Ah lithium-ion battery. The Bots are linked to the web by way of a mobile community, though they will also be remotely managed by a close-by Bluetooth distant if a community is not out there.
When the course is initially being marked, every MarkSetBot can both be towed out to its respective location, or instructed (by way of an app) to journey out to the GPS coordinates beneath its personal energy – it has a most pace of 4 knots (7 km/h or 5 mph). As soon as in place, it makes use of a proprietary position-keeping algorithm to remain in that location, autonomously operating and steering its motor pod as wanted.
In accordance with the Detroit-based MarkSetBot firm, the Bots can maintain their place in winds of as much as 30 knots (56 km/h or 35 mph) and waves as much as 3 meters (10 ft). Below extra typical situations – 8 to 10-knot winds and 1 to 2-foot waves – one 5-hour cost of the battery ought to reportedly be good for roughly 24 hours of use.
The designers additionally state that when deflated, as much as three of the Bots can match behind "most sedans" with the rear seat folded down. You may want some assist getting them out and in of there, although, as every one weighs 115 lb (52 kg).
Together with the distant, non-compulsory extras embrace an onboard wind instrument for measuring and monitoring wind pace/path, and an app-controlled horn for signaling race begins, finishes or course adjustments.
MarkSetBots are already in use by a lot of shoppers, and might both be rented for US$1,000 per Bot, leased for $350 per Bot per 30 days, or bought outright for $7,750 per unit.
Supply: MarkSetBot
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