What We Do
The goal of Controls team is to enable the remote and autonomous control of our sailboat. Much of our day-to-day work includes researching electrical components, designing PCBs, soldering, and programming.
On the software side, we primarily use Python, C++ and ROS2 to develop modular systems for navigation, sensor processing, and decision-making. Some of our past and current projects include simulators, PTZ cameras with computer vision, automatic bilge system and an RFID scanner for our door. Feel free to check out what we've done on our GitHub repository.
Beyond software development, we also research components, design custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) using Altium, solder sensors, and manufacture our own batteries.
Currently, the team is working on integration of the RTK module for centimeter-level GPS accuracy, and a Parallax depth camera for obstacle detection. For future development, the controls team might consider incorporating Machine Learning to facilitate decision-making for the vehicle.
We are always open to new ideas and projects. If you have a project in mind, feel free to reach out to us!
Skills You'll Develop
Software & Programming
- Python - Navigation autonomy
- C/C++ - Embedded systems
- ROS2 - Systems design
- Git/GitHub - Version control and collaboration
- Docker - Software deployment
Hardware & Electronics
- PCB Design - Altium Designer
- Soldering & Wiring - Precision assembly
- Sensor Integration - GPS, IMU, cameras
- Microcontrollers - Arduino, Raspberry Pi
- Circuit Testing - Multimeter/Oscilloscope debugging
- Parallax - Intel RealSense Depth Camera D457
- RTK Module - LG290P GNSS RTK Module
No prior experience required! We welcome students from all engineering disciplines and skill levels.