Technical demo - Autonomy proof of concept #86
Description
Build a demonstration of the autonomous sailing capability.
Options (pick one)
Option A: Simulation
- 3D simulation showing route planning + obstacle avoidance
- Could use Unity, Unreal, or maritime sim tools
- Pros: Cheapest, fastest
- Cons: "Just a video game"
Option B: RC Boat
- Small RC sailboat with autonomous navigation
- GPS waypoint following + basic collision avoidance
- Pros: Real hardware, impressive demo
- Cons: More expensive, weather dependent
Option C: Comma.ai-style Video
- Show how openpilot/comma approach could adapt to marine
- Overlay visualizations on sailing footage
- Pros: Connects to proven tech
- Cons: More conceptual than demo
Minimum Viable Demo
- Boat follows waypoints autonomously
- Detects and avoids obstacles (other boats, land)
- Returns to base on command or low battery
- Shore monitoring dashboard shows real-time state
Budget Estimate
- Simulation: €2-5k
- RC boat: €5-15k
- Video approach: €1-3k
Required for Level 3: Investor Ready