Robotic Canoe Employs Robotic Arms for Tasks at Sea
The RowboBoat, a groundbreaking invention by an unidentified inventor known as Dave, is set to redefine watercraft technology. This innovative robotic platform has been designed to attach non-destructively to a canoe, using custom brackets for a tidy fit.
The canoe's propulsion system has been ingeniously engineered to emulate a differential drive, similar to how a tank works. This design allows for precise manoeuvrability and efficient movement.
Dave utilised 3D scanning of the canoe as a design aid, a technique that has also been employed in refitting a van into an off-grid camper. This meticulous approach ensures a perfect fit and seamless integration of the robotic components.
The robotic platform is constructed from aluminium extrusion and custom brackets, providing the necessary strength and durability for its intended purpose.
The steering of the RowboBoat is controlled by a joystick, offering intuitive control to the operator. The RowboBoat's robotic arms, designed to mimic the motion of human paddling, attach to the canoe at specific points, allowing for precise movement and efficient propulsion.
These paddle-bearing arms are controlled by the Robot Operating System (ROS) on a Jetson Orin Nano SBC. ROS treats the arms as though they were wheels in a differential drive, facilitating smooth and responsive control.
The RowboBoat's electronics are protected by a pair of firmly-crossed fingers, ensuring their safety during operation. The robotic arms operate efficiently in water, allowing the RowboBoat to paddle itself, freeing the operator to focus on not capsizing.
The RowboBoat's design aims to maintain the original aesthetic of the canoe while adding the robotic functionality. The canoe, with its unique lack of straight edges or right angles, makes 3D scanning particularly useful for its design.
The RowboBoat's configuration and code are available on GitHub for public viewing, allowing for collaboration and further development. A video of the RowboBoat in action is embedded below, offering a glimpse into the future of watercraft technology.
Despite our efforts to uncover the identity of Dave, the inventor of the RowboBoat, no search results have specified who he is. Regardless, the RowboBoat stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its creator.
