Homespun Autopilot -Arduino and an old Benmar

Discussion in 'OnBoard Electronics & Controls' started by Bumbleguy, Sep 27, 2017.

  1. Bumbleguy
    Joined: Sep 2017
    Posts: 1
    Likes: 0, Points: 1
    Location: SF Bay

    Bumbleguy New Member

    Hi all,
    I'm looking for thoughts on the best way to update the control of my autopilot, using my existing Benmar Power box that is already tied into the steering system. Basically I just want to create a new "brain box" to send a signal to the existing solenoids that control the turning motor and clutch.

    I’m assuming I can use an ardunio with a GPS and or compass inputs to steer either to a fixed magnetic direction, or potentially to a GPS waypoint. The former is probably what would be most useful to me (and easiest to build)—This is for a Grand Banks 32.

    Looking on opinions for the easiest way to accomplish this—Just ardupilot -- controls for compass direction and a switch to enable control and the clutch? How difficult would it be to tie into an IPad with some sort of Nav app that has a nice interface for GPS? Any thoughts would be appreciated. I’d be considered somewhere between a beginner and advanced beginner in the Arduino world.

    Thanks in advance
     
  2. CDK
    Joined: Aug 2007
    Posts: 3,324
    Likes: 148, Points: 63, Legacy Rep: 1819
    Location: Adriatic sea

    CDK retired engineer

    Look here: YourDuino http://yourduino.com/sunshop2/index.php
    A "Robored" Arduino compatible accepts a wider supply range and has more powerful outputs. Interfacing with an IPad is easier said than done, I don't know if there are navigation apps that can talk to the outside world by bluetooth or wifi.
     
  3. IronPrice
    Joined: Jul 2017
    Posts: 205
    Likes: 20, Points: 18
    Location: NZ

    IronPrice Senior Member

    if you google around there are few of these project that people have completed for small sailboats, kayaks, autonomous model boats etc.
     

  4. sv alexandra
    Joined: Jun 2017
    Posts: 2
    Likes: 0, Points: 1
    Location: wherever

    sv alexandra New Member

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