A hardware proof of concept of a sailing robot for ocean observation

Abstract

A design for a sailing robot capable of holding station in a variety of wind and sea conditions is described. Results from experiments with an autonomously controlled small-scale prototype on a lake are also presented. The likely effects and problems of scale-up are examined, as are the cost considerations. Potential applications for a larger version of the robot are discussed and the requirements for communication and long term autonomy are considered in the light of the results obtained with the prototype. The potential for low-cost, flexible, in-situ ocean observation is examined and likely capabilities of a system based on this type of robot are considered.