Autonomous Boat Launching Navigation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges when launching and loading boats, as existing navigation systems are not equipped to handle the unique conditions of a boat launch site, which differ from land-based navigation.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a land-based autonomous vehicle communicatively coupled with a trailer and a boat, using data collectors and a human-machine interface to determine if a boat is being towed and to navigate to a boat launch site, where it can select and operate a launch location for the boat, and subsequently load or unload the boat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing navigation systems are used for land-based vehicles, then the system is simple and well-established, but it cannot handle the unique conditions of a boat launch site
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation system is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it operates as a standard land-based navigation system for roadway navigation, and simultaneously functions as a boat launch navigation system when a boat launch site is detected. The system automatically switches between these modes based on the environment, allowing one system to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the detected environment. When the vehicle approaches a boat launch site (detected via water proximity sensors or GPS coordinates), the system automatically transitions from standard roadway navigation to boat launch-specific navigation procedures, including selecting launch locations, guiding trailer positioning, and coordinating boat launch operations. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle unique boat launch conditions without manual intervention.
2Extent of automation
If the autonomous vehicle manually operates the boat launch process, then the operation is simple and direct, but it requires human intervention and reduces automation
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous vehicle performs the entire boat launch operation independently without human intervention. The system detects boat launch sites, selects appropriate launch locations, navigates the vehicle and trailer to correct positions, coordinates the boat launch timing, and even guides the boat into the water. The vehicle serves itself by integrating all necessary sensing, decision-making, and actuation functions into its autonomous control system, eliminating the need for human operators during the launch process.
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous system performs preliminary actions before the actual boat launch: it detects and identifies boat launch sites in advance, selects optimal launch locations, positions the vehicle and trailer correctly, and prepares the launch sequence. By completing these preparatory steps autonomously before the boat launch occurs, the system reduces the complexity of real-time manual coordination and enables fully automated operation during the critical launch moment.
3Productivity
If the vehicle navigates to a boat launch site without specific launch location selection, then the navigation is simpler, but the boat launch operation becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation system incorporates feedback mechanisms to select optimal boat launch locations. Sensors detect water proximity, GPS provides location data, and the system receives feedback about suitable launch spots along the shoreline. Based on this feedback, the system automatically selects the most appropriate launch location considering factors like water depth, shoreline accessibility, and boat type, then guides the vehicle and trailer to that specific location. This feedback-driven selection improves launch efficiency without requiring complex manual assessment.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device for a vehicle includes a processor and a memory. The processor is programmed to determine that a vehicle destination includes a boat launch and that the vehicle is towing a trailer including a boat. The computing device guides the vehicle at the boat launch to position the trailer to launch the boat.