Open Source Winter–Spring Project: Building Digital Boat

As winter succumbed to spring, the prospect of returning to Our Time grew enticing. However, a robin had established a nesting site on the boat trailer, necessitating a postponement of the launch until the chicks had taken flight. This unexpected delay, though, proved to be a fortunate opportunity to complete the installation of OpenPlotter and connect the digital infrastructure. Upon completing the preparations, both the robin family and the electronic components prepared for their new journeys.

The author had been observing various open-source initiatives involving boaters constructing their own chart plotters. These projects could integrate proprietary products, unite them under a single system, and facilitate communication through an NMEA 2000 network. Although the author's Garmin device was functional, it encountered compatibility issues with other peripherals. Consequently, the author decided to develop a custom solution.

The necessary components included a Raspberry Pi 4B, a 12-volt power supply, and a device to link the Pi to the NMEA 2000 network. The author opted for the Copperhill PICAN‑M hat and successfully built the OpenPlotter system. To communicate with the Raspberry Pi, the author utilized their smartphone equipped with RealVNC server.

By configuring the Pi as a Wi-Fi host, the author could connect their phone, establish an internet connection, and integrate it into the NMEA 2000 network. This setup enabled the author to update the plotters and the Garmin device prior to any voyage.

Upon installation, the author discovered that the boat already possessed an NMEA 2000 backbone, albeit with proprietary Lowrance fittings. The author was pleased with their decision to invest in a generic system, as it allowed them to:

- Record and store engine data via the CX5106

- Combine Garmin functionality with other devices

- Incorporate contemporary GPS and AIS through the Signal K software

With the OpenPlotter in operation, the boat was equipped with:

- An AIS receiver

- A GPS receiver

- A Wi-Fi host accessible via a smartphone

- An internet connection facilitated by the smartphone

- NMEA 2000 integration

- Bluetooth streaming to the radio

By adding solar panels and lithium batteries, the digital transformation of the boat progressed further. The author aptly dubbed this endeavor "Digital Boat." The digital boat project extends beyond a mere winter activity; it lays the groundwork for automation, enhanced systems, and a connected maritime experience. The author expressed their intention to refer to this project as "Digital Boat," emphasizing the significant strides being made towards a more automated, intelligent, and interconnected nautical environment.