Vol. 01. INSIDE Smartmark
Smartmark is the result of more than 5 years of development.
"When the idea came up to build a robotic sail mark we gravely
underestimated the duration and complexity to develop such a product.
In general we assumed to adopt the technique of flying drones.
The first results has been very disappointing."
Fortunately did we get addicted to the idea to revolutionize race course setting by using self-positioning marks what kept us going.
During the next years the entire construction, design, technique and software was developed until achieving perfection. There is a history of development behind each individual component that is part of Smartmark.
Whether physical or technical achievements, design or constructive matters as aero & hydrodynamic reasons. Everything is thought through and coordinated to the smallest detail – for maximum liability, easy maintenance and handling.
1. GRP Hull
The base is a sturdy and long living GRP catamaran hull that is designed analogous to a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) construction protected by an inflatable and high-strength PVC tube.
The hull guarantees highest stability in all wind and wave conditions. Whether the Smartmark is keeping it’s position or in the sailing mode to reach it’s target position or even is getting towed with a speed of up to 15 knots.
Another huge advantage is that all components are located inside the hull and thus securely protected from damage due to collisions or atmospheric influences.
2. Electric motors
The two rigid electric motors enable precise and efficient steering. Compared to rotating motors this solution reduces response time what reflects the precision of Smartmark.
3. Lithium Ion Batteries
With it’s 180Ah to 240Ah lithium ion batteries the Smartmark offers by far the highest battery capacity on the market.
The high performance guarantees reliability in the toughest sailing conditions. Even after several years and an age-related loss of battery capacity, there is no need to worry. The Smartmark will easily master a full racing day with strong winds, currents and high waves.
4. Battery Management System
An intelligent battery management system (BMS) guarantees the longevity of the batteries and thus a high degree of sustainability and low maintenance costs.
5. Server based
The entire system is server based what brings a lot of advantages and possibilities.
Is the Smartmark is switched on the current software version will be downloaded. This guarantees all users to work always with the latest updates.
The possibility to set interfaces allows to use the datas of the Smartmark and implement the in other system like i.e. tracking and analysis programs. But also the implementation of
In order to deliver the best service the server based system allows us to offer remote maintenance and to monitor the marks from all over the world
6. Quadruple sensor technology
As mentioned at the beginning is there are history of development behind each component of the Smartmark. In the end the greatness of Smartmark is an interplay of all components, the design and the software.
The cherry on top and the absolute all attitude feature is the quadruple sensor technology that is responsible for 70% of Smartmarks precision!
Depending on the weather and topography there are changes in the GPS signals. For example are there differences whether the sky is clear of clouds or heavy rain clouds are deflecting the signals to the satellites. But also carbon hulls and especially carbon sails can shield and disturb the signals and cause deviations.
Changes in the reception of signals will trigger a movement alert without a real move of the mark. To avoid the Smartmark is follwowing false movement allerts it is not just equipped with a state-of-the-art GPS Antenna, but with a quadruple sensor technology consisting of:
4x gyroscope
4x compass
4x barometers
7x thermal sensors
While a part of the sensors is in the atmosphere the other part is thermally encapsulated.
Our unique technology in combination with our intelligent software allows the Smartmark to measure it’s own movement and avoid undesired motions. The average movement reached is below 35cm!
We hope to have sparked your interest in learning more about the marvelous technique behind Smartmark.
PREVIEW
In the next episode of “INSIDE Smartmark” will we take a closer look on the sensor technology and give further insights to GPS technology.
Stay tuned!
