I rebuilt and restored Navier’s first-generation prototype to support lower-cost hardware and software testing.
What — The problem
Navier’s original prototype boat was nonfunctional and missing components. I worked on rebuilding it as a platform for continued hardware and software development.
How — My contribution
- Repaired servo motors and installed updated drivers for the actuators.
- Rebuilt the onboard computer and internal wiring.
- Rebuilt CAN bus connections so components could communicate with the computer.
- Repaired the coolant system serving the propulsion motors and electronic speed controllers (ESCs).
- Tested different inertial measurement units (IMUs) to compare their capabilities.
- Documented the wiring and rewrote the user manual.
Missing parts and disconnected systems made this an integration task. My work addressed actuator control, communication with the computer and propulsion cooling, alongside the documentation needed to use the platform.
Why — Result and learning
I rebuilt core electrical, control and cooling systems and documented the prototype’s wiring and operation. The work helped restore its usefulness as a development platform and gave me experience troubleshooting a connected marine system rather than an isolated component.
No measured cost saving or performance improvement is claimed.
Skills demonstrated: System integration, electrical troubleshooting, cooling-system repair and technical communication.
The prototype on the water
Visual description: the open prototype travels away from the dock across the harbor. The clip has no audio.