Well, it's been a while...

Hey!

So I'm still alive! As I said in my previous post, I'm now a father to my (currently) 16 month old son which has completely taken over my free-time. Anyway, I recently took voluntary redundancy and, whilst looking for a new position, it's giving me time to work on this project.

So, where am I currently at? Well, after a minor issue with my hard drive, I have a stable Windows OS running and I have the relevant software installed. I am still designing the boat and as per the previous update, I still have the following to create as my next steps:

   - Complete the Rear bulb on boat.
   - Sail boom supports. 
   - Sail top support. 
   - Hole in rib section for keel plate. 
   - Inserts on backbone to support keel plate.

However, I have had a change of tact to keep it interesting. As I am currently looking for a new position in the electronics industry, I need to re-learn I2C and SPI comms. So to do this, I've fired up my brand new RPi B+ (which I bought in Sept 2014) to create a waypoint following circuit/program utilising the compass module, GPS module and a RC servo.

**News Flash!** I was just looking up the module names and was about to go into it in detail, but I've just been informed I have an interview tomorrow with a well respected engineering company. I now have to bail on this blog update to revise so I'll continue blogging over the weekend or early next week.

Wish me luck! :o)

I am still alive...

Afternoon!

If anyone still reads this, I have been a bit lapse at saying what I’ve done and actually doing the work. However, I do have an excuse, I became a father. So, for the work I have done, I’ve reworked the bulb calculations and done both sides now:

 

I’ve added a nut to the bulb, but it’s going to be very expensive and hard to get hold of, so I’m going to use a cap screw with a standard, flat, spring and nut. These are to be decided but the pic above sows the nut to be removed.

I’ve added the Nylock nuts put in place on the mast support:

 

These nuts will either be welded or glued into place, I haven’t decided which way to go yet.

And finally, I’ve started on the rear bulb, but it looks rubbish and needs reworking.

 

Next Steps

·         Complete the Rear bulb on boat

·         Sail boom supports

·         Sail top support

·         Hole in rib section for keel plate.

·         Inserts on backbone to support keel plate.

Until next time (whenever that will be), enjoy!