The Start of AMOS 2.0

The current monitoring circuit that was begun last week was finished, and software was added for the PC and AMOS to view the amount of current that AMOS was consuming on its +12 V circuit. Also added to this diagnostics display was info on the leak sensor status, and (if a serial wireless link was used) the measured RF signal level in dBm. Here is a new screenshot of the BoatCaptain software for the PC (GPS position and time are incorrect because the boat was in the basement):

In an effort to make AMOS lighter and more hydrodynamic, some EPS pink foam insulation was purchased at Home Depot this weekend to make an inexpensive surfboard base (i.e. as a replacement for the trusty, but slow beer cooler). I had studied a number of online examples from people who had made their own paddleboards from this insulation material and had chosen this one in terms of its clear instructions and apparent usefulness (it seemed to actually work): https://www.instructables.com/id/Paddle-Board/

I printed out a picture of a suitably proportioned surfboard, figured out what the scaled dimensions should be, and then cut out a half-template from 1/4" plywood. This plywood was then used to draw both halves of the surfboard on two 2" thick insulation sheets:

The two halves were then glued together with two tubes of construction adhesive and my entire collection of weights were used to apply pressure. After a few days of drying I'll go around it with some sandpaper to smooth it out. Hannah is convinced that it will be too unstable and tippy, even with fins on the bottom and the weight of the electronics, motors, solar panel, and battery on top. Kelly figures it will probably break apart if I try to strap it to the roof of the van. (It can actually fit in the van, but doesn't leave much room for passengers.) So we will see. Perhaps if we get some warm weather and the pond next door melts I'll be able to try it out.