Autopilot systems for yachts and inboard boats are a common backup that gives the captain an occasional rest. But these systems are designed to react to changes in conditions after they occur, which may be too late in certain circumstances, whereas the safest, most ideal system will preempt threats and react in anticipation of a coming danger. Google and others have been developing such systems for driverless cars for years, and now a startup spun out of the University at Buffalo hopes to sell preemptive marine autopilot systems to small and mid-size recreational boat owners.
Recreational boating accidents cost hundreds of lives each year. US Coast Guard statistics show over 4,000 accidents and 610 deaths (equivalent to 5.2 deaths per 100,000 registered vessels) from recreational boating in 2014, with operator inattention and inexperience, improper lookout, excessive speed, and alcohol use rated as the top contributing factors. Read More
