Meet the Subteams!

Software

The software team on AutoBoat is responsible for researching, developing, and testing all computer programs which enable the boat to operate autonomously. Our team is made up of several main projects each with a different focus: Perception, Artificial Intelligence, Controls & Microcontroller Design, and ROS & Simulations. You can think of the first three teams as answering the following questions:

• Perception: What do we see? Where are we?
• AI: Based on what we see, where do we go? How should we move?
• Controls: Based on how we want to move, how do we control our motors to achieve that movement?

ROS is the glue that holds everything together: it provides concurrency in the “eyes” (perception), “brains” (AI), and “muscles” (controls) of the boat and allows them to communicate with each other. Simulations enable us to test our code and analyze the boat’s behavior when not on the water.

Working on the Software subteam gives students the opportunity to get hands-on experience with complex engineering problems. Members are pushed to gain new technical skills, take initiative, and learn to collaborate effectively. These skills enable our members to grow as engineers and individuals, ultimately excelling in their careers.

Hardware

The hardware team is responsible for the design, manufacturing, integration, and testing of all the physical components of the boat. Mechanical tackles all the major hydrodynamic, structural, and waterproofing systems that make up our boat. Robotics encompasses all the advanced capability systems such as the skeeball shooter, watergun, and robotic arm that allow the boat to interact with its environment. Finally, E-Systems connects everything together, handling power distribution, signal communication between components, and sensor integration, forming the vital bridge between the hardware and software systems.

Business

The business team supports the team by managing operations, outreach, and finances. Key responsibilities include fundraising and sponsorship outreach, producing videos for competition submissions, maintaining and updating the team website (including the site you’re viewing right now :D), and managing budgets and spending. By handling external communication and financial planning, the business team allows the technical subteams to focus on design and manufacturing while ensuring the team operates efficiently, professionally, and competitively.