Carplounge Autopilot: Revolutionizing BaitBoat Control with the Raymarine Element App (RT7 & RT4 V4)
The Carplounge Autopilot utilizes an Android tablet or phone, eliminating the need for a traditional remote control. This innovative system uses a free app available on the Google Play Store, compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled Android device. A transmitter box facilitates Bluetooth connection between the tablet and the boat, providing complete touchscreen control.
Manual mode offers standard BaitBoat functionality, with intuitive touchscreen steering. The app displays real-time boat position, route, and orientation (including a compass!), constantly updating the map. Using the integrated GPS, anglers can save and label promising fishing spots (e.g., "jetty left," "spot 1," "home") identified via echo sounder.
Autopilot mode allows users to select and sequence these points into routes, incorporating actions like opening hatches (left/right) and activating lights. For example, a route could be programmed as follows: 1) Navigate to "Sandbank," open the right hopper; 2) Proceed to "Spot 2," open the left hopper; 3) Return to the fishing location and activate the lights once. The boat will then autonomously execute this route. An almost unlimited number of spots and routes are storable.
Precision is ensured through advanced measurement technology, including position and acceleration sensors, along with cutting-edge GPS and compass technology. Route accuracy is remarkably high, achieving less than 30cm precision in 90% of cases.
Intelligent line tension management is another key feature. The system detects line tension during operation (especially crucial when deploying two rods simultaneously to different locations), adjusting the boat's course to counteract tension and maintain a direct path to the target, minimizing line bends.
While the autopilot replaces the traditional remote, the option to connect a remote control remains. Users can choose between tablet or remote control operation. The app is optimized for 10-inch tablets, offering direct touchscreen BaitBoat steering.
The Google Play Store app undergoes continuous development and expansion through automatic updates, ensuring quick access to new features, improvements, and bug fixes without requiring the autopilot or boat to be returned for updates.
Exclusively for RT7 & RT4 V4 models.
Version 3.9.8 Updates (Oct 20, 2024)
Fixed:
- Resolved autopilot issues with routes/rasters exceeding 5 waypoints.
- Various bug fixes.
Changed:
- Enabled label management during saved point editing.
- Allowed editing of all data when creating points.