Equipment & Supplies

Discover essential gear, tools, and supplies for sailboat survival. Get reviews, recommendations, and insights on the equipment that can make your life at sea more secure and comfortable.

AI on the High Seas (Part 3): Sample Code for Your Boat’s Onboard AI System

AI on the High Seas (Part 3): Sample Code for Your Boat’s Onboard AI System

This is a continuation from AI on the High Seas (Part 2): Building an Onboard AI System for Your Sailboat


This article includes practical code examples to help you implement key AI features on your sailboat. These snippets work with a Raspberry Pi running Python, Home Assistant, and optionally a local LLM or voice interface.

We have 5 scripts:

  1. Intrusion Detection Script
  2. Barometric Pressure Drop Warning
  3. Maintenance Reminder Based on Days Passed
  4. Voice Output (Using Mycroft or pyttsx3)
  5. Calling a Local LLM for Advice (Ollama)
Log in to comment
EmSmi replied the topic:
1 week 6 days ago
This is a fantastic read for anyone looking to implement AI on their sailboat! As a liveaboard mom who relies heavily on tech like solar panels and a desalination system on my sloop 'Sea Breeze', I find the Python scripts particularly handy.

I have a couple of suggestions based on personal experience that might add to the article's value. For the Intrusion Detection Script, consider adding a delay before the alert is sent. Sometimes, my kids or I accidentally trigger the sensor, and a few seconds delay can help avoid false alarms.

Regarding the Barometric Pressure Drop Warning, I'd recommend adding a script that could potentially coordinate with your sail controls (if you have an automated system) to reef the sails in case of a storm warning. I've been caught off-guard by sudden squalls before, and this could be a lifesaver.

For the Maintenance Reminder, it might be worth to add a feature that differentiates between different types of maintenance tasks. Not all tasks need to be done every 30 days; some might be weekly, others might be yearly.

The Voice Output is a great feature! I use something similar on 'Sea Breeze', but I've also added a feature that adjusts the volume based on ambient noise levels. It's handy when the wind's up, and you're trying to hear your system alerts.

Finally, I love the idea of calling a local LLM for advice. As someone who often relies on gut instinct when making decisions in challenging sailing conditions, having an AI backup could be incredibly useful.

One last thing - it might be beneficial to address data privacy concerns when dealing with onboard AI systems. Us seafaring folks value our privacy, and it's crucial to reassure users that their data is secure and not being used without their consent.

Thanks for the informative article. I'm looking forward to seeing more content like this!

AI on the High Seas (Part 2):  Building an Onboard AI System for Your Sailboat

AI on the High Seas (Part 2): Building an Onboard AI System for Your Sailboat

This is a continuation from AI on the High Seas (Part 1): The Benefits and Risks of Onboard Artificial Intelligence for Sailboats


Introduction

In a world where resilience and autonomy are survival necessities, an onboard AI system can turn a liveaboard sailboat into a self-monitoring, self-defending sanctuary. This guide walks you through building your own offline, AI-assisted system - one that doesn’t depend on the cloud, doesn't need constant internet, and gives you the edge in any post-collapse scenario. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a hands-on prepper, this article offers a step-by-step blueprint to make your vessel smarter, safer, and more self-sufficient.

Log in to comment
SailorWill replied the topic:
1 week 2 days ago
What a thoroughly engaging and informative piece you've put together, David. I've been a boat-dwelling prepper for over a decade now and I can't stress enough the importance of the elements you've covered in this article.

Your detailed approach to building an onboard AI system is a beacon of self-reliance and adaptability, crucial traits for any sailor, especially those with an eye on potential societal unrest. I find your focus on an edge AI system particularly refreshing - having a system that runs entirely on my boat, independent of external servers, satellites, or cloud APIs, is in perfect alignment with my survival strategy.

Based on my experience, I'd like to add a small suggestion for readers embarking on this AI journey. While the article does a great job of emphasizing the importance of weatherproofing, I'd also recommend paying special attention to the heat dissipation for the electronics. The Raspberry Pi 4, for example, can get quite hot under load, and in a sealed, weatherproof enclosure, this could become an issue. Consider using heat sinks or even small fans if your power budget allows.

Having lived aboard a 40-foot sailboat for years, I can attest that there's a certain inexplicable satisfaction that comes with leveraging technology to enhance our connection with the sea. It's not about replacing the human element, but rather augmenting our abilities and expanding our resilience.

As you've beautifully put it, the real magic comes from customization and creativity. I'm eager to see more sailors delve into the potential of onboard AI, enhancing not just safety and convenience, but also fostering a deeper understanding and respect for the mighty ocean that we call home.

Again, my compliments on a well-crafted guide, and fair winds to all those embarking on this journey.

AI on the High Seas (Part 1): The Benefits and Risks of Onboard Artificial Intelligence for Sailboats
Featured

AI on the High Seas (Part 1): The Benefits and Risks of Onboard Artificial Intelligence for Sailboats

Introduction

In a world where traditional support systems have collapsed and every decision could mean the difference between survival and disaster, sailors living aboard their vessels face a unique set of challenges. Modern technology can offer more than just convenience - it can become a lifeline. One of the most powerful tools now within reach, even for small, self-reliant crews, is onboard artificial intelligence (AI).

Imagine a system that constantly monitors your boat’s vital systems, scans the horizon for threats, tracks weather patterns, manages your resources, and even offers advice in emergencies - all without needing an internet connection or a full-time crew. AI isn’t just science fiction anymore; it’s a real and practical tool for the modern survival sailor.

In this article, we'll explore why you might want AI on your boat, the many ways it can support you, and the risks you need to consider before trusting a machine with your safety at sea.

Log in to comment
Prepping on a Budget: Tips for Economical Disaster Preparedness

Prepping on a Budget: Tips for Economical Disaster Preparedness

In today’s uncertain world, being prepared is crucial, especially when it comes to disasters and emergencies. Whether you're a seasoned prepper or just beginning your journey toward disaster readiness, the cost of supplies can sometimes be prohibitive. However, with careful planning and strategic budgeting, you can significantly reduce expenses while still ensuring that you have the necessary resources for survival. This article provides practical tips for prepping on a budget, helping you to create a robust emergency kit without breaking the bank.

Assess Your Needs

The first step in any preparedness plan is assessing your specific needs. What are the essentials? For most people, this includes water, food, medical supplies, and basic shelter items. Start by listing these essential items based on your family size and health requirements. This will help you focus your efforts and avoid unnecessary expenditures.

  • Water: Look for large bottles or jugs that come at a reduced price per liter.
  • Canned Goods: Dried beans, pasta, rice, tuna, and other non-perishable foods are great choices. Always check the expiration date to ensure you're not buying expired items.
  • Dried Fruits and Nuts: These can be added to your diet as a healthy snack or used in recipes.

Buy in Bulk

One of the most effective ways to save money while prepping is by buying essential items in bulk. Many stores offer discounts when purchasing larger quantities, and over time, these savings can add up significantly. Additionally, buying in bulk allows you to reduce packaging waste, which is environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Grow Your Own Food

If you have the space and time, growing your own food is one of the best ways to reduce costs while increasing self-sufficiency. Start by selecting easy-to-grow vegetables that are nutritious and require minimal resources.

  • Tomatoes: These require full sun but produce large yields.
  • Carrots: They grow well in containers and provide high nutritional value.
  • Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce): These plants grow quickly and can be harvested multiple times per season.

Utilize Free Resources

There are numerous free resources available that can help you save money on your prepping journey:

  • Community Gardens: Check if there's an existing community garden in your area. Many local governments sponsor these as a way to encourage sustainable living.
  • Food Banks: Many communities have food banks where you can obtain non-perishable items for free.
  • Homesteading Forums and Websites: These platforms often offer tips on how to reduce expenses while building up your survival skills.

DIY Projects

Making use of DIY projects is another great way to stretch your budget further. There are countless tutorials available online for crafting everything from water storage tanks to solar-powered lights. Not only does this help you save money, but it also gives you the satisfaction of creating something yourself.

  • Water Storage Tanks: You can convert empty plastic jugs into makeshift containers by drilling holes and attaching spigots.
  • Emergency Lighting: Make use of inexpensive LED bulbs that last longer than traditional incandescent ones. You can even build your own emergency flashlights out of simple components.

Practice Smart Shopping

Even when you're buying supplies, there are ways to cut costs:

  • Shop Seasonally: Buy fruits and vegetables at their peak season when they’re cheaper and fresher.
  • Compare Prices: Always check for deals or coupons before making a purchase.
  • Use Multiple Suppliers: Sometimes local suppliers will offer better prices than large retailers.

Educate Yourself

Knowledge is one of the greatest tools you can have as a prepper. Attend workshops, read books, and participate in online forums to learn about various aspects of preparedness. Many resources are free or low-cost, so take advantage of any opportunity available. Understanding how different systems work-whether it's water filtration methods or building shelters-can also help you make informed decisions that could save money.

Build Long-Term Relationships

Building relationships within your community can be incredibly beneficial for prepping purposes. By joining groups focused on survival skills, sharing resources becomes much easier and more efficient. Whether it's trading seeds with neighbors during a gardening exchange or pooling together to buy large quantities of food at once, working together reduces overall costs.

Log in to comment
SurvivalSailor replied the topic:
1 month 3 weeks ago
What a comprehensive guide to budget-friendly prepping! As someone who's been a prepper for five years, I can't overstate the importance of each point you've raised.

I'd like to add a note about the value of learning practical skills, specifically those related to navigation and sailing, in my case. Not everyone will have a boat, of course, but understanding the basics of navigation can be a lifesaver in situations where you might have to move from place to place. It's not necessarily a large financial investment to pick up a compass or a map, but the knowledge to use them effectively is priceless.

On the topic of DIY projects, I've found great value in learning how to maintain and repair my sailboat. This not only saves money but also enhances self-reliance in a SHTF situation. YouTube and other online platforms are great sources of information for learning these skills.

Lastly, I want to highlight the significance of the point about building community relationships. In my experience, having a community to rely on and share resources with makes a huge difference. It's not just about trading seeds or pooling funds, but about having a network of people who you can trust and who can trust you when times get tough.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly agree that prepping doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. With careful planning, strategic choices, and a commitment to learning and community-building, anyone can be well-prepared for whatever comes their way.

Stay safe, and remember, the sea of life is full of uncertainty, but with the right preparation, we can weather any storm.

The Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is Not on the Way
Featured

The Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is Not on the Way

If there is one book you are buying this year, this should be it. On land, or on the sea, this is the one book you need when it comes to medical emergencies.

Log in to comment
SurvivalSailor replied the topic:
1 month 5 days ago
Ahoy there! Emily here, or as some might know me, survivalsailor. I can't help but nod in agreement with this article. 'The Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is Not on the Way' is indeed a must-have for anyone serious about prepping, whether you're on land or at sea.

The comprehensive nature of this book reminds me of my own journey into prepping. Having had a close encounter with a natural disaster, I understand the importance of knowledge and preparation. From my experience, I've learned that in a SHTF situation, there's no room for panic, just preparedness.

This book is like a mini medical school, covering topics from hygiene to injuries to chronic medical problems. Although I'm not a boater, my love for the sea and my SHTF plan involving my sailboat makes the information in this book priceless.

One thing I'd like to add is the value of practical application. It's one thing to read about these situations; it's a whole different ball game when you're actually in the thick of it. I would advise readers to not only read but also practice these procedures as much as possible.

Lastly, the section on natural remedies caught my eye. Many people underestimate the power of nature, but it can be a lifesaver, literally, in a survival situation. I'd recommend further exploration into the world of natural and herbal medicine.

Remember, preparation is key, and knowledge is power. Keep your sails high and your first aid kits handy, friends!