iNav4U, creators of the Zora intelligent operating system for yachts, and RISE Robotics, developers of Beltdraulic fluid-free actuators, are partnering to advance yacht automation.
The companies will combine Zora’s adaptive control software with RISE’s actuator technology, to further autopilot performance.
The collaboration between iNav4U and RISE Robotics aims to tackle the challenges of maintenance and the power draw from hydraulic drives traditionally used in yacht autopilot systems.
Instead of using hydraulic cylinders, RISE’s Beltdraulic actuator eliminates hydraulic fluids, pumps, and hoses.
Built-in health monitoring
The electromechanical system will convert more than 80% of the input power into useful motion.
In addition, built-in position feedback and health monitoring allow closed-loop steering control and provide early insight into maintenance needs.
The actuator will be paired with iNav4U’s Zora control platform featuring adaptive steering to match the vessel’s dynamics and sea conditions and predictive calibration.
Open software architecture supports standard marine communication networks.
RISE Robotics is redefining how high force motion is created on board.
Olivier Hendrikx
“RISE Robotics is redefining how high force motion is created on board,” explained Olivier Hendrikx, CEO of iNav4U.
“Pairing Zora’s intelligent control with RISE’s fluid-free actuation, we’re making autopilot systems that are cleaner to operate, easier to maintain, and built for the realities of modern yachting.”
Hiten Sonpal, CEO of RISE Robotics, added: “Partnering with iNav4U allows us to show what Beltdraulic technology can do when combined with advanced vessel controls.
“Together, we’re delivering precise, efficient steering without the complexity or environmental risk of hydraulics.”
The system will be on show at Metstrade 2025.
