iNav4U and RISE Robotics Partner to Deliver Reliable, Fluid-Free Autopilot Systems for Yachts

iNav4U and RISE Robotics Fluid-Free Autopilot Systems for Yachts © RISE Robotics x iNav4U

iNav4U, creators of Zora, the intelligent operating system for yachts, and RISE Robotics, developers of Beltdraulic fluid-free actuators, has announced a partnership to advance the next generation of yacht automation.

Combining Zora's adaptive control software with RISE's precise, maintenance-free actuator technology, the companies aim to create a new standard in autopilot performance—smarter, cleaner, and more reliable at sea.

The partnership will be showcased at Metstrade 2025 in Amsterdam, where the two companies will jointly demonstrate Zora's open situational awareness software and RISE Beltdraulic actuators.

Addressing Long-Standing Challenges in Autopilot Systems

Yacht autopilot systems have traditionally relied on hydraulic drives that require regular maintenance and draw significant power. They often struggle with calibration drift, network integration issues, and inconsistent performance in demanding sea conditions.

The collaboration between iNav4U and RISE Robotics directly tackles these challenges. RISE's Beltdraulic actuator replaces hydraulic cylinders with a clean, fluid-free mechanism that operates quietly, efficiently, and with minimal maintenance.

Paired with iNav4U's Zora control platform—featuring adaptive steering, predictive calibration, and open communication across vessel systems—the result is an autopilot solution that is easier to maintain, faster to respond, and more reliable over long passages. Together, the companies are designing a control and actuation package that is simple to integrate, easy to calibrate, and provides operators with real-time insights into system health and performance from anywhere.

Technical Highlights

• Fluid-free operation: Beltdraulic actuators eliminate hydraulic fluids, pumps, and hoses, removing the risk of leaks and reducing maintenance.

• High efficiency: The electromechanical system converts more than 80% of the input power into useful motion—roughly twice that of typical hydraulic drives.

• Integrated sensing: Built-in position feedback and health monitoring allow closed-loop steering control and provide early insight into maintenance needs.

• Adaptive control: Zora's software continuously tunes steering response to match vessel dynamics and sea conditions.

• Simple integration: The open software architecture supports standard marine communication networks, simplifying setup and ensuring broad compatibility. Quiet, precise motion: Fast, accurate positioning enables smooth steering and improved comfort under way.

A Smarter, Cleaner Way to Move

"RISE Robotics is redefining how high force motion is created on board," said 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."

"Partnering with iNav4U allows us to show what Beltdraulic technology can do when combined with advanced vessel controls," said Hiten Sonpal, CEO of RISE Robotics. "Together, we're delivering precise, efficient steering without the complexity or environmental risk of hydraulics."

See It Live at Metstrade 2025

Visitors to Metstrade 2025 in Amsterdam can see the collaboration in action, where iNav4U and RISE Robotics will jointly demonstrate Zora autopilot software and Beltdraulic actuators. The live exhibit will highlight real-time steering control, health monitoring, and energy efficiency—showcasing how intelligent control and fluid-free motion can simplify vessel automation and maintenance.

About iNav4U

iNav4U develops Zora, the enterprise operating system for yachts. Zora integrates data from all onboard systems to deliver intelligent automation, advanced situational awareness, and complete yacht management in one unified platform. From navigation to maintenance, Zora helps captains operate smarter, safer, and more efficiently. iNav4U is based in Oxford, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Learn more at www.inav4u.com.

About RISE Robotics

RISE Robotics develops Beltdraulic as an all-electric alternative to conventional hydraulics that delivers fast, precise motion without fluids, pumps, or hoses. Designed for heavy-duty applications, Beltdraulic systems provide clean, efficient, and reliable performance across industries including marine, industrial, and mobile equipment. RISE Robotics is based in Somerville, Massachusetts, USA.

Learn more at www.riserobotics.com.