In our collaboration with Colnago Marine, a premium aluminum boat builder based in Croatia, Split, we implemented MRS Marine custom digital switching system for onboard monitoring and control of boat batteries and tanks. Colnago Marine is known for manufacturing high-quality professional and commercial aluminum boats, where reliability and modern technology are essential. With its legacy of manufacturing over 100 boats Colnago prioritizes personalized service to ensure each boat is perfectly suited to its clients' unique requirements. Colnago Marine’s dedication to building high-performance aluminum boats perfectly aligns with our mission to deliver smart and reliable marine technology.

The Challenge

Modern boats demand more than traditional electrical systems can provide. Key requirements included:
• Accurate battery monitoring
• Real-time tank level monitoring
• High system reliability
• Intuitive and modern user interface
• Scalable and service-friendly electrical architecture

Legacy analog systems lack visibility, flexibility, and automation, especially in professional marine environments.
 

The Solution
 

We delivered customized digital switching solution, combining robust hardware with an intuitive user interface.

1. Electronic Control Unit (ECU) - CAN based controller CAN I/O CC16WP
Core of the digital switching system for reliable power distribution and control.
The system was fully customized to match boats’ requirements. CC16WP was selected based on the required number of inputs/outputs and monitored functions (including voltage and system loads), while more complex setups can be easily scaled using higher-capacity units such as CC27WP.  

2. Time Relays M1 compact SW on/off Delay 12 V 
By integrating MRS Marine electronic time relays, we enabled automated control of onboard systems, allowing devices to switch on or off after predefined time intervals, reducing manual intervention and enhancing overall system efficiency. Our time relays are available in different versions, sizes, and voltages.

3. User Interface - TConn Displays (7”)
In our product portfolio we have multifunctional HMI-Displays with different sizes and functionalities. The specific display used in this project combines touch and physical buttons, for user intuitive control while ensuring dependable operation in real marine conditions where touch-only interfaces may be limited. It ensures real-time visualization and management of batteries and tanks with modern, and user-friendly UX/UI. Additionally, the system is fully customizable, to match each boat’s layout, functionality and brand identity - featuring tailored controls, automation, safety features and optimized day/night display modes for the best user experience. 

System Functionality

The implemented custom system enables:

• Battery monitoring - voltage, current, State of Charge (SOC), State of Health (SOH)
• Water tank monitoring - real-time freshwater levels, enabling optimal usage and preventing shortages
• Fuel tank monitoring - provides accurate fuel level insights for better planning, efficiency, and safe boat operation
• Wastewater monitoring - allows continuous monitoring of wastewater levels, supporting compliance and preventing overflow
• Real-time system visualization - clear overview of boat status via digital interface

Compared to conventional electrical installations, the system enabled:
• enhanced user experience 
• significantly less wiring and reduction in installation time 
• faster commissioning and system testing 

This approach allowed Colnago Marine the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Compact and modular layout - including the integration of relays - ensures an easy, user-friendly installation, making maintenance and future upgrades simple and efficient.
 

Results: improved system control and monitoring, enhanced user experience, increased reliability, added improved boat experience and value. 
The collaboration between MRS Marine team and Colnago Marine resulted in a smart and reliable boat system. This project demonstrates how advanced digital systems can be seamlessly integrated and bring value into high-performance boats.