1. The Electric Boat Challenge: Is Solar Power Better than Gasoline Power
The Electric Boat Challenge: Is Solar Power Better than Gasoline Power? Or does H2 Work Best?
Dr. Andrew Zborowski, Ph.D.
and Frank R. Leslie, BSEE, MS Space Technology
1/14/2005

2. 1. Abstract Identical trolling motors Similar hulls
Identical batteries
Differing energy sources
What is to be demonstrated?
Abstract
Solar
Gasoline
What speeds and distances result from solar & gasoline, etc. sources?

3. 2. Hull Forces Drag force is proportional to speed squared
Drag force is balanced by motor force resulting in equilibrium speed
Different hull shapes result in different maximum speeds
Hull Forces
Fh = k • S2
Fm = Fh Fm Fh
Moving this way -->
Speed limited by forces

4. 3. Motor Thrust
Measure thrust force with “open water” around prop (bollard test)
Plot relationships
Compare motors
Specification of 30 pounds thrust
Motor Thrust Fm
Load Resistance
Force, Current
Voltage
What is “best” load?

5. 4. Travel Energy Energy = Power • time E = P • t Define race end
Define time & distance V = d/t
Travel Energy
Distance, d
What energy is required?

6. 5. Energy Storage Battery depletion rate
Are batteries truly identical?
Full charge at volts (TBR; to be reviewed)
Discharge load of motor affects available ampere-hours
Stop at 10.5V to preserve battery life
Energy Storage
= ?
10.5 V
Voltage, E
Time, t
Trade power vs. energy

7. 6a. Energy Sources
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) burning gasoline and oil mix charges battery
Requires fuel
Solar Panel charges battery
Requires sun
Energy Sources
Gasoline ICE
Gasoline
Crude oil
Solar or PV
What else to use?

8. 6b. Energy Sources Fuel Cell Leslie’s Pedal Cycle Energy Sources
Hydrogen & air in
Water & Electricity out
~12Vdc; 1000 watts
Leslie’s Pedal Cycle
Requires food in
Biomass to mechanical to electrical energy
14 6 amps charges battery
Energy Sources
12Vdc
Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Fuel Cell
Hydrogen
Pedal Cycle
Which to use?

9. Perhaps a little slower
7. Race Conditions
Ready to race?
Good weather
Calm water
Wind below 4 knots
Batteries charged
Known weight
Straight, sheltered course
Side-by-side start
End defined by battery voltage less than 10.5 volts per digital multimeter or H2 tank empty
Race Conditions
Perhaps a little slower

10. 8. Potential Conclusions and Findings
Match results against theory
Explain discrepancies
Data analysis shows that ?
Recommendations for the following classes --- “Lessons Learned”
Create report and present results
Potential Conclusions and Findings
What’s next?