We live in an era where smartness has become a major judging criteria- be it anything, ideas, phone or energy. We are looking towards more stable and efficient energy sources. In such scenarios, solar power undoubtedly ranks first in the lists of conventional and safe energy sources. It is widely used all over the globe. New solar powered objects are attracting large attention in markets. One such example, a wonder in itself, is the solar boat designed by Mechanical Engineering students of Northeastern University.
Mechanical engineering students Brent Sisson, Brian Arena, Westy Ford, John Leo and Andrew Gawlak designed and constructed the boat from scratch. They built the hull and conducted float tests in the Cabot Center pool. Later, they added the solar panel system, the propeller, the electrical system, steering capabilities and a drivetrain developed by a different group of engineering students for their senior capstone project. The students were guided and motivated by their faculty advisor and professor Richard Whalen. Their main motive was to promote green technology. The concept was fresh and the students did a lot of research to make the prototype successful.
A normal two stroke motor boat can emit 25-30% of their unburned gas and oil mixture into the water. In contrast, four-stroke motor boats emit 97% less air and water pollution than old two-stroke motors. This pollution can affect the pH and dissolved oxygen in the lake, which can influence the type and abundance of fish and wildlife. This problem calls for a greener solution and solar powered boats are more than welcome alternative.
The students really hope that their technology earns the popularity in the market. Not only for the sake of monetary profit, but also for the limiting pollution.
Shraddha Patil