72hrs On My Unlimited Range Solar Boat
rctestflight・3 minutes read
A sponsored video showcases the restoration of a boat with solar panels for extended range, testing on Lake Roosevelt with a focus on survival and efficiency. Despite setbacks and challenges, the journey emphasizes safety, equipment reliability, and the practical application of solar power for long-distance trips.
Insights
- The journey involved testing a modified boat with solar panels and electric outboards on Lake Roosevelt in Washington State, showcasing practical applications of 3D printing and innovative technology for long-distance travel.
- Despite setbacks and technical challenges, the focus on safety, equipment reliability, and energy optimization emphasized the importance of preparation and confidence in equipment for successful long-range trips, highlighting the balance between ambition and practicality in adventure planning.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What is the purpose of the boat journey?
To test the boat's range on Lake Roosevelt.
What challenges did the journey encounter?
Vibration issues with propellers and damaged solar panels.
How was energy generated during the trip?
Solar panels provided power for cruising.
What safety features were implemented on the boat?
Dead man switch and autopilot adjustments.
What were the key takeaways from the journey?
Importance of confidence in equipment for long-distance trips.
Related videos
Summary
00:00
"Electric Boat Journey: Challenges and Reflections"
- The video is sponsored by PV Case, and it showcases the restoration of a 13-foot fiberglass boat, the creation of dual electric Outboards from two by fours and efoil Motors, and the addition of giant solar panels for extended driving range.
- The goal is to test the boat's range on Lake Roosevelt in Eastern Washington State, potentially reaching 140 miles up to the Canadian border.
- After preparing the boat, loading gear, and setting out on the lake, the journey begins with a focus on survival and testing new propeller designs for efficiency.
- Safety features like a dead man switch and autopilot adjustments are made to ensure smooth sailing, despite occasional technical issues.
- The journey progresses with challenges like vibration issues with propellers, leading to the development of 3D printable attachments for improved performance.
- The journey continues with stops for propeller replacements, adjustments, and troubleshooting, showcasing the practical application of 3D printing technology.
- The solar panels provide power for cruising, with adjustments made to optimize energy usage and battery charging throughout the trip.
- Despite setbacks like damaged solar panels, the journey continues towards the Spokane River instead of the Columbia River, with a focus on navigating narrower waters and potential obstacles.
- Concerns about motor reliability due to their makeshift construction lead to a decision to limit the journey's length, prioritizing safety and avoiding potential breakdowns.
- The video concludes with a reflection on the journey's challenges and limitations, highlighting the importance of confidence in equipment for long-distance trips.
14:15
Serene journey on Marina campground boat
- The campground in Marina is large, with numerous houseboats and a notable bridge.
- The map displays mile markers from the Coulee Dam, indicating a distance of 40 miles covered.
- Solar power is generating around 900 watts, with a need to consider lunch.
- The EF Delta stops charging due to potential overheating issues.
- Opting for chicken fried rice over granola for lunch.
- Liquid cooling is utilized to keep the motor drives cool.
- Encounter with speedboats leads to a realization of being akin to the "hobo of the lake."
- Maneuvering through seaweed patches and encountering a teepee.
- Filtering lake water for drinking purposes.
- Decision to head back home, appreciating the serene journey and the boat's solar and motor performance.
30:54
Solar panels, weather impact, and boating adventures.
- The solar panels generated 800 watts of power, with a cloud reducing it to 100 watts, showcasing the impact of weather on energy production.
- The narrator adjusted the Waypoint Mission to extend past the campsite to the Coulee Dam, exploring the area due to extra time available.
- The narrator observed a military presence and power lines near the dam, highlighting the surroundings during the journey.
- The narrator faced challenges anchoring the boat in a windy cove, strategically using multiple anchors to secure the boat.
- The narrator reflected on the trip's learnings, including the boat's efficiency, energy consumption, and potential for future long-range solar boating.
- The narrator concluded the trip, contemplating future adventures and improvements for more ambitious journeys, like reaching the Canadian border.
