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72hrs On My Unlimited Range Solar Boat

rctestflight・2 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.

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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.

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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.
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