A solar boat has been developed which uses photovoltaics for driving a three-phase AC motor. Special attention has been paid to optimizing the whole system including the mechanical components with respect to their hydrodynamic behaviour. The research vessel with a displacement of 1.4 tons and a motor power of 2.2 kW reaches a maximum speed of 12 km/h offering sufficient power reserve for bad weather conditions. Calculations of the energy balance for different operation modes have been carried out using a computer simulation program. First experimental results are presented. It is outlined in which operation modes the described technique will be applicable in future. These include the major part of the boats on European inland waters.
The solar boat 'Korona': A complete photovoltaic-powered system for use on inland waters
Solarboot 'Korona', ein ausschließlich photovoltaisch versorgtes Antriebssystem für Binnengewässer
1989
3 Seiten, 5 Bilder, 2 Quellen
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch