CATAMARAN MODEL - PRINCESS PARK

1/20th scale model CATAMARAN under way

The (new) catamaran hull is exceptionally stable.  The wave piercing design glides through the water leaving a noticeably reduced wake.  The hulls sport a test rig constructed of upvc plumbing piping. These are to be replaced by a spaceframe shorty.

Testing new hulls using temporary panel rig made of upvc plumbers piping

Before fitting the aluminium spaceframe and full complement of solar panels, the new motor/drive configuration is tested using a number of different propellers and (voltage) wiring configurations.  It is better to experiment on the test rig, until the set-up is finalised.

Docking the 1/20th Solar Navigator catamaran - Princes Park, Eastbourne

Although the new dc motors can handle a lot more power and are more efficient, the best running configuration still has to be found.  This is quite often found by trial and error (having done your sums first).  Unfortunately, there is not a range of model propellers to cater for 'solar' applications.  Therefore we have to make do and modify.

Nelson Kruschandl at the helm (radio that is)

It is hoped the combined technology will allow us to set model speed and endurance records (beat our own records) in the near future as part of our development of the full size vessel.

The Sun Tracker system is to be incorporated in the model for the first time, to ensure maximum energy collection.

Healthier alternative tastes for adventure capitalists

Solar Red | Solar Crush + | Solar Cola | Solar Citrus + | Solar +

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