Angled Side Panel Solar Mounting Kit for Small Boats
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of solar panels, the need for large vessels to accommodate multiple panels, and the costly maintenance of solar-powered boats limit their accessibility for smaller groups or single-person use in the boating industry.
Innovation Solution
A solar-powered boat design with angled side panels and a solar panel mounting kit that allows for the efficient and cost-effective integration of solar panels on a smaller hull, enabling remountable and watertight installation without requiring extensive roof space or specialized technicians.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are installed on traditional boat roofs, then electricity can be generated, but the boat requires large roof space which limits use to large vessels only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions solar panel installation from the horizontal roof surface to the vertical side panels of the boat hull. This dimensional change allows effective use of previously underutilized vertical surfaces, enabling electricity generation on small boats without requiring extensive roof space.
2Power
If multiple solar panels are installed to increase power output, then electricity generation improves, but installation and maintenance costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar panel installation into modular units that can be independently mounted on different side panels. Each solar panel operates as a separate module, allowing flexible configuration based on power needs while simplifying installation and maintenance, as individual panels can be replaced or adjusted without affecting the entire system.
3Area of stationary object
If solar panels are mounted on angled surfaces, then space utilization improves, but installation complexity increases requiring specialized technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mounting brackets as intermediary components that simplify the attachment of solar panels to angled side panels. These brackets provide a standardized interface between the solar panel and the boat hull, eliminating the need for complex custom fabrication and specialized installation techniques while fully utilizing the angled surface area.
4Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels cover larger surface areas, then electricity generation increases, but the boat design becomes more complex and less adaptable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs removable and adjustable mounting systems that allow the solar panel configuration to be dynamically changed based on user needs. Panels can be added, removed, or repositioned on different side panels, providing design flexibility and adaptability while still achieving substantial electricity generation capacity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a cost-effective and maintainable solar-powered boat suitable for smaller groups or single-person use by optimizing solar panel placement and installation, enhancing accessibility and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
Solar power involves converting sunlight into electricity
Data Source
AI summary
A solar-powered boat comprising a hull which comprises a bottom panel and side panels extending upwardly from opposed sides of the bottom panel for defining a hull interior region. At least one of the side panels comprises an upper section angled inwardly with respect to an axis orthogonal to the bottom panel; and at least one panel opening provided in the upper section. The solar-powered boat is further comprised of at least one solar panel configured to supply electricity to the boat, the solar panel being mounted within the panel opening using a solar panel mounting kit.