ZEWT - ZERO EMISSION WATERBOURNE TRANSPORT

 

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ZEWT - Zero Emission Waterborne Transport

 

 

ZEWT - SOLAR + HYDROGEN: Solar power is a proven means of traversing the oceans, but slowly. We aim to improve the conversion efficiency from sun and wind to propulsive thrust - using a revolutionary hull design. Wind power is also a proven technology, but again, with disadvantages. Sails cannot load-level. A rotary sail (turbine) does so by generating electricity and storing it in the latest batteries, with hydrogen hybrid potential, and up to 4000nm on hydrogen alone. As an experimental vessel, the design is modular, to allow bolt-on modification to the rig. Including swapping hydrogen tanks, as development continues.

 

We aim to build a visually stunning vessel that is capable of demonstrating ocean clean tech and set a few records into the bargain - to prove the point. The Elizabeth Swann is shown here with a wave piercing hull. She is of trimaran configuration, 44 meters long with active outrigger hulls (or sponsons) that allow the vessel to trim for very efficient running - the first in the world with that feature. She has solar wings that fold for storms and track the sun, and the wind turbine, HAWT or VAWT, can be raised on a mast and furled in high winds, all robotically controlled using hydraulics from Flowfit. This forms a genuine dual-energy harvesting system ideal for workboats and coastal ferries. The Swann features the very latest 'Deep Speed™' electric jet drives from 'Sealence' in Italy, and SuperVawt turbine, to show just how silent solar powered yachting can be. We are in the process of sourcing solar panels and lithium batteries, and are closing on the construction phase.

 

 

 

Twin sails of the Energy Observer solar powered hydrogen catamaran

 

 

SOLAR HYDROGEN - The 'Energy Observer' is a floating laboratory, converted from an ocean racing yacht, powered by sails, to solar and sail power, with onboard hydrogen generation and storage. At present this little beauty is slower than PlanetSolar below, the subject of ongoing development, not yet a ZEWT contender. The collapsible sails contribute around 5% of propulsive force.

 

 

 

 

The Elizabeth Swann need not be unmanned to improve on current zero emissions speed records, but will benefit from computer Artificial Intelligence in better route planning, relief for the crew and added safety at sea.  Robotaxis and robotrucks use similar tech for driver-less cars. Will captain-less boats be operational first?

 

The general characteristics of the concept may be adapted for inland waterways, rivers, cross channel and inter-island-hopping transports, or luxury zero carbon yachting, as a stepping stone to cargo and cruise ships. As a research vehicle, data collected while operating on solar power alone, and then with the wind turbine in tandem, or wingsails, will be useful in terms of ZC, green shipping of the future, effectively a series of determinative experiments - and compilation of valuable data sets for naval architects of the future.

 

If we are to return to the sustainable equilibrium of yesteryear, we need to meet climate and pollution challenges head on - and change the way we think, or we'll miss the Paris Treaty 1.5 degree target

 

 

Winds from dead-ahead and beam-on translate to forward thrust without the need to tack. With onboard AI, there is no shading of solar panels. The onboard energy storage capacity is a star feature.

 

Man progressed from cloth sails, to steam-driven paddles, to diesel powered propellers and nuclear powered warships, in the process creating a pollution legacy that we must undo for the sake of the planet. The United Nations boast sustainability agendas aimed at reversing the trend on land as well as on the water. We supports such goals.

 

Fleet operators may only entertain commissioning commercial builds having seen what is available, ready developed. Simulation only goes so far in the believing stakes.

 

The Elizabeth Swann is an extraordinary design, incorporating many innovative features, as a shining ray of hope for a world where our melting ice caps are restored and oceans might become acid free; once again full of healthy fisheries and happy marine mammals.

 

 

 

 

Join us for a voyage into the nautical unknown where the Queen of the Seas is a zero carbon vessel that harvests all the energy she needs for propulsion - from nature. Philanthropists and Patrons, may like to view our outline Business Plan. We work with our supporters to augment this exciting opportunity.

 

 

 

 

A study by the European Parliament found that shipping will amount to 17% of total world CO2 emissions by 2050 if unchecked. The IMO responded with new green shipping targets that many fleet operators believe cannot be met. We beg to differ.

 

Pressurised and cryogenic hydrogen and ammonia are being hailed as the new super-fuels, with fuel cell conversion. It sounds great. But then with hydrogen in the running for cars and trucks, will there be sufficient capacity from on and offshore electricity generation to cope?  Where solar energy directly applied from deck panels to propeller, is many times more effective.

 

 

 

On the horizon, the concept of a fast blue-water, energy 'autonomous' (ZEWT) vessel draws tantalizingly close. The Cleaner Ocean Foundation is looking to develop the considerable potential of this unique design.

 

At present fleet operators appear less keen as to the prospects of harnessing solar energy from nature to meet Kyoto and Paris targets, since nobody is developing this tech for shipping. Yet, they watch the America's, Prada Cup yachts race across the Auckland coast at phenomenal speeds driven only by the wind, and see solar panels at work on rooftops every day. 

 

 

 

 

TEAM BUILDING - We are building a consortium (Jet drives, Hydraulics), embracing complimentary partners (Hull fabrication, solar panels, batteries, shipboard robotics and Navigation AI). Please contact the Foundation with your interest. Commercial sponsors are welcome. The current solar powered record holder is the Tūranor PlanetSolar, below.

 

 

 

Turanor PlanetSolar, May 2012

 

HOW TO MAKE A DREAM COME TRUE - It starts with an idea, persistent development, and most importantly: backers with vision. The Turanor PlanetSolar was a purpose built vessel supported by a team dedicated to making it happen. And happen it did.

 

 

 

 

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  LONG RANGE HYDROGEN CRUISING SHIPS - ZERO EMISSSION WATERBORNE TRANSPORT

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