Technologies
Going zero emission requires that the energy used for propulsion is delivered by nature, where it is consumed. Wind, solar and wave energy as available power sources. Our ships are powered by wind and solar
WING SAIL
Sufficient wind if harvested effectively
Wind energy has dominated the maritime transport for centuries before the introduction of the combustion engine. We have developed a stayed wing, which can rotate 360° and is scaled to generate sufficient power to manage the primary propulsion in gentle to strong wind conditions .
In the spectrum up to strong gale and storm, we will have a surplus of power, which can be harvested and stored, only to be released when sailing in calm or light air conditions.
When facing storm to hurricane, the elements at pointed directly at the wind, to down power the wing and reduce the stress on mast boat structure.
The average wind speed on the oceans of the Northern Hemisphere is around 7 m/s, which is sufficient for ship propulsion. This wing sail has the potential to harvest 2,5 times the power of traditional soft sails, with less drag and heeling force and we can go closer to the wind. All together, there are some great advantages that allow the wing sail to become our main propulsion.
Solar cells
40.000 m2 photovoltaic panels
Solar energy is the strongest sustainable energy source available. The photovoltaic technology is in a phase of great progress, but not yet powerful enough to become the main propulsion energy source.
Still it is an energy that is free and delivered to where it is consumed, which is why we need to harvest as much solar energy as possible.
Our design has a surface area close to 40.000 m2 suitable for photovoltaic panels which will generate energy for our batteries.
Catamaran hull
Stable sleek and lightweight hull
To fully utilize the potential from the tall rig, we need a hull that provides sufficient stability, and this is part of the decision to go for a multihull. This furthermore eliminates the need for ballast water which accounts for around 30% of the total “cargo” moved today.
Besides the energy used to transport water, and tank space saved, we also eliminate other challenges related to the use of ballast water.
Propeller system
Retractable propellers generating electricity
We consider to have a retractable propeller in each side hull driven by an electric drive. They are deployed when the wind speed is too low to provide sufficient propulsion power.
The retractable propellers are also submerged and generate energy to charge the battery electrical storage system when wind speeds are sufficient. We can store close to 20% of the propeller maximum output, only slowing the vessel 1-2 knots depending on the wind speed. The propellers also manage the rudder function.
Energy storage
Batteries and fuel cells
The energy harvested from the solar cells and the retractable propellers are stored in batteries. This solution is chosen for service areas with stable wind conditions, while we consider the opportunity of hydrogen/fuel cells for routes where long periods of engine power are needed.
The ambition of Blue Technology is to develop solutions which eliminate many of today’s challenges and help the maritime industry on to a truly sustainable path.
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