Professor Terao of Tokai University's oceanography department set off on February 18 to Hawaii with a novel type of boat - one that harnesses the power of the sea. The Suntory Mermaid II is a catamaran made of recycled aluminum that actually uses wave action to mechanically power the boat. According to PopSci.com, "Two fins mounted side by side beneath the bow move up and down with the incoming waves and generate dolphin-like kicks that propel the boat forward". Other power needed for the voyage, such as for the navigation light and communications systems, will be provided by on-board solar cells. Not only does the boat make use of wave power, the technique also helps absorb the wave's energy, making for a smoother ride.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Wave Power
- Harnessing the power of waves to mechanically power boats creates opportunities for sustainable and efficient transportation.
- Recycled Materials
- Using recycled aluminum in boat construction promotes environmental sustainability and reduces resource consumption.
- Renewable Energy Integration
- Incorporating on-board solar cells for supplementary power showcases the potential for integrating multiple renewable energy sources in transportation.
Where This Applies
- Maritime Transportation
- Wave-powered boats offer a disruptive innovation opportunity for the maritime transportation industry, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered vessels.
- Sustainable Materials
- The use of recycled materials in boat manufacturing presents opportunities for the sustainable materials industry to expand its offerings and meet the growing demand for eco-conscious products.
- Renewable Energy
- The integration of on-board solar cells in the boat industry creates disruptive innovation possibilities for the renewable energy sector, enabling the generation of power directly from sunlight for various applications.
