The Foscat-32 Folding Catamaran Harnesses Wind and Sun
Amelia Roblin — April 13, 2011 — Eco
References: adesignaward & designbuzz
You might be thinking that sailing is already a pretty low-emmission type of activity, but the Foscat-32 Folding Catamaran will really blow you out of the water -- literally. As soon as you scale up, sailboats will often adopt a motor for ease of operation if weather conditions are undesirable, but you'll be happy to note the fuel cell canvas that takes the place of the ship's mainsail.
Designer Hakan Gursu was very interested in finding a compromise between sea and skipper, and the hybrid double-hulled vessel was the result of such brainstorming. The solar panel sail feeds an onboard battery which powers the electrical functions of the watercraft, making the Foscat-32 Folding Catamaran a lightweight and easily transportable piece of aquatic equipment.
Designer Hakan Gursu was very interested in finding a compromise between sea and skipper, and the hybrid double-hulled vessel was the result of such brainstorming. The solar panel sail feeds an onboard battery which powers the electrical functions of the watercraft, making the Foscat-32 Folding Catamaran a lightweight and easily transportable piece of aquatic equipment.
Trend Themes
1. Solar-powered Sailboats - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced solar panel technology to increase the efficiency and power output of solar sails.
2. Hybrid Double-hulled Vessels - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create more sustainable and eco-friendly sailboat designs by integrating hybrid propulsion systems.
3. Lightweight and Easily Transportable Watercraft - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design foldable and collapsible sailboats for easy storage and transportation.
Industry Implications
1. Boat Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with technology companies to incorporate solar panel technology and hybrid systems into sailboat manufacturing.
2. Renewable Energy - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop solar panel technology specifically for marine applications to meet the growing demand for sustainable electric propulsion systems on sailboats.
3. Outdoor Recreation Equipment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create lightweight and compact watercraft designs to cater to the needs of adventure enthusiasts and outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
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