The most compelling argument Keith makes, for me, is that if regen worked so well there would be a booming tow generator biz. But the ones I've found look pretty anemic, 100 watts is big time. If you're cruising offshore, 2400 kw a day is not bad.
But how far and fast will that push a 25 ft 4500 pound displacement hull?
md
--- In electricboats@
>
> There is only one possible conclusion..
>
> ...Golf carts should have sails!!
>
>
> Seriously though...I do think that eventually regen can get practical (my "X-prize" standard is 10:1 ratio). But you probably need some combination of (as mentioned many times)
>
> o fancy controller to auto-feather without stalling
> o Optimized prop design that can generate lift in reverse
> o Over-sized (and therefore probably pod-mounted) and maybe shrouded/ducted props - note: these need to be running all the time while sailing or the drag would be too great, so technically you're now a powerboat.
>
> That's why I call it a science experiment - if you've got more money and time than common sense you'll be a perfect candidate!!
>
> But consider - if this really worked there would already be a tow-generator on the market that would make stupendous claims about how much power they generate (in reality a good one gives 6-8amps @12V - about 100watts*...
>
> -Keith
>
> (* references: http://www.jgtech.
>
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