Solar Splash is more than just a student get-together to play with technology and party afterwards. It has the serious purpose of promoting small watercraft running on solar-battery power. Since 1994, teams of electrical and mechanical college students have gathered annually to show off their college project.
The Rules for the Solar Splash Competition
Participants cannot take winning the competition lightly. Moreover the rules spread over 14 pages. From a solar battery-battery perspective, these are the major ones:
- Sunlight is the only permitted power for propulsion. Use of wind and human power disqualifies teams.
- However they may receive their sunlight directly online, or via rechargeable lead acid storage batteries.
- The maximum weight of batteries is 100 lb. (45.5 kg). There may be only one backup set on site.
- However charging batteries may take place at any time from registration for the event to its end.
- Only a skipper may be on board. Their radio and the bilge pump must have separate batteries.
How the Solar Splash Competition Unfolds
The event takes five days. On the first, competition officials inspect the boats for compliance, workmanship, and visual displays. On the second, the craft pass through maneuverability and speed tests. With the admin behind them, the competitors then challenge with slalom, sprint, and endurance tests.
The 2017 Solar Splash Competition
When we posted this there were 181 days to go to the 2017 Solar Splash. The clock is counting down with only 181 days left at the time of writing. Interest among participants is keen. Roger Williams University has already entered, and there are another eleven knocking at the door. The 2017 Solar Splash takes place in Dayton, Ohio. We recommend making early reservations for accommodation.
We recommend this especially since the Vectren Dayton Air Show overlaps. Moreover, Dayton boasts a variety of other interesting things to do that are always attracting visitors. These include the National Museum of the Air Force. The city also has a reputation for fine arts and fine food. We salute the organizers of the competition. In concluding we hope the best boat and skipper win the 2017 Solar Splash.
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