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Volitan Solar 'Sail' Yacht
The Volitan is a concept design for a boat that uses solid sails to provide both wind power and solar energy.
(Volitan concept boat video)
The sails are equipped with a double layer of solar cells; if the sea gets too rough, the sails can be folded upward against the "mast" in the center. The functions of the Zolitan are computer-controlled.
(Volitan concept boat from Designnobis Studio)
When I saw this cool concept boat I thought of another great concept for an ocean-going craft, one that used a similar power source.
"There is a powerful agent, obedient, rapid, easy, which conforms to every use, and reigns supreme on board my vessel. Everything is done by means of it. It lights, warms it, and is the soul of my mechanical apparatus. This agent is electricity."
"Electricity?" I cried in surprise.
"Yes, sir."
"Nevertheless, Captain, you possess an extreme rapidity of movement, which does not agree well with the power of electricity. Until now, its dynamic force has remained under restraint, and has only been able to produce a small amount of power."
"Professor," said Captain Nemo, "my electricity is not everybody's and that is all I wish to say about it... I point out only this: I owe all to the ocean; it produces electricity, and electricity gives heat, light, motion, and, in a word, life to the Nautilus."
(Read more about the Nautilus from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea)
I also note that both of these craft are named after sea creatures: the volitan is a "winged" fish and the "nautilus" is a heavily armored cephalopod (the only one with an external shell).
For purposes of comparison, take a look at this view of Jules Verne's Nautilus, as visualized by Disney in the movie version of the book from the 1950's. Via Volitan, the Flying Fish - Futuristic green concept boat.
Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 11/27/2007)
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