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     8 years ago  

    Welp, you're definitely on the right track. A charge controller is pretty important too.

    I had an idea considering how you might dramatically increase the square footage you can draw power from. It's a secret invention, but I'll tell you:

    Tow those flexible panels behind the boat too. Since they're flat there'll be almost no drag, and if they won't float, you can pretty easily stick 'em on super light inflatables. Shouldn't take much to keep 'em afloat, but the wiring might be a bit heavier. A couple cork net floats oughta keep that up top too.

    Now I've shared my latest $Billion idea with you, so you owe me a beer at least, or if you patent it, 1% of gross receipts. Deal?

    [-]
     8 years ago  

    oddly enough.
    I've already had that very same
    (or very similar)
    idea.

    it came to me..
    not in a dream
    but watching
    push barges.

    reckon how many 'panel barges' the steem dreem could push.

    BUT WAIT

    I haz a better idea.
    in stead of pushing.
    why not
    BE PULLED.

    by a flying solar panel array?
    A KITE

    made from thin, flexible, light weight,
    solar panels?
    it'd need a long wire.
    but what the hell?

    [-]
     8 years ago  

    The weight of the wire would be necessary to consider in solar kites. You'd need no electrical wire with just kinetic (aero) power from kites. Windy much in Bastrop? I know it's sunny.

    It was 104 here the other day, but luckily I got to work inside. Still too damn hot, but better indoors than out.

    Now, you're not trying to wriggle out of my beer are you?

    BTW, with rigid barges, it is easier to steer them by pushing. With the right rigging. Mostly, though, a rope isn't the right rigging, and towing is the easy way. Steering is laggier with a tow though, and if you consider how force is applied in pushing, and compare that with how it's applied in towing, it's easy to see why.

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     8 years ago  

    if/when we ever meet up...I'll drink you under the table.
    and I'll pay the tab.

    [-]
     8 years ago  

    I'll start practicing now. OTOH, it's not so bad under tables, depending on the company, and how short their skirts are =p

    [-]
     8 years ago  

    if you recall I said I'd drink you under the table.
    I din't say whether or not I'd be under it with you.