Author(s)

PETER VOROBIEFF, JANE LEHR

Abstract

We present a program (UNM Solar Splash) developed at the University of New Mexico with the goal of training engineering students in building solar-powered watercraft. The program is run as a hybrid between a senior design capstone course and a graduate problems course. It is motivated by the pressing need to minimize the environmental impact of maritime transport, in particular, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. One of the most promising ways to address this need is the expansion of solar-powered water transport. To support such an expansion, we need to train a new generation of specialists with a synergy of skills in mechanical and electrical engineering. Each year, the student team builds a solar–electric speedboat to participate in an international student competition. What distinguishes our program from the competitors is the collaboration of advanced undergraduate and graduate students with majors in both mechanical and electrical engineering.

Keywords

engineering education, solar power, renewable energy