HAN Solarboat: Racing the Sun!

The HAN Solarboat is a boat powered by solar energy. Enthusiastic students from various education programs from The HAN University of Applied Sciences and professionals from Qconcepts Design & Engineering collaborate in a unique hybrid setting to work on this boat. With the HAN Solarboat, the team participates in national and international races, such as the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. In the 2023 racing season, we became second in the international competition! This year we have developed several essential components for the boat, including Printed Circuit Boards.

Eurocircuits

We choose to order PCBs from Eurocircuits for several reasons. Firstly, Eurocircuits consistently delivers high-quality boards with reliable performance, meeting our stringent requirements. Their advanced manufacturing capabilities and state-of-the-art equipment ensure precision and consistency in every batch. Additionally, Eurocircuits offers competitive pricing and flexible production options, allowing us to meet project deadlines without compromising on quality. Moreover, their excellent customer service and support make the ordering process smooth and hassle-free. Overall, partnering with Eurocircuits enables us to access top-notch PCB solutions, contributing to the success of our projects.

Logging data

This year, we focused on developing a PCB capable of logging data transmitted on our CAN-bus system. This shield, designed for a Raspberry Pi Zero W, not only powers the Raspberry Pi but also converts CAN-bus messages to the SPI interface of the Raspberry Pi. By storing data on an SD card wirelessly, we eliminate the need to access the logger manually after each sailing session, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

Modular approach

As we aim to incorporate electronic foiling in the future, we are expanding our data logging capabilities by integrating additional sensors like MPU and height sensors into our CAN-bus system. This modular approach ensures easy scalability and interchangeability of modules. When designing the PCB, factors such as power consumption, heat management, and usability were meticulously considered. We utilized the EASYEDA tool for PCB design, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

Sponsors

Our sponsors and partners play a vital role in keeping the Solarboat competitive and innovative. Eurocircuits, in particular, has been instrumental in our PCB development process. Their wide range of PCB manufacturing options, coupled with their user-friendly online tool, simplifies the ordering process and ensures quick delivery of high-quality PCBs and stencils made in Europe.

Updates

For the latest updates and more about our team, visit our website at www.hansolarboat.nl. Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of solar-powered boating and sustainability!