BioCatamaran

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The BioCatamaran is an innovative and environmentally eco-friendly watercraft designed specifically to blend harmoniously into nature, making it ideal for sustainable tourism, especially within national parks and protected areas such as lakes, glaciers, mountains, and wildlife observation regions. Unlike conventional vessels, it is uniquely engineered to minimize ecological disturbance and noise pollution, enhancing the experience for passengers and preserving sensitive natural environments.

A defining feature of the BioCatamaran is its entirely fossil-fuel-free propulsion system. The vessel is fed by an external solar water heating system, located on land adjacent to the dock, which heats the water, which is then loaded into large, thermally insulated tanks on board (one inside each pontoon). This heated water serves as a source of energy for the Stirling cycle engines, which generate mechanical power by harnessing the temperature difference between the heated water and the cooler ambient water of the lake or sea. In this way, the vessel runs solely on water and heat, without onboard combustion or traditional fuel storage. In the event of an accidental spill or leak, the environmental impact is minimal, as the system uses only non-toxic heated water.

A groundbreaking aspect of the BioCatamaran is the innovative propulsion method that substitutes traditional propellers with synchronized, frequency-modulated caudal fins operating in counter-phase. This system provides smooth, efficient movement through the water, eliminating the noise, vibration, and ecological disturbance typically associated with propeller and turbine systems. By emulating natural aquatic locomotion, this technology considerably reduces disturbance and damage to aquatic wildlife, crucial for maintaining ecological integrity.

In addition to the primary propulsion system, the vessel incorporates an auxiliary maneuvering system composed of two selective/collective electro-turbine water jets. These feed four strategically positioned nozzles per pontoon (one frontal nozzle for braking and reversing, two lateral nozzles for translational control, and one rear nozzle), each precisely controlled via a joystick. The directional steering relies on asymmetric thrust modulation, ensuring precise maneuverability and control, particularly beneficial in delicate ecosystems.

Constructed primarily from naval-grade aluminum, the catamaran’s pontoons, supports, and superstructure ensure durability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight, optimizing both performance and sustainability. All components and materials are compatible with existing marine-grade manufacturing techniques, ensuring feasibility and scalability. The peripheral openings consist of fixed laminated crystal glass, providing passengers with a seamless 360-degree panoramic view, an ideal vantage for sightseeing and observing nature unobstructed.

An UV-protected flexible PVC crystal-clear dome covers the upper deck, providing insulation and protection from external weather conditions. Notably, this dome can compress and decompress mechanically, removing ice and frost efficiently, thereby maintaining clarity and safety even in harsh weather environments.

Operational parameters of the BioCatamaran include a capacity for 50 to 80 passengers, a displacement of approximately 46 tons, a maximum speed of 20-22 knots, and a comfortable cruising speed of around 14 knots.

Advanced instrumentation ensures safety and precision, featuring differential GPS, Doppler radar, 3D sonar, WeatherSat, VHF/UHF and satellite links, dual compasses and a weather station.

The BioCatamaran invites us to rethink how technology can serve nature—not by dominating it, but by adapting to its rhythms; promising to redefine sustainable tourism and waterborne transportation globally.

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  • About the Entrant

  • Name:
    Josefina Fernandez Gonard
  • Type of entry:
    individual
  • Patent status:
    none