This project, which competed in a race hosted by the American Society of Naval Engineers, allowed me to work on cutting-edge technology and develop a keen interest in electric propulsion systems.
During this project, I was responsible for integrating LiFePo4 batteries, three-phase AC motors, and copper busbar connections. The opportunity to use ZEISS's T-scan Hawk 2 for laser scanning the boat hull and outboard component further fueled my fascination with precision engineering and advanced technology. Working with ZEISS’s reverse engineering software was both challenging and exhilarating, solidifying my desire to work with industry-leading technologies.
Designed and built a robust, waterproof battery box using aluminum extrusions, ABS plastic, and marine foam. Manufactured custom copper bus-bars with CNC machines, ensuring precise and reliable electrical connections. Integrated LiFePo4 batteries, AC 3-phase motor, relays, fuses, and motor controller, achieving optimal performance and safety. Conducted 3D rendering of components using ZEISS laser scanners and software for precise measurements. Managed project budget (BOM) and team organization (Gantt Charts), aligning solutions with sustainability goals to reduce weight and improve performance.
Top Cell Balancing utilizing copper bus bars and alligator clips. The power supply was set to the top-rated battery voltage, 3.5V. The power supplies however were low in current output having a max of 3 amps, so more were used and connected to speed up the charging process.
After reviewing the components utilized by the previous year, we found it beneficial to look into reusing some of them such as the motor and motor controller (inverter). However the Li-ion battery packs were found to have shorting issued and