Answer

Project Brief

            According to Chapter Three of the SOLAS regulations, all shipping vessels should be equipped with life saving appliances depending on the size, design and purpose of the ship (IMO, 2011). Accordingly, enclosed lifeboats are fully closed lifeboats fitted on cargo and cruise ships for escape in case of an emergency in the ship. There are various sizes of lifeboats in the market today based on the number of people they can accommodate. Another clarification of these vessels can be made depending on its powering system. Based on its design as will be illustrated later, the enclosed vessel always requires an air-conditioning system since during the day, temperatures at sea can be very high. Additionally, Weiner (2001) notes that the more the people within a single lifeboat, the higher the internal temperatures and for this reason, enclosed lifeboats require good ventilation systems. A ventilation system is any system that allows or enhances continuous circulation of air within an enclosed area (Rhodes  & Lofting, 2015). Nonetheless, considerations have to be made in relation to the design of the lifeboat as the ventilation may be oversized or undersized thus cooling the lifeboat more than required or failing to ensure adequate flow of air respectively.

            The size of the ventilation system also depends on the powering system to be used (Rhodes & Lofting, 2015). According to Gerr (2009) most powered lifeboats limit the available power to the drive system that propels the lifeboat towards shore. In this regard, drawing more power from the main powering system to perform other tasks like ventilating the system may lead to excessive consumption of energy which may limit the survival chances of the occupants since they may not be able to power themselves to help. Accordingly, this project develops an enclosed lifeboat ventilation system utilizing solar energy and batteries. In successfully fitting this system, the lifeboat will have: a self-powered ventilation system, eliminating the need for high energy systems to power the vessel and ventilation system; the system will be utilizing "green energy" (environmentally friendly energy); as an inexhaustible power source, the ventilation system will serve the lifeboat as long as the solar power and batteries are fitted to it; incase the lifeboat overturn, the solar system can still operate as contact with water does not limit its performance, and lastly; the powered ventilation system can be regulated as required by the occupants (Gohara, 2002).  

Fig 1: Ventilation System

Fig 2: Fully Closed Lifeboat

2. Specifications

Fully closed Lifeboat

            The life boat is a fully enclosed motor propelled life boat and is designed to be launched by a single pivot platform davit or a cantilevered platform davit. Some of its components such as hull, superstructure, buoyant tanks, hatches, steering nozzle, water and provision containers are made of grassfire reinforced polyester (GRP) that is fire redundant (Chang et al, 2014). It is then fitted with shock absorbing fenders or skates for the purpose of protecting the inboard side of the boat during launch. According to Rozzi (2006) as a fully enclosed system, these components are useful for the protection of the solar energy panels from damage which may occur during launch of the vessel. For instance, as a fully enclosed system, the internal parts of the ventilation system will be protected from weather elements like rain which when allowed within the system leads to mechanical failures as the electrical system may be short-circuited.

            On the other hand, the fan system may be subjected to rusting on the moveable parts due to the corrosive nature of water as it interacts with the metallic parts of the system. Although a motor would be used to drive the fiber reinforced plastic blades for the fan system, its location within the fan is cased in a metallic enclosure which when exposed to water, leads to corrosion. Besides the protection due to the enclosure, the shock absorbers in the drive protect the ventilation system from unnecessary movements while cruising. Sudden shocks caused by bouncing during the water are easily absorbed preventing the device from losing its position after it has been fastened on the boat. With a firm and stationary system, the life cycle of the device can be enhanced since it is not subject to random external forces that can interfere with its performance. Lastly, it is also easier to fasten the ventilation system on the body of the lifeboat due to the use of GPR. Due to its limited brittleness, the material would allow the fan to be carefully drilled on its surface and reinforced with gum for better fastening (Du Plessis, 2010). Creating an opening on this body to allow the solar panels above the ventilation system to be exposed to the boat's exterior is also possible with the GPR as system and since it is less brittle compared to other metals, creating a whole on any part of the boat would no interfere with the entire structure. In contrast, due to its strength, creating the hole in the first place may be difficult since the material is stronger than other materials (Du Plessis, 2010). Nonetheless, the GPR body has numerous benefits that would allow the proposed ventilation system to fit successfully.

Seating Arrangements

            Depending on the number of seats that the model has to consider seating arrangements differ from life boat to life boat. The arrangement chosen by the designers is one of the main factors when considering the position to be fitted with the ventilation system (Choi J. & Choi, S 2014). The system should be located at a place that allows its effects to be felt by all the passengers’ on board as well as the crew. The most effective point would be at the top center of the boat's roof. The reason to this is to ensure equal distribution of air all over the vessel. Additionally, since it is a solar powered system, the fan has to be located ideally where it will be exposed to natural light effectively and to the maximum. Although the sides of the lifeboat could also be ideal for the system, it is impossible for the solar system to maximize on the available light as the  lifeboat may keep changing directions due to the random movements caused by waves while on transit. In this case, the top position is most ideal since despite any movements or tidal effects the top positioned is mostly maintained despite the amount of movements. However, Du Plessis (2010) cautions that when creating an opening at the top of the lifeboat to fix whatever system, the hole has to be carefully sealed after fitting the system to prevent entry of water which would be dangerous to the inhabitants and the crew. A twin ventilation system would also be essential for larger life boats that have more sitting capacities. This will allow multiple positioning within the  system as the fans will have to be separated from each other allowing optimization of the systems as everyone is able to benefit from the system.

Battery and Engine

            The vessel is equipped with a twin engine system that is SOLAS approved (IOM, 2011). It has a transmission system that is powered by an electric starter. It is powered by two independent batteries that are charged by a twelve volt alternator when the engine is running. The batteries are used for powering the interior lighting, navigation light and a 12 volt power outlet for searchlights (Du Plessis, 2010). A switch for any additional electrical equipment is also included in the design. However the ventilation system will not make use of this system but will have its own battery in place. It is also to be charged using solar energy which means more wiring is required for this to take place.

Ventilation System

            The ventilation system is very important for any enclosed gasoline powered engine life boat. This is because, the engine system installed in the boat generates heat during its operation raising the temperature within the boat's interior. When this high temperate is not released, or redistributed, it may lead to suffocation or discomfort within the boat (Mena Report, 2010). In the last case, the inhabitants may find it necessary to open the boat's doors. This may be impossible in some cases, especially when the waves at sea are high. It is also a legal requirement that working and well maintained ventilation systems are installed in the all enclosed life boats. Other benefits due to the installation of a ventilation system include: prevention of bad odors and mildew, taking out gasoline fumes and saving one’s life from carbon monoxide intake due to the exhaust fumes from the engine. According to Shun and Ahmed (2008) ventilation systems have two parts; an inlet and an outlet. Both of these components have ducts which are hoses or tubes that extend into the boat. Ducting is supposed to be located in the lower third of the boats hull but should also be above any bilge water. The ducts should not be kinked and should be directed away from any sources of heat. The ventilation system must be adequate for the size, space and the system that is to be used.

Solar powered Ventilation Systems

            The ventilator to be installed is a fully automatic solar powered device. There is no electricity use or any other man made power source. There are also no plugs required in the use of the device and works as an independent component. In this regard, it is an environmentally friendly system that uses light energy and converts it to rotational energy leading to cooling within an enclosed area (Gugulothu et al, 2015). The housing is also made of weather and water resistant stainless steel for protection against physical damage and corrosion when exposed in contact with water. It can be mounted on glass, fiberglass, metal and brick surfaces. It is also water resistant with an overflow preventer which is ideal in the case of enclosed life boats. The features mentioned make it one of the most compatible gadgets to use in such a ventilation project. The system is also fitted with an on and off switch which makes it suitable for life boat use. The batteries are fitted into the ventilator and are rechargeable via solar energy to enable night use. When the device is switched off the solar panel that is fitted on top of the ventilator continues to charge the battery when it is sunny (available light source) or there is fair weather. The unit also charges its batteries while still running especially in a sunny environment thereby increasing the running time to a significant level. The powerful monocrystalline cells that are used help to keep the fan running and charge the battery even in fair weather conditions (Omer, 2008).  The cells are most suitable for ventilation systems and can be used all year round. The extraction rate of the ventilator stands at 850 cubic feet per hour which is equivalent to 24 cubic meters per hour.

3. Objectives Of The Project

The project is aimed at the development and fitting of solar powered ventilation fans that use rechargeable batteries in close life boats. Other objectives that are related to the project as discussed as follows:

1. To fit ventilation systems into closed life boats as a means of providing proper air purification systems.
2. Improve the functionality of ventilation systems since there will be a reduction on the use of electrical energy on the life boats.
3. Instill the use of solar energy as it is affordable, reliable and consumes fewer resources in the lifeboat.
4. To develop a ventilation system that can meet the conditions of modern regulations.
5. To use the knowledge, skills and concepts that have been learnt in the engineering field in practical use.
6. Take the project to completion on a timely basis through the provision of quality and high value information and data.
7. The project also aims to provide proper recommendations for those that wish to adopt effective ventilation systems in future.

4. Project Schedule

      The purpose of the project schedule is to give a clear and elaborate work breakdown in the implementation of the project. It also adds logic to the flow of the project and gives the level of dependencies the various phases. The schedule is doe through the use of Gantt chart as shown in the figures below.

Fig 3: Gantt table

Fig 4: Gantt chart

5. Project Justification

            The justification of the project is done through the discussion of various accomplishments that will be met through the installation of the ventilation systems. It is clear that life boats have the sole purpose of ensuring the safety of the crew and people that use them. As such they might be required to stay in water for long periods and sometimes suffer mechanical damage in the process of navigating to shore. According to Garcia et al., (2002) heavy reliance on the batteries that power the life boat may render them useless especially when rescue takes a lot of time. It is the solar energy capability of the units proposed that comes into use in this situation. The ability of the system to use solar energy makes it a reliable component of the life boat. When there is no power on the vessel the solar powered ventilation is able to continue in ventilating the lifeboat.

Conditions at sea can be adverse especially at night when it is cold or even hot depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Cory (2010) notes that the rechargerability aspect of the ventilation makes it possible for it to be used at night when there is no light to power the solar panels. The rechargeable batteries can last up to 42 hours making them ideal to serve any closed life boat even on gloomy days. The solar panels used also have very low maintenance costs as their service is easy to undertake. They are also durable and do not call for replacement much often like electrical powered systems which are prone to blow ups and power failures.

            The fact that solar power energy is renewable is also a justification for carrying out the project. Solar energy is available for daily collection every day unlike battery energy as they have to be charged using the engine power. It is also clean power that does not pollute the environment.  Its collection is also noiseless and thus has no impact on those using the life boat and environment around. The batteries in the unit installed are internal and because of this fact, they are hard to tamper with and are bound to be intact for long. This makes it more likely that the users of the lifeboats will not suffer from instances of power loss which are common at sea. The ease of operation also ensures that they can be used by anyone as they have just a button for switching on and off. The project is also cost effective in implementation. It is owed to the low cost of the panels and ventilation systems. Batteries are also cheap and have a long life that makes them very economical in the ventilation systems. In terms of its positioning, the central roof position is ideal due to its exposure and optimization to light, allows proper distribution of air and limits chances of misuse.

6. Project Evaluation

            To evaluate the project, the parts, performance and efficiency of the ventilator will be determined based on the overall objective.  To begin with, the main purpose of this project was to develop a solar powered ventilation system to be utilized in an enclosed lifeboat. Having discussed the properties of an enclosed lifeboat, the design and system of the ventilation system was selected based on the identified properties. Consequently, the compact solar ventilation system was selected since the power system and cooling fan are all fixated together giving a portable yet effective design. This unit would be installed at the center of the boat's roof where a hole would be made to expose the solar system to the environmental light during the day. The installation of rechargeable batteries to allow utilization even at night makes the system energy efficient as it utilizes renewable energy This reduces the strain exerted on the boat's batteries as the ventilation system operates independently from the  power system utilized in the boat. This objective is successfully accomplished as the developed system is not only environmentally friendly but also reliable. According to the SOLAS regulations, all lifeboats are supposed to have ventilation systems not only for aeration but also to ensure the environment within the boat is healthy and clean (IOM, 2011). These would make them habitable and no matter how long the inhabitants take to reach the shore or receive any help, they will effectively survive at least through the hot temperature of the day or night.

            In its position and fastening technique, the ventilation system is able to operate effectively as it is not affected by the buoyant movement of water while at sea. This will be tested further in the verification process to understand the concept better. On the other hand, the ventilation system would cost the buyer £180.10, inclusive of profit. Although the price may seem relatively high for a single system, the long term benefits which include a long-lasting battery and a renewable energy system make the recommended retail price affordable in the long term. Upon installation, the system retains its position without the need for further repairs all the time and therefore saves on the repair expenses while reducing chances of continuous displacements through contact by heavy objects. Lastly, this project featured the application of various engineering concepts eight from energy conservation and utilization to mechanical installation and improvement. Accordingly, the impact of the completely installed solar powered ventilation system in a lifeboat is an actual representation of the skills and knowledge gained through class work.

7. Verification Strategy

            At this point, various components of the ventilation system were verified to authenticate their ability to produce the desired results. For the ventilation system, there are two main tests that would be done. First, the ventilation system will be immersed in water to detect whether it would allow water into the internal parts of the system and second, an impact test to determine whether it would maintain its position once it is fitted. In the first case, the assembled system was immersed in water to mimic a situation where the lifeboat may be immersed in water during a high tide or caused to flip due to heavy waves while at sea. Since this test was being carried out at the workshop, the ventilation system was immersed and rotated in the water for about five minutes. When removed, it was wiped with a dry piece of cloth to remove the external water that may get in when disassembling. Consequently, after a thorough check. The system was found to have some thin layers of water around the internal parts of the rotating blades. Since the amount of water was limited, the system would require further sealing. In this case, I applied a Silicone sealant. This is a paste like substance that allows effective sealing especially where thin contact areas have to be sealed.

            For the second test, the ventilation system was subjected to heavy load impact, dropped from a height of five meters above ground and rolled over to determine whether these impacts would lead to damage on the external parts or dislocation of internal components. Accordingly, when subjected to a heavy load through hitting with a hammer, the external parts were slightly bent especially at the points of impact. This ability to resist deep bends or further damage is accustomed by the strength of the material used in constructing the external parts: Steel. However, the surface of the solar panel was cracked in  the process. In the chosen design, the solar powered installed features a glass layer coupled with an insulating layer both at the front whereas a protective back sheet is lined at the rear. As Yong, Yiping and Li (2015) note, this solar panel arrangement is effective as it is affordable yet allows better dissipation of heat unlike other glass panels that have a glass layer both at the top and back which increase the panel's strength but limit the dissipation of heat thus reducing cell efficiency. Since the life boat may never be subjected to heavy impacts that would have distracting impact like that from a hammer, the proposed solar panel arrangement will be maintained for better efficiency at the expense of strength. In the drop test where the ventilation system was dropped at a height, the external casing remained intact whereas the solar panel system was slightly adjusted causing misalignment. For this case, a strong adhesive was used to hold the panels in position thereby limiting further movements. The rolling test was done at the end to detect whether there were any objects already dislodged within the system and thus moving along the entire system. In the process, there were no moving components and this confirmed that the system was effectively intact.

8. Progress and Actions

            The implementation of the project would not have been possible if it was not for the progress that was made in the assembly of the different components used in the unit. The available components included a fan, rechargeable batteries, an off and on switch, solar panel and the housing unit. All of this parts had to be joined together to ensure that unit is working. The actions involved assembling the internal parts prior to the external casing. The circuit board connecting the switch to the battery was first assembled before the inverter and later the fan drive (motor powered system) was added to the circuit system. Later, the solar-battery system was attached and tested by exposing the solar to sunlight for about twelve hours before starting the fan to check whether the circuit was completely installed and functioning effectively. The external casing was fabricated to form a dome-shaped enclosure with the lower end wider than the upper end. The upper end was cut to form a rectangular opening where the solar panels were inserted and fitted to meet the desired design concept. the system was later tested for strength, actual fitness and functionality.

9. Investigation Detail

            The ventilator to be installed is a fully automatic solar powered device thus fitted with solar panel and batteries to store charge to power the system later. The housing is also made of weather and water resistant stainless steel for protection against physical damage and corrosion when exposed in contact with water. It is also water resistant with an overflow preventer which is ideal in this case of an enclosed life boat. The system is also fitted with an on and off switch to start and stop the system whenever necessary. The unit also charges its batteries while still running especially in a sunny environment thereby increasing the running time to a significant level. The powerful monocrystalline cells that are used help to keep the fan running and charge the battery even in fair weather conditions (Omer, 2008).  The cells are most suitable for ventilation systems and can be used all year round. The extraction rate of the ventilator stands at 850 cubic feet per hour which is equivalent to 24 cubic meters per hour.

10. Tests, Reliability and Accuracy of Data

            At an extraction rate of 850 cubic feet per hour, the system is able to generate up to 250 watts of power required to rotate a small three blade fan. This 250 watts can also be stored for later use. However, Moretti and Belloni (2015) states that this amount of power may decline by 10 to 15%  on a cloudy day. Since the installed fan system requires only 220 watts to cause the blades to rotate at an acceptable speed, the system is able to successfully ventilate the boat even on a cloudy day. Accordingly, the solar power system is reliable compared to the other systems of power used. Additionally, with the steel casing and compact assembly, the system is able to resist the turbulence and waves expected at sea thereby serve the boat for a long time without the need for repairs and replacement. In a cargo or cruise ship that requires high maintenance and repair costs, reducing the cost of repairing and replacing such ventilation systems contributes to effective performance.

10. Interpretation of Test Result or Data

            Based on the test results and performance efficiency, the ventilation system can be described as an ideal system for the enclosed lifeboat. As an environmentally friendly power system, the ventilation system does not pollute the environment, instead, it uses naturally occurring light to generate power utilized to improve the environmental conditions. With the equipment used in its construction, the system is able to survive harsh weather conditions while at sea.

11. Conclusions and Recommendations

            The project can be described as a success since a solar powered ventilation system that would fit in an enclosed lifeboat was successfully designed and installed. Due to its energy conservation property, safe to the environment and durability, the system can be described as an ideal power system for modern shipping needs. Although the initial investment of installing this system may be high, its long-term savings make it commendable for future adopters. This research therefore explains the assembly and installation of the device with major emphasis on its benefits. Accordingly, the tests done prove its reliability and therefore future adopters should consider optimizing their lifeboats and other ship areas using this system.

12. New Knowledge and Skills Developed

            There is a lot that I have learnt through the implementation of the project. I have added additional knowledge in terms of green energy use and how environmental friendly this energy is. It is one of the least utilized sources of energy but also one of the most productive. In this research I have learnt that solar panels have a durability of  up to 25 years since its components do not spoil frequently leading to the need for repairs. It would therefore be an advantage if people embraced this technology and used it many other activities. It is also true that I was able to apply some of the skills that I learnt in class in the project. The use of drilling equipment and other fabrication tools was necessary in the project. I had to use quality and accurate measurements as any other would have resulted in improper installation of the device. Much of the skills learned had to do with assembly and wiring of the device so that it worked in the given conditions. The ventilation had a housing and the other four components such as the fan, solar panel, inverter and rechargeable batteries. I had to figure out how these components would fit into the small design of the ventilation. Through proper ingenuity I was able to come up with the design proposed in the progress area.  The fan was able to run using the rechargeable batteries charged by the solar panel.

            Building a standalone ventilation system was also challenging. However it was possible throughout research exercise. The knowledge learned from the research helped in deciding the type of solar that would work well for the unit. I was also able to learn more about the available types of batteries and their durability. It was also notable that not all rechargeable batteries have a long life span and most were easily destructible within the first few months. However with proper research I now have appropriate knowledge on all the components, their availability and durability. Lastly, through the conduct of the project, I have been able to improve my research techniques and contributed towards the development of existing knowledge and generation of new insights. This knowledge is crucial and will help other researchers in their projects. These skills are important as I can utilize them later in my workplace.

13. Novel Feature

            Various challenges were faced in the process of developing the project. There were a few aspects of the project that represented themselves as challenges although they did not affect on completion of the work. The availability of ready information and data pertaining to solar energy ventilation was a contributing factor to  the success of the project. Materials used in the process were also readily available and could be found in the local market. However it was difficult to obtain the tools required in the fitting of the ventilation system. The cost of the circuit board for the control system was also high and posed a significant challenge to the completion of the project. Design of the project also posed a challenge since there was a delay in the selection of the most appropriate solar ventilation to be used in the project. Despite these factors, the project was still completed on the planned time and the objectives were successfully met.

14. Additional Research

            It is proposed that further research should be carried out so that the objectives that have been met by this project can be enhanced. It is noted that the world consumption of power energy in matters of ventilation is quite high especially when weather conditions are adverse. Fitting of the system would be useful in any place including houses, vehicles and even hospitals. However it is important that they be enhanced in terms of reliability to boost their applications. Additional research should be conducted on how battery life should be extended so that it goes beyond six hours as noted in the research hours since some locations have cloudy days for over a day. Improving power back up systems will help other power systems also conserve energy leading to effective power consumption and utilization.