Solar Lifehack 1:Simple do-it-yourself bracket for the solar system on the railing
If solar panels with metal frames are too thick and bulky to be attached to the railing of a small boat, you can use lightweight, flexible solar panels and construct the mounting yourself: We sawed out a plate from birch multiplex to the exact format of the panel. On the back, we glued horizontal strips to the top to create a groove for the upper railing wire. Three sawn-out latches made of thicker wood open and close the groove. Mouldings were attached at the height of the lower railing wire so that the panel can be fixed there while sailing. Once the varnish has dried, the solar panel is screwed or glued to the wooden plate. The telescopic support comes from an old camera tripod, so the angle of the self-built mount can be infinitely varied depending on the position of the sun.
Heiko Strebel, Cologne
Solar Lifehack 2:Flexible solar generator
The disadvantage of the sliding hatch garage as a mounting location is that the solar cells are practically never optimally aligned with the sun. For this reason, we have fitted the panel with hinges on two sides. The axles of the hinges were replaced by eyebolts. These bolts are held in place by a rubber strip stretched between them. In the harbour or at anchor, depending on the position of the sun, one side of the panel can now be detached from the garage and folded up. The installed solar module is tied to the main boom, for example.
Fred Sommer, Hamburg
Solar lifehack 3:Solar-powered ventilation
We have produced an actively self-ventilating bulkhead that enables controlled ventilation independently of the vehicle electrical system: a plug-in bulkhead is made from a sheet of building material into which two active fans from the electronics sector are inserted. In conjunction with a solar cell, which is best placed where there is the least shade, this method can ensure long-term ventilation without having to tap into the vehicle's electrical system. The total costs are manageable at around 50 euros.
André Herkenrath, Kaarst
Solar lifehack 3:Quick-fit bracket
We have built a mobile holder for photovoltaics that we use on our trailer boat for weekend or longer trips. It consists of two inverted shelf brackets. Four hinged tube clamps with quick-release fasteners were attached to the mast support at the stern. They hold the brackets, with the rubber coating in the tube clamps preventing them from sliding downwards. Star grip screws ensure that the bracket can be screwed on and off quickly.
Susanne Clark, Berlin
Do you have any advice for other sailors?
We will honour the publication of your lifehack with50 EURO.Please add photos or sketches. We also need your address and bank details
Submissions to: Editorial office YACHT, Quartier O, Paul-Dessau-Straße 8, 22761 Hamburg; or: mail@yacht.de
