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Please help support my entry to the "Ideas for good" challenge sponsored by Toyota

Discussion in 'Fred's House of Pancakes' started by 2009Prius, Feb 15, 2011.

  1. 2009Prius

    2009Prius A Wimpy DIYer

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    Please help support my entry to the "Ideas for good" challenge sponsored by Toyota, see here:

    https://www.yourideasforgood.com/gallery?idea=7505
    (Greener and Safer Elevators with Toyota HSD Technology)

    I saw an ad in the Wired magazine only recently and the challenge has started since last November so I am very late to the game but I thought why not give it a try anyway. Please go to the above link and then click on the "Add Your Support" button at the lower right hand corner.

    Thanks in advance! :)
     
  2. hyo silver

    hyo silver Awaaaaay

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    I have another idea, but I can't submit it because I'm not a US resident. So, if someone else would like to submit this, please do.

    I think Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive could and should be adapted for marine use. A sailboat's propeller could generate electricity while underway, and charge the batteries. When power is needed for docking or times of insufficient wind, the electric motor could power the propeller. Batteries could also power the boat's other systems, including light and possibly heat if there were enough battery capacity. All of this could be accomplished without the gasoline engine, using just the batteries, the generator, and the HSD. The prop would in effect be the 'wheels'. On a larger boat, the gas engine could be retained for backup. (Although gasoline's not the first choice for marine use, due to its volatility, but there's no reason the HSD couldn't be mated to a diesel.)

    Sounds like a good idea to me. We could call it the Prius 'S' for Sail. What do you think? Anybody want to submit it to Toyota? :)
     
  3. twittel

    twittel Senior Member

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    I don't see where an entry must be from a U.S. resident. I submitted your idea, so check it out online and get people to vote for it. If you win, or get recognition, I assume I contact you using PC's forum email.
     
  4. hyo silver

    hyo silver Awaaaaay

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    I read the exclusion in the usual 'terms and conditions' thing that people usually click without reading. ;)

    Thanks. Let me know if 'we' win. I expect at least a working version with a lifetime guarantee. :D