Concept
This was the original concept for the floating platform of the device. It’s the ideal design because this design can handle the condition in the water. It can protect its components from damage. Solar panels are mounted to the petals of the platform. The platform can close its petals to protect itself from the elements
Sadly, this platform is just a concept. Mechanism for the moving solar panels alone is a complex issue not to mention that water might seep inside the black box. Fabrication of this level requires funds which require patience in my part to gather it.
Actual Prototype
The First Prototype was like this. It wasn’t aesthetically pleasing but it floats. The issue with this design is that the black box is half submerged in a wavy environment. I have conducted test near the river and it was not upright due to the current of the river which could potential capsize the platform.
Latest version
I was unsatisfied with the previous design because of its flaw in its design. Latest Iteration improves upon the previous design. This design added elevation for the components to be far from the water. Although it does not offer protection from heavy weather in its design, this prototype will be improved upon in the future to protect itself from bad weather.
Buoyancy Calculation
To keep the platform afloat, I used plastic bottle for recycling as floaters. To calculate if the platform will stay afloat. To forces are calculated: downward force and buoyancy force denoted by (F = M * a) and (B = ρ * V * g), respectively.
The total weight of the platform is an estimate of 3.5 kg. Downward force is weight plus gravity. Therefore, downward fore is equal to (3.5kg * 9.81m/s^2) = 34.33N.
Buoyancy force is calculated with fluid density p, volume, and gravity. Fluid density of saltwater is 1,025 kg/m^3 by default. And the volume combined by the plastic bottles that I have is 6,000 ml. the total buoyancy force is 60.31N.
With this in mind, buoyancy force is greater than downward force. Therefore, the platform won't sink and will be able to operate floating in the water.