Based on the provided specifications for the seastead structure and the Shinmaywa submersible mixers, the following analysis estimates the vessel's speed under different power constraints. These mixers are optimized for high thrust at zero speed (mixing), meaning their thrust drops off rapidly as vessel speed increases.
The table below displays the estimated maximum speed of the seastead based on the power limit set for the electric motors. Because these are mixers, the "Power Used" at cruising speed is often lower than the "Power Limit" (the motor unloads as the vessel speeds up).
| Power Setting (Per Thruster) | Estimated Speed (MPH) | Estimated Speed (Knots) | Combined Thrust at Speed | Actual Power Consumed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2 kW (Max Rating) | 1.43 mph | 1.24 kts | ~1,700 lbs | ~1.8 kW (Total) |
| 2.2 kW | 1.27 mph | 1.10 kts | ~1,350 lbs | ~1.2 kW (Total) |
| 1.2 kW | 1.03 mph | 0.90 kts | ~900 lbs | ~0.7 kW (Total) |
1. Propulsion Efficiency: The mixers are highly inefficient for propulsion compared to standard boat propellers. While they generate massive static thrust (useful for holding position), their thrust drops to zero at roughly 2.0 mph. Consequently, the vessel cannot exceed this "terminal velocity" regardless of available power.
2. Solar Operations: The seastead is well-suited for slow solar cruising. At the lowest setting (1.2 kW per thruster), the vessel moves at ~1.0 mph consuming very little energy relative to the available solar surface area of a platform.
3. Differential Steering: At the 1.2 kW setting, you retain approximately 900 lbs of thrust for maneuvering. This is sufficient for differential thrust steering, though response times will be slower than at max power.
The "Oil Platform" shape creates significantly more drag than a boat hull. The estimated drag force ($F_d$) fighting the thrusters is calculated as:
This explains why the speed is limited; the drag force curve intersects the thruster output curve very quickly.