The interesting project proposed by the Italian design studio Carlo Ratti uses human mechanical energy to move a boat on the River Seine (Paris); An idea that might inspire people to do more physical activity.
The boat is about 20 m long and accommodates up to 45 people. "The navigation system uses human energy," says Carlo Ratti. "It's fascinating to figure out how the energy generated by a workout in the gym is able to move an entire boat. "
The boat-gym is still in development, but designers hope to get it back in just 18 months. It works by transforming the muscular energy exerted on the tools (eg cyclette) into ready-to-use electrical power to power the propulsion.
And if there were not enough passengers to reach the required energy needs, the barge would be able to integrate with photovoltaic panels placed on its roof. Really smart project!
