Wandering Ark: A Visionary Hydrogen-Powered Trimaran

Shenghan Lu's Innovative Design for Future Sea Survival

With the threat of climate change-induced sea level rise looming, innovative solutions are essential. The Wandering Ark is a testament to human ingenuity in the face of such challenges. As a mobile city harnessing clean energy, this trimaran stands out for its exceptional stability and expansive living space. Its design integrates a variety of energy collection methods, including solar, wind, and wave energy, alongside a seawater hydrogen production system, ensuring a continuous energy supply without relying on a single source.

The design of the Wandering Ark is inspired by the terraces found in agriculture, symbolizing the symbiosis between humanity and nature. This concept is brought to life through the ship's zero-emission footprint and self-sufficiency, with the terraced structure enhancing visual stability and blending traditional aesthetics with modern maritime architecture. The Wandering Ark's dimensions are impressive, with a length of 580 meters, a width of 280 meters, and a height of 140 meters, providing ample space for its inhabitants.

Shenghan Lu's design is not just a concept but a potential reality, thanks to advanced simulation software like STAR CCM+. This software is used to conduct seakeeping and pressure tests, optimizing the trimaran's design for various sea conditions. The innovative hull shape, which combines the X BOW with a trimaran form, offers enhanced wave penetration capabilities, crucial for reducing energy loss and improving stability.

The Wandering Ark's operation is a marvel of modern technology. It can sustain long-term oceanic voyages by fully utilizing renewable resources. The onboard hydrogen production system converts seawater into hydrogen, which is then stored and used in fuel cells to power the ship. Additional energy-saving features include the Flettner rotor, which assists in propulsion, further reducing energy consumption.

This groundbreaking project, developed at Macau University of Science and Technology, spans from June 2023 to February 2024. It overcomes significant design challenges, particularly in stability and energy efficiency, and represents a harmonious coexistence with the marine environment. The Wandering Ark is a beacon of sustainable design, with its only emissions being water, achieving the coveted goal of zero emissions.

Shenghan Lu's Wandering Ark has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Futuristic Design category for 2024. This accolade is a testament to the project's well-executed, practical, and innovative design that integrates industry best practices and fulfills professional and industrial requirements. The Wandering Ark is not just a design but a vision for a better, more resilient world.