Open Source Kayak

Basics

• A small watercraft that usually sits one person
• Is propeled by a hand paddle
• Can be made of many materials; The most common are all rigid plastic, but some inflatable ones have emerged which can be deflated to very small sizes (such as an average backpack/tote bag)
• 70 CM +/- a few cm seems to be the standard width

Industry Standards

• High End Option ~1,000 USD
• Lower End Option ~500 USD
• Point65 Tequila Modular SOT Kayak ~1600 USD

Existing Open Source Designs

• CNC Kayaks (They Make CNC Plans for Wooden Ones)
• This 3D Printed One (in many sections) by grass roots engineering

Basic Design

Sit On Top (SOT)

One Piece 3D Printed Plastic

• Would require a HUGE D3D , or use a Belt 3D Printer

Multi Piece 3D Printed Plastic

• The more reasonable option
• The Kayak it is broken into shorter segments which can be broken apart for storage then reattached for use
• Also allows for a modular build (ie seat section, basic hull section, footrest section, fishing rod holder/cargo section, bow section, stern section, etc)

How Pieces Will Be Connceted

• Can epoxy + Friction stir weld the edges for permanent
• For breakdown-able ?
• The Point65 seems to use joinery held together by straps?
  • Can this hold up the rough water?
• Can Metal Latches be Used?
• Bolts etc could work, and would be sturdy, main issue is time taken to connect/disconnect
• ALSO will a gasket be needed?

Internal Links

• Open Source Watercraft Construction Set

External Links

• Wikipedia Pages on Kayaks
• A L.L. Bean Event/Stunt making a HUGE tequila kayak with many "middle sections" - could be a good Practical Publicity Stunt or a fun thing to do at boat parties (ie everyone brings their middle sections, and food etc, connect them all)