I visit the static flotation lab ~ which some people insist on calling the bathroom ~ to see how my technicians (Ed. he hasn't got any) are progressing with tests designed to raise the motor clear of the waterline at rest.
Key findings include:
(a) We need a new plug because the water-level has dropped overnight
(b) We need a deeper bath because the rig is occasionally grounding out
(c) It appears the strategic distribution of foam does meet requirements
Altogether that's what I wanted to hear from the team, and like Elon Musk I fist-bump them all before departing the lab.
My only concern is that this rig is ballasted by a drill-bit along the bottom edge that you can see in the picture, whilst dead weight is something I want to avoid entirely in the proof-of-concept.
The what-goes-where of foam, ballast and payload however awaits testing of the boat itself and to this end I've bought a new set of waders from Decathlon.
Whether testing takes place under the watchful eyes of doggers and fishermen on the local pond remains to be seen... there are locals who hire their indoor pool for kids' parties and I'm wondering whether that's the better option?
All in all a good end to the week, so I skip the yoga class and eat a doughnut instead.
