This 3D printed boat can go anywhere, whether on land or water

It can navigate difficult terrain, just like an all-terrain vehicle, acting almost like a "floating snowmobile."

Published: December 4, 2024

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YouTube channel Engineering After Hours has posted a video showing the creation of a 3D-printed boat with motorized tracks that can traverse rough terrain and navigate through water. This unique design, inspired by snowmobiles and off-road vehicles , aims to transform the way we think about amphibious vehicles.

A rare 3D printed boat

The project behind this land and water vehicle is not ordinary. Instead of relying on traditional propellers or engines for propulsion in the water, the boat uses traction tracks, which provide movement on land and propulsion in the water. This combination makes the design unique and extremely versatile.

The 3D printed boat uses traction tracks. — The ship uses traction tracks. Source: Engineering After Hours

During the first performance tests, the prototype proved that it can float and move in water without problems, although some adjustments to the geometry of the tracks and buoyancy are still necessary. Even though this peculiar prototype faced certain challenges, such as wear and tear on the tracks, the tests showed its ability to move forward both in water and on rough terrain .

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This 3D-fabricated boat is primarily designed to move through difficult terrain, making it an interesting alternative to traditional amphibious vehicles. Although the boat’s design is based on the concept of a snowmobile, its tracked suspension makes it ideal for four-wheel drive vehicles, which can be used both in shallow waters and on dirt fields .

3D printed boat by YouTuber — The prototype is designed to navigate difficult terrain. Source: Engineering After Hours

Tests, challenges and future improvements

Tests have shown that the motor tracks, in addition to allowing efficient movement on land, help reduce the risk of sinking by distributing weight evenly. However, flotation remains a key area to improve, as some areas of the ship tend to sink a little in deep water.

Even though the prototype has shown great potential, the team behind the design is determined to refine it. The future goal is to create a larger version that can accommodate at least one driver and one passenger. Future versions could include improvements to traction, floating track design, and flotation capability. Want to watch the video? Here it is!