SeaPerch Design Challenge and Construction Overview

Introduction The SeaPerch is a simple ROV (remotely operated vehicle) made from PVC pipe, motors, and floats. You will utilize the design process to create an ROV that meets this year’s specific challenge(s). You will work in teams to construct and test a working ROV.

The Design Challenge You will work in pairs for this challenge. The ROV is expected to: – Be remotely controlled – Be connected to a tether – Submerge in water – Move left and right – Rise to the surface Each student is responsible for creating his or her own design sketches.

Each student is expected to: 1.Create 4 different sketches of your ideas for a structural system (the PVC pipe). 2.Evaluate your ideas with your partner. 3.Select a final design idea (standard or modified structure). 4.Draw your final idea for the structure. 5.Give reasons for your final choice (in writing). The Design Challenge

5’ – 8’ of ½” PVC pipe PVC connectors 3 motors with props, holders, and containers 2 floats Tether wire Netting with tie wraps Screws 1 – 12 volt battery 1 circuit board 1 control box CAT5 wire Wire Solder Electrical Tape Rubber Tape Tools Design Constraints Each group will have the following materials:

The frame is made of ½” PVC pipe The frame must hold the motors, floats, and weights (as needed) The motors are positioned on the frame The motors are expected to submerge the ROV, move it left and right, and raise it to the surface The ROV is powered by a 12-volt battery and tethered to the control box, which allows the student to maneuver the ROV. Design Constraints (2)

Tools Safety glasses Saw Screwdriver Drill Drill bits Vise/clamp Pliers Ruler Scissors Hot plate Soldering iron In order to build your SeaPerch ROV, you will use a variety of tools:

Construction Overview There are four different steps to the construction of your ROV: – Structural System – Mechanical System – Electrical System – Integration/Quality Control/Testing

Structural System Design the frame to be made out of ½” PVC pipe. The frame must hold motors, floats, netting, and weights as needed. Students may use a standard structure (see picture at left) or develop a modified structure of their own.

Identify the position and direction for the three motors. The motors must submerge and raise the ROV, and move it left and right. The motors must be sealed tightly from the water, using wax. Mechanical System