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 years 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.
The Design Challenge 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). Design Constraints Each group will have the following materials: 5 8 of 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 (2) The frame is made of 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. Tools
In order to build your SeaPerch ROV, you will use a variety of tools: Safety glasses Saw Screwdriver
Drill Drill bits Vise/clamp Pliers Ruler Scissors
Hot plate Soldering iron 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 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. Mechanical System 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.
