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DIY: Underwater ROVs

The distinction between robots and ROVs is that a robot is capable of autonomous behavior, while an ROV (Remotely Controlled Vehicle) always operates via a remote control driver. Newer ROVs include flying models such as the predator drone as well as underwater ROVs. Underwater ROVs feature the shell, which is usually waterproof; a power source; an engine to move the ROV about; a system to cause the ROV to go up and down in the water; a camera; and a radio link to the driver.

Things You'll Need

Plastic or metal shell
Small tank to hold compressed air
Small tank to hold ballast water
Small air compressor
Small ballast pump
Marine motor with shaft and propeller
RC controller for the motor
Camera with radio transmitter and monitor
Plexiglas
Battery
Wood for internal bracing
Tools for working with wood and wires

Instructions

- 1
  Find a motorcycle or aircraft fuel tank for the shell of the underwater ROV. The shaft that the propeller is attached to and the antenna should be the only things protruding through this shell. Make sure these points are watertight.
- 2
  Power the ROV with a rechargeable battery. The bigger the battery, the longer the ROV can operate. The smaller the battery, the less the ROV will weigh.
- 3
  Use the engine and radio control system from a marine RC designed for controlling toy boats. For ballast control ̵1; going up and down in the water ̵1; use the extra pins that come on most controllers to operate two motors: one to compress air, and one to flood the ballast tank. You will need to re-label one or more of the buttons on your controller to read ̶0;dive̶1; or ̶0;ballast.̶1;
- 4
  Cut away part of the nose of the vehicle and replace it with Plexiglas, which is glued in place. Put the camera behind the Plexiglas so you can watch the monitor while you are driving the ROV.
- 5
  Build an internal structure of a wooden frame to hold all the different systems in place. Put rubber grommets around the antenna and the motor shaft to keep the interior watertight. Glue the wooden braces to the interior of the ROV shell.

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