Of all of the remote-control autos one can construct, a submarine is presumably the toughest: if one thing goes unsuitable with virtually every other automobile, it’s simple to get better and restore, however a submarine is a really completely different affair. This practically misplaced [James] of [ProjectAir] his newest mission, a 2.7-meter lengthy RC submarine, but it surely survived to make a couple of check sails.
Earlier than constructing the complete model, [James] made a check prototype. These submarines use massive syringes as ballast tanks, pulling water out and in of the submarine physique. The plungers are pushed by a lead screw, and have a linear potentiometer for suggestions. This may be wired in the identical means as a servo motor, making it appropriate with the RC controller. The controller receives its sign from an antenna in a buoy tethered to the submarine. Since preliminary exams labored nicely, [James] moved on to the full-scale mannequin.
This was made out of radially-arranged acrylic tubes, with all however the prime tube left open to the water. In the back of the submarine there have been servo-actuated fins and a propeller, which might permit it to steer, ascend, and descend underwater. To waterproof the servo motors, [James] sealed them as a lot as attainable, then stuffed them with oil. The opposite water-exposed electronics had been both potted in epoxy or coated with a waterproofing compound. Throughout testing, the submarine descended with out difficulty, however was reluctant to resurface. Many of the exterior elements had been 3D printed, and water infiltrated the infill under a sure depth. [James], nevertheless, managed to get better it earlier than it was completely misplaced, and managed to make a couple of different dives at a really restricted depth.
On the opposite finish of the spectrum from an RC submarine, we’ve additionally seen a rubber band-powered submarine. We’ve additionally seen a smaller, however extra dive-ready RC submarine.
Due to [H Hack] for the tip!
