Various industries have expressed a need for underwater robotics since many underwater tasks cannot be accomplished without placing people and their environment at risk. Remotely-operated vehicles have become popularized as a cost-effective means of completing many underwater objectives. This interdisciplinary project’s goal is to design and manufacture a reliable ROV capable of maneuvering in a submerged environment. It is modeled after the MATE competition, where ROVs are designed to withstand realistic underwater scenarios.

           The ROV was broken down into the following subsystems: frame, propulsion, power, and control. The overall design considerations are system integration, waterproofing of electrical components, and system control. An iterative design process was utilized as well as analysis through decision matrices. A detailed design of the frame was created alongside a complete system integration diagram of electrical components. Structural analysis of the frame was conducted through ANSYS. Wiring between the components within the ROV as well between the control-station and electronics enclosure have been mapped. Thrusters have been designed using modified bilge pumps with a propeller assembly, a protective propeller shield and a frame integration fastener. The frame and user interface are currently being developed. This project will deliver a functional ROV with stringent maneuverability and performance requirements and serve as a legacy project in the school of engineering.