Hi!

I want to build something that is mostly a remote controled sub. I'm sure you've heard of underwater scooters (for scuba) and of ROV (Remote Operated Vehicles) which are also used at depth and are cable controlled.

Here's what I want to do, both at the same time! I want to have something I can hold on to which will make me go faster, but also that I can let go of and remote control into spots I can't safely scuba into (such as wreck dives).

I've already done lots of research on scooters and the most powerful ones out there use at most 300W motors. They can pull a grown man at about 3-4 km/h (2-3 mph). They generate between 20 & 40 lbs of thrust. Here's a good example of one:
http://www.seascooter.net/

So all I'd need to do is basically build something like that, add some control fins and mount a camera at the front so I can take pictures in spots I can't get to Since I've never done a project like this, I would appreciate any and all help I can get. I saw lots of RC boats with 300W or more but I don't think they could pull a grown man with scuba gear on. I think I need to change the propeller and the RPM at which it turns.

I'd appreciate any and all help with this project. I'd prefer to use RC parts since they are smaller and cheaper then industrial DC motors.

Thanks!
Guillaume

Whatup Guillaume?
Try this sciplus.com they are great for 'take offs' Motors and other goodies, heat sinks, u name it. most are used of course (taken off from a...) but they will tell you what. Some are high torque, geared for motorhome slides or wheelchairs, others are brand new 'craft motors' 1.5 volts, 100 mA maybe 5000 rpm. Batteries too, solar cells, all kinds of wonderful junk. Sean

Thanks!

I'll look for parts there

Guillaume

Hello Guillaume,

I have seen the seascooter commercial on TV and it looks fun to ride. Anyways, how about modifying the basic hull to accomodate the additional electronics? It provides a nice and basic hull form to expand your ideas on, unless there is a cheaper way to scratchbuild one of of course!

the Captian may be on to something there. I would try to splice in a piece of appropriate diam. PVC pipe. as long as you like. would give room for electronics, extra batteries. Even without the original scooter, come to think of it, I would use some 6" black PVC pipe ( hardware store, I think about 10 dollars for a 4' section), end caps ( some threaded!! ) and of course, glue. Maybe two, side by side, for some real battery, and bouancy( sp??) space. Or under/over to give the craft a natural 'attitude' ( batteries, motor below/ electronics, air-bouancy above). buy a 10 foot piece, and you could make one you could ride like a broom (well OK, motorcycle). LOL