SeaPerch Remotely Operated Vehicle, Construction Manual, Page: 103 / 110

SeaPerch ROV Construction Manual
– Version 2010-04NW
T-5
Tether Cable Check:
Prior to operational use, all ROVs should be checked for proper tether cable
attachment. If the ROV would not drive straight in the test above, an
improperly attached tether cable could be the reason. Tie wraps crossed in
an “X” over the tether cable in the
center of the lower rear pipe section usually
indicates proper attachment, to keep the vehicle-end of the tether cable
pointing straight back from the ROV. The strain relief loop’s attachment
should also be checked in this process.
Propeller Check:
Before operating the ROV in water, always conduct a simple test to make
sure that the propellers won't easily detach from the thrusters' motor shafts.
Whether they were installed using the standard adhesive process or using an
optional method from the supplement, give each propeller a gentle tug - not
so hard as to try to pull it off of the motor's shaft, but with enough force to
make sure that it does not come off easily. If it does, repeat Procedure 2.7.
Thruster Angle Adjustment:
As noted in Unit 1, the angles at which the horizontal thrusters are mounted
will affect the thrust, stability, and maneuverability of the ROV. Students
should experiment with different thruster angles to find a configuration that
provides both good forward thrust and good turning ability. The angles are
easily changed by twisting the pipes on which the thrusters are mounted.
Battery Charging:
Make sure that the battery is fully charged before taking the ROV out for an
operation. The battery should also be recharged immediately after use, as
lead-acid batteries will last much longer if they are not left discharged.
Post-Test Cleaning:
Always make sure to rinse your SeaPerch ROV thoroughly with fresh water when
you have finished operating it in a swimming pool (or a natural marine
environment). Pay special attention to the motor shafts, as they are often the first
places to rust. Clean all seaweed or other foreign materials off of the vehicle,
particularly the motor shafts, and rinse it well with fresh water. Spraying the
shaft area of each thruster with a protective agent such as WD-40 after each
use will help to lengthen the operating life of the vehicle.
The SeaPerch program website at http://www.seaperch.org contains valuable information
and educational resources. Additional information is also maintained at the MIT Sea Grant
website,
http://seaperch.orgweb.mit.edu/seagrant/edu/seaperch .
Enjoy Using Your SeaPerch ROV!