College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Mechanical Engineering
Date
11-2020
Primary Advisor
Eileen Rossman, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
Properties such as nutrients, DNA, pH levels, and primary productivity are difficult to measure onboard an Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (UROV) as mobile submarine sensors are highly expensive and conventional water capture devices are too large to be equipped. However, these properties provide an integral view into our oceans, the species that inhabit them, and our influence on the environment. Collected samples of seawater taken back to labs allow researchers to see a clearer picture of ecosystems’ inhabitants and lifecycle with the analysis of Environmental DNA (eDNA) among many other properties. The scope of this project is to design a small, neutrally buoyant device that can interface with Marine Applied Research & Exploration (MARE) group’s underwater remotely operated vehicles, Beagle and BATFish, to collect seawater at target locations of depths down to 1000 feet.
This document details initial research performed to address this challenge, the benchmarks assessing success in this endeavor, and an affirmed project scope. From these, project requirements and project timeline were developed. The design process we used to arrive at our final design choice along with justification and validation for our design is also detailed in this document. This document also details the manufacturing, testing results, safety documentation, and recommendations to improve our design in the future.
In summary, a device was designed and manufactured which uses a pump, a valve, and an IV bag system to collect seawater at depth. These materials were researched for their environment and purchased to successfully complete the mission requirements.
We thank both Dirk Rosen of the MARE group for sponsoring this project, as well as the donors of the CPConnect fund, for supporting our project monetarily. Without their generous donations, this project would not be possible, nor have nearly as prosperous outcomes. Thank you to all others who donated their time, advice, and insight into a project full of complexity.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/565
Included in
Biomechanical Engineering Commons, Computer-Aided Engineering and Design Commons, Electro-Mechanical Systems Commons, Ocean Engineering Commons, Other Mechanical Engineering Commons