An underwater glider is a special type of remotely operated underwater vehicle employed for research and monitoring the underwater environment. This article presents the design and fabrication of an underwater glider specifically for educational purposes. The three-dimensional model of the glider is developed using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. Important parameters, viz., buoyancy control system, rolling mechanism, electronics and control system and wing design are described. The buoyancy mechanism used for the propulsion differentiates a glider from other underwater vehicles. The design parameters, specifications and dimensions of the fabricated glider are highlighted. The design incorporates a unique feature, viz., a movable ballast tank for adjusting both buoyancy and altitude. To achieve a lightweight structure, 3D printing technology employing plastic raw material was utilized. Computational analysis of the CAD model of the glider was carried out to investigate the variation of hydrodynamic parameters. The educational significance of this work lies in its potential to enhance the educators’ and students’ understanding of remotely operated underwater vehicles as well as nurturing hands-on learning experiences.

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Conceptual Design of a Low Cost Underwater Glider for Educational Purpose

  • A. M. Dhulekar,
  • F. Sharma,
  • U. S. Dixit

摘要

An underwater glider is a special type of remotely operated underwater vehicle employed for research and monitoring the underwater environment. This article presents the design and fabrication of an underwater glider specifically for educational purposes. The three-dimensional model of the glider is developed using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. Important parameters, viz., buoyancy control system, rolling mechanism, electronics and control system and wing design are described. The buoyancy mechanism used for the propulsion differentiates a glider from other underwater vehicles. The design parameters, specifications and dimensions of the fabricated glider are highlighted. The design incorporates a unique feature, viz., a movable ballast tank for adjusting both buoyancy and altitude. To achieve a lightweight structure, 3D printing technology employing plastic raw material was utilized. Computational analysis of the CAD model of the glider was carried out to investigate the variation of hydrodynamic parameters. The educational significance of this work lies in its potential to enhance the educators’ and students’ understanding of remotely operated underwater vehicles as well as nurturing hands-on learning experiences.