manta ray thrust stand
Revealing underwater forces at depth
Revealing underwater forces at depth
The Manta Ray Thrust Test Platform automates thrust measurement to evaluate the efficiency of bio-inspired wing designs for underwater robotics.
Co-Creator
JAN 2024 - MAY 2024
Kyle Scott
The primary objective of this project is to advance the study of soft robotic fins, inspired by the biomechanics of manta rays, which could potentially replace conventional propeller systems in underwater vehicles. This new testing platform will automate the measurement of thrust forces and provide valuable data on the performance of various fin designs under controlled conditions.
To assist with testing, a mount for a propeller was designed and integrated. It hangs down from the center carriage into the water. The propeller can be mounted at different angles, which is used to validate the load cells. The entire assembly of the testing rig can be seen above.
To make the assembly process easy, and allow for later modifications, the main structure of the rig is made of 80/20 aluminum extrusions. Carriages with roller bearings sit on the extrusion to only allow forces in one direction to push on the load cell. One end of the load cell is screwed into the 80/20, and the other is clipped into the carriage. The clip mechanism helps to prevent binding between the load cell and the carriage. The attachment of the load cell can be seen above.
To confirm that the load cells properly measure the force produced, they were validated using a series of tests with the propeller. Angles of 0, 45, and 90 degrees were run at voltages of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. For the setup to work properly, the total force should be the same for each angle at the same voltage
All Mechatronics project teams consist of 2 individuals that create an electro-mechanical solution to a given problem.
