Introduction: DC Motor ROV

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A ROV using DC motors and an Ethernet cable.

Control Box

  • 3 Gear

  • Switches

  • Wire
    Battery Pack

  • Ethernet Cable

  • PVC Pipe

  • DC Motor 3x

  • Dremel Tool

  • Drill

  • Goop

  • Soldering Iron

  • Solder

  • X-Acto knifes

  • Wire Connectors

  • 3d Printer (Optional)

Step 1: Control Box

Obtain a standard control with enough space to include (3x) 3 gear power switches. Mark the holes for the switches.

Step 2: Switch Holes

Mark the holes for the switches. Then use a drimmel tool to get the general shape not exceeding over the line. To refine the edges of the switch holes cut the sides using an X-Acto knife.

Step 3: Fitted

Once the switches are in its' time to start the schematic.

Step 4: Soldering

A soldering Iron and solder in needed. Additional tools such as a solder iron stand, solder sucker and a copper sponge to clean the tip are helpful yet are as necessary. ,

Step 5:

Create a hole on the side of the control box allowing for the Ethernet cable to feed through. This whole will run from your control box to the ROV. After feeding an inch and a half of cable strip the casing of the cable. Separate the wires to where you individually strip each of the smaller wires by 1/4in. Note that there are 4 wires. 3 wires are necessary to complete the project but the 4th wire could be used as LED light, an extra motor, or another power connection to the ROV.

Step 6: Wires

Flip the control board top over and follow schematic as seen. Avoided having too long of a wire that clutters your connections or short wires that will not stretch. Fit the wires prior to soldering then secure the connection.

Step 7: Soldering and Jumping Wires

Looking at the schema (+) and (-) jump diagonally and two smaller wires specific to one motor attach at the top to pins. It is important to remember to follow the same pattern for each switch set up. Not following the same patterns in wires for the motors will cause the ROV to move erotically or in the reverse setting as the other switches. Soldering after every wire is tied/connected to the pin is recommended for a cleaner soldering job.

Step 8: Power Connections

The Schema indicates the power connection to the battery. In cases that you will need to disconnect your battery source the cables will be connected using a wire connector. Not only is it temporary but it helps to connect all the (+) and (-) wires of the other switches to the battery.

Step 9: Motor Water-Proof Casing

Using PVC pipe as a container for a protective casing will allow for a less risk of motor replacement. Depending on the DC motors you obtain, find a PVC pipe that has the same diameter as your motor on the inside tube measurement. A drimmel may be needed to hollow the inside of the pipe according to the motor shape. When the destined shape is acquired for easy access. After testing the motors cut the pipe to the length of the motor with 1/8in extruding from both sides. Looking at the DC motor their will be small holes on the sides. (Optional.) To reduce risk of water damage place electrical tapes on the wholes.

Step 10: Soldering the DC Motor

connect the Wires to the DC motor with the same wrapped wire. Be sure to follow the same pattern for each motor. Fold the wire throw the electrical mount holes and solder.

Step 11: Water-Proofing

Using a insulating material place the goop or the watering proofing agent on the motor. Be sure not to cover the axle or the motor will not spin as efficiently.

Step 12: Fin Design and Attachments

For his ROV parts were 3d printed to save expenses and time. Rather than printing you can find fins online and at your local hobby shop.