Session: 11.1.1 - Advances in Fluids Engineering Education I

Paper Number: 158122

158122 - A Laboratory-Scaled Watercraft for Interdisciplinary Engineering Education: Design, Testing, and Applications 

Abstract: 

Interdisciplinary engineering projects and project-based learning have become increasingly important in modern engineering education, providing students with hands-on opportunities to integrate knowledge from multiple domains. This paper presents the design, testing, and applications of a laboratory-scaled watercraft developed as a teaching tool for interdisciplinary engineering education. Through this project, students engage in mechanical design, electronics, and embedded programming, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the principles underlying real-world systems. The baseline model of the watercraft measures 9 cm by 15 cm by 7 cm and is powered by two motors operating at approximately 90 rad/s. The control system is built around an ESP32 microcontroller with Wi-Fi capability, allowing for wireless control and data transmission. Onboard instrumentation includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for capturing real-time orientation and acceleration data. The watercraft also features functionality for vertical diving, enhancing its versatility as an educational tool. Experimental data collected from the IMU are analyzed for various propeller geometries and hull designs, with a specific focus on the performance of seven distinct propeller configurations. These analyses provide insights into the hydrodynamic behavior of the watercraft, enabling students to explore the interplay between design parameters and performance. This project not only introduces foundational concepts in fluid dynamics, mechanics, electronics, and embedded programming but also promotes critical problem-solving and teamwork skills, making it an invaluable addition to engineering curricula.

Presenting Author: Anh Dinh Fulbright University Vietnam

Presenting Author Biography: