OpenROV Underwater Robot

cults3d

I created a model of the OpenROV from openrov.com in Google Sketchup. A designer had asked for my help with sketching up a drawing of how I envisioned attaching auxiliary thrusters to the ROV that I proposed adding. I knew they didn't mean using "Google Sketchup" for this, but since I have experience with it and find it useful for testing concepts virtually, I decided to create a model. I built the model because I don't currently have the physical ROV in my possession. As a Kickstarter backer, I'm expecting a pre-assembled ROV soon, but until November 2012 when they're supposed to ship out, I need to rely on alternative methods for answering questions about physical designs. Creating a scale 3D model allowed me to visualize and verify if my proposed solutions could actually work. My model isn't 100% perfect; it's more like 99%. The laser cutting files I found online couldn't be imported directly into Google Sketchup, so I had to trace the part outlines from within Sketchup instead. Tracing is never exact like a direct import would be, which is why I say my model isn't perfect. Additionally, when it comes to the electronics bracket inside the tube, there aren't any detailed instructions available, so I did my best with what I knew. After tracing all the parts, I gave them thickness by extruding them. Once I had all the parts laid out, I watched and studied every video and picture related to the design and construction of the ROV that I could find. This gave me enough visuals to put everything together and build up the model virtually. You can view a video of my OpenROV model within Sketchup in X-ray mode on YouTube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MicbxMJrf4Q You can also watch a video of the model in normal mode here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFKWnZvs2eI Check out a Flickr album of renders from my model here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/23450595@N02/sets/72157630996544836/with/7750842292/ Note: This model is a work in progress, as I learn more about how the OpenROV is designed, I will update it. Like I said, I don't have one in my possession, so I had to use some creative liberty where necessary. Also note that this model isn't 100% complete or accurate; please don't rely on it for laser cutting parts. This model was created using the free version of Google Sketchup, version 8.0.14346. The renders were done with the free version of Twilight Render, a plugin renderer for Google Sketchup. Creating this model took me about 12 hours to complete. Controlling the camera motion in the videos is handled in real-time by me using a Space Navigator 3D mouse from 3dconnexion. It allows you to pan, zoom, and rotate as if you were holding the model in your hand.