Robot Boat Homepage

CMU Robotics Institute
Robot Boat Project

Robot Boat Construction Progress

The boat hull is essentially complete. More solar panles will be added, some changes will be made to improve the trim and steering of the boat, and the cosmetic finish will be improved.

Click on any image to see a larger view.

May 26, 1999: This image shows the completed plywood hull without any covering. The hull is constructed from panels of 4mm marine plywood.

June 4, 1999: This image shows the bottom of the boat covered in carbon fiber cloth and epoxy. The carbon fiber cloth adds great strength while keeping the hull as light as possible.

June 8, 1999: This Image shows the interior of the boat with epoxied, fiberglass-taped seams and bulkheads installed. The large center compartment will hold the battery bank. The motor and other interior equipment is now being installed and the deck will go on next.

This image shows the internal bracing for the deck and hatches. This looks pretty flimsy but is actually quite strong when epoxied into a single-piece deck structure. Note the laminated, curved supports reinforcing the deck and hatch above the central battery compartment.

Theresa and Todd helped out in the building of the hull. Todd has also done alot of programming and testing of the electronics while Theresa soldered up the microcontroller board.

This image shows the installation of the steering motor. The motor turns a shaft to which the drive motor is mounted.

This is the completed deck before painting. Note the stainless steel studs which will hold the first 11 solar panels. 15 more panels will be added soon.

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	May 26, 1999: This image shows the completed plywood hull without any covering. The hull is constructed from panels of 4mm marine plywood.
	June 4, 1999: This image shows the bottom of the boat covered in carbon fiber cloth and epoxy. The carbon fiber cloth adds great strength while keeping the hull as light as possible.
	June 8, 1999: This Image shows the interior of the boat with epoxied, fiberglass-taped seams and bulkheads installed. The large center compartment will hold the battery bank. The motor and other interior equipment is now being installed and the deck will go on next.
	This image shows the internal bracing for the deck and hatches. This looks pretty flimsy but is actually quite strong when epoxied into a single-piece deck structure. Note the laminated, curved supports reinforcing the deck and hatch above the central battery compartment.
	Theresa and Todd helped out in the building of the hull. Todd has also done alot of programming and testing of the electronics while Theresa soldered up the microcontroller board.
	This image shows the installation of the steering motor. The motor turns a shaft to which the drive motor is mounted.
	This is the completed deck before painting. Note the stainless steel studs which will hold the first 11 solar panels. 15 more panels will be added soon.