Project ID#
TBD
Course Code
19232
Project Type
Research
Field of Interest
anthropology, hydrodynamics and aerodynamics, design, prototyping, experimental structures and materials science, traditional and contemporary artisanal practices, sustainability and ‘critical technical practice’
Description
There are 2 projects available:
Project 1: Orthogonal – Design, Build, Sail, with a dash of AnthropologyOrthogonal is an ongoing interdisciplinary project to design and build an experimental oceangoing sailcraft based on the principles of Micronesian voyaging canoes, using modern materials and techniques. Over 30’ long, with two hulls, Orthogonal is built from marine ply, fiberglass, epoxy, stainless steel and composite materials. Project involves design and construciton of all aspects of the boat, and oftne invovles well informed estimates of the substantial and diverse forces effecting a light boat in bad weather. With luck and good progress Orthogonal will be launched in Spring 2018. Construction occurs at the Orthogonal works, campus bldg 522, where we have substanial space and workshops.
Project 1: Proabot – a project to build a fleet of about 20 autonomous, sustainable robotic sailcraft for oceanographic research each around 8’ long. Current project is the development of a radio conrtrolled prototype, equipped with custom sensors and robust mechatronic controls. Sensors include water flow meters, wind speed and direction, digial compass, etc. Work occurs in the Mechatronic Art Lab, CAC G010 (the best mechartronics lab on campus).
Maximum Number of Students
10
Requirements
Motivation, useful skills and a willingness to do physical work and get dirty is expected. Familiarity with sailcraft and sailing would be an asset. Manual fabrication skills and a hands-on understanding of precision making will be an asset. Students are expected to commit to the project for the full 2-3 quarters. This is because it takes one quarter to become familiar with the dimensions of the project and the tools and materials involved.
Additional Information
Students will be involved in a complete design/build/test cycle. Useful skills and experience include sailing, carpentry, metalwork and machining, experience with epoxies and fiberglass, sailmaking, analog electronics, sensors, microcontroller programming, 3D modeling, engineering simulation (especially aerodynamic and hydrodynamic). Most important is a willingness to work hard, get dirty, design and problem-solve (collaboratively and autonomously) and work reliably as a responsible member of a group.
Contact Method
email advisor
Click to download full project details.
Click to visit orthogonal website.
Simon Penny
Professor, Advisor
penny@uci.edu
Research Link
J. Michael McCarthy
Professor, Advisor
jmmccart@uci.edu
http://synthetica.eng.uci.edu/
http://mechanicaldesign101.com/