ROV · 2026
Remotely Operated Submersible for Innovation and Exploration. Modular, compact, under the 18 kg weight limit, and built around the pressure hull MATE provided.
Spec sheet
In 3D
This is our competition CAD, simplified so it loads in a browser. Drag to orbit, pinch or scroll to zoom.
Exploded view
Version 0 was a foamboard octagon. Version 1 used PVC pipe so we could test layouts before cutting any aluminum. The final frame uses T-slot rail for modularity, with 3D-printed PETG parts at 35% infill and five walls. PETG won our decision matrix because it doesn't warp in Central Valley heat the way PLA does.
Eight Blue Robotics T200 thrusters in stacked mounts give full 6-DOF control and keep thruster wash off the hull. The layout came from studying MATE's top ten product-demonstration teams.
Four rigid harpoons grab samples on a drive-by; on the qualification run ROSIE surfaced a basket star, the eDNA sensor, a cap and a coral sample at once. The claw rotates through two 4:1 planetary gearboxes (16:1 total) on plastic bushings that won't rust.
Loose T-nuts in the rail turned every rebuild into a fight. Thin printed jigs hold them in place, cutting thruster and manipulator setup from about two hours to 30 minutes.
