Eighth Grade Builds PVC ROVs [video]
Source/Author: Raffi Darrow, Ebytes Editor
April 10, 2017
Watch the video here:
What are PVC ROVs?
Reusable, remotely operated underwater vehicles built from PVC pipe. These underwater robots are a great way to grasp the concepts of ocean exploration and the technology used in the marine sciences. The hands-on / minds-on experience of building an ROV stimulates passion, creative vision, and engages students in the processes of design and building. Building ROV’s also teaches science concepts such as structure, buoyancy, power and movement and has opened the doors to STEAM integration (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math). As is true of many of the projects conducted on the Shorecrest Preparatory School campus, real-world challenges help students connect better with the material, gain a deeper understanding of key concepts and retain information longer.
What are PVC ROVs?
Reusable, remotely operated underwater vehicles built from PVC pipe. These underwater robots are a great way to grasp the concepts of ocean exploration and the technology used in the marine sciences. The hands-on / minds-on experience of building an ROV stimulates passion, creative vision, and engages students in the processes of design and building. Building ROV’s also teaches science concepts such as structure, buoyancy, power and movement and has opened the doors to STEAM integration (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math). As is true of many of the projects conducted on the Shorecrest Preparatory School campus, real-world challenges help students connect better with the material, gain a deeper understanding of key concepts and retain information longer.
Since September, Shorecrest Preparatory School eighth graders have been researching remote technologies. Kathryn Jeakle, their marine science teacher, initially shared some websites related to remote operated technology as a guide, along with essential questions. Students conducted individual research to answer the essential questions based on the type of remote technology which was of interest to them.
After completing a background knowledge paper, students formed groups and begin drafting ideas for a remote operated vehicle (ROV) that could somehow change the world. Teams worked together to determine what benefit their remote technology would have on society.
Each team then created a 2D sketch of their idea with real-life measurement labels. Next, they created spec sheets with the overall goal of selling their idea to others. Spec sheets included a unique and intriguing description of the ROV, the objective for the technology, descriptions of three attachments it would have that were key components of the ROV’s function, as well as specifications such as height, length, power source, range and details related to its movement.
While the students were working on their models, their teachers were also engaged in deep learning themselves. In November, six teachers were trained on how to build the underwater PVC ROVs. The training gave a starting point for the building of these ROV with students. After creating the procedures for each portion of the build, a group of six students volunteered to be Safety Officers and completed a pre-build. The six students came into school on the last day of winter break to create their joint ROV they have since named “Safety Officer.” The pre-build helped fine-tune the building procedures. It also prepared each officer with important information needed for the full grade level build. During the full grade level build, the Safety Officers offered help and advice on difficult steps.
Upon return from winter break, students had three days to build a scaled down mock-up of a creative ROV based on their sketches done in the fall. They were challenged to build the prototype from mostly recycled materials. Students used many different tools to achieve their goal within the three day period. The amazing final prototypes were placed on display in the Shorecrest Library.
On January 19, local PVC ROV expert Erica Moulton came to speak with eighth graders regarding underwater ROVs in preparation for an actual ROV Building Day. Ms. Moulton returned for Building Day on January 20, where students worked as specialists, much like real-world scientists, on an assigned portion of the project. Each ROV Team included 8-9 members who were sub-divided into three different jobs. Each job consisted of 2-3 students who were to build a portion of the ROV - control box assembly, motor and propeller assembly, or creating the PVC frame. When all three sub-groups were finished, they attached all of their pieces to make a functioning underwater ROV.
The excited students were gratified when they finally conducted underwater tests and challenges with their self-engineered, PVC ROVs. Different tasks tested each ROV’s design and how well students could control it. The students showed pride in and excitement for their new skills and the creativity they’d demonstrated.
On Saturday, February 4, the students showcased their projects to the public at the St. Pete STEAMfest hosted at Shorecrest.
Thank you to Dr. Baralt and Middle School teaching team who excitedly assisted on building day and have witnessed our working ROVs complete numerous challenges.
Underwater Remote Operating Vehicle camp will be offered at Shorecrest Jun 5-9, 2017, 9am - 12pm for Grade Levels: 5-9. Program Fee: $175. Learn more here.
Underwater Remote Operating Vehicle camp will be offered at Shorecrest Jun 5-9, 2017, 9am - 12pm for Grade Levels: 5-9. Program Fee: $175. Learn more here.
