Building an Efficient Submarine: Tips and Factors for a Successful Race

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To build an efficient submarine for a race, focus on creating a lightweight, hydrodynamic design with a streamlined shape, ideally using materials like PVC pipe or other inexpensive options. Ensure the submarine is approximately 1 meter long and can maintain buoyancy at 2 feet below the surface by adding ballast. For propulsion, consider using a small motor and propeller, which can be sourced from hobby shops, or explore compressed gas options. Incorporate fins or a rudder for guidance to maintain a straight path during the race. Prioritize speed and simplicity in design to enhance performance against competing groups.
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we were asked to build a submarine as a requirement to pass our physics subjct...
the problem is.we don't know how to start, and what materials(simple and not expensive by the way) should we use:frown:

also our prof said that it is going to be a race (and it will be uhm..1week frm now)and we will be competing with other groups..
could you give me some tips on how to increase the speed of our submarine?
and what are the factors that should be considered in building a submarine?...

*PS:our submarine should have a length of (max)=1m, and should be 2ft below the surface...

PLEASE..PLEASE..PLEASE...
ur reply wud be highly appreciated...:smile:
 
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Physics news on Phys.org
http://www.btinternet.com/~philipr/torps.htm

Oughta give you ideas for controlling depth and direction. Browse the hardware stores plumbing depts. for materials.
 
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At a depth of only 2 feet, the materials are not really a concern. I don't suspect this device is intended to last any significant amount of time, so rotting or corrosion are not much of an issue either.

If you're just trying to make this thing move through the water as fast as possible, try to make it lightweight, hydrodynamic, and have a LOT of thrust.

- Warren
 
we don't know how to start, and what materials(simple and not expensive by the way) should we use

also our prof said that it is going to be a race (and it will be uhm..1week frm now)and we will be competing with other groups..
could you give me some tips on how to increase the speed of our submarine?
and what are the factors that should be considered in building a submarine?...

*PS:our submarine should have a length of (max)=1m, and should be 2ft below the surface...
Well, for a race, one would probably prefer a torpedo. :biggrin: So what are the basics of submarine or torpedo - vessel (hull), power/propulsion, and guidance.

Vessel - something tubular with a round nose and round stern. For speed it should be streamlined as much as possible. Materials could be pipe of metal, plastic, wood, . . . e.g. 3" PVC pipe, or larger. Add ballast to set bouyancy for 2 ft below surface.

Power/propuslion - some type of motor and propeller. Torpedoes have electric propulsion systems using batteries. Finding a propeller might be problematical, but a hobby shop, which sells model boats might have them, or one could machine a propellor. Compressed gas is a possibility. Chemical reaction might work, but is complicated and perhaps hazzardous. A constraint is interior size of hull.

Guidance - some type of fins/rudder to make submarine go in straight line - or one use a gyroscope, but that needs power.

This might help - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torpedo
 
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