Boat Propulsion System Design

Overview

As part of a senior design project, our team developed a remotely operated boat intended to serve as the foundation for a future autonomous platform. The propulsion system was critical to the boat's performance, requiring sufficient thrust, reliable maneuverability, and compatibility with a limited project budget.

The objective of this project was to design and integrate a dual-motor propulsion system capable of independently controlling two propellers through differential thrust. The system also needed to operate in a marine environment while addressing reliability concerns identified in previous designs.

My Contributions

• Defined propulsion system requirements and performance targets
• Evaluated and compared three motor candidates based on torque, RPM, size, cost, and environmental constraints
• Developed MATLAB calculations to estimate theoretical thrust and boat speed
• Used analysis results to eliminate motor options that could not meet performance requirements
• Selected and integrated motors, flexible shafts, and propulsion components
• Installed mechanical and electrical propulsion system components
• Conducted water testing and validated system performance

Process

The design process began by establishing propulsion requirements for a remotely operated boat utilizing differential thrust for steering and maneuverability. Multiple motor options were researched and compared to identify candidates capable of meeting performance goals while remaining within budget.

MATLAB was used to analyze motor performance and estimate theoretical thrust and boat speed. These calculations provided a quantitative basis for component selection and allowed propulsion options to be compared before purchase and integration. One candidate motor was eliminated after analysis indicated it would not produce sufficient thrust for the application.

The final design utilized two independently controlled motors connected to propellers through flexible shafts. In addition to improving packaging within the hull, the design addressed reliability concerns observed in previous iterations by helping isolate critical components from water intrusion.

After installation of the propulsion system and supporting electrical components, the boat was tested in water to evaluate maneuverability and overall performance. Actual performance was slightly below theoretical predictions but remained within the team's acceptable operating range while providing reliable propulsion and steering control.

Tools Used

MATLAB • Engineering Analysis • Motor Selection • System Integration • Mechanical Assembly • Electrical Wiring • Prototype Testing