The Design of Mechanical Subsystems for USI's Solar Splash Team

Abstract

This is a University of Southern Indiana senior design report for the design of three of the mechanical subsystems for USI’s 2022 Solar Splash boat: the solar panel frames, drive train, and trim angle adjuster and propulsion system connection. Solar Splash is a collegiate solar boating competition that takes place annually, and USI intends to participate in the 2023 competition. This report discusses the benefits of design and development of different mechanical systems. It discusses lessons learned from past projects and how best practices found in literature and benchmarking can be leveraged to solve previous deficiencies. It discusses the engineering knowledge required to complete the project and presents conceptual designs with a final design selection. Final critical engineering designs are analyzed and presented for each subsystem. The report establishes the objective, deliverables, schedule, and budget for the project. It also includes a concept of operations, a system hierarchy breakdown, and a failure mode and effects analysis for the competition. The report details how the solar panel frames were designed and how the subsystem was built. It also details how the drive train, propulsion system connection, and trim angle adjuster were designed and how assembly and manufacturing instructions will be provided to the future team for development of those systems. The mechanical subsystems for USI’s Solar Splash team will improve the boat and team performance for the 2023 Solar Splash competition.