Undercurrent: RC Boat to Submarine

The project aims to convert a 1:18 scale RC boat into a functional RC submarine that can operate on the water surface and submerge to at least 3 meters, with reliable surface return. Our team will explore design modifications addressing the limitations of existing RC boats, particularly in waterproofing, buoyancy, and propulsion, involving concepts from hydrodynamics and mechatronics. As commercially available RC boats are not built for submersion, this project provides an opportunity to apply engineering principles to create a hybrid vehicle, navigating challenges like sealing electronics and managing hydrostatic pressure. Therefore, the final design will integrate mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems to achieve controlled buoyancy, structural underwater integrity, and precise movement underwater.

Fall Quarter Milestones - Design and System Development

1. (10/21/2025) Research and define the main system requirements, including waterproofing, buoyancy control, and propulsion
2. (10/24/2025) Choose the key components 
3. (11/3/2025) Build detailed CAD models for the modified parts
4. (11/10/2025) Develop basic control logic for movement and depth control
5. (11/14/2025) Finish CAD drawings and bill of materials
6. (11/24/2025) Establish a clear plan for assembly and testing

Winter Quarter Milestones - Prototyping, Testing, and Refinement 

1. (Week 1) Fabricate and assemble the submarine based on finalized design specifications
2. (Week 3) Integrate all electrical systems, sensors, and buoyancy control mechanisms
3. (Week 5) Conduct waterproof and shallow-water function tests
4. (Week 8) Perform trials at full depth (5m) to evaluate endurance, control, and recovery

Model of Selected RC Boat for Conversion: Brushless RC Boat 40+MPH

Preliminary Design Review:  Undercurrent - PDR.pdf

Team Contact: 

Project Lead: Delaila Cuevas

email: dmcuevas@uci.edu

Sponsor/Advisor:

Mohamed Shorbagy

email: mshorbgy@uci.edu