Unit 5: SeaPerch Assembly

Vectoring and Thrust: How the placement of the three motors (Horizontal X2, Vertical X1) creates movement in 3D space.
Hydrodynamic Balance: Why the placement of motors relative to the Center of Buoyancy determines if the ROV stays level or "noses up" during acceleration.
Mechanical Fastening: The difference between permanent (glued) and temporary (zip-tied/friction-fit) connections in engineering prototypes.
Cable Management: The impact of "tether snag" on ROV performance and how to minimize drag.

Thruster Mounting: Position the two horizontal motors for forward/turning thrust and the vertical motor for diving/surfacing.

Zip-Tie Rigging: Use heavy-duty zip ties to secure motors to the PVC frame, ensuring they are perfectly parallel to each other to prevent "veering."

The "Tether Run": Route the long umbilical cable through the frame’s center of gravity to ensure the weight of the wire doesn't pull the ROV to one side.

Final Structural Check: Perform a "Square Test" to ensure the frame hasn't warped during the attachment process.

The "Bench-Top Systems Check": Before the ROV touches water, the team must pass a 3-point inspection:

1. Thrust Direction: When "Forward" is pressed, both horizontal props spin to push air backward.

2. Structural Rigidity: The motors do not "wiggle" or shift when manually toggled.

3. Symmetry Audit: A measurement showing the horizontal motors are equidistant from the center line of the ROV.