Date on Honors Thesis

Spring 5-8-2026

Major

Engineering Physics (Mechanical)

Minor

Mathematics

Examining Committee Member

Ted Thiede

Examining Committee Member

Jamie Rogers

Examining Committee Member

Gheorghe Bunget

Abstract/Description

This project presents the design and development of a suitable vessel for small-scale aquatic applications. The developed project is used for a remote-controlled duck hunting system, and the parameters of the design are based on the requirements for the system as a whole. Traditionally, plastics are fabricated using blow molding to create a single seamless form. However, for small-scale prototyping with limited resources, this method of fabrication is unsustainable for short-term, non-industrial design applications. As a result, an existing longer hull is selected and shortened to meet the required project length. The project evaluates multiple initial hull designs, ultimately selecting the Sun Dolphin 2-Person Sportsman Fishing Boat due to its buoyancy, size, and ability to support the required systems. The modification of the initial design emphasizes transportability and ease of access at the cost of durability. Shortening the hull presents several challenges, particularly in bonding plastics and creating a suitable seam to maintain structural integrity. Plastic welding, along with mechanical fasteners, is selected as the primary joining method. Samples are cut out in ASTM D638-14 dogbone standard shapes using a waterjet and prepared for trials of various plastic welding techniques. The samples are each tensile tested and subsequently flexure tested to determine the optimum plastic welding technique. Following testing and analysis, the specialty heat gun nozzle is selected as the joining method and is applied to the modified hull. Afterwards, the bottom section of the hull is heavily waterproofed, and spray foam insulation is placed along the seam. Once joined, the hull is refilled with styrofoam and wood to reinforce connection points and support the loads of additional external systems. This solution provides a sustainable solution for shortening an existing plastic aquatic vessel while maintaining a watertight seal, structural integrity, and functional viability for use in small aquatic operations.

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