Process

Hardware used

Microcontrolers

Arduino Nano – The main control system of the submarine. Arduino Uno – Used to control the submarine with a joystick.

Sensors

Ultrasonic Sensor (JSN-SR04T) – Measures water depth. Temperature Sensor (DHT11) – Monitors water temperature. Air Pressure Sensor (TM7711) – Detects pressure changes and helps track depth Turbidity Sensor (Turbidity Detection Module) – Measures water quality and pollution levels.

Motor and Drivers

2× DC Motors + L298N Motor Driver – Enable submarine navigation. 1× DC Motor + L298N Motor Driver – Used for vertical movement (ascending and descending). Cooling Fan (Connected to L298N) – Helps cool the motors during operation.

Water Filtration System

2× Water Pumps + 2 Relays – Pumps filter and discharge clean water back into the ocean. 1× LED Strip + Relay – Additional filtration system using UV purple light.

Solution

To address these challenges, we developed Nautilus, a compact, Arduino-controlled submarine designed to monitor and improve water quality while protecting marine life.

Advanced Sensing System

The submarine is equipped with ultrasonic, temperature, pressure, and turbidity sensors to gather real-time data on water conditions. These sensors help track pollution levels and ensure a stable underwater environment.

Efficient Navigation & Control

Using three DC motors controlled by two L298N drivers, the submarine moves smoothly in all directions, while a joystick-controlled Arduino Uno ensures precise maneuverability.

The problems

Challenges Identified During Development

Limited Space for Components – Integrating multiple sensors, motors, and electronic components into a compact submarine design was challenging. Optimizing space while ensuring proper functionality required careful planning.

Power Management

Balancing power distribution among motors, sensors, and water pumps was crucial to prevent voltage drops and overheating, especially in an underwater environment.

Waterproofing and Durability

Ensuring all electronic components remain protected from water exposure was a major concern. Finding the right waterproof enclosures and sealing techniques was essential.

Sensor Accuracy in Water

Some sensors, like the turbidity and pressure sensors, required calibration to provide reliable readings in different water conditions.

Communication and Control

Establishing a stable connection between the Arduino controllers and the remote joystick while avoiding signal interference in water required optimization

Water Filtration Mechanism

Designing an efficient system that filters wacter while preventing clogging and ensuring long-term functionality was a technical challenge.

Motor Efficiency and Cooling

Continuous operation of DC motors caused heating issues, requiring an additional cooling fan to maintain efficiency and prolong motor lifespan.

How Nautilus Stands Out

  • Nautilus redefines marine conservation by combining real-time water monitoring, underwater pollution filtration, and marine habitat protection in one compact, cost-effective device.
  • Unlike competitors focused on surface cleanup, Nautilus operates underwater, targeting microplastics and safeguarding sensitive ecosystems like fish breeding grounds.
  • Its modular design ensures versatility across aquatic environments, making it an innovative, scalable, and impactful solution for preserving marine life and water quality