updated on 24-03-2013

Sonar Supports

Realization

The supports for the ultra sound capsules is used also to hold up the magnetometer and the GPS modules, so they are high enough to keep that sensors far from electric and magnetic fields.

Using the 30 mm large aluminum strips exceeded from the hulls making, it is easy to realize these supports. Below the phases needed to achieve the result.

To correctly bend the strips it is crucial to have a good reference on it. A milling machine is used to mark the aluminum in order to have the right position at 90°. This mark is useful to catch the bending tool too, to avoid misalignments while pushing the blade.

A very simple bender tool is available for hobbyists usage at Axminster on-line shop. It requires only an adjustable vice jaw to be used. It's not for professional use, to bend heavy or large metal parts, but it's perfect for aluminum sheets and brackets of this kind.
The exceeding material is cut with a bench circular saw.
A 1:1 printout of the Google Sketchup 3D model to verify the correct bending angles and size of the final result.
Here the result of bending and cutting, the horizontal and vertical supports before drilling and assembling.
Drilling the hole for transducer on horizontal supports with the tool included in the kit.
Milling the tracks on vertical supports to lock and adjust them to the hulls.
A beauty treatment with the sanding machine

Eventually... the supports are ready with all the sensors installed: 2 + 2 ultrasound transducer, GPS and 3 axis magnetometer for obstacle avoidance and navigation.
Note the brass screws used to avid magnetic interferences with magnetometer.
The sensors support can be raised up for normal operation or lowered down for carriage.