Bachelors Project 2024

By Daniel Sonnenborg & Bertram Gravers

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This project aims to design a waterproof housing for an advanced 3D scanner, used to inspect underwater structures. Traditional methods, like diving and video capture, often struggle with poor visibility. In contrast, precise 3D scanning's makes for more accurate inspections. This project aims to develop a compact, pressure-resistant enclosure for depths up to 300 meters, improving the scanner's durability, assembly and production cost.

In Collaboration with

Analysis of existing scanner system

UVision initially developed a temporary waterproof housing for their 3D scanning system, but it faced several issues. The design lacked adequate pressure resistance for deep-sea operations and was cumbersome to assemble, complicating production and maintenance. Additionally, it was not flexible enough to support various operational scenarios like ROV-based operations and handheld use​.

Project Specifications

Withstand High Pressure

The housing must withstand 30 Bar pressure, suitable for operation at depths of 300 meters.

Cost Efficient Production

Production should be cost-effective, minimizing expenses to meet the needs of a startup.

Corrosion Resistant

The scanner should resist saltwater corrosion for at least 5 years, ensuring durability in harsh marine environments.

High Compatibility

Should be compatible with a variety of ROVs and future UVision accessories, allowing for flexible deployment.

Neutral Buoyancy

The scanner should achieve neutral buoyancy, ensuring ease of use and stable underwater performance.

Finite Element Analysis

Finite element analysis (FEA) is essential for optimizing the shape and size of the subsea scanner housing. By simulating structural behavior under high-pressure conditions, FEA helps identify designs that maximize strength while minimizing material and weight, ensuring a robust and efficient underwater housing​.

Internal structure

The cardboard model demonstrate potential placements for the mounting surfaces on the frame, and explores various manufacturing methods and materials yielding different outcomes.

3D printed prototype

To assess potential limitations, a 3D-printed version of Concept 3 was produced for the internal mounting design. During evaluation, it was found that a single connection between the camera surface and the main plate was insufficient due to expected weakness at the joint.

Final prototype in laser cut acrylic

The final prototype was made of 3 laser cut acrylic plates all connected by L-brackets and nylon rods. The end result was a sturdy 43g frame fitting all criteria.