SeaPerch II: Enhancing Engineering Education Through Underwater Robotics

In a world facing pressing challenges such as climate change, energy scarcity, and sustainability, the role of engineering in shaping a brighter future is undeniable. To effectively address these issues, it is important to instill a passion for engineering and innovation in young minds. Through engaging children in hands-on engineering activities, it is possible to cultivate a generation that is not only aware of the challenges ahead but also equipped with the knowledge and skills to develop innovative solutions [1]. SeaPerch exemplified these values by introducing an underwater robot that offers educational opportunities for students of a wide age range. Children have the opportunity to explore structural design, circuit board construction, buoyancy, and more. SeaPerch II, developed by MIT Sea Grant, builds on the original SeaPerch program by adding on soft robotics, Arduino microcontrollers, and additional sensors [2]. This new curriculum caters to different ages and experience levels, encouraging students to explore these technologies and fostering interest in STEM careers. To make SeaPerch more widely accessible, RoboNation annually runs an international SeaPerch competition, where teams from around the world compete in themed challenges with their underwater robots. Recent topics included deep sea mining to collecting data on hydrothermal vents, and aim to introduce challenging real world problems to foster creative solutions. In partnership with RoboNation, MIT Sea Grant has made steps to introduce components of the SeaPerch II into the international competition. The most popular modules are the whisker touch sensors and the soft robotic grippers. The whisker touch sensors have been combined into a game, where the goal is to activate as many of the sensors as possible before the time runs out. It provides a great opportunity to test the maneuverability of SeaPerch in a new and engaging way and an opportunity for players to code their own challenge. The soft robotic grippers have countless applications in the context of the RoboNation competition. Because of their dexterity and ability to grasp a wide variety of shapes, the grippers can tackle the broad scope of manipulation challenges easily. In addition, their real world applications in ocean engineering, such as the manipulation of biological materials, opens new avenues for themes for the competition [3]. Both modules were developed at MIT Sea Grant using inexpensive materials that are easy to obtain and require attention to detail during the construction process. Because they have the potential to be released as a large-scale educational tool, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that the designs of the systems are robust, easy to replicate, and cost friendly. This paper discusses the steps taken to ensure consistent success of both the whisker sensor and soft robotic gripper, including the redesign of components, testing, and outreach. Other modules of SeaPerch II include electronic sensors such as pressure temperature, distance, and conductivity. The goal here is to make the addition of these sensors kid-friendly, and technically robust at the same time. In addition to this, multiple standardized frames were designed that could remain level in water, minimize torque, and contain all the electronics essential for peak performance. To be consistent with the build guide of the original SeaPerch, three frames were designed; one standard, one small, and one that has more complex geometry. SeaPerch II is a powerful educational tool that helps introduce STEM to kids in a hands-on and engaging way. By introducing novel material and modern applications to an established design, there is an opportunity to explore new paths in engineering and become familiar with cutting edge technology at a young age. Through this, it is possible to foster creativity, ingenuity, and critical thinking - essential skills for kids who go on to tackle difficult current world issues.