G.E Sadjere

DEVELOPMENT OF DIGITAL ULTRASONIC VOLUMETRIC GAUGE

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Abstract
Measuring the volume of liquid stored in tanks is a routine but critical task in engineering applications, yet many commonly used methods still rely on direct contact and manual observation. Devices such as float gauges, sight glasses, and dipsticks are often affected by mechanical wear, environmental conditions, and human error, which reduces their reliability over time. In situations involving hazardous or enclosed liquids, these limitations become even
more significant. This project addresses these issues through the development of a digital ultrasonic volumetric gauge that enables accurate, non-contact measurement of liquid volume. The primary aim of this work was to design and implement a system that determines liquid volume by measuring the liquid level and converting it into volumetric data using digital processing techniques. An ultrasonic sensor was employed to transmit and receive sound pulses, allowing the distance to the liquid surface to be calculated using the time-of-flight method. A microcontroller processed this distance data, applied calibration and volume conversion algorithms based on the tank’s geometry, and presented the results through a digital display and a web-based interface. Experimental testing showed that the system produced stable and repeatable measurements with a low margin of error across various fill levels. The developed gauge demonstrates a practical, cost-effective solution for real-time liquid volume monitoring, with potential applications in industrial storage, water management, and educational environments.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A SUBMERSIBLE REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (ROV) FOR LAKEBED EXPLORATION

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Publication Type
Abstract
This project presents the design and fabrication of a cost-effective submersible Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) intended for underwater exploration, specifically for lakebed surveys and crack observations. The study aims to develop an affordable, durable, and highly maneuverable ROV using a syringe-actuated buoyancy system, PVC hull construction, and a combination of propellers and pumps for navigation. Unlike conventional ROVs that rely solely on thrusters, this design integrates a novel buoyancy control mechanism to enhance precision and stability in shallow water operations.
The development process involved conceptualizing the structural framework, selecting appropriate materials, and integrating propulsion, control, and buoyancy systems. The ROV was fabricated using lightweight and corrosion-resistant materials such as PVC pipes and acrylic plates, ensuring durability and cost efficiency. A single brushless motor provided forward propulsion, while four strategically placed syringe-actuated pumps enabled controlled vertical and lateral movement. The prototype underwent rigorous testing to evaluate maneuverability, depth control, and structural integrity. Results demonstrated that the ROV successfully achieved stable and precise movements, making it an effective tool for underwater inspections. The syringe-actuated buoyancy system provided reliable depth control, although minor delays in response time were noted. While the design proved efficient for shallow-water exploration, enhancements in power efficiency and material optimization are recommended for future iterations. Overall, this project contributes to the advancement of affordable underwater robotics, offering a practical solution for research, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A SUBMERSIBLEREMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (ROV) FORLAKEBEDEXPLORATION

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This project presents the design and fabrication of a cost-effective submersible RemotelyOperated Vehicle (ROV) intended for underwater exploration, specifically for lakebed surveysand crack observations. The study aims to develop an affordable, durable, and highly maneuverable ROV using a syringe-actuated buoyancy system, PVC hull construction, andacombination of propellers and pumps for navigation. Unlike conventional ROVs that relysolelyon thrusters, this design integrates a novel buoyancy control mechanism to enhance precisionandstability in shallow water operations. The development process involved conceptualizing the structural framework, selecting appropriate materials, and integrating propulsion, control, and buoyancy systems. The ROVwasfabricated using lightweight and corrosion-resistant materials such as PVC pipes and acrylicplates, ensuring durability and cost efficiency. A single brushless motor provided forwardpropulsion, while four strategically placed syringe-actuated pumps enabled controlled vertical and lateral movement. The prototype underwent rigorous testing to evaluate maneuverability, depth control, and structural integrity. Results demonstrated that the ROV successfully achieved stable and precise movements, makingit an effective tool for underwater inspections. The syringe-actuated buoyancy systemprovidedreliable depth control, although minor delays in response time were noted. While the designproved efficient for shallow-water exploration, enhancements in power efficiency and material optimization are recommended for future iterations. Overall, this project contributes to the advancement of affordable underwater robotics, offering a practical solution for research, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor