Some parts of the TOV were tested during construction to verify their functionality and check for defects.One important part of preliminary testing was to test that each motor was operational and had sufficient power to perform its function. This was done by connecting a 9-volt battery to each motor and making sure it spun at a sufficient velocity. This also helped to test the wire connections and soldering.
Another aspect of the testing for electric components was testing the switches. Batteries and motors were connected with the switch once soldering was complete. Motors were tested both in the forward and reversed polarity, to verify proper functioning of each. This is an especially important test because the soldering connections for switches were more complex than motors, and so could fail in several places. One switch was found to have an insufficient connection on one of its power wires, and so had to be re-soldered.
Testing Report
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| The completed TOV shown with lid removed and tethered control box attached |
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| The TOV's crane arm, shown with pulley string attached |
Testing Process, Observations, and Results
Preliminary Testing
The preliminary testing phase was conducted to assess the functionality of each design component. Preliminary testing for the motors and electric system included operation under battery power as well as testing in wet conditions to determine the device’s water resistance. Preliminary testing for motors and control box tested for proper functionality and power. Switches showed successful operation, with each motor responding properly when its switch was toggled.
Preliminary testing for the arm showed successful operation of both the control box and arm pulley. The motor was found to be more rapidly turning than anticipated, requiring that the arm be operated using quick flicks of the switch rather than a prolonged winding or unwinding movement. The solution was tested while partially submerged and floating and was shown to be adequately water resistant.
Preliminary testing for the wheels resulted in proper turning motion, although some initial difficulty was encountered. The test determined that full batteries worked the best when powering the wheels as they provided the most energy to turn the axle.
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| The testing pool, shown with a block of foam floating as a preliminary test |
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| The completed TOV floating in the test pool |
Intermediary Testing
The intermediary testing phase for the arm included a test using a weight to determine the motor’s strength. As in preliminary testing, the switch and motor operated as designed. The pulley was much slower to operate when lifting a weighted object, however the pulley still operated successfully. This test was conducted in a stationary position and a dry environment.
Intermediary testing for the wheels was also a success, with the TOV moving across flat surfaces as designed. Steering was stiff and somewhat ineffective when operated, but control was still adequate. On a flat, dry surface the wheels achieved adequate traction and were able to propel the TOV forward. It should be noted that the wheels were unable to propel the TOV if a partially depleted battery was used to power the motor.
Motors and control switches functioned as designed when placed in aquatic environment, and were not impeded by splashing water. The TOV lid successfully shielded the interior components from most of the splashed water, preventing water from affecting operation.
Final Testing
The final testing stage for the wheels was conducted in a wet environment, with the TOV floating on the surface of a pool. The wheels were activated properly and turned to propel the TOV through the water. The wheels were not able to achieve adequate traction, however, and the TOV was slow to move and maneuver.
Final testing for the TOV arm was also conducted in the water tank, and the crane was able to lift weighted objects successfully without capsizing or tilting the TOV.
Final testing for electric system was conducted in the water tank, and all motors and switch connections functioned according to design. The TOV’s lid successfully shielded the interior components from water damage.
Conclusion
The testing process was conducted according to plan, and results showed that the design was an overall success. The electric components, powered by batteries and controlled through the control box tether, were successfully operated in both dry and aquatic conditions. Although some motors operated at higher speeds or lower power than anticipated, all of the components were made to function adequately.
The TOV’s arm performed its function properly, when lifting objects both on dry testing surfaces and while floating in the test pool. While it operated more quickly then anticipated, it was able to accomplish the tasks. The wheels also operated according to design, although they were unable to achieve good control while floating in water.
