Chassis
The central disk within the acrylic shells provides a stable platform to attach the many components of the AUV. The chassis was fabricated from a 3x3ft piece of UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight) plastic. UHMW plastic was chosen due to its neutral buoyancy in water and its ability to retain its shape and density under pressure. The chassis was fabricated using Abrasive Water Cutting Techniques at a machine shop in downtown Durham. The chassis was modified throughout the year to accommodate larger electronics and battery housings. The chassis was modified using the mill in the Duke Undergraduate Machine Shop.
