Underwater robot wins at regionals

Using PVC pipe and a simple switchboard, Cape Henlopen's robotics team captured first place in a regional underwater robotics competition.

“We chose a simpler way, but it's more effective,” said Troy Saltiel, member of the Cape Henlopen High School robotics team.

Some contestants had complicated computer systems operated with joysticks that cost about $3,000. Cape spent $750, Troy said.

“Other teams had more advanced and accurate robots, but sometimes they don't work. And they're harder to fix when something goes wrong,” he said.

On May 2, students traveled with their underwater robot to Old Dominion University for the Marine Advanced Technology Education Center's 14th annual Underwater ROV competition.

Their task was to locate a burst oil pipeline connected to an ocean oil rig, turn some valves to redirect the oil flow for the least environmental impact and then fix the broken section of pipe. Students also had to measure the length of icebergs floating nearby, Troy said.

In addition to completing the task, students put together a marketing display and a sales presentation for mock buyers at the competition. They won the highest score for their marketing display, which helped secure their overall win, Troy said.

“The judges told us we were streamlined and organized,” he said.

Their first-place win guarantees them a place in the International ROV Competition June 25-27 in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Now, the team is working on raising money to get there. An account has been started online at www.gofundme.com/chhsrobotics.

Bethany Blues will hold a fundraiser Monday, June 1, in which 20 percent of a purchase goes to the team's trip. Troy said the team will set up the marketing display at the restaurant and give a presentation on the underwater robot. Bethany Blues will also add a special item to its menu and every time someone orders it $1 will go toward the trip, he said.

“We're excited about going on the trip, and we think we have a pretty good chance,” Troy said.

Members of the Cape High team who won the regional competition are: Raven Blakeney, Hayden Fulton, Dylan Elkins, Troy Saltiel, Daniel Lowe, Cullen Fulton and Luke Branner.

The team going to the international competition are: Troy Saltiel, Raven Blakeney, Dylan Elkins, Lance White and Danny Lewis.