Paddle Buddy
Mechanical Engineering Capstone Project | Best Practical Design Award Winner
Paddle Buddy is a portable electric propulsion device for canoes to assist paddlers in carrying momentum. Through reducing the physical demand, Paddle Buddy expands the accessibility of canoe trips.
Subassemblies
Coupling System- Owned by Me!
Facilitates secure and simple connection between Paddle Buddy and canoe
Electrical System
Provides necessary power for required thrust and Bluetooth communication between remote control and Paddle Buddy
Housing System
Ergonomically houses all electrical components to permit simple portability and to protect against water damage
Propeller System
Provides necessary thrust to propel the canoe at 5 km/h and steering functionality
Coupling System Design Progression
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Preliminary Sketch
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Preliminary CAD
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Detailed Sketch- Orthographic
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Detailed Sketch- isometric
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Initial CAD
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3D Printed Proof of Concept
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Final CAD- Front
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Final CAD- Isometric
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Final Product
Coupling System Key Features
Suction Cups
Facilitates non-destructive, secure, and simple connection to the smooth exterior surface of canoes.
Dovetail Joint
Permits quick attachment and detachment functionality for ease of portaging.
Ball and Socket Joint
Enables planar alignment of the suction cups with the canoe surface.
(Cross-section of ball and socket joint is shown)
Dovetail Quick Release
Automatically locks the dovetail in place when inserted and simply releases when the button is pressed.
(Cross-section of mechanism is shown)
Pivoting Arms
Increases adaptability by expanding and contracting to accommodate canoes of different sizes/geometries.
4-Bar Linkage
Allows Paddle Buddy to be raised above water level to negate potential damages in shallow waters.