VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

JNANA SANGAMA, BELAGAVI– 590018, KARNATAKA, INDIA

“STUDY AND DEVELOPMENT OF RIVER CLEANING

ROBOT PROTOTYPE”
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
IN
MECHANICALENGINEERING
Submitted By
Name USN
Karthik 4VP21ME403
Nikesh 4VP21ME406
Nikhil kumar A 4VP21ME407
Skanda 4VP21ME412
Under the Guidance of
Mr. Sudharshan M L
Assistant Professor

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

VIVEKANANDA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

[A Unit of Vivekananda VidyavardhakaSangha, Puttur ®]

Nehru Nagar, Puttur – 574 203, DK, Karnataka

Phone:+91-8251-235955, 234555 Fax: 236444, Web:

www.vcetputtur.ac.in,

E-Mail: [email protected]. in

June 2023
VIVEKANANDA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

[Sponsored by Vivekananda VidyavardhakaSangha, Puttur ®]

Nehru Nagar, Puttur – 574 203, DK, Karnataka

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
It is certified that the “Mini Project” entitled “Study and Development of River
Cleaning Robot Prototype” is carried out by Mr. Karthik, Mr.Nikesh, Mr. Nikhil
kumar A, and Mr. Skanda bearing USNs respectively 4VP21ME403, 4VP21ME406,
4VP21ME407 and 4VP21ME412 during the year 2022-23. It is certified that all
corrections/suggestions indicated for Internal Assessment have been incorporated in the
report. The mini project report has been approved as it satisfies the academic
requirements.

____________________ ______________________
Signature of the Guide Signature of the HOD

Mr. Sudharshan M L Dr. Manujesh B J

Assistant/Associate Professor HOD, Dept. of ME

EXTERNAL VIVA
Name of the Examiners Signature with date

1…………………….. ………………………………

2…………………….. ………………………………
DECLARATION

We, KARTHIK (4VP21ME403), NIKESH (4VP21ME406), NIKHIL KUMAR A

(4VP21ME407) and SKANDA (4VP21ME412) students of B.E. 6th Semester in
Mechanical Engineering, Vivekananda College of Engineering & Technology, Puttur,
hereby declare that the project work entitled “Study and Development of River Cleaning
Robot Prototype” has been carried out by us at VCET, Puttur, under the guidance of Mr.
Sudharshan M L, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Vivekananda College of Engineering & Technology, Puttur, and submitted in partial
fulfilment of the requirements for the award of degree in Bachelor of Engineering in
Mechanical Engineering by Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the
academic year 2022-2023.

Name of the students USN Signature with date

Karthik 4VP21ME403

Nikesh 4VP21ME406

Nikhil kumar A 4VP21ME407

Skanda 4VP21ME412

I
ABSTRACT

This study aims to develop a river cleaning robot prototype that can efficiently collect and
remove waste materials from water bodies. The project involves the design, construction,
and testing of a robot that can navigate through different water conditions and collect
different types of debris. In recent years, the increase in environmental pollution has
raised concerns about the impact of waste materials on our water bodies. Traditional river
cleaning methods are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and can be dangerous for
human workers. To address this issue, the development of river cleaning robots has
emerged as a promising solution. This study aims to contribute to this area of research by
developing a river cleaning robot prototype that is efficient, effective, and sustainable.
The proposed prototype is designed to operate autonomously, making it suitable for use in
remote or inaccessible areas.

The robot's system includes a water propulsion mechanism, a collection mechanism, and
a sensor system. The collection mechanism uses a conveyor technology to capture the
debris. The prototype's efficiency in collecting debris and navigating through different
water conditions is evaluated through several tests. The results of the study demonstrate
the potential of using river cleaning robots as a sustainable solution for cleaning water
bodies and reducing environmental pollution.

II
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We take this opportunity to express our deep heartfelt gratitude to all those people who
have helped us in the successful completion of the project.

First and foremost, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our guide, Mr.
Sudharshan M L for providing excellent guidance, encouragement and inspiration
throughout the project work. Without his invaluable guidance, this work would never
have been a successful one.

We would like to express our since gratitude to our mini project coordinator Mr.
Raghavendra Prasad S.A for his constant support and motivation.

We would like to express my sincere gratitude to our HOD, Dr. Manujesh B J for his
constant support and motivation.

We would like to thank our Principal Dr. Mahesh Prasanna K and College Management
for providing all the facilities and a proper environment to complete the project work in
the college campus.

We are thankful to all the teaching and non-teaching staff members of Mechanical
Engineering Department for their help and needed support rendered through the Mini
project.

III
TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION I
ABSTRACT II
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT III
TABLE OF CONTENTS IV
LIST OF TABLES VI
LIST OF FIGURES VII
ABBREVIATIONS VIII
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 PROBLEM STATEMENT 3
1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT 3
Chapter 2 LITERATURE REVIEW 4
2.1 SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW 5
Chapter 3 MAJOR COMPONENTS OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT
PROTOTYPE 6
3.1 Pipes 6
3.2 Bearing 6
3.3 DC motor 7
3.4 Wiper motor 7
3.5 Aurdino uno 8
3.6 Solar panel 9
3.7 Battery 9
3.8 Ultra sonic sensor 10
3.9 Waste collecting bin 11
3.10 Propeller 11
Chapter 4 DESIGN OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT PROTOTYPE 13
4.1 Software 13
4.2 Model of the river cleaning robot prototype 13
4.3 Solar panel related to river cleaning robot prototype 14
Chapter 5 FABRICATION AND ASSEMBLY 15
5.1 Fabrication of waste collecting bin 15

IV
5.2 Fabrication of conveyer 15
Chapter 6 METHODOLOGY 17
Chapter 7 WORKING PRINCIPLE OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT
PROTOTYPE 18
Chapter 8 PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS 21
8.1 Calculations of Power consumption 21
Chapter 9 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 22
Chapter 10 ADVANTAGES, LIMITATIONS AND APPLICATION 23
10.1 Advantages 23
10.2 Limitations 23
10.3 Applications 23
Chapter 11 COST OF THE PROJECT 24
Chapter 12 CONCLUSIONS 25
REFERENCES 26
PERSONAL PROFILE 27

V
LIST OF TABLES

Table No Tittle Page No

6.1 Basic operations and conditions for garbage collecting system 16

8.1 Power consumption for different time periods 20
11.1 Cost details 23

VI
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No Tittle Page No

1.1 Garbage in river 2

1.2 Manual Cleaning process 2
3.1 Pipes 6
3.2 Bearing 7
3.3 DC motor 7
3.4 Wiper motor 8
3.5 Aurdino UNO 8
3.6 Solar panel 9
3.7 Battery 10
3.8 Ultra sonic sensor 10
3.9 Waste collecting bin 11
3.1 Propeller 12
4.1 Model of the river cleaning robot prototype 14
5.1 Making of bin 15
5.2 Conveyer 16
8.1 Power consumption for different time periods 21
9.1 River cleaning robot prototype 22

VII
ABBREVIATIONS

Abbreviations Full form

USB Universal Serial Bus

GI Galvanized iron

VIII
Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Environmental pollution is one of the most severe global threats that require suitable
solutions to control water pollution. Thus, the implementation of proper and innovative
measures is a requisite for controlling pollution. The need of manual labour for removing
waste can hazard the person. Therefore, a robot that cleans the waste automatically from
the water can make a significant impact on water pollution control. By building a river
cleaning robot, it is hoped that it can control the growth of waste on water.

Water pollution is a growing concern in many parts of the world, and it is posing serious
threats to our environment and health. Rivers and water bodies are often the recipients of
large amounts of waste materials, including plastics, metals, and other debris. The
traditional methods of cleaning these water bodies, such as manual labor or dredging, are
often slow, expensive, and not very efficient. Therefore, there is a need for innovative and
sustainable solutions that can help clean up our rivers and other water bodies.

Water is an important resource to survive on the earth, it covers over 70% of the earth's
surface, amongst only 3% of that is drinkable water. Water is called a universal solvent
that means it can dissolve most of the substances including toxic materials from factories,
sewage, chemicals, etc. Because of this, water is completely polluted by human activities.
The major problem that living organisms facing is water pollution which means the
introduction of foreign materials into water bodies. The major causes of water pollution
are sewage disposal, garbage, and liquid wastes of households and chemical industries.
Discharging these chemicals into water bodies is harming the lives of the aquatic
ecosystem as well as the water is becoming nondrinkable.

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Fig 1.1: Garbage in river

Despite the increasing problem of water pollution caused by human actions, a significant
portion of society today seems to disregard it. Lakes and rivers continue to be defiled
through the thoughtless disposal of rubbish and unnecessary items, posing a significant
threat to aquatic life. Among the main contributors to this pollution are plastics, a material
that is predominantly wasted, with only a small fraction being incinerated or successfully
recycled.

Fig 1.2: Manual Cleaning process

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The development of river cleaning robots is one such solution that has gained increasing
attention in recent years. These robots are designed to navigate through different water
conditions and collect debris, providing an effective and efficient alternative to traditional
cleaning methods. In this study, we aim to contribute to this area of research by
developing a river cleaning robot prototype that can autonomously collect and remove
waste materials from water bodies.

The proposed prototype will incorporate advanced technologies, to enable the robot to
navigate through different water conditions and collect different types of debris. The
robot's design will also be optimized to ensure that it is cost-effective, environmentally
friendly, and safe for human workers.

1.1 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Water bodies, particularly rivers, are facing severe pollution issues due to human
activities, posing significant threats to the environment and aquatic ecosystems. Current
methods of river cleaning and waste management are often inefficient, time-consuming,
and expensive. There is a need for an innovative solution that utilizes robotics and
automation technologies to develop an efficient and cost-effective river cleaning robot
prototype. This research aims to study and develop a river cleaning robot that can
autonomously navigate through water bodies, detect and collect various types of
pollutants, and contribute to the restoration and preservation of rivers and their
ecosystems

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT

 The main objective of projects is to reduce the man power and time consumption for
cleaning the river water

 To reduce the pollution in water bodies

 To perform fast and reliable operation during cleaning river

 To improve the water quality of water bodies

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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
Siddhanna et al. [1], This presents the design and development of a water cleaning robot
named "Swachh Hasth". The robot is designed to remove waste materials and debris from
water bodies, thus contributing to the prevention of water pollution. The robot is equipped
with a suction-based debris collection mechanism, which helps to efficiently remove
waste materials from water. The robot's propulsion system is based on a DC motor and a
propeller, which provide the necessary thrust for its movement. The article highlights the
importance of water cleaning robots in addressing the problem of water pollution. It also
provides a review of the current state of the art in the field of water cleaning robots,
including their design, technologies, and applications.

Siregar et al. [2], This study presents the design and development of a garbage picker
ship robot using Arduino Nano microcontroller. The robot is designed to collect garbage
and debris from water bodies, thus contributing to the prevention of water pollution. The
robot is equipped with a garbage picker system, which helps to efficiently collect waste
materials from water. The robot's control system is based on the Arduino Nano
microcontroller, which provides the necessary computing power for the robot's operation.

Phirke et al. [3], presents the design and development of an autonomous water cleaning
robot, which is designed to address the problem of water pollution. The article provides a
comprehensive review of the current state-of-the-art in water cleaning robots,
highlighting the importance of autonomous robots in mitigating the effects of water
pollution. The robot's design is based on a suction-based debris collection mechanism and
a navigation system that includes a camera and a Raspberry Pi computer. The study also
discusses the challenges and limitations of the robot's design, such as limited battery life
and difficulty in maneuvering in rough water conditions. Finally, the authors suggest
potential improvements for the robot's design, including the use of solar power and the
implementation of obstacle avoidance algorithms. Overall, the study contributes to the
growing body of literature on water cleaning robots and provides valuable insights into
the design and development of autonomous robots for environmental applications.

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Karthik et al. [4], proposes an autonomous river cleaning system that uses GPS
technology for navigation and debris collection. The authors provide a literature review of
related studies on river cleaning systems, highlighting the importance of addressing the
problem of water pollution and the potential benefits of autonomous robots for this
purpose. The proposed system is based on an autonomous boat that is equipped with a
GPS module for navigation and a debris collection mechanism. The boat's path is planned
using GPS coordinates and the collected debris is stored in a collection bin. The authors
also discuss the challenges and limitations of the proposed system, such as the need for
regular maintenance and the potential impact on aquatic life. Finally, the study concludes
with potential future improvements for the system, such as the integration of advanced
sensors and machine learning algorithms for improved navigation and debris collection.
Overall, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on autonomous river
cleaning systems and provides valuable insights into the potential applications of GPS
technology in environmental monitoring and management.

2.1 SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW

Overall, these studies emphasize the significance of water cleaning robots in combating
water pollution. They provide comprehensive reviews of existing technologies, designs,
and applications in this field. Additionally, they address challenges such as battery life,
rough water conditions, and potential impacts on aquatic life. The studies suggest
improvements like solar power usage, obstacle avoidance algorithms, advanced sensors,
and machine learning algorithms for enhanced navigation and debris collection. The
literature review collectively contributes to the growing body of knowledge on water
cleaning robots and offers valuable insights for the design and development of
autonomous robots for environmental purposes.

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CHAPTER 3
MAJOR COMPONENTS OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT
PROTOTYPE

3.1 PIPES

A pipe is used at the bottom side of the river cleaning robot to carry all other components.
In this project, a pipe with a diameter of 4 inches and a length of 120cm is used.

Fig 3.1: Pipes

3.2 BEARING

Bearings are used to reduce friction and facilitate smooth movement in various
mechanical systems. In the river cleaning robot, bearings are used to support and enable
the rotation of conveyer shaft. By providing a low-friction interface between moving
parts, bearings help to minimize energy loss, reduce wear and tear, and enhance the
overall efficiency and performance of the robot.

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Fig 3.2: Bearing

3.3 DC MOTOR

DC motors are commonly used in various applications, including robotics, due to their
advantageous characteristics. In the context of the river cleaning robot, a DC motor is
likely used for the rotation of propeller

Fig 3.3: DC motor

3.4 WIPER MOTOR

Wiper motors are engineered to provide adequate power and torque to move the conveyer
shaft effectively. They are designed to handle the resistance encountered during the
rotating motion, ensuring reliable performance even under varying conditions.

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Fig 3.4: Wiper motor

3.5 AURDINO UNO

Arduino Uno is one of the microcontroller boards manufactured by the Arduino and it is a
microcontroller board based on Atmel’s ATmega328P microcontroller. “Uno” means one
in Italian and the Uno board is the latest in a series of USB. Arduino boards which is the
reference model for the Arduino platform. The Arduino Uno board has a 16 MHz ceramic
resonator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header, a reset button, 6 analog
inputs and 14 digital input/output pins.

Fig 3.5: Aurdino UNO

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3.6 SOLAR PANEL

The use of solar panels in a river cleaning robot provides renewable energy for its
operation, reducing reliance on conventional power sources. Solar panels enable the robot
to operate independently and extend its working time without interruptions for recharging
or refueling. This sustainable power source helps minimize environmental impact by
reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy usage. Additionally, solar panels
require minimal maintenance, resulting in cost savings and increased reliability for the
river cleaning robot.

Fig 3.6: Solar panel

3.7 BATTERY

The use of a battery in a river cleaning robot provides a portable and reliable power
source for its operation. The battery enables the robot to navigate and perform cleaning
tasks efficiently without the need for external power connections. It offers flexibility in
terms of mobility and allows the robot to operate in various locations within the river.
Additionally, the battery can be recharged, ensuring continuous use and reducing the need
for frequent battery replacements.

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Fig 3.7: Battery

3.8 ULTRA SONIC SENSOR

The use of an ultrasonic sensor in a river cleaning robot enhances its navigation and debris
detection capabilities. The ultrasonic sensor emits high-frequency sound waves and
detects their reflections to determine the distance to objects in its surroundings. This
enables the robot to identify obstacles such as debris in the river and navigate around
them effectively. The ultrasonic sensor helps prevent collisions and ensures safe and
efficient movement of the robot during its cleaning operations.

Fig 3.8: Ultra sonic sensor

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3.9 WASTE COLLECTING BIN

The use of a waste collecting bin in a river cleaning robot facilitates the efficient
collection and storage of debris and pollutants. The bin is designed to securely hold and
contain the waste materials collected by the robot during its cleaning operations. It helps
maintain a clean and organized working environment within the robot, allowing for easy
disposal and proper management of the collected waste. The waste collecting bin can be
easily emptied and cleaned, ensuring the robot is ready for continued cleaning tasks in the
river.

Fig 3.9: Waste collecting bin

3.10 PROPELLER

The use of a propeller in a river cleaning robot enables efficient propulsion and
movement in the water. The propeller, driven by a motor, creates a rotating force that
propels the robot forward or backward. It allows the robot to navigate through the water
effectively, reaching different areas of the river for cleaning purposes. The design and
size of the propeller are optimized to provide sufficient thrust while minimizing energy
consumption, ensuring the robot's operational efficiency in the river environment.

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Fig 3.10: Propeller

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CHAPTER 4
DESIGN OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT PROTOTYPE

4.1 SOFTWARE

Solid Edge is powerful and comprehensive computer-aided design (CAD) software that
empowers engineers and designers to bring their ideas to life. With its advanced features
and intuitive user interface, Solid Edge enables efficient 3D modeling, simulation, and
manufacturing processes. From concept development to product realization, Solid Edge
provides a seamless workflow, allowing users to design complex assemblies, create
accurate drawings, and simulate real-world scenarios. With its focus on innovation and
collaboration, Solid Edge is a trusted solution for industries seeking to streamline their
product development and drive innovation.

4.2 MODEL OF THE RIVER CLEANING ROBOT PROTOTYPE

The 3D model of the river cleaning robot is shown in Figure 4.1. It consists of PVC pipes,
PVC fittings, a conveyor, a propeller, a solar panel, a waste collecting bin, and other
components. Two 4-inch diameter pipes are connected by a T-junction at a distance of 40
cm. The conveyor is positioned at the front of the robot. An ultrasonic sensor, which is
used to detect debris, is placed at the front and connected to an Arduino UNO for
monitoring its operation. The waste collecting bin is positioned strategically to allow
debris to fall directly into it from the conveyor. The battery serves as the power supply for
the propeller motors and conveyor motor, while it is charged by the solar panel.

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Fig 4.1: Model of the river cleaning robot prototype

4.3 SOLAR PANEL RELATED TO RIVER CLEANING ROBOT

PROTOTYPE

The load consumption is 100 watt/hours. So, the panel estimation can be calculated based
on the Eq. 4.1

Panels’estimation

Load consumption watt hours

33.33 watt Eq 4.1
ours of sun light 3 hours

As a result, a 40W solar panel is employed as a design safety margin.

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CHAPTER 5
FABRICATION AND ASSEMBLY

5.1 FABRICATION OF WASTE COLLECTING BIN

The fabrication of waste collecting bins from galvanized iron (GI) sheet metal involves
several steps. Firstly, the design and measurements of the bin are determined, considering
factors like dimensions, capacity, and functionality. Next, the appropriate gauge of GI
sheet metal is selected and prepared, ensuring its quality and suitability. The sheet metal
is then cut and shaped into individual panels using tools such as shears or power saws,
with precision being essential for accurate assembly. Bending techniques are employed to
create the desired angles and bends in the panels, ensuring they align correctly during
assembly. The various components are assembled using welding method, ensuring secure
connections and maintaining the bin's structural integrity. The collecting bin has a length
of 72 cm, a width of 59 cm, and a height of 23 cm.

Fig 5.1: Making of bin

5.2 FABRICATION OF CONVEYER

The fabrication of a conveyor from mesh involves a streamlined process. Firstly, the
design and dimensions of the conveyor are determined, considering factors such as the
type of material to be conveyed and the required capacity. Mesh, typically made of

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materials like stainless steel is selected based on its durability, strength, and suitability for
the specific application. The mesh is then cut into the required size and shape, using tools
like shears tools. The individual mesh pieces are carefully aligned and joined together.
Side frames or support structures are fabricated to provide stability and ensure proper
alignment of the mesh. Rollers are installed at appropriate intervals to support and
facilitate its movement.

Fig 5.2: Conveyer

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CHAPTER 6
METHODOLOGY

Project work starts with research on design of river clearing cleaning robot prototype
designs are made using mechanical engineering software Solid Edge and dimensions are
finalised. To understand power consumption of robot battery charge was measured in
different time period. This project used solar energy to charge the battery. Inverter used to
convert the generated alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC

DC motors with propellers attached will accomplish both of these goals. By turning on
and off and reversing the polarity of the DC motors, the robot can turn left, right,
backward, forward, left backward, right backward, left forward and right forward. The
robot's operations and conditions are shown in Table 6.1.

Table 6.1: Basic operations and conditions for garbage collecting system

Condition Operation
Motor right =OFF
Robot turns right
Motor LEFT = ON
Motor right =OFF
Robot turns left
Motor LEFT = ON
Motor right (+) positive polarity
Robot move forward
Motor left (+) positive polarity
Motor right (+) negative polarity
Robot move backward
Motor left (+) negative polarity

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CHAPTER 7
WORKING PRINCIPLE OF RIVER CLEANING ROBOT
PROTOTYPE

The river cleaning robot prototype developed in this study incorporates several key
components and operates based on a well-defined working principle. The structural
framework of the robot is constructed using pipes and fittings, providing stability and
support to the various components. A bearing is employed to facilitate smooth rotation of
the moving parts, reducing friction and ensuring efficient movement in water. The DC
motor serves as the primary driving force of the robot, converting electrical energy from
the battery into mechanical energy to propel the robot through the water. To enable
effective debris collection, a wiper motor is utilized to operate cleaning mechanisms.
These are responsible for gathering and removing pollutants and waste from the river.

Controlling the robot's functions and actions is the Arduino UNO microcontroller board,
which acts as the central processing unit. It receives input from sensors, such as ultrasonic
sensors, to detect obstacles and avoid collisions during navigation. Additionally, the
Arduino UNO controls the motors and other electrical components, ensuring coordinated
movements and efficient operation. Incorporating sustainable energy sources, a solar
panel is integrated to harness solar energy and convert it into electrical energy. This
energy is stored in the battery, providing a renewable power supply for prolonged robot
operation without relying solely on external power sources.

The waste collecting bin serves as a designated container for storing the collected debris
and pollutants securely. This allows for proper disposal and management of the waste
after the cleaning process. To propel the robot through the water, a propeller driven by the
DC motor generates thrust, enabling forward and backward movement. This ensures the
robot's ability to navigate the river and reach targeted cleaning areas effectively.

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By integrating these components and following this working principle, the river cleaning
robot prototype demonstrates its capacity to autonomously navigate rivers, collect debris,
and contribute to the cleaning and restoration of water ecosystems.

The successful operation of the river cleaning robot prototype relies on the proper
connection and integration of its various components. The interconnection process
ensures the seamless coordination and functionality of the robot. Here is an overview of
how these components are connected:

1. Power System:

 The solar panel is connected to the battery, allowing the solar energy to be
converted into electrical energy and stored for later use.

 The battery is connected to the power distribution system, which provides power
to all the electrical components of the robot.

2. Control System:

 The Arduino UNO serves as the central control unit of the robot and is connected
to various sensors and actuators.

 The ultrasonic sensor is connected to the Arduino UNO to detect obstacles and
provide input for navigation.

 The DC motor, wiper motor, and propeller are connected to the Arduino UNO and
controlled through motor drivers or appropriate interfaces.

3. Mechanical System:

 The DC motor is connected to the propeller, which generates thrust for the robot's
movement in the water.

 The wiper motor is connected to the conveyer shaft, allowing them to perform
debris collection and removal tasks.

4. Structural Framework:

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 The pipes and fittings are interconnected to form the structural framework of the
robot. They provide support and stability to hold all the components together.

By establishing these connections, the components of the river cleaning robot prototype
are effectively integrated, enabling the robot to function as a cohesive system. The power
system ensures a continuous energy supply, the control system governs the robot's
actions, the mechanical system enables movement and debris collection, and the
structural framework provides stability and support. Together, these connections create a
functional and efficient river cleaning robot prototype.

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CHAPTER 8
PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS

8.1 CALCULATIONS OF POWER CONSUMPTION

Two types of motors have been used to take voltage and current readings, namely 12V
DC motor and wiper motor. Table 8.1 and Figure 8.1 shows the power consumption of
the battery in different time periods

Table 8.1: Power consumption for different time periods

Time (In Minutes) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Power consumption (Watt)
2 12.53 1.93 24.183
3 12.52 1.93 24.164
4 12.51 1.93 24.144
5 12.50 1.93 24.125
6 12.49 1.92 23.981
7 12.48 1.90 23.712
8 12.47 1.88 23.444
9 12.47 1.87 23.319
10 12.46 1.86 23.176

24.40
24.20
Power consumption (Watt)

24.00
23.80
23.60
23.40
23.20
23.00
22.80
22.60
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time (In Minutes)

Fig 8.1: Power consumption for different time periods

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CHAPTER 9
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The boat system works well with the movements and speed corresponding to the
collecting process of floating solids. For the conveyor system, it was found that that the
rotational power is capable to hold a maximum capacity. It is limited due to the strength
of wire mesh attached to the conveyor. Nevertheless, the speed controller and the relay of
the conveyor system is working efficiently.

Fig 9.1: River cleaning robot prototype

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CHAPTER 10
ADVANTAGES, LIMITATIONS AND APPLICATION

10.1 ADVANTAGES

 Environment friendly system

 It’s initial and maintenance cost is less

 Reduction on man power

 Easy in operation

 Automated self-driven robot

10.2 LIMITATIONS

 Challenges in effectively capturing and removing all types of pollutants

 Challenges in identifying the small waste particles

10.3 APPLICATIONS

 This machine can be used in small rivers and ponds

 It minimizes bacterial decomposition in rivers

Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, VCET Puttur Page 23

Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

CHAPTER 11
COST OF THE PROJECT

Table 11.1: Cost details

Sl.no Product name Price (Rs)

1 Pipes and fittings 2,430
2 Bearing 1,500
3 DC motor 700
4 Wiper motor 800
5 Aurdino UNO and controllers 2,200
6 Solar panel 2,500
7 Battery 1,000
8 Ultra sonic sensor 150
9 Waste collecting bin 2,500
10 Propeller 50
11 Miscellaneous 800
Total 14,630

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Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

CHAPTER 12
CONCLUSIONS

 The study and development of the river cleaning robot prototype have shown
promising results in addressing river pollution and improving environmental
health.

 The integration of components such as pipes and fittings, bearing, DC motor,

wiper motor, Arduino UNO, solar panel, battery, ultrasonic sensor, waste
collecting bin, and propeller has created a functional and efficient robot system.

 The robot prototype demonstrated enhanced efficiency and effectiveness

compared to manual cleaning methods, operating autonomously and covering
larger areas for faster debris removal.

 The robot's working principle, including navigation, debris collection, and

cleaning actions, showcased its potential for effectively addressing river pollution.

 The river cleaning robot prototype positively impacted the environment by

restoring river ecosystems, improving water quality, and preserving aquatic life
and biodiversity.

 The prototype's adaptability to small rivers and ponds expands its potential
applications in various water bodies.

 Limitations identified in the study provide valuable insights for future

improvements, particularly in addressing technical challenges and scalability
concerns.

 The cost-effectiveness and sustainability aspects of the robot prototype were

highlighted through the integration of a solar panel and battery system, reducing
dependence on external power sources.

 Further research, advancements, and field implementation of river cleaning robots

hold promise for effectively tackling river pollution and ensuring the health and
sustainability of water ecosystems.

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Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

REFERENCES

[1] P. M. JSiddhanna Janai , H N Supreetha , Bhoomika S , Yogithashree R P, “Swachh

Hasth-A Water Cleaning Robot,” Int. J. Eng. Res. Technol., vol. 9, no. 7, pp. 687-692.

[2] I. Maretha Siregar, M. Yunus, V. Marudut, and M. Siregar, “A Prototype of Garbage

Picker Ship Robot Using Arduino Nano Microcontroller,” Internet Things Artif. Intell. J.,
vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 150–168.

[3] S. Phirke, A. Patel, and J. Jani, “Design of an autonomous water cleaning bot,” Mater.
Today Proc., vol. 46, pp. 8742–8747.

[4] K. S. R. and I. B. M. Karthik, C. Manikanta, V. Vamsi, “Autonomous River Cleaning

System using GPS Technology,” 2023 Int. Conf. Sustain. Comput. Data Commun. Syst.,
pp. 1000–1003.

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Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

PERSONAL PROFILE

Mr. Karthik
4VP21ME403
S/o Umanatha prabhu
Kalkar house, Puttur post,
Puttur Taluk,
Pin code -574202
Dakshina Kannada
Mob: 9449520477
Email: [email protected]

Nikesh
4VP21ME406
S/o Narayana Moolya
# 1-30, Guripalla, Ujire post,
Belthangady Taluk
Pin code -574240
Dakshina Kannada
Mob: 9901794675
Email: [email protected]

Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, VCET Puttur Page 27

Study and development of river cleaning robot prototype 2022-23

Nikhil kumar A
4VP21ME407
S/o Honnappa poojary
Anaje house, Narimogru post,
Puttur Taluk,
Pin code - 574202
Dakshina Kannada
Mob: 7338563285
Email: [email protected]

Skanda
4VP21ME412
S/o Shridhara Bhat
Shankara krupa house, Killuru post
Belthangady Taluk,
Pin code -574214
Dakshina Kannada
Mob: 9108752309
Email: [email protected]

Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, VCET Puttur Page 28