The San Diego Argonauts are developing a series of hands-on STEM education programs that introduce students to engineering, robotics, electronics, programming, design, and marine technology through exciting real-world projects.
We are currently working with several San Diego-area high school STEM, Robotics, Engineering, and Maker programs to launch these initiatives. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of engineers, makers, inventors, and sailors while teaching practical skills that combine mechanical engineering, electronics, software, fabrication, and teamwork.
Our programs are organized into four learning tracks.
Track A — Robo-Buoy (RC)
Radio-Controlled Buoy with Mechanical Anchor
This introductory robotics project teaches students how to design and build a remotely operated buoy capable of deploying and retrieving an anchor.
Students gain experience with:
Radio control systems, Mechanical design, Electric motors and gearboxes, Battery systems, Waterproof construction, CAD and fabrication techniques, Testing and troubleshooting.
The Robo-Buoy serves as an excellent first engineering project that combines mechanics, electronics, and problem-solving.
The program is designed to be delivered over 40 to 100 hours.
More info: here & here.
Track B — Robo-Buoy (GPS)
GPS-Controlled Autonomous Buoy (No Anchor)
This advanced version introduces autonomous navigation.
Students learn how modern autonomous marine systems operate using GPS-based navigation and waypoint control.
Topics include:
GPS navigation, Autonomous control, Sensors, Navigation algorithm, Marine electronics, Power management, Mission planning.
This project provides an excellent introduction to autonomous robotics and unmanned marine vehicles.
The program is designed to be delivered over 40 to 100 hours.
More info: here & here.
Track C — Build-and-Sail a DF95 Sailboat
Students assemble, tune, and sail one of the world’s most popular radio-controlled racing sailboats: the DragonFlite 95 (DF95).
Throughout the project, they learn:
Sailboat construction, Mechanical assembly, RC Radio binding & installation, Sail tuning, Boat balance, Wind awareness, Basic sailing fundamentals, Basic racing strategy.
Once completed, students learn to sail their own boats at the San Diego Model Boat Pond and are encouraged to participate in club races and events.
The program is designed to be delivered over 10 to 40 hours.
More info: here, here & here.
Track D — Complex Marine Engineering Projects
For students seeking a greater challenge, we offer opportunities to design and build sophisticated custom marine vessels.
Possible projects include:
Scale ships
Autonomous surface vessels
Working tugboats
Research vessels
Hydrofoils
Rescue boats
Airboats
Electric propulsion systems
Steam engines
Experimental marine robotics
Projects are tailored to each school’s interests and the experience level of participating students.
The program is designed to be delivered over 40 to 100 hours.