Why not R/C like those microcars at Radio Shack? Then I could see a video link to the TV. Video tape a confrontation between the machine and a large placastama!

I love this idea but I have to admit I'd be the one trying to hit the shark in the eye or something stupid like that. Maybe make them out of nerf so stupid people like me would do no harm.

I like the idea. Maybe modify the little cars that are out there now. My son and I have mini RC cars. I guess buoyancy would be a problem too. Got my gears churning!

Justin

The problem with just using the widely available mini RC radio frequency transmitters is that RF doesn't travel through water well. That's why I suggested using acoustics (piezo speaker). Plus, it would be a whole lot cheaper ($0.50). As for bouyancy control, you could have a small setscrew that you twist, varying the internal air cavity until the sub is slightly lighter than water. You'd do this after every battery change (if using disposables). If you stop moving forward, the sub will gradually float back to the top. To change elevations, just set the elevators down or up, and drive the sub forward.

I really like this idea. Most aquariums are small, so you could solve the control and power problems by simply making the sub attached to a control and power cable that connects to an interface. The interface could then connect to a computer for control and image capture. It would make great webcam! A less expensive model would be to take away the sub’s ability to move, and it could simply float on the surface with a downward facing (and submerged) camera. You could still get very neat pictures.

great idea. and it should also have a little compartment where the fish could swim along inside the battery powered craft, for fish and humans to enjoy. maybe even have a timed food dispenser so you never have to feed them yourself. maximizes fun for fish and human, makes all human life more practical.

I think it would be a nice toy, what about putting a camera on it and taking into the open water? Or, what about submarine rides for entertainment?

That's cool. I would try to fit it with some type of mini-camera, like the one's surgeon's use for scope-assisted surgery, and have it linked to the television or other monitor, so that the "pilot" could see exactly where he was going in the aquarium, look into little nooks and crannies where shy fish hide, etc. It would be like miniaturizing oneself and swimming. Great idea!