Building a Motorized Boat with a Vacuum Forming Machine

Vacuum forming is the preferred method for small motorized boat construction due to its simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness. It enables rapid verification of hull designs, testing of fluid dynamics principles, and the creation of optimized shapes in the shortest time possible, making it one of the best course examples for STEAM education.

Download Design Files

STL & Laser Cutting Files

Machine of Use

FORMART S Smart Vacuum Former、FLUX Ador Laser Cutter、Phrozen 3D Printer、Hot Glue Gun

Material of Use

2.5mm laser-cut wood board, HIPS plastic sheet, ABS-like photopolymer resin, grease, two DC motors, propellers, and drive shafts

Method of Production

1. Download the 3D model file of the boat hull and use a 3D printer to print the mold for the hull.
2. Use the FORMART Smart Vacuum Forming Machine to mold the hull from the HIPS plastic sheet.
3. Attach the motors, drive shafts, propellers, and battery holder to the hull using a hot glue gun. Ensure to balance the weight distribution properly for optimal performance.
4. Apply grease to the drilled holes and gaps around the drive shafts to prevent water leakage.
5. Download the DXF file for laser cutting. Use a Flux laser cutter to cut the remaining parts of the boat, and then assemble them using a hot glue gun.
6. Finish assembling all the parts to complete your small motorized boat!