Page 40: of Marine Technology Magazine (October 2013)

Research Submersible The aim was to build a new generation of manned submers- ibles that would improve the observation and operation ca- pabilities, as well as be versatile, easy to operate and main- tain. As part of the team that has worked in the development and engineering had no background in underwater vehicles, a completely new approach has been brought to the table in terms of design, construction materials, systems integra- tion and in particular its energy system and automation. In this sense new solutions have been provided that appear to be practical and efÞ cient. Development and Innovations In order to achieve a small, lightweight and versatile vehicle with a big Þ eld of view and three passengers, many challenges had to be solved during the design phase of the Ictineu 3, and a lot of technology review was needed. In particular, there are several issues where most effort has been put on:  Weight reduction. A big effort on design and research on new materials was needed in order to drastically reduce weight in several systems. Extensive calculation was done by FEM as well as design optimization and research in new mate- rials, mainly in the pressure hull. Innovation in stainless-steel materials and design have lead to an unparalleled volume to weight ratio of the pressure hull, that weights only 2,714kg (including the two acrylic domes, 540kg) for 3,089 cu. m. of internal volume. Composites (CFRP) have been largely used as structural and constructive material, both outside of the pressure hull (exostructure, tanks, pressure-tolerant contain- ers) and inside. The exostructure and the fairings have been built completely in composite, as a sole body, yet withstand- October 201340 MTRMTR #8 (34-49).indd 40MTR #8 (34-49).indd 4010/15/2013 4:32:26 PM10/15/2013 4:32:26 PM