Deep submergence research conducted during the period 1 November 1961-31 October 1962

Abstract

This is the first Annual Summary Report of work preformed under Contract Nonr 3484(00), which contract work commenced in October 1961. A deep sea research group was formed. This group was organized to monitor and later to operate the ALUMINAUT. Although the ALUMINAUT is under construction with a planned delivery date of early 1964, it is not now clear whether it will be leased by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution or some other organization. The program is still being followed but not in as much detail as originally planned. A specification was prepared and proposals solicited from industry in May 1962 to design and construct a 6,000 foot research vehicle. Competitive bids were received and the vehicle contract was awarded to General Mills on 4 September 1962. The pressure hull structural analysis and the associated engineering details, the propulsion, and the trim and buoyancy systems have been the major problems studied. A hydrodynamic study is being conducted with a 1/12 scale model at MIT. A scanning sonar set proposal has been solicited, bids received and a contract for manufacture of the set is awaiting ONR approval. a proposal has been received for a mechanical arm. The future activity planned includes the engineering supervision and drawing approval of the design. The manufacture of the vehicle will be closely inspected. Additional instrumentation will be specified and ordered. Items will be designed for ALUMINAUT pressures to provide interchangeability. More personnel will be added to the staff as required. Stability and hydrodynamic characteristics will be studied and detailed structural analysis will be completed. Technical reports will be prepared on appropriate phases of this activity. The ALUMINAUT program will continue to be monitored to the extent necessary. The handling and towing problems will be studied.