Fathom’s Insight

RESPIRATION

Oxygen must be supplied, and carbon dioxide must be removed for the duration (6-12hr) of a normal dive and for an extended period in the event of an emergency. Monitoring devices must be included to maintain proper levels and to check for the presence of contaminants. In the event of diver support, storage and supply of air or mixed gas (e.g., helium/oxygen) must be accommodated.

TEMPERATURE/HUMIDITY

In shallow tropical dives, temperatures (F) and relative humidity (%) reach into the 90’s; with depth, or in the high latitudes, the temperature can fall into the 40’s with a corresponding humidity decrease. Both these extremes bear heavily on human performance and must be dealt with successfully. Deep diving in the tropics can combine both extremes and includes condensation on the interior walls of the hull with consequent drippage; this can be detrimental to equipment as well as to human occupants.

FOOD/WATER

Normal and emergency food and water rations must be carried; limited power or the possibility of its entire loss restricts the type of food and preparation possible.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Means must be provided to accommodate metabolic wastes and to treat and store such wastes for the duration of the dive.

FATIGUE

The internal arrangements for pilot and passenger(s) must be such that the efficiency of both is not decreased by uncomfortable or awkward layout of instruments and controls. Similarly, long periods at the viewports can be extremely taxing and detrimental to the mission if pilot or observer is forced into awkward positions to view or work