Submersible Safety and Design Concepts

The Hawaii Undersea Research Lab operates two deep diving submersibles, originally built in the 1970s and recently upgraded for HD filming. These submersibles face significant risks during dives, including potential implosions and water pressure hazards. The structure of the submersibles includes a steel sphere with multiple cable holes, which must withstand immense pressure. Each year, the submersibles undergo an overhaul and recertification process, with the first dive of the season being particularly dangerous.

What is unique about the submersibles at the Hawaii Undersea Research Lab?

• They are used exclusively for military purposes.

• They are the largest submersibles ever built.

• They are the only submersibles in the world.

• They were built in the 1970s and have been updated for HD filming.

Why is diving with both submersibles at the same time considered risky?

• They are not equipped with communication devices.

• Rescue vehicles cannot reach them quickly in an emergency.

• They are not designed to dive together.

• They consume too much fuel when diving together.

How is a leak in a submarine different from a leak in a spacesuit?

• A submarine leak can be easily fixed with tape.

• A spacesuit leak is more dangerous than a submarine leak.

• A submarine leak is more dangerous due to high pressure.

• Both leaks are equally dangerous.

What happens if the housing protecting the cameras and lights fails?

• The submersible will float to the surface.

• The cameras will stop recording.

• The lights will flicker but remain operational.

• It causes an implosion and shockwave.

What is the main structural component of the submersibles?

• A titanium frame.

• A 7-foot steel sphere.

• A carbon fiber shell.

• A plastic outer layer.

What is the potential danger of the 28 cable holes in the submersibles?

• They can cause the submersible to sink.

• They can create a water jet if they fail.

• They can allow fish to enter the submersible.

• They can cause the submersible to lose power.

Why is water at high pressure considered destructive?

• It can evaporate quickly.

• It can freeze instantly.

• It can slice through metal.

• It can cause the submersible to float.

What must happen to the submersibles each year after their overhaul?

• They must be painted.

• They must be recertified.

• They must be dismantled.

• They must be sold.

Why is the first dive of the season considered the most dangerous?

• The submersibles are not fully operational.

• The weather conditions are unpredictable.

• The systems are tested under pressure for the first time.

• The pilots are inexperienced.