RE: [PSUBS-MAILIST] A modular K-350.

["Alec Smyth" <Asmyth@changepoint.com>]

I like the idea Ian, but would suggest the thruster configuration is of 50s-60s vintage and there are better methods out there nowadays. You might want to consider the following:

1) A pair of thrusters on the sides, pointing outwards and angled down 45 degrees. This pair of thrusters allows you to move up and down vertically when activated together. But by operating one at a time, you should also get some lateral maneuverability. These thrusters can operate inside tunnels within a fairing, they need not ruin the streamlining too much.

2) Another pair, further aft and pointing straight astern. These give you fore-and-aft propulsion, but also allow you to rotate.

What I'm describing is basically the configuration on Phil's subs, of which Aquarius is an example where the thrusters have been faired. The advantage is not only more degrees of movement, but as you have no moveable control sufraces or thrusters, it should also be easier to build. 

rgds,

Alec

-----Original Message-----
From: Ian Roxborough [mailto:irox@ix.netcom.com]
Sent: Thursday, December 05, 2002 11:04 PM
To: personal_submersibles@psubs.org
Subject: [PSUBS-MAILIST] A modular K-350.



Hi,

I've been thinking a lot about what I'd like in my first
(and maybe last) submarine.  I find myself drawn to the
proven designs of Capt. Kittredge, but at the same time
would like more surface range and ability to operate without
a support vessel or tender in more open waters.

What I'm thinking is that I could build a K-350, only
with minor changes, like everything can be unbolted from the
pressure hull, more places to bolt on fairings and bits,
the ability to add larger battery pods, and even the
ability to add a second smaller pressure hull containing
things like small diesel generators or hydrogen fuel cell.

I've uploaded a graphic to show what I mean:
http://www.prismnet.com/~moki/subfiles.html
(The white pressure-vessel contains the generator.)

Although, I suspect the outer appearance of the nose would
endup looking more like that of the Marlin S-101.

So to start I would build an almost normal K-350 and
operate it for a while.  Then as I feel the need, I can start
stage two and modify it with what I feel is missing.

I'm interested to hear what others thing about this idea.
Thanks,
   Ian.