Not to make light of the many creative contributions to this discussion, but I can't help but feel like this is an unnecessary solution to a self-imposed problem, much like the guy who lined his car windshield with pillows in case he had a collision from not being able to see correctly due to the gas mask he wore in case of a leak from the gasoline canister strapped in the passenger seat which he carried in case he ran out of fuel. Sometimes, the solution requires taking a step back and eliminating a problem further up the chain.
In the case of submarine collisions, you have two identifiable primary risks: 1) entanglement, and 2) damage. In the context of the anticipated operating conditions, I can't help but wonder if design effort to reduce entanglement potential by
1) streamlining the hull and superstructure, and minimizing appendages to prevent entanglement or entrapment
2) accomodating impacts to the hull and superstructure by incorporating such features as collision bulkheads, space frames and guards where appropriate
3) implementing better systems to warn of impending collision, including attempts to increase range of visibility, lighting, sonar, etc.
4) defining operating parameters consistent with the vehicle design and anticipated operating conditions to firstly avoid collisions altogether, and where a collision may not be avoided, to enable the vehicle to withstand collision without sustaining critical damage
- are better uses of resources than convoluted mechanical or other means of reducing vehicle momentum on an impending collision, which may represent increased risks from other perspectives.
A common error made in "what if" contingency planning is failing to determine if the "what if" event in question can be avoided (preventative), thus eliminating the requirement for a contingency plan (reactive).
Just my $0.02.
-Sean
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