Re: keeping my interest

["Alan D. Secor" <secor@btv.ibm.com>]

To address your second issue.....I don't think speed necessarily inplies
limited manuverability.  My sub has 3 motors, 1 in the rear and 1 each 
port
and starboard.  With all 3 motors in use, the sub should really clip 
along.
(I have yet to have sea trials).  Using electronic motor controls, the sub
can go from just a creep to full out.  The 2 motors on the sides allow 
the
sub to turn on a dime (1 forward, and 1 reverse).

I think visibility is going to be the deciding factor with regards to top
desired speed.  You don't want to be crusing along and all of a sudden 
see a boulder or rock ledge loom out of nowhere!  As far as surface speed,
I don't see that as a concern since I always plan to have a surface
support vessel.  Range is a matter of how many batteries you want to 
carry.
I don't believe life support would be an issue.

As far as depth is concerned, personally I would be happy with 300' since
I consider this a reasonable depth for trimix technical diving (scuba).
(Although it would be neat to do a sub dive on the Fitz! (500+ ft)).

Al

P.S. (For Martin....I'm located near Binghamton, NY, south of Syracuse,
but keep a boat on the St. Lawrence at Clayton, NY (down river from 
Kingston).

> The second issue is whether or not it ought to be slow or fast.  Doing surveys of large 
> areas or "exploring the waterways" imply speed and freedom from a support vessel.  This 
> limits manuverability in poking around individual wrecks.  However, something very good 
> at poking around wrecks, (the classic Cousteau diving Saucer come to mind) has a limited 
> speed and range.
> 
> Third, how deep?  Well, as deep as possible, of course, and I guess that's a question of 
> how much money and/or skill you have.
> 
> So, in the experience of those with subs, or those who have settled on a design, what 
> has been more useful?  Speed and autonomy, or manuverability for "close in" work?
> 
> -- 
> Martin Sanderse
> ---------------
> The Ingenuity Group Inc.                 http://www.ingenuitygroup.com/~tigroup/
> Professionals harnessing quantitative methods for effective management decisions.
> 
> 
> 

--
Alan D. Secor
e-mail: secor@btv.ibm.com