SUBMARINE VEHICLE FOR DREDGING AND RAISING MINERALS RESTING ON THE SEA BED AT GREAT DEPTHS

摘要

The submarine vehicle is for collecting and raising polymetallic mineral nodules from the sea bed. The external hydrodynamic shape of the vehicle causes it to glide during descent and ascent. The vehicle moves along in contact with the sea bed with the aid of propellers. The load-bearing structure of the vehicle is made of buoyancy material in the form of a ring defining the stem, stern and sides and a free central space. The outer surface of this structure forms the hull of the vehicle. Storage silos are arranged in the free central space and fixed to the load-bearing structure.