Submersible oriented platform for deep ocean sediment studies (SOPDOSS).

Abstract

This thesis presents the design, fabrication, and operation of a deep ocean sediment testing platform which is operated by a submersible to depths of 8000 feet. The platform has a variable ballast system and is transportable along the ocean floor by the submersible. It has an in-air weight of approximately 15,000 pounds and is capable of maintaining neutral buoyancy. The platform is capable of taking and storing eight individual cores and is equipped with eight instrument drives, each capable of inserting a 3 inch diameter probe to a depth of 3 feet in any normal ocean sediment for in situ measurements. The platform is lowered to the ocean floor by cable and is capable of independent surfacing. The platform has a 9 foot square base and is approximately l8 feet high including the main float. In high shear strength sediments, the platform is capable of providing 5000 pounds of hold down force at a depth of 8000 feet.