C-Researcher Series

The MANTA Controller allows for pinpoint precision manoeuvring. The intuitive controls permit for supervised passenger steering, offering passengers an even more exciting dive experience. The controller also provides quick access to intelligent pilot assistance features such as Auto-heading and Auto-depth.

Initially developed to make launch and recovery effortless and safe, the MARLIN Controller is a wireless remote that can navigate the submarine on the surface. Once the submarine is in the water, the controller can be used to steer it away from the support vessel without a pilot inside. The MARLIN Controller can also be used to keep the submarine in position above a dive site, while the pilot assists with passenger embarkation.

With Auto-depth engaged, the submersible will hold steady at its current depth. When applying vertical thrust, the function will automatically disengage and seamlessly respond to the pilot’s commands. This function forms part of the intelligent pilot assistance features.

When Auto-heading is activated, the submersible will automatically hold its current heading, whether following a course or facing an object of interest. This function forms part of the intelligent pilot assistance features.

The U-Boat Worx Information System (UIS) gives the pilot direct access to all relevant information on a clear touchscreen display. This PLC-based network of sensors ensures the right information is provided at the right time. The UIS makes diving effortless.

The single lifting point makes launch and recovery quick and easy. By only having to attach it at one point – to the crane – you create a safer environment. With the quick-release and efficient-connect lifting gear, you can be quickly in and out of the water. If desired, its man-riding certification supports lifting operations to take place with people inside.

The C-Researchers are delivered with a man-rated lifting certification as standard, which permits manned launch and recovery if the circumstances require.

The C-Researchers are characterised by their abundant payload. This payload can be used for carrying many optional extras or collecting underwater objects. The automatic trim weight system maintains the horizontal trim of the submersible when gathering heavy samples.

Apart from the basic forward, reverse, up and down movements, the submersible can also move laterally. Lateral movement greatly optimises object approach, view, and dive efficiency.

This DMS safety system will automatically resurface the submersible in the unlikely event that the pilot becomes incapable of controlling it. The pilot needs to acknowledge the DMS every 10 minutes, otherwise it will initiate the ascent procedure.

The Safety Buoy is characteristic for U-Boat Worx submersibles. When released it marks the position of the submarine on the surface. The safety buoy of the deep-diving C-Researcher models also sends a signal to the mother ship. The Dyneema Rope that connects the buoy with the submersible measures 1.5 times the operating depth of the submersible.

A very advanced USBL system is available that relays GPS data to the submersible’s on-board computer via integrated underwater modems.

Piloting with real time positioning and supporting text data provides for accurate and efficient navigation.

The DVL (Doppler Velocity Log) delivers real-time ground speed and position data linking to the on-board computer system.

Certification by the world-leading classification society, DNV, requires each individual submersible to meet stringent and extensive rules and regulations, as well as pass a range of rigorous test and trials from design to final delivery. Overseen by independent surveyors, this is an independent verification of the safety of every U-Boat Worx submersible.

This large lead weight can be manually released from within the submersible to increase the buoyancy of the submarine and assist its return to the surface in case of an emergency.

Each submarine is equipped with a minimum of 96 hours of life support. Regardless of whether it is a 3-person or a 11-person submarine, all occupants have 96 hours of life support available. This additional life support is mandatory according to the rules of DNV. It can be used in the unlikely event the submersible needs to remain underwater longer than the regular mission time. The 96 hours of life support includes oxygen supply and CO2 scrubbers to filter the air, but also emergency battery power for life support monitoring, communication with the surface, light, food and water.