Elevators - Autonomous Transporters for Deep Sea Benthic Sample Recovery (CD-ROM)

Abstract : ELECTRONIC FILE CHARACTERISTICS: 64 files; Adobe Acrobat PDF, MS Excel, MS Word, JPEG and Bitmap images PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: 1 CD-ROM; 4 3/4 in. SYSTEMS DETAIL NOTE: PC-compatible; CD-ROM drive, Adobe Acrobat Reader, MS Word, MS Excel, Image Viewer required ABSTRACT: Two classes of sample recovery devices have been fabricated for use with the Jason deep diving remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Custom-built autonomous vertical transporters (AVTs), more commonly referred to as elevators,' are capable of raising numerous benthic samples and other payloads to the oceans's surface, independent of the ROV. Custom-built end-effectors and articulated scoops are mounted onto the vehicle's manipulator and sampling cradle. This report describes the design, fabrication, operation and navigational tracking of these various non-destructive sampling devices. A ballast and flotation spreadsheet is provided, which allows operators to customize each elevator deployment and recovery scenario while the ROV works on the benthos.