A team of students from Delft University of Technology, Netherlands, will use this year's Undersea Defense Technology exhibition (UDT) to present a revolutionary man-powered submarine. The craft has been designed by the group, known as WASUB, to break the world speed record for a single person propeller driven submarine. UDT 2015 takes place at the Ahoy Convention Centre in Rotterdam, Netherlands, from June 3-5.
The history of the WASUB team dates back to 2004, and this year marks its fifth submarine project. Following its debut at UDT, the team will compete in the International Submarine Races from 22-26 June.
Tom Zevenhoven, WASUB's Financial Manager, explained, "UDT is a great opportunity for us to show the WASUB project on a stage that attracts a global audience of undersea and technology experts. In addition to attracting new industrial partners we would also like to showcase our cooperation with our sponsors from the Defense Materiel Organization (DMO) of the Dutch Ministry of Defense, which is also participating at UDT. This project is a clear demonstration of the ongoing development of underwater equipment. UDT provides a perfect platform to show this to (future) industrial partners".
The design and construction of the WASUB5 submarine is produced by five different design teams including: hydrodynamics (hull, propeller, fins), drive train, steering, sensoring and safety and ergonomics.
The project is supported by several companies from the Dynamic Under-Keel Clearance sector, as well as the Dutch Ministry of Defense, which provide essential knowledge, components and funding. The program also enables students to develop relationships and establish contacts with potential future employers.