Deep Submergence Rated Flexible Hoses and Piping System Connectors

There are many commercially available flexible hoses for use in non-rigid coupling of hydraulic, air, and other piping systems. However, these systems are currently not designed for operating under severe hydrostatic and dynamic pressures experienced by Deep Submergence Systems in their extreme operating environments. The pipes that connect the DDS to the sub are exposed to the water and experience the full compressive force of the ocean at whatever depth the submarine goes to. This high level of external compression will cause traditional hose systems to collapse and fail. A solution is desired that can deliver the required flexibility and withstand the high levels of compression. The United States Special Operations Command published SBIR solicitation topic SOCOM08-002 entitled, "Deep Submergence Rated Flexible Hoses and Piping System Connectors." Atkins & Pearce (A&P) developed a proposal, was selected for Phase I funding, and demonstrated feasibility of their technology during a Phase I SBIR contract (H92222 - 08 - P- 0012). The Phase I feasibility effort focused one developing a technology that can withstand high pressure environments, hydrodynamic, and other forces unique to Deep Submergence Systems operating environments. The design uses high strength flexible fiber based hoses to meet the functional pressure requirments.