Construction Assistance Vehicle (CAV)--The Design, Fabrication, and Technical Evaluation of an Experimental Underwater Vehicle

Abstract : An experimental diver-operated Construction Assistance Vehicle (CAV) was designed, fabricated, and evaluated in order to determine the feasibility of and general specifications for a prototype diver work vehicle. The CAV, fabricated from off-the-shelf components, is capable of carrying 1,300 pounds of wet weight cargo between the surface and the ocean bottom work site. The craft's pneumatic and hydraulic power is available to operate handheld power tools. Over 100 test dives were conducted in the ocean, with the craft being operated to a maximum depth of 110 feet. Operational testing proved the CAV to be a safe and effective means for delivering cargo and for powering diver tools.