WO2008119366A1

WO2008119366A1 - Underwater touring system

Info

Publication number: WO2008119366A1
Application number: PCT/EP2007/002986
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wolfgang Mündel; Hermann RÖHLE; Andreas Seibold
Original assignee: Muendel Wolfgang; Roehle Hermann; Andreas Seibold
Priority date: 2007-04-03
Filing date: 2007-04-03
Publication date: 2008-10-09

Abstract

The invention relates to an underwater touring system for use in open bodies of water, in particular the ocean. The underwater touring system comprises a touring tube (1), the interior of which is intended for the locomotion and occupancy of persons, wherein a touring section (2) of the touring tube (1) consists in the cross section thereof, at least partially, of a transparent material and extends under a water surface (6). The touring tube (1) is filled with air which is at least approximately at normal pressure.

Description

Underwater inspection system

The invention relates to an underwater sightseeing system, in particular for use in the sea.

Underwater landscapes such as coral reefs or the like, archaeological sites or the like require for a detailed visit high technical effort and physical fitness of the corresponding persons. A visit from the water surface is possible, for example, by a swimmer with diving mask and snorkel. In the tourist area also excursion boats with a glass bottom are used. The proximity to the water surface, however, limits the sightseeing opportunities. The angle is not arbitrary. Lower areas below the water surface can only be viewed at a great distance, without details being visible.

A closer inspection is possible by equipment diving, which is also known as SCUBA diving. With diving mask and breathing bottle, a diver can reach deep. In addition, he can choose his observation position more or less freely. The physical and mental fitness required for this makes this form of underwater observation accessible only to a limited group of people. SCUBA divers also face various dangers of sharks, jellyfish, decompression or the like. out. The occasional observed misconduct of individual divers nourishes concerns about the environmental impact of this form of underwater survey.

Another possibility of underwater observation is the use of a submersible. The high associated costs limit such use to a few, especially scientific applications. in the

Leisure sector, the use of a submersible boat under economic interests is hardly profitable.

Overall, according to the state of the art, it is only possible to a limited extent to open up the underwater world of interest to a larger group of people.

The invention has for its object to provide an environmentally sound and economical way of underwater sightseeing, which can be perceived by almost any group of people.

This object is achieved by an underwater survey system having the features of claim 1.

For this purpose, an underwater survey system is proposed which comprises a sightseeing tube whose interior provided for the movement and residence of persons. An inspection section of the sightseeing tube consists in its cross-section, at least in sections, of a clear-sighted material and extends below the water surface. The sightseeing tube is filled with air at least approximately under normal pressure. The fixed or mobile installed sightseeing tube is guided in its below the water surface inspection section along worth seeing underwater landscapes or the like. Interested persons can move on foot, on a roller conveyor, with a passenger vehicle or the like through the tube and visit the underwater landscape. The air supply and filling with normal pressure allows the installation of the sightseeing tube in almost any water depth, without this means a physical burden for the user. Thus, the possibilities of an underwater exploration are opened to almost any amateur. If the route is suitable, almost any viewing angle and viewing position can be traversed. This allows a nearly unlimited view of the underwater attraction. Although it is possible to guide the tube in close proximity to the coral reef or to another suitable location, no direct contact of the user with that location is possible. Even with intensive commercial use of the sightseeing system according to the invention adverse environmental influences are avoided. Dangers of sharks, jellyfish, decompression or the like are excluded.

It may be convenient to the sightseeing tube, each with a start and an end point in different places to install. Preferably, the sightseeing tube is designed as an endless loop. Start and end points are in the same place. Entry and exit of the user takes place at the same place. When using passenger cars in the sightseeing tube, a large number of persons per unit of time can be passed through the sighting system by choosing a suitable speed and number of cycles with which the vehicles are sent on the way, whereby a high degree of economy is given.

In an advantageous alternative, the viewing tube has a free, closed end, in particular below the water surface. The sighting tube is intended for the simultaneous movement of persons in opposite directions. Again, there are entry and exit at the same place. The structural design is simplified. There are new possibilities for routing, assembly and maintenance. For example, segments of the sightseeing tube can be assembled on land while at the same time the sightseeing tube, which becomes larger in length, is pushed into the water on roller conveyors or the like. On the same roller conveyor, the sighting tube can be pulled out of the water or ashore for maintenance, storm or disassembly.

In an expedient embodiment, an access section of the sightseeing tube is arranged on land. This simplifies the entry and exit of interested persons. From here, the sightseeing tube leads into the water to the place to visit. Alternatively, it may be expedient to arrange the access section of the sightseeing tube floating on the water surface, in particular at sightseeing locations far away from the coastline. This can then be approached with a tour boat or the like.

A further advantageous alternative is to place the sightseeing tube in its entirety, including its access section, underwater, whereby an access system leading from the water surface to the access section of the sightseeing tube is to be provided. Such an access system may include, for example, an underwater lift, a dive ball, a submersible, or the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the viewing tube is composed of segments, in particular of rectilinear segments and / or of segments curved in an arcuate manner in a horizontal direction and / or in a vertical direction. The individual segments can be economically produced in a factory and delivered to the site. There they can be assembled on the shore or on a suitable ship to the desired course of the sightseeing tube according to a modular system. With a small number of different types of segments can form an almost arbitrary trajectory of the sightseeing tube. The arch shape not only allows a curve in the horizontal, but also allows slopes. This makes it possible to achieve different water depths along the route along the observation tube. In an expedient development, the segments are hinged together. This allows a mutual position correction of the segments. Relative movements of the segments caused by tides and ocean currents are permitted within certain limits without the sightseeing tube being subjected to increased mechanical stresses.

In an expedient embodiment, a Gelenkmecha- mechanism and / or connecting elements between two adjacent segments are arranged within the cross section of the sightseeing tube. The result is a smooth outer contour of the tube, which reduces pollution or growth with marine life. An occasionally required, in particular automated cleaning of the water-side surface of the sightseeing tube is simplified.

In an advantageous embodiment, operating devices for a fresh air supply of the sightseeing tube are provided. With fresh air nozzles and suction devices, which are distributed along the tube, a constant fresh air quality can be ensured even with longer types of sightseeing tube. The well-being of the users is guaranteed in every water depth of the sightseeing tube.

In a preferred embodiment, the operating devices of the sightseeing system have a ballast system acting on the sighting tube and at least partially compensating its buoyancy. The displacement of the sightseeing tube including its external As a result of the displacement of water, attached attachments generate a considerable amount of hydrostatic buoyancy under water, which is at least partially compensated by the weight of the tube, including the load-bearing system. If necessary, anchorages on the seabed are subject to only minor mechanical stresses due to the buoyancy compensation of the ballast system. These can be dimensioned according to simple and cost-saving.

The ballast system is advantageously controllable for raising and lowering the sightseeing tube. After installation, the sightseeing tube can be lowered by appropriate adjustment of the ballast system to the desired operating depth, but if necessary also be raised or corrected. In particular, a suitable control may be provided with a ^"suitable lowering or raising is set speed, so that a mechanical overload of the tube system is prevented. The control can also be used for keeping the inspection tube in a predetermined water depth. In this

Trap can be dispensed with anchoring to the seabed, at least in sections.

The ballast system preferably has a water chamber which can be blown out with compressed air, a solid ballast and / or an inflatable airbag. The fixed, not adjustable in its amount of ballast at least approximately establishes a balance between hydrostatic lift and weight-driven downforce. At slightly too high - solid ballast, ie at resulting output can with the at least partially inflated airbag as part of the ballast system an additional buoyancy and thus a uniform be prepared. Alternatively or additionally, this equilibrium position can be adjusted by means of the variable ballast in the form of the blow-out water chamber.

About a compressed air supply, CO2 gas cylinders or the like. the filling volume of the gas bag can be increased, which increases the buoyancy at approximately the same tube weight. In the same way, water can also be discharged from the water chamber, which reduces the lowering weight force while maintaining buoyancy. In both cases, a resulting upward force to the water surface, which can be used to increase the system. Based on the equilibrium position, there is also the possibility of lowering the system by reducing the volume of the gas bag and / or increasing the level inside the water chamber. Both can be done without effort by exploiting the prevailing hydrostatic ambient pressure.

In an advantageous development, the operating devices comprise a lifting system acting on the sighting tube for lifting the sightseeing tube to the water surface or on land. In particular, the lifting system has the water chamber which can be emptied with compressed air, an emergency lifting system with the inflatable gas bag and / or a roller conveyor. For maintenance or shipment to another point of view, by controlling the ballast system, the sighting tube can be raised back to the water surface due to its hydrostatic buoyancy. The use of a particular inflatable air with compressed air bag makes it possible in a short time a high To generate additional buoyancy. If necessary, high lifting speeds can be achieved. With such a Nothebesystem the sightseeing tube can be spent in the event of a technical defect quickly to the water surface to protect the persons therein. Because of the atmospheric pressure in the tube, this increase can be very fast. Unlike SCUBA diving, decompression times do not have to be adhered to. A roller conveyor in the bank area as a lifting system allows with simple means a retraction or extension of the sightseeing tube into and out of the water.

Depending on the local conditions, it may be advantageous to stabilize the position of the sightseeing tube in the water by active regulation. This can be done in the depth direction, for example, by the aforementioned ballast system. In the horizontal direction, for example, to compensate for water flows, a position control via water jet nozzles, propellers or the like is possible. Preferably, however, the sightseeing tube has anchoring to the underwater floor. With relatively little effort, an exact position positioning of the sightseeing tube can be brought about relative to the site of inspection with high reliability. Deformations and mechanical stresses on the sightseeing tube due to external influences such as water currents, water level changes, swell or the like are reduced.

The clear sections of the viewing tube may be formed as flat or curved windows. Preferably, the tube wall of the viewing tube is formed, at least in sections, from a one-piece transparent tube. det. For the user results in an at least approximately unrestricted panoramic view. The one-piece design of the clear tube produces a high mechanical strength with ease of manufacture. With moderate wall thicknesses, the acting hydrostatic pressure can be reliably absorbed even at high water depths.

In a preferred embodiment, an underbody is aligned with the cross section of the viewing tube such that an eye position of an average sized person passing through the viewing tube is at least approximately at a midpoint of the particular circular cross section of the viewing tube along its path of travel. Optical distortions caused by the different refractive index of water and air are substantially avoided, at least when the user is looking radially. The circular cross-section also improves the load capacity of the sightseeing tube against the external hydrostatic pressure.

Advantageously, at least a part of the operating equipment in a floor group of the survey group is summarized, the floor group with respect to the cross section of the sightseeing tube expediently leaves an undisturbed viewing angle of at least 180 °, preferably at least 270 ° and in particular about 280 °. The operating equipment such as a rail system for the passenger vehicle, the air and power supply or the like disappear almost completely from the field of view of the user. This can prevent the underwater world from bending sideways out of a vehicle, leaving it virtually undisturbed. seek. In this case, angles of view are also possible obliquely downwards, which, given the depth positioning of the sightseeing tube, permits viewing of areas located further down.

In an advantageous further development, a cleaning device which surrounds the inspection tube on the outside and is movable in an axial direction is provided. In certain maintenance intervals, for example, this cleaning device can be moved along the tube in a self-driving manner. A thorough cleaning of the outer surface of deposits, vegetation or the like is possible without having to raise the inspection system to the water surface. The possibility of example, it is created, the cleaning device between two individuals at the same speed vehicles run along to ^"leave. This is a purification procedure created without having to interrupt the running tour operation.

It may be convenient to walk visitors, on one

Roller belt or the like. through the sightseeing tube to lead. Advantageously, a passenger vehicle is provided for the persons for passing through the sightseeing tube, wherein the passenger vehicle is preferably a rail vehicle, in particular with an electromotive drive. The passenger is given a high level of comfort. It may be advantageous to run the passenger vehicle freely controlled by the user. The preferred training as a rail vehicle, especially with electric motor drive allows accurate guidance of the vehicle even with small tube cross-sections, without a collision of the vehicle with the tube wall is to be feared. In addition, many tige possibilities of controlling or regulating the vehicle speed given by a central control station. The operator of the system has the opportunity to influence the inspection process by external control of the vehicle. The vehicles can be guided through the system at fixed or even varying distances or speeds. For example, it is possible to cover uninteresting sections at a higher speed but at a greater distance from the vehicle in front. At special points of view, the vehicle speed and the vehicle distance can be reduced, which allows a detailed inspection with high reliability.

The passenger vehicle is expediently provided for two to four, in particular single row, successively positioned persons. The restriction to two to four persons per vehicle represents a suitable compromise between economic efficiency and a free view of the individual persons. The arrangement of the persons in succession allows each individual an almost undisturbed panoramic view. At the same time the vehicle cross-section is small overall, so that a sightseeing tube can be used with a correspondingly small cross-section. The overall system can therefore be produced inexpensively, taking into account the effective water pressure, with manageable effort.

The passenger vehicle advantageously has an emergency supply device, in particular with an oxygen supply and / or a communication device for the passengers traveling along. In case of a technical defect can the vehicle and its occupants are taken to a safe place. The communication device allows the supply of persons traveling along with factual information about the place of inspection, which can be supplemented, if necessary, with operating information.

Embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawing:

1 is a schematic plan view of a sea section with coral reefs and an interim guided underwater survey system according to the invention, wherein the access station is located on land,

FIG. 2 shows a variant of the arrangement according to FIG. 1 with the access station in the water; FIG.

Figure 3 is a schematic sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 2 with details for anchoring the floating access station and below the water surface extending sightseeing tube.

4 shows a variant of the arrangement according to FIG. 3 with an access station arranged under water and an access system leading to the water surface;

Fig. 5 is a schematic side view of a portion of

Sightseeing tube according to FIGS. 1 to 4 with details of the passenger vehicle guided therein and a cleaning device arranged on the outside; 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the arrangement according to FIG. 5 with details for the design of the floor assembly and the visibility conditions;

7 shows the arrangement according to FIG. 6 with further details for the rail guidance of the passenger vehicle and for the design of the cleaning device;

Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a segments of articulated section of the sightseeing tube with a straight and with a horizontally curved segment.

9 is a side view of the arrangement of Figure 8 with details for the arrangement of the hinge mechanism between the two segments and the embodiment of the additionally curved in the vertical segment.

10 shows a variant of the arrangement according to FIGS. 1 and 2 with a rectilinear sighting tube closed on one side and simultaneously accessible in both directions;

Fig. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of

Inspection tube of Fig. 10 with details of a longitudinal pitch for guiding the passenger traffic.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a section of the sea with water 30, which along an indicated Shoreline 32 adjacent to land 31. In the water 30 are indicated coral reefs 33 or other underwater sights. According to the invention, an underwater survey system is provided which includes a sighting tube 1 described in greater detail below. Part of the sightseeing tube 1 is an access section 3, which leads through an access station 34 on the land 31. Located in the water 30, the sightseeing tube 1 has a sighting section 2, which in its cross-section at least in sections consists of a clear-sighted material.

There are not shown here, described below passenger vehicles 4 for driving through the sightseeing tube 1. It can also be a walkability on foot or with a roller conveyor appropriate. An entry or exit of the persons traveling along takes place in the access station 34. The sightseeing tube 1 is designed as a closed loop, accordingly out of the access station 34 out into the water 30 and then out of the water 30 back into the same access station 34 is led into it. Optionally, further access stations 34 'can be arranged along the routing of the sighting tube 1. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a total of two access stations 34 'are arranged floating on the water 30. The sightseeing tube 1 is passed through the additional access stations 34 'and has access sections 3' there. Furthermore, the two access stations 34 'form the starting and ending point of another inspection tube 1' with a different course of an associated sighting section 2 '. The sightseeing tube 1 'is not formed as an endless loop, but has two different starting or end points, each with an access section 3 ¹ . In the access stations 34 'an entry or exit is possible. Furthermore, a switch between the sightseeing tubes 1, 1 'can take place.

The floating on the water access stations 34 'may be configured as shown in FIG. 3. Furthermore, an underwater embodiment of FIG. 4 or an arrangement on land 31 is possible. As an alternative to the closed routing of the sightseeing tube 1, a route guidance may also be expedient in which the sighting tube 1 runs between two different access stations 34 on the land 31 and / or on or in the water 30. Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2, in which the access station 34 of the sighting tube 1 formed as an endless loop is arranged on or in the water 30 as shown in FIGS. 3 or 4.

In the illustrated embodiment, a fixed installation of the underwater survey system is provided. However, the underwater sightseeing system can also be designed as a mobile unit which is dismantled for certain events, brought to the venue and temporarily set up there. In all the aforementioned cases, the underwater sightseeing system according to the invention makes it possible for virtually any group of persons to visit the coral reefs 33 or other underwater sights when driving through or passing through the sighting tube 1. Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the arrangement according to Fig. 2, according to which the sightseeing tube 1 with the exception of the access section 3 and the access station 34 in the water 30 below a water surface 6 extends. If applicable, the following apply

But also for the embodiment of FIG. 1. For the ordinary operation, it is provided that the user drive through the sightseeing tube with an indicated passenger vehicle 4. Entry and exit into the passenger vehicle 4 takes place in the access station 4. The access station 34 is arranged floating on the water surface 6 together with the access section 3 of the sightseeing tube 1 extending therethrough. From her or to her a section of the sightseeing tube 1 runs with a small slope in order to reach the desired depth of water below the water surface 6 with the passenger vehicle 4. In the predetermined depth of the sighting section 2 is substantially horizontal, ie with a constant depth. However, up and down passages of the sighting section 2 may also be expedient. The sightseeing tube 1 is filled with air at least approximately under normal pressure by means of operating devices 5 described in more detail below. The passengers can breathe freely without personal equipment.

The sightseeing system has for the sightseeing tube 1 and also for the access station 34 an anchoring 16, which fixes the sightseeing system in its position in relation to an underwater floor 17 and with respect to the coral reef 33. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a multiplicity of ground anchors 35, for clay blocks or the like stored on the underwater floor 17. Against the ground anchor 35, the access station 34 and the sightseeing tube 1 is clamped with indicated ropes 36. At least in the area of the access station 34, a crosswise tensioning with ropes 36 is indicated in order to ensure as precise a spatial positional fixation of the access station 34 as possible. In the region of the inspection section 2, the anchor 16 comprises only substantially vertically extending ropes 36 in order to absorb the hydrostatic buoyancy of the sightseeing tube 1. This form of anchoring is associated with a lateral compliance, as a result of which sightseeing tube 1 can undergo lateral deflections to a limited extent. As a result, a certain flexibility against occurring tidal currents, sea state or the like is possible. However, it may also be expedient to fix the sighting tube 1 in total, for example, by a cross-bracing of the anchoring 16 in all spatial degrees of freedom with respect to the underwater floor 17 or with respect to the coral reef 33.

In addition to anchoring 16 or alternatively, active attitude control of the survey system may be appropriate. For example, with a ballast system 13, not shown here, described below in conjunction with a suitable control device, an active position control of the sighting tube 1 can take place, in particular in the height direction. By means of suitable control elements acting in the lateral direction, such as water jet nozzles or the like, a horizontal position control of the sighting tube 1 and / or the access station 34 can also be carried out in conjunction with a control system in order to control swell, flow of water. gene or the like. For this purpose, the sighting tube 1 and / or the access station (s) 34 can be provided, as shown in FIG. 3, with indicated sensors 44, which detect changes in the position of the system and / or elastic deformations of the sighting tube 1. These then serve as influencing variables for the active attitude control of the sightseeing system. The sensors 44 can also be part of a safety system with which the stress on the sighting system or sightseeing tube 1 is detected. The measured values recorded with the sensors 44 are permanently monitored, logged and, for example, displayed on a monitor for observation. As soon as the measured values, for example due to sea state and / or water flow, exceed a predetermined limit value, a warning signal can be triggered.

As a result of the warning signal, appropriate measures may be taken, for example by checking or reinforcing the anchorage 16 or by ceasing to operate the sighting system for the duration of the excessive loading.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, passengers can be brought, for example with a sightseeing boat, to the floating access station 34 or be picked up by it. Such excursion boat can create at the access station 34 and settle there people or record. An approach of the passengers in the sightseeing tube 1 and an exit therefrom takes place within the floating on the water surface 6 access station. Alternatively, a variant of Fig. 4 may be expedient in which the sightseeing tube 1 in total including its access section 3 and the access station 34 below the water surface 6 in Water 30 is arranged. In addition, an access system 7 leading from the water surface 6 to the access station 34 below is provided. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the access system 7 comprises a schematically indicated underwater elevator. However, it may also be appropriate to have a submersible boat or the like, with which a commuter traffic of the passengers between the access station 34 and the water surface 6 is performed. In the remaining features and reference numerals, the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4 is identical to that of FIG.

5 shows a schematic side view of a section of the sighting tube 1 according to FIGS. 1 to 4. The sighting tube 1 is formed overall from individual segments which adjoin one another in the longitudinal direction. Each segment has such a limited length that it is possible to transport road, rail and / or water without problems. In the section of the sightseeing tube 1 according to FIG. 5, by way of example, two rectilinear segments 8 are shown, which are connected to one another at their two adjoining end faces to form a joint 39. In addition or as an alternative, arched segments 9 according to FIGS. 8 and 9 can also be provided. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 5, the two straight-line segments 8 are rigidly connected to one another by indicated connecting elements 28. It may also be an elastic or articulated connection, for example, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 appropriate. Connecting elements 28 and possibly provided, shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 hinge mechanisms 12 are in the region of the associated joint 39 and are arranged within the cross section of the sightseeing tube 1. The Outer surface of a tube wall 18 of the sightseeing tube 1 is thereby undisturbed. A schematically indicated cleaning device 25 shown in more detail in FIG. 7 can be moved unhindered in an axial direction 24 along the inspection tube 1 in order to clean its outer surface.

The illustration according to FIG. 5 also shows the passenger vehicle 4, which is provided for passing through the sightseeing tube 1. For this purpose, the passenger vehicle 4 has wheels 38 with which it travels on a floor group 23 of the sightseeing tube 1. It may also be a Magnetschwebe- system or the like appropriate. The passenger vehicle 4 is expediently provided for two to four passengers, in particular one row behind the other. For maintenance, vehicles with individual seats, tool or equipment trailer or the like. Be useful. In the exemplary embodiment shown, two individual seats 37 are arranged one behind the other with respect to the direction of travel or to the axial direction 24. The passenger vehicle 4 is designed as an open vehicle in which passengers without special equipment in simple clothes on seats 37 can take place. The sightseeing tube 1 is filled with air at least approximately under normal pressure, so that breathing apparatus or the like as well as protective suits or the like are not required.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the arrangement according to FIG. 5, according to which the sighting tube 1 has a circular cross-section. The tube wall 18 of the inspection tube 1 is in the embodiment shown at least off of the joints 39 shown in Fig. 5 from a one-piece, transparent cross-section clear tube 19 is formed. The transparent tube 19 may be made of glass, acrylic or the like and is preferably made of transparent polycarbonate, whereby a high mechanical loading capacity and a high scratch resistance of the surface are achieved. Instead of the circular tube cross section, an elliptical cross section or another suitable cross section may be expedient, which on the one hand produces a sufficiently high resistance to mechanical loads and in particular to the acting hydrostatic water pressure, and on the other hand enables a good view while avoiding optical distortions.

It may further be expedient to provide at least isolated portions of the clear tube wall 18 with optical means, the z. B. by magnifying glass effect a more intense view of individual underwater areas simplify. For this purpose, an optical film 54 is applied by way of example to the outside of the tube wall 18, which has a Fresnel lens structure, not shown in the drawing. The Fresnel lens structure of the optical film 54 functions as a magnifying glass. It may also be advantageous to mold the Fresnel lens structure or other suitable optical means directly into the transparent tube 19 or into its surface.

The floor assembly 23 and the geometric design of the passenger vehicle 4 are tuned with each other and with respect to the cross section of the sightseeing tube 1, or aligned so that a person driving with the passenger vehicle 4 21 receives optimal visibility. The seat height of the passenger vehicle 4 is selected relative to the bottom group 23 such that an eye position 20 of the schematically illustrated, average person 21 is at least approximately in a center 22 of the cross section of the sightseeing tube 1 or above.

Operating means 5 of the underwater sighting system comprise schematically indicated pipelines with blow-out and suction devices for a fresh air supply within the sightseeing tube 1, an electrical power supply for the passenger vehicles 4, a ballast system 13 and a lifting system 53. The aforementioned operating devices 5 are complete in the embodiment shown However, as an alternative, at least for the most part, arranged or combined within the floor group 23. In this case, a part of the floor assembly 23 ^" with the operating devices 5 lies within the tube cross-section and another part outside the tube cross-section.The arrangement of the operating devices 5 within the floor group 23 avoids a visual restriction for the person

21. The width and positioning of the floor assembly 23 with the operating equipment 5 is selected such that the person 21 relative to their eye position 20 lying in the cross section of the sightseeing tube 1 undisturbed viewing angle α of at least 180 °, preferably at least

270 ° and obtained in the illustrated embodiment of about 280 °.

The illustration of FIG. 6 can also be seen that the passenger vehicle 4 is equipped with an emergency supply device 26 not shown in detail, in particular an oxygen supply for the passengers Persons 21 includes. Furthermore, the passenger vehicle 4 has a communication device 27 for the passengers 21, which may include, for example, screens for a visual data supply of the persons 21. As part of the communication device 27 is a

Headphones for the transmission of audio data shown graphically. In addition, microphones for queries of the person 21 to a central control room or for the communication of the persons 21 with each other may be expedient.

The displacement volume of the sightseeing tube 1 in connection with its air filling creates a considerable hydrostatic buoyancy in the water 30. To relieve the anchor 16 in Figs. 3 and 4, the inspection tube 1 as part ^"of their operating devices 5 a on the inspection tube 1 acting, the buoyancy is at least partially compensating ballast system 13. The ballast system 13 includes a permanently installed ballast 45 In addition, a variable ballast portion of the ballast system 13 is provided, which in the embodiment shown also includes a water chamber 15, likewise arranged in the bottom group 23, but outside the tube cross-section, and gas bags 29. The water chamber 15 and the fixed ballast 45 are at least approximately evenly distributed in the longitudinal direction of the sightseeing tube 1, so that mechanical stresses due to an uneven resulting buoyancy distribution are avoided or at least reduced. The water chamber 15 can be filled with water to any selectable level, with a complete or partial filling or even a complete emptying can be brought about. At high water level in the water chamber 15, the total weight of the respective tube section is greater than its hydrostatic lift. The tube section or sightseeing tube as a whole can thereby be lowered and brought into a greater depth of water. To reduce the Wasserstan- within the water chamber 15 is compressed air from the

Operating facilities 5 introduced into the water chamber 15, whereby the water therein is blown out of the water chamber 5. In this case, the total amount of ballast from ballast system 13 decreases. The total weight of sighting tube 1, including its fixed ballast 45, is selected such that, when water chamber 15 is completely blown out, the hydrostatic buoyancy acting is greater than the total weight. The result is a resulting buoyancy, which drives the underwater sightseeing tube 1 upwards. At a certain level in the water chamber 15 is located on the sightseeing tube 1 to a state of equilibrium between the drive and driven on. The sightseeing tube 1 then floats on constant water depth without further external influences. In contrast, increased emptying of the water chamber 15 creates a resulting buoyancy. This can be used to lift the sighting tube 1. The same applies mutatis mutandis to the air bags inflatable especially with air 29, with which depending on their degree of filling an increase, a reduction and an equilibrium position can be adjusted. As a result, for example, a desired pretensioning of the anchoring 16 (FIGS. 3, 4) can be achieved. be guided. If there is no anchoring 16, the abovementioned operating devices 5 in the form of the ballast system 13 can also be used as a lifting system 53 in order to raise the sighting tube 1 to the water surface 6.

Conversely, the water chamber 15, the gas bags 29 and the fixed ballast 45 are dimensioned such that upon complete filling of the water chamber 15 with water and emptying the airbags 29, the total weight of the sightseeing tube 1 is greater than its hydrostatic buoyancy. This state can be used to lower the sighting tube 1 preassembled, for example, on the water surface 6 or on the land 31 (FIG. 1) below the water surface 6 to the desired water depth.

By means of a suitable control system, not shown, the fill level in the water chamber 15 and / or the inflated state of the gas bags 29 can be controlled. By adjusting the resulting buoyancy or Abstriebskraft lifting or lowering the sightseeing tube 1 can be set with selectable vertical speeds. Furthermore, it is possible to set a limbo state in which the hydrostatic buoyancy and the acting weight force cancel each other out. Here, the sightseeing tube 1 floats free of force in the intended depth of water. However, this limbo does not have a stable equilibrium. In order nevertheless to bring about a stable position of the sightseeing tube 1 in the depth direction, instead of the aforementioned control, an unrepresented control system can also be provided, by means of which the filling level inside the water chamber 15 and / or the inflating state of the airbags 29 control the level. sighting tube 1 is kept in the intended water depth. In the case of such a regulation, an anchoring 16 (FIGS. 3, 4) may possibly be dispensed with.

The lift system 53 further includes the emergency lift system 14 for lifting the sighting tube 1 to the water surface 6 (Figures 3, 4). The Nothebesystem 14 may be formed by the inflatable water chamber 15. In the embodiment shown, the gas bags 29 are provided to form the Nothebesystems 14, which can be filled if necessary with stored in pressure vessels gas, compressed air from the operating devices 5 or from other gas sources. When inflated, the entire water displacement of the sightseeing tube 1 and thus its hydrostatic lift increase. This total is greater than the acting weight forces, so that a resulting buoyancy force to the water surface 6 (Fig. 3, 4) out. Upon actuation of the emergency lift system 14, any existing anchors 16 (FIGS. 3, 4) are capped so that the sighting tube 1 lifts onto the water surface 6 due to its increased hydrostatic buoyancy.

Fig. 7 still shows the arrangement of Fig. 6 with further details. The passenger vehicle 4 is designed as a rail vehicle with electric motor drive. For this purpose, the operating devices 5 include a sunken into the bottom group 23 rail 40, along which the passenger vehicle 4 is guided. For supplying the electric drive of the passenger vehicle 4, this pantograph 41 has, for example, in the form of sliding contacts or the like, the supply current from the floor assembly 23. In the embodiment shown, the wheels 38 roll on a surface of the floor assembly 23, while the rail guide is formed by the guided in the rail 40 middle pantograph 41. It may also be expedient to let the wheels 38 run directly on rails of the floor assembly 23. Instead of a power supply of the passenger vehicle 4 by means of current collector 41, a battery operation may be appropriate. Instead of the electromotive drive, it is also possible to select a different drive form which, while avoiding formation of exhaust gas, does not impair the respiratory air within the sighting tube 1.

Furthermore, details of the cleaning device 25 are shown schematically. The cleaning device 25 surrounds the sighting tube 1 on its outer side at least approximately in that cross-sectional angle which corresponds to the viewing angle α according to FIG. 6. On its radial inner side, the cleaning device 25 is provided with various cleaning elements. By way of example, brushes 42 and / or spray nozzles 43 are arranged distributed over the circumference. At predetermined cleaning intervals, the cleaning device 25 is moved in the axial direction 24 along the viewing tube 1 as shown in FIG. This can for example be done independently by a drive, not shown, of the cleaning device 25. The brushes 42, the spray nozzles 43 and / or other suitable means thereby clean the outer surface of the sighting tube 1. FIG. 8 shows, in a schematic plan view, a section of sightseeing tube 1 composed of segments in an articulated manner. For this purpose, for example, a rectilinear segment 8 adjoins an arcuately curved segment 9 in the horizontal direction 10. By appropriate juxtaposition of rectilinear and arcuate segments 8, 9 can be brought within a horizontal plane corresponding to the illustration of FIGS. 1 and 2, an almost arbitrary trajectory of the sightseeing tube 1.

Furthermore, the illustration according to FIG. 8 can still be seen that the segments 8, 9 are connected to one another in an articulated manner. In the area of the intermediate joints 39, the sighting tube 1 is provided with an elastic wall region 46 and with a joint mechanism 12. The articulation mechanism 12 is substantially rigid with respect to the axial direction 24, while, together with the elastic wall region 46, it permits pivoting of the two segments 8, 9 relative to each other about a hinge axis 47. The articulated connection can be used in any joints 39, regardless of whether 39 adjacent rectilinear or curved segments 8, 9 in any combination to the respective joint. Depending on the operating conditions, it may be expedient to dispense in joints 39 of the sightseeing tube 1 to a rigid connection according to FIG. 5 and to provide an articulated connection according to FIGS. 8 and 9. It may also be advantageous to equip only individual joints 39 with an articulated connection, while the other joints 39 are rigid. Furthermore, it is conceivable to dispense in quiet waters and / or smaller inspection systems on joints according to FIGS. 8 and 9 and exclusively substantially provide rigid connections between the segments 8, 9 as shown in FIG. 5.

Fig. 9 shows a side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 8, according to which the curved segment 9 is arcuately curved in the vertical direction 11. As a result, decreasing or increasing trajectories of the sightseeing tube 1 can be generated in the direction of travel, whereby different water depths can be achieved along the trajectory. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 8 and 9, the segment 9 is curved both in the horizontal direction 10 and in the vertical direction 11. Segments 9 may also be expedient, which are alternatively curved in an arcuate manner only in the horizontal direction 10 or in the vertical direction 11.

The hinge mechanism 12 according to FIGS. 8 and 9, as shown in FIG. 9, has a hinge axis 47 extending in the vertical direction 11, according to which a horizontal pivotal movement of the segments 8, 9 against each other is possible. Alternatively or additionally, an embodiment of the joint mechanism 12 may be useful in which a vertical RelatiwerSchwenkung is possible with the horizontal hinge axis. Overall, the illustrated articulated connection of the segments 8, 9 allows at least a limited compliance of the sighting tube 1 against external loads such as water currents, waves or the like. In connection with the control device described above, the articulated connection moreover permits a mutual position change of at least individual segments 8, 9 in order to maintain the desired trajectory of the sighting tube 1 even with increasing external loads. Fig. 10 shows a variant of the arrangement according to Figs. 1 and 2 with a rectilinear sightseeing tube 1. The inspection tube 1 has an access section 3 in the access station 34, wherein the access station 34 is arranged with the access section 3 on the land 31. From there, the sightseeing tube 1 is led into the water 30, so that the sighting section 2 lies in the water 30 between coral reefs 33. The inspection tube 1 has a free, closed end 49 lying below the water surface 6 (FIG. 11). On the inside, the sightseeing tube 1 is divided into two sections running parallel to one another by means of a longitudinal division 48 shown in more detail in FIG. 11. The longitudinal pitch 48 terminates short of the free end 49 at a distance therefrom, so that persons 21 (FIG. 11) can run along arrows 50 to the free end 49, invert there, and move back on the opposite side of the longitudinal pitch 48 , The longitudinal division 48 facilitates spatially separate, simultaneous movement of the person 21 in opposite directions.

For the sightseeing tube 1 as a whole, a lifting system 53 in the form of a schematically indicated roller belt 51 is provided. The sightseeing tube 1 is located in the region of the bank 32 on the roller conveyor 51. By means of this roller conveyor 51, the sightseeing tube 1 overall for maintenance, in bad weather conditions or for assembly or disassembly according to a double arrow 52 from the land 31 into the water 30 or back process. FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the sighting tube according to FIG. 10 with details of the longitudinal separation 48. This can be designed as a railing, partition or the like and is lower in the height direction than the eye position 20 of the persons 21 passed through no visual obstruction for the persons 21 dar. As an alternative to the circular cross-sectional configuration of FIGS. 6 and 7, the sightseeing tube 1 is provided in the embodiment of FIG. 11 with an elliptical cross-section. However, it may also be desirable to have a circular cross section or other suitable cross section. The person 21 standing upright in FIG. 11 indicates that the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 10 and 11 provides for walking on the sightseeing tube 1. However, as in the embodiment according to the preceding figures, the use of a passenger vehicle 4, a roller conveyor or the like may be appropriate.

11 shows that the sightseeing tube 1 is provided in its sighting section 2 with a ballast system 13 and with an emergency lifting system 14. With the controlled ballast system 13, the desired depth of the sighting tube 1 is maintained in the water 30 below the water surface 6 during operation. The controlled ballast system 13 makes it possible to dispense with an anchoring 16 according to FIGS. 3 and 4, so that any raising or lowering of the sightseeing tube 1 with the lifting system 53 in the form of the roller conveyor 51 (FIG. 10) is possible. In the remaining features and reference numerals, the embodiment of FIG. 10 is correct and FIG. 11 corresponds to the previously described embodiments.

Claims

claims

1. Underwater survey system for use in open waters, in particular in the sea, comprising one

Inspection tube (1), the interior of which is provided for the movement and residence of persons (21), wherein a sighting section (2) of the sightseeing tube (1) is at least partially cross-sectionally made of a clear view

Material consists and under a water surface (6), wherein the sightseeing tube (1) is filled with air at least approximately under normal pressure.

2. Sighting system according to claim 1, characterized in that the sightseeing tube (1) is designed as an endless loop.

3. sightseeing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the sightseeing tube (1) has a free, closed and in particular below the water surface (6) lying end (49), and for simultaneous movement of the persons (21) is provided in opposite directions.

4. sightseeing system according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that an access section (3) of the sightseeing tube (1) is arranged on land.

5. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the access section (3) of the sightseeing tube (1) on the water surface (6) is arranged floating.

Inspection system according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sightseeing tube (1) is arranged under water, including its access section (3), one of the water surface (6) leading to the access section (3) of the sightseeing tube (1 ) leading access system (7) is provided.

7. Viewing System ^"according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the inspection tube (1) of segments (8, 9), in particular of rectilinear segments (8) and / or in a

Horizontal direction (10) and / or in a vertical direction (11) arcuately curved segments (9) is composed.

8. sightseeing system according to claim 7, characterized in that the segments (8, 9) are hinged together.

9. sightseeing system according to claim 8, characterized in that a hinge mechanism

(12) and / or connecting elements (28) between two adjacent segments (8, 9) within of the cross section of the sightseeing tube (1) are arranged.

10. sightseeing system according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that operating means (5) for a fresh air supply of the sightseeing tube (1) are provided.

11. sightseeing system according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the operating means (5) on the sightseeing tube (1) acting, the buoyancy of at least partially compensating sys- ting ballast system (13).

12. sightseeing system according to claim 11, characterized in that the ballast system (13) for raising and lowering the sightseeing tube (1) is controllable and in particular regulated.

13. Visiting system according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the ballast system (13) has a desensible with compressed air water chamber (15), a fixed ballast (45) and / or an inflatable airbag (29).

14. Visiting system according to one of claims 1 to

13, characterized in that the operating means (5) acting on the sightseeing tube (1) lifting system (53) for lifting the Inspection tube (1) to the water surface (6) or on land (31), wherein the lifting system (53) in particular the compressed air blown water chamber (15), a Nothebesystem (14) with the inflatable airbag (29) and / or a roller conveyor (51).

15. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the sightseeing tube (1) has an anchoring (16) with an underwater floor (17).

16. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that a tube wall (18) of the sightseeing tube (1) is formed at least in sections from a one-piece transparent tube (19).

17. sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that a bottom group (23) is aligned to the cross-section of the viewing tube (1) that an eye position (20) of an average large, through the viewing tube (1) moving through person ( 21) lies along its path of movement at least approximately in a center (22) of the particular circular cross-section of the sightseeing tube (1).

18. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that at least a part of the operating devices (5) in the bottom group (23) of the sightseeing tube (1) is combined, wherein the bottom group (23) relative to the cross section of the sightseeing tube ( 1) expediently leaves an undisturbed viewing angle (α) of at least 180 °, preferably at least 270 ° and in particular about 280 °.

19. sightseeing system according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the inspection tube (1) on the outside encompassing, in an axial direction (24) movable cleaning device (25) is provided.

20. sightseeing system according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that a passenger vehicle (4) for the persons (21) for passing through the sightseeing tube (1) is provided, wherein the passenger vehicle (4) is preferably a rail vehicle, in particular with electric motor drive ,

21. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the passenger vehicle (4) is provided for two to four, in particular single-row consecutively positioned persons (21).

22. Sighting system according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the passenger vehicle (4) has an emergency supply device (26), in particular with an oxygen supply and / or a communication device (27) for the passengers (21).