Author(s)

V. Antonelli & 0. Bergsma

Abstract

The design of the composite end closures for an autonomous underwater vehicle V. ~ntonelli' & 0. ~ e r ~ s r n a ~ 'centre of Lightweight Structures TUD-TNO, The Netherlands * ~ e l f t University of Technology, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, The Netherlands Abstract The primary objective of the fifth framework MAST-I11 project: " Lightweight Composite Pressure Housings for Mid-Water and Benthic Applications" was to gain experience in the design and fabrication of deep-water pressure resistant fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) structures. This was demonstrated designing and producing an all FRP battery container for an autonomous underwater vehicle with a 2000 meters operational depth capability. The design procedures and methods that brought to the production of the end closures and their transition rings of the pressure vessel are here described. The design solutions were evaluated considering the following properties: manufacturing possibilities, cost, strength and minimisation of unusable

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