Would you ever build your own Submarine, and Dive in it?

Question

Does anybody have the capability to build their own real submarine, and then actually dive in it. Not too long ago, three men in New York tried to make a civil war version that freaked the authorities out, thinking floating mine.

I notice there are many plans for building your own, that can handle short depths and sails. Ironically, many of the U-Boat historians have full mock plans to build anything from the late two man models to the early ship like vessels that would require a crew to operate.

Back when we were kids, I remember we tried to build a cat submarine. It didn't work out too well. The cat scratched at the sides, and imploded it under water, at the bottom of our pool. Cat just got wet, nothing bad happen to mittens on that voyage. We also made an ant colony that survived four weeks under water, with plants for air. That was kind of cool. The seals broke apparently after water-logging or pressure finally getting to them, and they all drown.

Answer 1

Anybody can do it now. Look how cheap underwater electric propulsion units are now...

Just design a reliable water ballast exchange system and oxygen supply and you're well on your way.

Answer 2

Yes, I would dive on a homemade submarine.  Actually the engineering isn't that difficult, as long as you don't want extreme depth diving (greater 1000 feet).

The biggest concern is monitoring and adjusting the concentration of breathing gasses.  It is also helpful to keep the internal pressure at 1 atmosphere, to avoid other diving related problems.

Propulsion, ballast and structural loads are secondary to being able to breath.

Answer 3

Not unless it was yellow and i could take my three bandmates tripping in it.

Answer 4

... but only in my diseased imaginings...

I designed (term used loosely) a sailboat with submarine capabilities. I had 2 excellent reasons to do this.

1. during storms at sea, the water is supposed to be peaceful and undisturbed about 50 ft down. I got this from my very reliable dreams. Really. No, really!

2. during pirate attacks, a sailsubmarine(c) could appear to scuttle itself and continue safely some while later. I know this to be fact from my even more reliable imaginings. :)

If I ever get the chance, I will.

Answer 5

you my friend have too much time on your hands.

Although drowning kittens is fun... pitbulls are funnerer.