Development of prototype full-automatic environmental control system for nitrox saturation diving

A full-automated hyperbaric environmental control system (HECS) for nitrox saturation diving HABITAT has been examined since 1994. HECS was planned to be located inside HABITAT and operated automatically by supplying electricity and cooling water. To realize this, a regenerative-type carbon dioxide removal method and AC 100 V electric powered blower system were developed as key technology. By using molecular sieves as an adsorbent material for carbon dioxide, automated sequence for adsorbent and regeneration could be successfully realized. Also, by using solid-state conductor circuit, an AC 100 V type blower to use under hyperbaric conditions could be developed. A prototype HECS was manufactured and settled in JAMSTEC diving simulator for further evaluation.