Design and development of human metabolic simulator for a deepwater manned submersible

In order to cater to the scientific demand for deep ocean exploration with human presence, manned submersible capable of operating up to 6000 m depth is being designed and developed at National Institute of Ocean Technology. The submersible can accommodate three personnel inside the confined space volume of 4.8 m(3) human capsule (personnel sphere) for total endurance of 108 h (12 h normal mission and 96 h in case of emergency). Human Metabolic Simulator was developed by following Det Norske Veritas guideline to validate the life support system design during initial stages of qualification inside the personnel sphere. By considering human respiratory quotient (RQ), HMS was designed by combusting propane gas (RQ 0.6) to produce carbon dioxide, water and heat.