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"Although it is still in early development, Tsukuyomi has proven its basic gliding performance. The team is now expanding the glider software for long-term monitoring." Fischer UltiMate Connect 2 Expertise Reliability TM Innovation a small pitching angle were conducted. Rolling tests confrmed that Tsukuyomi can rotate with an angular velocity of 1 degree per second. Stable gliding was also confrmed. The frst sea test was conducted in Sagami Bay in March using JAMSTEC's RV KAIYO on cruise KY12-04. For security, a thin 500-meter-long string was connected to Tsukuyomi, which was pulled out while the vehicle was descending. Some sequences of movement of the GCC and the BE were preprogrammed. When receiving a command to descend via Iridium, Tsukuyomi began to descend. The sea test results confrmed the stable gliding and rotation performance, as well as steady GPS positioning and Iridium communication under 1.5-meter wave height conditions. Conclusions Tsukuyomi development is ongoing and remains at an early stage. The existing software can only carry out a preprogrammed sequence of commands. JAMSTEC is now expanding the software to accommodate the operation procedures, such as diving and resurfacing. Another at-sea test is planned for January. The maximum water depth should be extended to expand on the regions the glider can explore. To accomplish this, light and strong pressure housings using ceramics to extend the maximum depth up to 6,000 meters are under development. Miniaturization and minimizing weight are important to enhance Tsukuyomi's practicality. JAMSTEC is now studying these issues while developing the glider. UltiMate Connections ■ Rugged design for harsh environment ■ Hermetic sealing ■ Corrosion resistant ■ Extremely robust mechanical keying ■ Miniature and ultralight design References For a list of references, contact Kenichi Asakawa at asakawa@jamstec.go.jp. n Dr. Kenichi Asakawa received a Ph.D. in engineering from Tokyo Institute of Technology in 1979 and joined KDD R&D; Laboratories. In 1999, he joined JAMSTEC and since then has been engaged in developing underwater devices such as scientifc cable systems, ceramic watertight housings and an optical salinometer. Dr. Masahiko Nakamura joined the Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University in 1982 and received a Ph.D. in engineering from Kyushu University in 1990. He is studying control and dynamics of underwater vehicles and mooring systems. www.fischerconnectors.com Headquarters Fischer Connectors SA Saint-Prex - Switzerland Phone +41 21 800 95 95 mail@fischerconnectors.ch www.sea-technology.com DECEMBER 2012 / st 21