SHARX is a towed submersible for tourist and recreational activities. It is used to introduce a range of people to underwater activities, who otherwise could not have this experience. The original idea behind it consisted of designing an "underwater rollercoaster" with the "carts" being based on the shape of a shark. The passengers would sit in an airtight compartment inside the SHARX, and be towed by cables around a solid track, fixed to the sea bottom. The "rollercoaster" tracks would be built in a twisted and turning manner, moving past scenic places such as coral reefs, ship wrecks and natural sea-life habitats.
The SHARX would serve two recreational purposes. It could act as a craft for underwater exploration at a cruising pace, giving the riders some form of control and providing a scenic experience. This would be aimed mostly at the increase in tourism due to the ageing population. The second purpose would be for the younger thrill-seeking generation - an expensive way to become a shark for a minute and chase a pre-programmed seal at insane speeds without any control.
All my drawings were done in one night in the first year of my design degree. I hope my drawing has improved since! The CAD rendering was provided by RINA. |