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In 1997, H.O.T. built Wet Flight (WF), a one-person, high performance submersible designed specifically for underwater filming as a mobile camera platform. WF is available for lease to filmmakers, and was first used as a filming platform to film from the point of view (POV) of a dolphin in the IMAX film, "Dolphins: The Ride."
Pilot
The pilot can access the craft from the top and is not constrained within the craft but is protected from the slip steam by having his head within a relatively form fitting clear canopy. A chest pan supports the pilot in position secured by an automatic-release shoulder harness. The pilot (in dry or wet suit) wears only a mask and weight belt, leaving his back clear of drag in the slip stream. Heels lock into a foot restraint whereby foot pressure activates a "dead man's" system (on/off).
Controls
Pilot flight controls are (fly -by-wire) finger-activated joysticks.
Ballast and Trim
The craft has 100 lbs of useable payload. Trim is pre-set to adjust for the required stability. Note: the craft is normally set up for good maneuverability with mild stability to smooth and stabilize flight.
Instrumentation and Automation
Basic pilot instrumentation includes: rear/overhead view mirrors, magnetic compass, depth gauge, HP air pressures, battery voltage, *and various diagnostics as normally green (fault to red) warning lights. Note: it is intended that the craft be operated under visual flight rules only so that either the bottom or surface is in sight for pilot orientation.
Life Support
The craft holds two 40 cubic ft. SCUBA breathing sets of air with first and second stage regulators.
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