In the field of civilian ocean technology, GABLER has developed the concept of a modular underwater platform (MUP).

The entire system or selected individual components can be used at great depths for a wide range of tasks in connection with offshore industry (e.g. in the exploration of raw material reserves) or for oceanography research projects. The MUP consists of three principal component systems:

Computer aided design of an underwater platform with the CALLISTO system

1. The platform as the base for all other components

Depending on the envisaged task, the platform may be anchored fast to the sea floor or at a pre-determined water depth.

2. The power supply module with a hybrid system (fuel cell – battery)

For use in mobile situations or where independence of outside air is required, energy storage is a critical issue. The power supply module is therefore one of the most important components. In addition, it can also be used or adapted to provide autonomous energy for other systems, independent of the MUP. The power supply system is conceived as an innovative hybrid system consisting of fuel cells with liquid reactants and batteries with lithium polymer technology.

3. Floating buoy as a flexible module carrier for sensors and communications equipment

As a spin-off from the military field, the CALLISTO system can also be adapted for use in the civilian sector in oceanography projects. The buoy can carry a variety of sensors and can record data at different water depths. If the buoy is allowed to rise to the water surface, all the data recorded by the underwater sensors can be transmitted by radio to the operator or laboratory.