"Mobile Initial Condition Indicator", a Dynamic Approach to Marine Exploration

Changes in procedure have been initiated to increase the effectiveness of search vehicle operations. Many of the routine functions that were previously done at the surface are now being performed during active exploration. A "Mobile initial Condition Indicator" MICI continously tests for mineral concentration in four uniquely constructed sampling tubes. The concentration in each is determined by precise chemical measurements. Any differences in content between the four tubes are monitored by computer which then provides data to the control system. The computer is capable of deciding whether the level of concentration is increasing at a rate that indicates deposits of commercial value to be within the submersibles range. This results in an ability to make decisions concerning mission parameters based on actual condition at the time of sampling.