DEEP – Vanguard Habitat

Premier Ship Models were recently presented with a truly distinctive project — the construction of a scale model of a subsea human habitat. The commission involved creating a model of DEEP’s Vanguard Habitat Buoy, a forerunner to the company’s larger Sentinel system. This buoy acts as a surface support platform, tethered to the underwater habitat, supplying it with power, communication links, and protection against environmental challenges such as severe weather and storms.

The Vanguard represents a remarkable feat of engineering, enabling prolonged human presence beneath the ocean’s surface for purposes including scientific research, conservation efforts, and specialist training.

The project was carried out directly for DEEP — an international research and development organisation dedicated to creating innovative technologies that enhance our understanding and protection of the planet’s deep-sea environments.

Their mission, as stated, “is to imagine and invent amazing things that empower our species to sustainably explore, live, work, and thrive underwater.”

The model was initially created using advanced 3D printing technology before being carefully hand-finished to achieve a refined result.

It was built entirely from wood and fibreglass, with chrome accents added to selected sections to elevate its visual appeal.

3D printing is a highly specialised discipline that requires an in-depth understanding of three essential elements:

• The characteristics of the materials employed
• The functions and limitations of the printer
• The design goals and the desired final appearance

This intricate process calls for a high level of expertise. Our 3D printing specialist oversees two key stages: first, the development and preparation of the digital model for printing; and second, the precise finishing of the printed parts to deliver a polished, professional standard.

The custom-built Vanguard Habit model was produced primarily through 3D printing, using fibreglass and acrylic, and finished with chrome detailing — showcasing a high degree of technical expertise, innovation, and precision.

Before any construction began, every aspect of the project was carefully reviewed and agreed upon with the client. This included exact measurements, design specifications, aesthetic choices, the payment plan, and the overall project schedule. Setting out these clear terms from the start ensured a seamless workflow and greatly minimised the potential for misunderstandings.

The build began with the creation of the base, forming the structural core of the model. This stage demanded meticulous measurement and outstanding craftsmanship to faithfully reproduce the original structure. Once the foundation was complete, work moved on to the upper components — such as pipes, valves, and the storage unit — to achieve the highest possible level of realism.

The painting phase was approached with particular care to ensure a flawless, premium-quality finish. The base was coated in a cool steel shade with a subtle black tint, while the main body of the model was finished in a vibrant yellow. In the final stage, the entire piece was carefully cleaned and polished to a perfect sheen.

DEEP Engineering expressed their strong satisfaction with the completed model. Delivering a project of this standard demanded exceptional attention to detail and effective collaboration, and we take considerable pride in the professionalism shown at every stage. With this commission now successfully concluded, our attention turns to the projects currently in progress and those planned for the near future.