A frantic search is underway for a submersible that went missing during a deep-sea expedition to the Titanic wreck. The submersible in question, the Titan, is operated using what the CEO of OceanGate referred to as a video game controller. This peculiar choice for controlling such a vital piece of equipment has raised concerns about the sub’s reliability and the suitability of its hardware.
During a 2022 interview with CBS News, OceanGate’s CEO, Stockton Rush, proudly showcased the handheld device, stating that they operate the entire submersible using this game controller. However, it remains unclear whether the device used is a modified version of the widely available Logitech F710 wireless gamepad. Additionally, it is uncertain if OceanGate still employed the video game controller during the recent expedition, where Rush was the operator.
What sets the missing submersible apart from other deep-sea vessels is its unique ability to carry five people and reach depths of approximately 13,000 feet, nearly 2.5 miles beneath the ocean’s surface – the same depths as the Titanic wreckage. Steve Wright, an associate professor of aerospace engineering at the University of the West of England, explained that various aircraft and sea vessels employ comparable video game-like controllers for partial control. Wright, who spoke with CBS News via Zoom, has experience working with both manned and unmanned aircraft and emphasized that the devices he works with are more advanced than standard PlayStation controllers.
Wright explained that these “video game controllers” are akin to avionics systems, which are utilized in a wide range of applications, not just flying aircraft. He pointed to a drone in his classroom, highlighting that the software used in the drone is nearly identical to the software employed in submersibles. While they may resemble ordinary game controllers, these devices are manufactured with exceptional reliability and quality, surpassing that of regular Xbox controllers.
CBS News has reached out to OceanGate to inquire about the Titan’s controller and is currently awaiting a response. The company has released a statement, assuring that they are actively exploring all options to ensure the safe return of the crew. The Coast Guard has also initiated a search and rescue mission.
When shown a photo of the Titan’s video game controller, Wright expressed astonishment, stating that he had never seen anything like it before. He expected the submersible to have a more reliable primary system. While a video game controller may possess similar capabilities to a conventional joystick controller, Wright asserts that it would undoubtedly lack the same level of reliability. He stated that a “real” submersible controller would have approximately 1,000 times the reliability of a games handset.
Interestingly, in 2017, the Navy announced that it would implement Xbox controllers on submarines to operate photonics masts, which resemble periscopes. This decision was made due to complaints from officers and sailors about the clunkiness of the original controllers. The Xbox controllers provided a convenient and inexpensive alternative. However, they were not used for steering the subs.
Wright clarified that the joysticks used for steering aircraft and vessels are fundamentally similar to those found on video game controllers. However, they primarily serve as suggestions to the computer system operating the propulsion and thruster systems of the vehicle, whether it be airborne, submersible, or land-based. The joystick acts as a command interface to steer the vehicle indirectly through the computer system. Additionally, submersibles and aircraft rely heavily on computer control for various functions, reducing the manual input required from the joystick operator.
Wright acknowledged that individuals proficient in video games could likely adapt to using these joysticks. However, in the event of malfunctions or emergencies, understanding the complex computer systems controlling the vehicles would be essential. He drew a parallel to commercial airline pilots, noting that although they may appear idle for most of the flight, their in-depth knowledge of the aircraft’s systems allows them to handle unexpected situations effectively.
In conclusion, the use of video game controllers as a control interface for submersibles and aircraft is not a new concept. While it may seem unconventional, these controllers have proven effective in certain situations, such as operating photonics masts on submarines. However, it is crucial to remember that these joysticks are just one component of a larger computer-controlled system. The reliability and quality of these specialized controllers greatly surpass those of regular consumer game controllers, ensuring safe and efficient operation in critical environments.
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