Tauchkörpern

Tauchkörpern, also known as diving bells, are historical underwater habitats used by divers to work or live underwater for extended periods. These structures typically consist of a bell-shaped chamber with a small opening at the top for air intake and a larger opening at the bottom for water exit. The diver enters the bell through a hatch and seals it, creating a pressurized environment that allows them to work underwater without the need for a breathing apparatus.

The first recorded use of a diving bell was in the 16th century by the Italian engineer Francesco de' Medici. These early bells were simple structures made of wood or metal, and divers would enter them through a hatch and seal it with a plug. The diver would then use a pump to remove water from the bell, creating a vacuum that allowed them to work underwater.

Over time, diving bells evolved to include more advanced features, such as air pumps and regulators to control the pressure inside the bell. These improvements allowed divers to work underwater for longer periods and at greater depths. However, diving bells were eventually replaced by more advanced underwater habitats, such as submersibles and underwater habitats, which offered greater comfort and safety for divers.

Today, diving bells are primarily used for historical and educational purposes, and they are often preserved as museum exhibits or displayed in aquariums. They serve as a reminder of the early days of underwater exploration and the ingenuity of early divers. Despite their historical significance, diving bells are no longer used for practical diving purposes, as modern underwater habitats offer greater safety and comfort.