NEUFELDT AND KUHNKE 1917 (Germany)

In 1917, the German firm Newfeldt and Kuhnke built two ADS models based on their patented ball and socket joint which utilized ball bearings to transfer the pressure load. The German Navy tested the second generation suit to 530f/163m in 1924 but limb movement was very difficult and the joints were not "fail-safe." Even so, the suit afforded intervention at depths which were previously unheard of. The German Navy had several N&K suits (called "Panzertauchen") during World War II which later found their way into allied hands after the war. Copies were later built by the Russian Navy. The Italian designer Sgnr. R. Galeazzi, also built and ADS system based on their joint design.