if an underwater combine harvester existed, its cost would likely be significant due to the unique engineering required to operate effectively underwater. heres a breakdown of what factors might influence its price: ### 1. **specialized engineering**  - **waterproofing**: every component, from the engine to electronics, would need to be waterproofed and corrosion-resistant to withstand prolonged exposure to water. this would require materials and coatings typically used in marine industries, which are expensive.  - **pressure resistance**: if designed to operate at depth, it would need to be engineered to withstand pressure, adding structural reinforcements similar to those used in submarines.  - **propulsion system**: instead of traditional wheels or treads, it would likely need thrusters or underwater propulsion systems, adding to both complexity and cost. ### 2. **advanced harvesting mechanisms**  - **unique harvesting tools**: cutting and collecting underwater plants or crops would require specially designed tools that work efficiently in a submerged environment. this may involve robotics, sensors, or custom-built harvesting mechanisms.  - **autonomous features**: due to limited human visibility and maneuverability underwater, the machine might need autonomous or remote-control capabilities, driving up technology costs. ### 3. **cost estimates**  - **prototype/custom model**: an initial, custom-built prototype could cost **$1 million to $5 million** or more due to the novelty, engineering, and testing required.  - **production model**: if mass-produced, an underwater combine harvester could range between **$500,000 to $1 million**, though exact pricing would depend on scale, features, and intended operating depth. this would be a highly specialized piece of machinery, and actual costs could vary widely depending on how advanced and capable the design would need to be.
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