Canty is an outgrowth of the consulting practice of John M. Canty, P.E. in designing a very deep high pressure Diving Research Facility, capable of simulating ocean depths of over a mile, he found that no lighting components were available which would withstand the required pressure of 2500 PSI. It was, therefore, necessary to develop a light that would permit illuminating the chamber at these unusual conditions. Since this vessel (now installed in the high pressure laboratory of the University at Buffalo-Department of Physiology) was to be used for manned experiments, it was desirable to keep the electrical components outside. This is due to the potential fire hazard of electrical sparks in a confined environment.