Diver Propulsion Assembly With Articulated Thruster Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diver propulsion systems lack ergonomic design and adjustable mounting solutions, limiting mobility and maneuverability for divers, especially in underwater operations.
Innovation Solution
A diver propulsion assembly featuring a waist belt with hinged and pivotable thruster mounting assemblies that allow ergonomic movement, including adjustable leg straps and a diver-actuated motor controller for speed adjustment, enabling natural leg movement and efficient propulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed rigid mounting system is used for thrusters, then structural stability is improved, but diver mobility and maneuverability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly incorporates hinges and pivot joints that allow the thruster to move dynamically relative to the waist belt, enabling the diver to position the thruster optimally for different maneuvers while maintaining secure attachment. The hinge strap and pivot joint create articulated connections that adapt to diver movement.
2Device complexity
If a simple mounting system is used for thrusters, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and ergonomic adjustment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a waist belt for torso attachment, hinge straps for connecting to the thruster, pivot joints for angular adjustment, and leg straps for securing to the diver's legs. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling overall adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates movable elements including hinges that allow folding adjustment and pivot joints that enable rotational positioning. These dynamic features allow the diver to adjust the thruster position ergonomically while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
3Device complexity
If fixed speed control is used for the propeller, then device complexity is reduced, but diver maneuverability and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller receives feedback from the diver through actuation inputs and adjusts the propeller drive speed accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the diver to control thrust output dynamically, improving maneuverability and operational efficiency while maintaining relatively simple control architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances mobility and maneuverability for divers by allowing ergonomic thruster movement and adjustable speed control, improving underwater mobility and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The thruster incorporates an electric motor and propeller
Implementation Method 2
first and second spaced apart thrusters for propelling the diver through a body of water
Data Source
AI summary
A diver propulsion assembly includes a waist belt and at least one thruster. A thruster mounting assembly cooperates with the waist belt to mount the thruster to an upper leg of the diver.