Wearable Submersible Propulsion With Thigh-Calf Angle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater propellers require manual control, limiting hand availability for other operations, and lack advanced maneuvering capabilities, often conflicting with air tanks and being bulky.
Innovation Solution
A submersible propulsion device with angle sensors on the thigh and calf, controlled by a controller to manage propellers based on sensed angles, allowing hands-free operation and versatile maneuvers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual control is used for underwater propellers, then basic propulsion function is achieved, but hands are occupied and cannot operate other equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated electronic control system. Angle sensors detect diver posture, and a controller automatically adjusts propeller speed and direction based on sensed angles, eliminating the need for manual hand control while enabling hands-free operation of other equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system performs self-control by automatically adjusting propeller operation based on diver posture detection. The system monitors angle sensor data and autonomously modulates propeller thrust without requiring external manual intervention, making the device serve itself
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed backpack diving devices are used, then propulsion function is provided, but conflicts with other equipment such as air tanks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion device is segmented into modular components including separate angle sensor assemblies, controllers, and propeller units. This modular design allows flexible spatial arrangement and integration with different diving equipment configurations, avoiding conflicts with air tanks and other gear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from fixed spatial positioning to multi-dimensional adjustable positioning. The propulsion device can be positioned at various locations (waist, thighs, calves) and oriented in different directions, providing spatial flexibility to accommodate other equipment like air tanks
3Adaptability or versatility
If basic propulsion propellers are used, then simple forward motion is achieved, but advanced maneuvers such as reversing or turning cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic propeller control where the controller continuously adjusts propeller speed and rotation direction based on real-time angle sensor data. This enables the propeller to transition between forward motion, reverse, and turning maneuvers by dynamically modulating thrust vector based on detected diver posture changes
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion device achieves multi-functionality by using a single propeller unit that can perform multiple maneuvers (forward motion, reverse, turning) through electronic control. The controller interprets angle sensor data to command the propeller for different operational modes, making one component serve multiple functions
4Ease of operation
If traditional diving equipment is used, then propulsion is provided, but the equipment is bulky and uncomfortable to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The angle sensor assemblies are designed as flexible, wearable units that can be comfortably attached to diver's body parts (waist, thighs, calves). The sensors are integrated into flexible housings that conform to body contours, reducing bulk and improving comfort while maintaining sensing functionality
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
Enables hands-free control and diverse diving maneuvers, including forward, backward motion, and turning, without interfering with other equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one angle sensor assembly comprising a first sensing unit to be disposed on a thigh and a second sensing unit to be disposed on a calf on the same side of the diver, and the at least one angle sensor assembly being configured to sense an angle between a thigh and a calf on a corresponding side of the diver based on a relative positional relationship between the respective first sensing unit and second sensing unit
Data Source
AI summary
A submersible propulsion device and diving suit. The propulsion device includes: at least one angle sensor assembly having a first sensing unit to be disposed on a thigh and a second sensing unit to be disposed on a calf on the same side of the diver, and being configured to sense an angle between a thigh and a calf on a corresponding side of the diver based on a relative positional relationship between the respective first sensing unit and second sensing unit; at least one propeller having a propeller body and battery module; and a controller connected to the angle sensor assembly and the propeller respectively, so as to control the propeller based on an angle signal sensed by the angle sensor assembly. The submersible propulsion device is flexible in configuration and convenient to control, and can free both hands.