Articles tagged with "underwater-technology"
World-first portable robotic exoskeleton slashes diver air use by 22%
Chinese researchers from Peking University, led by Professor Wang Qining, have developed the world’s first portable underwater robotic exoskeleton designed to assist divers by supporting knee movement during swimming. This bilateral cable-driven device provides real-time assistive torque specifically for the flutter kick, the main propulsion method in finned diving. Equipped with advanced motion sensors and force-based control, the exoskeleton integrates seamlessly with natural diver movements, reducing muscle strain and improving energy efficiency underwater. Testing with six experienced divers demonstrated that using the exoskeleton reduced air consumption by 22.7%, while also decreasing quadriceps and calf muscle activation by approximately 20%, indicating a significant reduction in physical effort. This innovation addresses the unique challenges of underwater mobility, where water resistance greatly increases energy demands compared to terrestrial movement. The exoskeleton’s ability to lower physical burden and oxygen use could extend dive duration, enhance safety, and reduce fatigue, with potential applications in marine research, underwater construction, and diver training. The research,
roboticsexoskeletonunderwater-technologywearable-roboticsenergy-efficiencyhuman-augmentationdiving-technologyEngineering the impossible: Conquering the frontier of power tool design
The article highlights the groundbreaking engineering achievements of Nemo Power Tools, a company that revolutionized power tool design by creating professional-grade tools capable of operating underwater at depths up to 50 meters (164 feet). Initiated by a 2010 military request, mechanical engineer Nimo Rotem developed a patented pressurization technology that actively balances internal air pressure with external water pressure, enabling tools to function reliably where traditional waterproofing fails. These tools feature robust die-cast aluminum bodies, rotating seals inspired by boat drive shafts, and dual 18-volt lithium-ion batteries designed to withstand the mechanical stresses and thermal challenges of underwater use. Nemo Power Tools’ rigorous testing protocols ensure 100% sealing integrity and durability, earning trust across military, marine construction, and commercial sectors. Their product line now includes underwater drills, rotary hammers, angle grinders, reciprocating saws, impact drivers, hull cleaners, and high-lumen floodlights. The tools’ reliability was publicly demonstrated on Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush
energymaterialsengineeringunderwater-technologypower-toolslithium-ion-batteriespressure-resistant-designBackpack-style jetpack lets divers fly in sea hands-free for 90 mins
The AJ-03 Aquatic Jetpack, developed by Hong Kong startup XiaoTun, is an innovative, backpack-style underwater propulsion device designed to enhance diving experiences by enabling hands-free movement underwater. Weighing just 20 pounds, it features two electric jet modules delivering strong propulsion and operates quietly and eco-friendly on a 15,000-mAh lithium iron phosphate battery, providing 30 to 90 minutes of use depending on speed settings. The jetpack supports dives up to 66 feet and includes a secure harness system with space for a two-liter scuba tank, although compatibility with other diving gear remains unclear. Control of the AJ-03 is user-friendly, offering a wired remote with directional buttons and battery level display, alongside an AI-powered cruise control that adjusts propulsion based on the diver’s body movements. This cruise control has three preset speeds, helping reduce fatigue and streamline underwater navigation. Priced significantly lower than competitors like the $18,000 CudaJet, XiaoTun’s jetpack is available
robotAIelectric-propulsionunderwater-technologylithium-iron-phosphate-batterywearable-technologydiving-equipmentTrump administration may sell deep-sea mining leases at startup’s urging
robotdeep-sea-miningautonomous-vehiclescritical-mineralsenvironmental-impactunderwater-technologyresource-extractionQuả cầu bêtông 400 tấn lưu trữ năng lượng dưới biển sâu
energyrenewable-energyenergy-storageunderwater-technologyFraunhofer-InstituteStEnSeasustainable-energy