strange creativity in diving; Swim more with robotic legs!

For many, diving is a relaxing and magical experience; But in reality, diving is a strenuous exercise that engages the largest muscle groups in the body, the legs. This muscular effort requires a lot of oxygen, and the main limitation of any diver is the air inside his capsule. (newatlas)

The researchers of “Peking University” have presented a solution to the muscular challenge of divers with a creative approach; An intelligent exoskeleton that reduces the diver’s energy consumption, allowing him to stay longer in the underwater world.

This exoskeleton, which is the first of its kind, reduces oxygen consumption significantly by optimizing the movement of the legs instead of focusing on the respiratory system. This 9 kg device, which is worn over a diving suit, includes two waterproof motors that are placed on the diver’s back. It also has cables that transmit the power of the motor to the armbands on the thighs and legs.

Photographer: Unknown / mid-day.com

The smart sensors of the robotic diving device know exactly where the person’s feet are in the swimming motion. The motors only kick in when the foot strikes down (where the most force is needed) and disengage on the return stroke so they don’t inhibit natural movement.

To evaluate the performance of the robotic diving device, a team of 6 professional divers tested it in a 50-meter pool. The results were surprising: the use of this exoskeleton reduced the activity of the quadriceps and calf muscles by more than 20%, and more importantly, it reduced the divers’ air consumption by 22.7%. This means more time to explore and enjoy the underwater beauty.

The researchers plan to improve the technology of the robotic diving device by testing it in more realistic ocean conditions, using lighter materials and adding more sensors to monitor heart rate and other vital metrics.

Photographer: unknown / newatlas.com

What other applications do you think the robotic diving device can have in the underwater world? Share your comments with us and other audiences.

Cover photo source: newatlas.com Photographer: Unknown