Fluid-based buoyancy compensation
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method comprising:
- receiving a target depth for a submersible vessel;
determining, using a sensor module, a current depth of the submersible vessel;
adjusting, based on the current depth and the target depth, the buoyancy of the submersible vessel using a compressible fluid within an expandable container, wherein the compressible fluid comprises a porous hydrophobic powder.
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Abstract
Systems and methods for buoyancy compensation are provided. Both active and passive buoyancy compensation can be provided using a compressible mixture made of a liquid along with a hydrophopic material such as a powder, electrospun fiber, or foam. The compressible fluid compresses as pressure is applied or expands as pressure is released thereby substantially maintaining an overall neutral buoyancy for a vessel. This allows the vessel to ascend and descend to water depths with minimal active buoyancy change. As a result, the energy usage and the reliance on higher pressure air and oils can be minimized.
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Citations
8 Claims
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1. A method comprising:
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receiving a target depth for a submersible vessel; determining, using a sensor module, a current depth of the submersible vessel; adjusting, based on the current depth and the target depth, the buoyancy of the submersible vessel using a compressible fluid within an expandable container, wherein the compressible fluid comprises a porous hydrophobic powder. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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7. A method comprising:
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receiving a target depth for a submersible vessel; determining, using a sensor module, a current depth of the submersible vessel; adjusting, based on the current depth and the target depth, the buoyancy of the submersible vessel using a compressible fluid within an expandable container, wherein the compressible fluid comprises hydrophobic electrospun fibers.
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8. A method comprising:
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receiving a target depth for a submersible vessel; determining, using a sensor module, a current depth of the submersible vessel; adjusting, based on the current depth and the target depth, the buoyancy of the submersible vessel using a compressible fluid within an expandable container, wherein the compressible fluid comprises hydrophobic foam.
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Specification