Reusable buoyancy modules for buoyancy control of underwater vehicles
US10766147B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 23, 2019 |
| Grant date | Sep 8, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 23, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2675
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A buoyancy module for use with a water environment robotic system of the type having an underwater robotic vehicle having a winch has a buoyancy configuration which can be selectively altered. The system includes a module that is configured to be repeatedly, selectively buoyantly engaged and buoyantly disengaged with the underwater robotic vehicle. A tether is connected to the module and is extendable and retractable in response to operation of the winch. Extending and retracting the module can buoyantly engage or buoyantly disengage the buoyancy module with the underwater robotic vehicle according to the operation of a state controller. By engaging and disengaging the buoyancy module, the buoyancy of the underwater robot can be selectively altered. A method is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.