Energy efficient underwater inflatable array using hydrofoam and water swelling material
US12162575B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2021 |
| Grant date | Dec 10, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 4, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB33Y80/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Underwater Deployable Structures (UDSs) capable of achieving inflation via mechanical pumps, moisture-activated expanding foams, water swelling material, or a hybrid of a mechanical pump and water swelling material. Moisture expanding foams begin as polyurethane-based resins of low viscosity, and react in the presence of water to become solid foam. In their final forms, the foams exist as open- or closed-cell, and vary in strength, elasticity, and rigidity. Water swelling material is also disclosed wherein the water swelling material is capable of achieving expansion numerous (e.g., up to about 250) times its initial volume when in contact with water and can shrink back to its initial volume upon dehydration, making the UDSs reusable. A mechanical pump may optionally be used to assist in initial inflation until the water swelling material reaches full expansion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.