Fluid-based buoyancy compensation
US9321515B2 · kind B2 · utility
4Cited by
23References
14Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 1, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 19, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63G8/24
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.