An Automated System for Analysing Swim-Fins Efficiency

摘要

Divers’ underwater performance is directly related to their swim-fin efficiency. To determine the efficiency, a comparison is needed between existing models of swim-fins leading to conducting experiments that yield reliable results and promise an optimal model. One method of comparison is to construct an automated system that would be able to mimic human leg movement in a submerged environment during independent experiments. To mimic this human behaviour, the options are to either move the robotic leg in the swimming pool or have water flow around it in a water tunnel. The second mechanism is simpler to construct and develop because it includes fewer mechanical parts and can be built as a stationary test bench. Therefore, this paper reports the development of this mechanism. Its controlling system is designed based on movement patterns obtained using computer vision techniques in addition to analyses of diver’s behaviour during initial experiments. The presented solution has the potential for comparing the efficiency of a range of swim-fins in a short time.