The Variable Bouyancy Device (VBD)

Autonomous Buoyancy Control

  • Autonomous Buoyancy control for underwater buoyancy
  • "Bolt-on" or customised to individual needs
 Demonstrator

Variable Buoyancy System Demonstrator

Capability

  • Operation to 6000m depth
  • Accurate depth control
  • Energy efficient
 Remotely Operated Vehicle

Photograph courtesy of SMD Hydrovision

Operational Benefits

  • Dynamic or static trimming facility
  • Trimming at depth
  • Reduces needs for thruster use and hence reduces sediment disturbance
  • No environmental discharge
  • Simple and easy operation
  • Programmable event schedule for autonomous operations or RS232 command interface for master/slave mode
 Autonomous Uderwater Vehicle

Photograph courtesy of Kongsberg

The graph represents the variation in hydraulic pressure, the work done by the hydraulic pump (Work in), the work done to pump water (Work out) and the efficiency as ambient pressure increases. Ambient pressure was simulated by creating back pressure with a high pressure flow control valve. The graph shows the performance of the system at a constant pump speed of 1000rpm. To view the history and development of the VBD, visit the VBD Research and Development pages.

Specifications

Outline VBD Specification

Depth rating

6000m

Buoyancy Payload (Standard)

30 kg

Buoyancy change

1 litre/min (1kg/min nominal)

Power requirement

24 V dc

Power consumption

1.5 kW

Command interface (master/slave operation)

RS232

Event scheduling

Programmable

Operating System

PicoDos

Dimensions (L x Dia)

0.75m x 0.75m

Weight (in air)

100 kg

Weight (in water)

50 kg

Operating Temperature Range

-20 °C to +85 °C

System efficiency

Up to 70%

The above specification relates to our current demonstrator model; however, due to the systems modular design it can be customised to suit individual requirements.

These illustrations show possible system installations for an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), providing autonomous depth, payload, and trimming capability. Move the cursor over the images to identify the locations of the VBD components.


Autonomous Underwater Vehicle

Remotely Operated Vehicle

Due to the systems modular design it can be customised to suit individual requirements.
For further information and to discuss your specific requirements please contact:

David Sproule
Tel: +44(0) 1224 274403
Fax: +44 (0) 1224 274402
E-mail: d.sproule@abdn.ac.uk

Oceanlab, Main Street, Newburgh, Aberdeenshire AB41 6AA, UK