Of course, you’re already familiar with the jet ski. Especially now that it’s summer, you see them whizzing across the water in large numbers. Less well known is the ‘jetpack’: a powered rucksack that propels you underwater. Suddenly, swimming with dolphins off a tropical coast feels within reach. British student Archie O’Brien designed and developed his own affordable, rucksack-sized underwater propulsion system. This ‘Cuda’ is set to go into production next year.
The development of the Cuda is a graduation project of the student at Loughborough Design School. He chose to make one himself because existing versions were too heavy, too slow or too expensive. The idea was simple: reduce the jet ski's drive unit to backpack size and strap it onto your back. That was just short of the mark but the backpack format remained. Inside it is a patented propulsion system whose details have not yet been disclosed. The fans were made by Amsterdam-based 3D Hubs. It printed the impellers using SLS technology from glass fibre-reinforced powder known for its rigidity.
The rest of the Cuda is CNC-machined on a lathe and 3D printed. The 3D printing used a common, low-cost FDM 3D printer and PLA material. The 45 components that make up the Cuda are coated with a thin layer of synthetic resin for protection against the water environment. The battery and electronics compartments are waterproofed with silicone seals. Different colour options ensure there is a suitable jet suit for everyone.
The speed of the Cuda prototype is controlled by remote control; the direction is determined by moving the body. The jet suit has been tested in pools and open water; its introduction is expected in the middle of next year.
See how it works? The videos below give a nice impression:
