3D-printed model components for a diving innovation

Materflow’s expertise in 3D printing demo products has once again been put to the test — and the results speak for themselves. This time, the collaboration centred on Project Ariadna: an underwater world and a world-class product invention — the first ever independent GPS-based diving navigator in history. Behind the innovation is Lahti-based technology company Ariadna Tech Oy.

Bringing the diving experience into real time

Independent underwater navigation technology has never been developed before. The challenge has always been GPS signals, which only penetrate to a depth of approximately two millimetres below the surface. At Ariadna Tech, the problem was approached in an entirely new way. The device uses a GPS signal at the surface as a reference point — but as soon as it is taken below the surface, it switches immediately to internal navigation technology.

Like an underwater Google Maps

The device improves both diving safety and the diving experience, whether for recreational divers or researchers exploring underwater life. Divers can track their position in real time on a graphical map, explore dived routes using a 3D map, and make use of various software applications such as Google Earth. Many functions familiar from GPS navigation are also available, including Points of Interest (POI). Safety is further enhanced by a Navigate Home feature, allowing divers to find their way back to their starting point.

3D printing gives product development an extra edge

“3D printing is currently used most extensively in product development and the printing of demo products. Project Ariadna is a model example of a 3D product development project where the possibilities offered by 3D printing technology were taken into account from the very beginning,” says Mark Poutanen from Materflow.

“We have been developing the navigation method for over six years. The next goal is to miniaturise the device to fit on a wrist, and we are also developing its integration with other services. We aim to bring the device to market within around a year,” says Jyrki Salonen from Ariadna Tech.

According to Salonen, the team at Materflow has always delivered with quality — the print finish on the models is of a high standard and the pricing is reasonable. Particularly impressive is the mechanical durability and usability of the models in real operating conditions, including when submerged underwater. The project is a significant one, and strong expertise and commitment are expected from every partner involved.

Image credit: Ariadna Tech, Project Ariadna — http://www.ariadna.tech/