In the third semester, the overarching theme was “Compete.” In this context, I explored diving masks, specifically those designed for freedivers.
3. Semester Ba
Project Duration 14 Weeks
Muthesius Kunsthochschule
Use Case
Freediving
Freediving is a form of diving in which the diver explores underwater on a single breath, without the use of breathing equipment. It requires a high level of body control, concentration, and breath-holding ability. The aim is often to dive as deep or as far as possible while remaining calm and efficient underwater.
How can we dive longer?
diving reflex
When the face is submerged, sensory nerve endings are stimulated via the trigeminal nerve. This triggers the diving reflex: heart rate decreases, while blood flow is redirected toward vital organs such as the brain and heart.
A conventional diving mask typically rests directly on these sensitive areas, reducing their contact with cold water. This can limit the natural sensory stimulation of the face.
The graphic illustrates how the diving reflex works. It first shows a dive without a diving mask, followed by a dive with a diving mask. After approximately 40 seconds, the mask is removed, triggering the diving reflex. As a result, the heart rate decreases significantly.
Pressure Equalization
Pressure equalization in the mask is also highly relevant. In conventional diving masks, the diver exhales air through the nose into the chambers to regulate the pressure. However, this results in the loss of valuable air.
The idea is therefore to solve pressure equalization mechanically. An external compensation bladder with a thin membrane is integrated into the mask. As the ambient pressure increases, the bladder is compressed, transferring its volume into the mask.
How Do Different Lenses Perform Underwater?
To find this out, I clipped differently colored lenses into the mask and tested them while diving. It became clear that orange-yellow lenses are particularly interesting: they improve visibility underwater by enhancing contrast.
These lenses are especially useful in tropical waters, where the water is very clear and fish appear in more vivid colors.
Ideally, the lenses should be interchangeable, allowing different colors to be used depending on the environment. Prescription lenses for people who wear glasses could also be integrated.
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Arved Kappelhoff
