Comparative Analysis of Vacuum Generative Devices for Vacuum Suction Cups of Mobile Transport Systems Designed for Underwater Operation

The article discusses the results of studies of gas-dynamic and hydrodynamic processes in cavities and channels of vacuum suction cups of mobile transport systems operating in an aqueous environment. Transient processes occurring in the cavities of vacuum suckers from the moment the vacuum generator is powered on to the moment of steady-state vacuum level are obtained. Commercially available ejector-type vacuum generators with the same nozzle diameter, but with different parameters of the vacuum level and evacuation time (suction flow rate), as well as a diaphragm air pump were used in the research. Commercially available suction cups with a bellows with a diameter of 100 mm were used as a vacuum holding device on the surface. Experimental studies were conducted to study the behavior of vacuum suction cups in an aqueous environment to identify the possibility of their use for mobile transport systems operated in a liquid environment. To conduct research, an experimental stand was created that allows real-time recording of the level of vacuum in the cavities of vacuum suckers in an aqueous medium and recording the time to a steady level of vacuum.