Modifications in the Automatic Diver Balance Technique

Abstract

ABSTRACT The automatic electromagnetic diver balance, described by Larsson & Løvtrup (1966), is based on the principle that a diver with density less than the surrounding medium is prevented from rising to the surface by an electromagnetic force acting on a small piece of iron placed in the diver. Since it was first introduced, the balance has displayed certain imperfections which have hampered experimental progress. The primary causes of these disturbances have been traced to temperature oscillations in the flotation medium, to details in the electronic design and to the magnetic materials used in the core and in the diver. In the course of the work to remedy these sources of trouble our understanding of the theory of the method has greatly improved and as a consequence we have been able to devise other innovations which enhance the precision of the method. This report presents in brief outline the theory and the various modifications introduced.