Chinese robotic exoskeleton slashes underwater diver oxygen use by 40%

Chinese researchers from the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology have reportedly developed a new robot-assisted diving suit that reduces a diver’s oxygen consumption by as much as 40%. This could make diving not only easier but also safer, especially for specialist applications like underwater work. Swimming underwater is a very energy-demanding process due to water resistance and momentum loss from actions like kicking. Robotic assistance should, in theory, help diver get more “bang for their buck” during ficks, thereby requiring less per swim. So, the less physical demand needed, the less energy, and by extension, oxygen consumed. At least, that’s…