Robust Pitot-Type Waterflow Sensor System for Marine Animals in Harsh Environments

This study presents a waterflow sensor system for the velocity measurement of wild sea animals. Accurately measuring relative waterflow velocity has long been a challenge due to the harsh underwater environment, which include temperature change, acceleration, and water pressure. Here, we propose a dual Pitot-type waterflow sensor system designed to reduce the effect of disturbances encountered underwater. The proposed system consists of a detection unit and a compensation unit, with a cover attached so that only the detection unit side remains open. By taking the differential between these two units, the system can effectively eliminate the influence of external disturbances. To evaluate the sensor, the fabricated system was applied to temperature change, vibrations, and accelerations. Experimental results confirmed the system's ability to measure waterflow velocity while effectively canceling disturbances. Based on these findings, the proposed system demonstrates significant potential for measuring the velocity of wild marine animals.