Aqua-wheelchair performs flips underwater

Sandrine Ceurstemont, editor, New Scientist TV

We've showed you thought-controlled wheelchairs and a design that can dock like a spaceship. But now a new aqua-wheelchair can propel itself underwater, allowing disabled divers to perform acrobatic moves.

Developed by artist Sue Austin with the help of engineers and diving experts, the current prototype uses two dive propulsion vehicles and is steered by a foot-operated acrylic strip and bespoke fin. By placing the thrusters underneath the chair, the force is applied below the centre of gravity, making it easier to do flips in the water. A key challenge was keeping the chair buoyant, but this was achieved using simple swimming floats.

Austin is demonstrating her underwater choreography this week as part of a series of events related to the Paralympic Games, where the audience can join her underwater.