Abstract
This study is an attempt to analyse man as a self-propelled underwater vehicle in order to define the optimum levels of his muscular work that would minimize the oxygen consumption needed for underwater paddle propulsion. Such an attempt is essential to the efficient operation of man in the sea. The optimum parameters namely: the travel speed, range, oxygen consumption and propulsion efficiency are determined for different travel depths and quantities of air reserve. These parameters are compared with those of existing muscle-operated underwater propulsion systems in order to show the potential of the paddle propulsion system as a good means for augmenting man's underwater locomotive capabilities. Compared to the swim fins the paddle propulsion system reduces the oxygen requirements nearly by 40%, at the optimum travel speed, and consequently has a propulsive efficiency 1 6 times as high.

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