Optimal Decompression Through Multi-parametric Nonlinear Programming

Abstract

Abstract:Recently, a comprehensive dynamic mathematical model named Copernicus has been established to discover the mechanism of the vascular bubble formation and growth during and after decompression from a dive. The model uses Venous Gas Emboli (VGE) as a measurement and connects it to the risk of severe Decompression Sickness (DCS). Being validated by a series of diving tests, Copernicus model is believed to be suitable and efficient to predict DCS hence generate optimal decompression profiles for the divers. This paper is based on the Copernicus model and presents a nonlinear model predictive control approach, where multi-parametric nonlinear programming is used to construct an explicit solution for the ease of implementation on a typical low-cost diving computer.