Ask a Mechanical Engineer: Motion Sensor Work Underwater?

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Motion sensors can work underwater, but their effectiveness depends on various factors, including light conditions and the type of technology used. A combination of video cameras and software can detect motion by analyzing changes in images, although performance diminishes with depth due to reduced light. Doppler shift technology is commonly used in underwater applications, such as measuring the velocity of bubbles or particles. The movement of water, whether from waves or currents, affects the sensor's readings, with variable shifts in turbulent environments and constant shifts in steady flows. Understanding the specific requirements, such as target size and movement range, is crucial for selecting the appropriate motion sensor for underwater use.
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I was looking to get any advice from a mechanical engineer about motion sensors. Would it be possible to make a motion sensor work underwater? i wasn't sure if the water would interfere. Thanks for anything, if this isn't an appropriate place for this question i would appreciate if anyone has a better forum to ask on. Thanks!
 
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I'm not an ME and I don't know about different kinds of motion sensors but I can guarantee you that you can make an underwater motion detector with a combination of a video camera and software to detect changes in the image. This obviously would not work as the light got dimmer and dimmer at depths.
 
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Doppler shift flow meters are one example of similar tech. They measure the velocity of bubbles or particles in fluids.
 
Yes there are underwater motion sensors. Like Billy said, their functioning is based on Doppler shift. Usual motion sensors use infra red.
 
How is the water moving? What range do you require? How big are your moving targets?

Waves would produce variable doppler shifts, a flowing river would produce a constant doppler shift.

The echo of an ultrasonic pulse or chirp will depend on the position of nearby objects. If the record changes then the environment has changed.
 

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