Reduced gradient bubble model

Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM) is a computational algorithm used in the field of decompression theory to predict the formation and growth of gas bubbles in body tissues during decompression from underwater diving. The model was developed to improve the safety and efficiency of decompression procedures.

Overview

The Reduced Gradient Bubble Model was developed by Dr. Bruce Wienke, a physicist at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The model is based on the thermodynamic principles of bubble formation and growth, and incorporates both dissolved and free phase gas kinetics. The RGBM is used in several dive computers and dive planning software to calculate decompression schedules for divers.

Principles

The RGBM takes into account the presence of microscopic bubble nuclei in body tissues, which can grow into larger bubbles during decompression. The model uses a reduced gradient to limit the growth of these bubbles. The gradient is the difference between the ambient pressure and the pressure of gas in the tissues. By reducing this gradient, the model aims to minimize the risk of decompression sickness.

Applications

The RGBM is used in a variety of applications in the field of diving. It is incorporated into several dive computers and dive planning software, providing divers with decompression schedules that are designed to minimize the risk of decompression sickness. The model is also used in research to study the effects of diving on the body.

Criticisms and Limitations

While the RGBM has been widely adopted in the diving community, it is not without its criticisms and limitations. Some researchers argue that the model is overly conservative, leading to unnecessarily long decompression times. Others point out that the model does not account for individual variations in susceptibility to decompression sickness.

See Also

• Decompression theory
• Dive computer
• Dive planning