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eSpear – A wearable to scare away sharks with an electric field

February 27, 2020

The eSpear is a wearable which has the function of driving away sharks with an electric field. The eSpear was developed for surfers, swimmers and divers. If this product tells you anything, it's okay. It is the successor to the Shark Shield which was developed in 2004.

eSpear - A wearable to scare away sharks with an electric field

Shark Shield: the ancestor of ESpear

Once in the water, the Shark Shield forms a three-dimensional electric field around itself. When sharks enter this field, their electro-receptive system is disturbed. They then have muscle spasms and severe discomfort. Although they are not really injured, they prefer to leave the area.

Operation of the ESpear

ESpear uses the same system, but is in the form of a "pistol" which can be carried in an optional thigh holster; then removed if necessary. If users think a shark is getting too close, they squeeze the trigger. This would slide a front part of the device from the main body; exposing two electrodes to water. This, in turn, instantly creates an electric field surrounding the device. This electric field is 1 meter long by 2.5 meters wide.

Compared to the Shark Shield, this new device has the following advantages. It only works (and uses its battery) when activated manually, and it can be aimed directly at sharks. However, it's probably not as effective at guarding against sneak attacks.

Effectiveness of ESpear

Then there is the whole question of the effectiveness of the deterrent system. According to a 2016 study by the University of Western Australia, the Shark Shield is 90% more effective than a cartridge loaded with bait.

The eSpear weighs 250 g, is operational at a depth of 100 meters and operates for one to two hours per charge. The operating times of the lithium battery will be affected by the water temperature. An integrated LED screen lets users know when the battery is low.

If you're interested, it's currently the subject of an Indiegogo campaign. Pre-orders start at $ 165. Then the retail price will be $ 299.