An Experimental Investigation of How the Rip Entry Reduces Splash

Competitive divers perform the rip entry maneuver after impact to reduce their splash and increase their score. To perform a rip entry the diver must roll their body in a somersault after impact. The dynamic shape change after impact separates divers from previously studied entry bodies. We present a geometrically simplified single jointed diver model that performs a passive roll after impact that mimics the rip entry. A black light illuminates the splash and the air cavity collapse. A high-speed camera records the entry event, including the model's approach, impact, and underwater trajectory. Variations of the model are used to control the rate of deformation after impact. The trajectory during entry is tracked and the splash produced by air cavity collapse is measured. The relationship between different underwater trajectories and the splash production begins to explain how the rip entry allows divers to reduce their splash. The findings offer valuable insights that can inform training programs and potentially enhance diving performance in competitive settings.