SBIR-STTR Award

The diver navigation system (DIVENAV) accurately locates the position of scuba divers with respect to a dive boat. A display on the dive boat indicates magnetic bearing, distance, and depth for up to ten divers. In addition, the system will provide information to the diver to assist in his navigation. A digital readout on the diver's transponder is controlled by the divemaster on the dive boat. The readout indicates magnetic bearing and distance to a target. This information is automatically updated as the diver changes position. This system can be used by the divemaster to direct the diver back to the dive boat, to a remote location, or in a search pattern. Each diver can be independently directed.

The diver location, diver navigation system , DIVENAV, accurately locates up to ten scuba divers with respect to a dive boat. A "beacon" is suspended below the dive boat, it is managed by a "controller" on deck. A "transponder" is attached to the diver. A display on the controller indicates the magnetic bearing, distance, and depth for each diver. In addition, the transponder has a digital readout that indicates magnetic bearing and distance to the dive boat. The controller can alert one, or all divers to two conditions which will activate annunciators on the transponder. The conditions may be; a. ascend or, b. return to the dive boat. The diver can activate a switch on the transponder which will alert the divemaster to an emergency. The system architecture provides for an option which will permit the divemaster to direct the diver to a location other than the dive boat.

Keywords:
DIVER LOCATION, DIVER NAVIGATION, UNDERWATER GUIDANCE