Electronic diving system and face mask display

Abstract

A diver's information system is disclosed that displays information in the diver's line of sight without substantially obstructing his vision. The diver's system includes a microprocessor, and has an input capability that allows a diver to select one or more dive parameters before a dive. A plurality of sensors, connected to the microprocessor, are provided to monitor parameters such as air tank pressure, depth and water temperature. The system monitors these parameters during the ensuing dive, and provides warnings upon any of a variety of conditions occurring, such as if one or more of the parameters are violated. Throughout the dive, the system periodically stores dive data and any warnings (if present) in a static RAM. Subsequent to the dive, the stored information can be downloaded into an external computer through a provided external port. The display system of the preferred embodiment includes an LED display that is reflected from a red reflecting mirror affixed to the diver's face mask so that the image of the LEDs is positioned well within the diver's line of sight, but appears to be at a comfortable viewing distance from the diver's eyes, this distance being greater than the distance from the eyes to the mirror. Thus, simply by looking through his face mask, the diver can continuously monitor a display of pertinent dive information such as depth and water temperature, as well as essential information such as air tank pressure.