The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Mar. 05, 1996
Filed:
Mar. 23, 1995
Mark P Egan, Inyokern, CA (US);
Other;
Abstract
An improved buoyancy compensator that reduces the scuba diver's attention and exertion required for buoyancy control and vertical propulsion. The buoyancy compensator, which includes an electronic sensor/valve assembly and a flexible air bladder, automates and controls the vertical motion of the scuba diver. An embedded computer acquires pressure, temperature, and air flow sensor measurement data to determine the diver's vertical motion and the amount of the air in the bladder. The computer controls electronic fill and release valves to change the bladder air volume. Algorithms are implemented, by the computer, to automate controlled vertical propulsion for ascending and descending, neutral buoyancy maintenance, and surface operation. Automated transitions are provided between modes of operation and for a timed safety stop during the ascent from the dive.