Diving mirror

Abstract

The diving face mirror is characterized in that the diving face mirror comprises a main processor, a data storage device, a plurality of sensors connected to the main processor and used for collecting data in real time, a device connected to the main processor and used for providing information related to the data to a diver in real time, and a power source, the diving mask assembly is configured to provide electric power required for operation for the diving mask assembly through a power supply system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the diving mask as described in claim 1. Background Technology

[0002] Water sports have consistently been among the most popular areas of training and activity, offering a wealth of options and motivations for participation that can range from recreational and scientific research to amateur and professional sports. In recent years, technological advancements have revolutionized how we engage in water sports, endowing them with new characteristics, making them safer, and greatly expanding the potential for professionals and the field.

[0003] In particular, the methods and means of marine life observation and exploration have been significantly developed, altering the balance between human potential and nature. Freediving, scuba diving, and breath-hold diving have seen significant development and occupy an important position in the water activities market, while also belonging to both the mature recreational activities market and the emerging extreme sports market.

[0004] Diving equipment plays a vital role because it significantly improves safety levels, protects learners from external conditions and accidents, and reduces the likelihood and consequences of human error. Furthermore, technological advancements in equipment may create a specialized market for diving, catering to experienced divers, technical divers, or beginners seeking innovative equipment support and functionality.

[0005] However, the diving market lacks equipment that can provide divers with the parameter data they need in real time so that they can effectively analyze situations, make the right decisions, and take appropriate safety measures. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention aims to provide a diving mask capable of collecting and providing the user / diver with parameter data of interest in real time. This is achieved by the mask according to claim 1. Further embodiments and applications of this invention are the object of the dependent claims.

[0007] Referring to claim 1, the present invention provides a diving mask comprising a main processor, a data storage device, multiple sensors connected to the main processor for real-time data acquisition, a device connected to the main processor for providing information about the data to the diver in real time, and a power supply (battery) configured to provide the mask assembly with the power required for operation via a power control system.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the face mirror further includes a communication system connected to the main processor, configured to allow the face mirror to communicate bidirectionally with mobile electronic devices, cloud servers, and / or positioning satellite constellations.

[0009] The communication system may include at least one of the following:

[0010] • Sonar transceiver, enabling low-bit-rate underwater communication with other compatible devices (such as pressure gauges and other diver masks).

[0011] The device incorporates GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and 2G / 4G / 5G communication units, enabling it to calculate the mask's position on Earth based on satellite constellations such as Galileo, BeiDou, GPS, and GLONASS. Simultaneously, it allows the mask to communicate cellularly with a cloud computing platform to transmit diving data, configuration files, and firmware / software updates.

[0012] • Bluetooth / NFC unit for near-field connection to mobile devices.

[0013] • System command interface, such as capacitive, magnetic, or resistive haptic interface, or even a simple button.

[0014] The main processor is responsible for running the operating system, the face mask software, and all components and interfaces that control the face mask. All data is collected by the main processor and stored in its native memory (i.e., data storage device). The main processor coordinates and executes the operation state machine, which includes the following functions:

[0015] • Collect sensor data

[0016] • Calculations are performed based on multiple pre-defined models to convert sensor data into the information needed by the user.

[0017] Forward the information required by the user to the information providing device.

[0018] • Diving computer that acts as a freediver

[0019] • Calculate dive time, surface time, surface direction, and calories burned, provide timestamps and timers, and forward this information to the information providing device.

[0020] • Monitor the performance of the face mask assembly and the user, and send a notification via the information providing device when values ​​exceeding the limits are detected.

[0021] If the face mask includes a communication system, the main processor will check the availability of location records and communication in order to forward or receive data, and will be responsible for forwarding all or selected stored data directly to the computing cloud as soon as possible through the cellular communication interface or Bluetooth interface of the user's mobile electronic device.

[0022] According to the present invention, the sensor system for real-time data collection includes at least two of the following sensors:

[0023] • Pressure sensors provide information about a diver's depth. For example, a pressure sensor can zero out the depth at the surface or outside the water and begin measuring its pressure relative to the surface or outside the water, thereby calculating the diver's corresponding depth.

[0024] • An IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor provides information on three-axis acceleration / deceleration, heading, azimuth, pitch, roll, and yaw. This information can be used to analyze and monitor the diving process, while allowing real-time guidance of the diver's course to avoid confusion, and recording / analyzing underwater motion trajectories. Furthermore, by obtaining the initial surface position and using the inertial sensor, the position relative to that initial position can be calculated.

[0025] • SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation) sensor, used to monitor a diver's blood oxygen saturation, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and calorie consumption.

[0026] • Temperature sensors used to monitor divers' body temperature

[0027] • A temperature sensor for monitoring water temperature, which can be integrated into water temperature and depth / pressure sensors.

[0028] The device for providing user information includes at least one of the following:

[0029] Bone conduction headphones deliver information through the maxilla, eliminating the need for in-ear headphones. In-ear headphones are positioned within a face mirror, tangential to the maxilla, to ensure bone conduction.

[0030] • Augmented reality display screen: Information is displayed on the mirror glass in monochrome or color (RGB) format via miniature light-emitting diode (LED) displays and optical waveguides on one or two eyepieces.

[0031] • Vibration motor: When designing bone conduction headphones, the vibration motor can be used in conjunction with audio signals; when designing augmented reality displays, the vibration motor can be used in conjunction with optical signals to notify the user when values ​​exceed data limits or when a dangerous / critical situation is detected.

[0032] Depending on the sensor, the information that can be provided includes, for example, the following:

[0033] Water temperature

[0034] Water pressure, depth

[0035] ·body temperature

[0036] Blood oxygen saturation

[0037] Heart rate

[0038] Blood pressure is calculated by the main processor using data from the SpO2 sensor, preferably using photoplethysmography (PPG) analysis.

[0039] Calorie expenditure is calculated based on heart rate, weight, age, and gender.

[0040] • Heading and direction

[0041] GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) location

[0042] Cellular communication signal strength and status

[0043] Battery status

[0044] • Obtain local information about the diving environment (weather, ocean currents, hazard factors) through the communication unit, and perform positioning via GNSS.

[0045] • Diving computer notification

[0046] Digital compass

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the plurality of sensors are integrated into the face mirror. Alternatively, the plurality of sensors may also be connected to the face mirror via a suitable interface.

[0048] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the mask glass can also integrate an anti-glare mechanism so that the diver's skin moisture does not cause glare on the glass.

[0049] The anti-glare mechanism of this invention can control and adjust the temperature of the mask glass to prevent dew point. This anti-glare mechanism can be integrated into any diving mask, even a surface breathing mask (snorkeling mask), and a winter sports mask, without requiring the sensors and systems described in the diving mask of this invention.

[0050] The anti-glare mechanism prevents glare from the eyepiece, especially when there is a significant temperature difference between the water (or the air in contact with polycarbonate or tempered glass in winter sports masks) and the lens contact surface.

[0051] For example, during diving, glare can easily occur on the eyepiece glass due to moisture on the diver's skin, moisture remaining from wearing the mask, and humidity from exhaled air during pressure equalization. This is because moisture close to body temperature (approximately 36°C) condenses on the lower inner surface of the eyepiece glass.

[0052] The anti-glare mechanism described in this invention reduces and / or prevents moisture condensation by maintaining the inner surface at a temperature where dew points do not occur. For example, since the glass surface in a diving mask that comes into contact with water allows for heat dissipation at a rate higher than the heating rate caused by the glass's internal resistance, resulting in considerable energy consumption, a layered process for heat insulation of the glass is planned. The mask glass consists of three layers: from the outside in, polycarbonate or tempered glass, waveguide glass, and a waveguide protective film integrating a resistor and temperature sensor. The waveguide glass and the thin-film assembly are isolated from the polycarbonate or tempered glass by a transparent gel with low thermal conductivity.

[0053] The main processor implements a PLD controller that controls the temperature inside the membrane by using a temperature sensor and adjusting the current flowing through a resistor. Optionally, it further utilizes a temperature sensor on the diver's body surface and assumes that the water content inside the mask is greater than 98%, thereby maintaining the temperature at a level that prevents dew point.

[0054] Temperature sensor signals and resistance current are transmitted to the main processor via a flexible bus (Flex technology). The main processor can also diagnose the resistance status, such as open circuit or short circuit.

[0055] Two versions of anti-glare mechanisms are available for traditional diving masks, sea surface breathing masks (snorkeling masks), or winter sports masks, which can be integrated into any diving, seawater, or winter sports mask.

[0056] The first approach also includes electronic components, which operate on the same principle as those in this invention and the diving mask described above. The difference lies in the fact that traditional masks do not have waveguides; instead, polycarbonate glass is used, and a diaphragm with resistance and temperature sensors is mounted on the polycarbonate glass. The polycarbonate glass and diaphragm assembly are isolated from the polycarbonate or tempered glass outside the mask by a transparent gel with low thermal conductivity.

[0057] The second approach is a passive anti-glare mechanism, which contains no electronic components. It consists of tempered glass on the outside of the mirror, polycarbonate glass on the inside, and a transparent gel layer (intermediate layer) with low thermal conductivity between the two glass layers. In the passive approach, this significantly reduces the temperature drop of the internal glass due to water cooling, while in the active approach with electronic components, the temperature can be maintained above the dew point.

[0058] The mask of this invention effectively fills the gap in the prior art regarding information about divers, and completely changes the level of safety and the way of diving through the functions it provides.

[0059] Furthermore, this mask integrates a data collection and processing platform, allowing each user or instructor to use it individually for each dive, thereby reducing risks, improving safety, optimizing diver practice / training, and assisting in effective decision-making. The aforementioned functions provided by this invention's mask improve diving technology, transforming it from a general model to a customized model based on each diver's physiological characteristics (gender, age, body type, blood oxygen saturation) and environmental conditions (depth, temperature, ocean currents, visibility, etc.).

[0060] The preferred material for the face mask is injection-molded silicone rubber. Where feasible, the sensor and cable are permanently integrated into the face mask frame during the molding process (injection molding and / or overmolding), while sensors not permanently integrated into the face mask frame (e.g., diving cylinder pressure sensors) can be connected to the face mask via a suitable interface. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The invention will be fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0062] Figure 1 A block diagram showing a face mirror assembly according to one form of the present invention is shown.

[0063] Figure 2 The diagram schematically illustrates the communication potential of a face mask according to one form of the communication system based on the invention.

[0064] Figure 3 A schematic front view of a face mirror according to one form of the present invention is shown.

[0065] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a face mirror according to one form of the present invention is shown.

[0066] Figure 5 A schematic side view of a face mirror according to one form of the present invention is shown.

[0067] Figure 6 The illustration schematically shows a diving mask glass with an anti-glare mechanism according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 7 The diagram schematically shows a lens for a conventional diving mask, a surface breathing mask (snorkeling mask), or a winter sports mask, the lens comprising an anti-glare mechanism according to another form of the invention, and

[0069] Figure 8 The image schematically illustrates a lens for a conventional diving mask, a surface breathing mask (snorkeling mask), or a winter sports mask, which includes an anti-glare mechanism according to another form of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0070] refer to Figure 1 According to the present invention, the mask includes a main processor, preferably a multi-core processor, which is responsible for running the operating system, the mask software, and controlling all components and their interfaces. All data is collected by the main processor, which is responsible for storing the data in internal memory (i.e., a data storage device) and forwarding all or selected stored data to the computing cloud or electronic device as quickly as possible via a communication system through the user's mobile device, through the mask's cellular communication interface or Bluetooth interface. The main processor is responsible for coordinating and executing the operation state machine. Furthermore, as described above, it is also responsible for collecting sensor data, performing calculations based on multiple predetermined models, converting various data into information useful to the user, forwarding the user-useful information to an information providing device, and acting as the freediver's diving computer.

[0071] The mask includes a power system that handles the system's power (battery) and manages the power path for each component, enabling the main processor to have complete control over the mask's power functions and achieve effective power management, thereby extending the mask's active diving time.

[0072] The power system should ideally use high-capacity, fast-charging rechargeable lithium batteries, such as lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). The battery is connected to the power source, and the power system includes a power supply and management unit (Power Management Integrated Circuit), which is responsible for the following functions:

[0073] • Connect the battery to or disconnect it from the system.

[0074] • Monitor battery health status (remaining lifespan, internal resistance)

[0075] • Monitor charging / discharging status

[0076] • Monitor capacity status

[0077] • Executes a charging calculation program when the charger is connected.

[0078] • Protects the battery from overheating, power loss, surges, short circuits, overcharging, and over-discharging.

[0079] • Controls multi-channel power outputs at different power levels and can partially disable / enable them.

[0080] The mirror includes an information system that allows messages to be provided to the user in various forms, and includes information providing devices, such as... Figure 1An example of bone conduction headphones, in which information is provided in sound form via the maxilla without the need for headphones, is provided via an augmented reality display. The information is displayed on the mask glass in monochrome or color RGB using miniature LED displays and optical waveguides on one or two mask eyepieces. The mask glass integrates an anti-glare mechanism, a vibration motor / vibration generator to further combine audio and / or optical signals to notify the diver when values ​​exceed data limits or when a dangerous / critical situation is detected.

[0081] In addition, as mentioned above, Figure 1 The sample face mask includes a communication system that allows for bidirectional communication with mobile devices, cloud computing, and even positioning satellite constellations. This communication system includes a sonar (SONAR) transceiver, a GNSS tracking unit supporting 2G / 4G / 5G communication, a Bluetooth / NFC unit for short-range connectivity with mobile devices, and an interface for executing system commands (such as starting and stopping operations and forcing diagnostics). The interface for executing system commands can be haptic, capacitive, magnetic, or resistive, or even a simple button. The Bluetooth / NFC unit is also used for short-range connectivity with mobile devices, for example, using a mobile device application to initially configure the face mask and transfer data to it. End users can choose to exchange data with the face mask via their mobile device and their own mobile network through the application.

[0082] The functions of a communication system are as follows Figure 2 As shown, the face mirror interconnects with other devices (phones, cloud servers, positioning systems) in various ways, making it part of an ecosystem that provides end users with a full range of services.

[0083] According to the present invention, in Figure 2 In this example, once authorized, the mask automatically connects to a positioning satellite and determines its location on Earth, thus "knowing" its own position. This has two uses. First, the mask can offer different options and configurations depending on the location and type of dive. Second, the location data can be used for dive data analysis and presentation.

[0084] When the mask leaves the water, it can communicate directly with the cloud server in the user's account via cellular communication, or with nearby mobile devices that are securely connected to the mask via Bluetooth. For low-data-volume or quick-configuration scenarios, an NFC interface can also be used for communication with mobile devices.

[0085] Once data is uploaded to the cloud computing server, it is immediately stored in a time-series database for access by data statistical analysis processors and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) computing programs. Unprocessed data and information generated by processing programs are displayed in a control table hosted on the cloud computing server. On the cloud platform, each end-user's or multiple end-user accounts are unique and are segmented according to the organization, sub-organizations, and end-user structure.

[0086] Based on this communication system, a range of services / functions can be provided, such as using real-time ping for mask positioning, sending notifications to the mask (when technically feasible, such as when the mask comes out of the water, and mask usage training services).

[0087] The face mirror contains a sensor system, in Figure 1 In one example, the system includes a pressure sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor, a blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) sensor, and multiple temperature sensors for monitoring the diver's body temperature and the water temperature.

[0088] Multiple temperature sensors continuously monitor water temperature and the diver's body temperature. According to the present invention, the calculation program of the SpO2 sensor can perform initial calibration on the water surface immediately after wearing the mask to eliminate any errors that may be caused by the sensor's position on the body (forehead or temple), and then begin recording blood oxygen saturation SpO2 level, arterial blood pressure obtained by the calculation program and the main processor, and heart rate data at predetermined intervals.

[0089] IMU data, along with precise timestamps, is used to monitor divers' movements underwater so that the entire diving process can be reconstructed immediately after the data is provided to a cloud platform.

[0090] All of the above functions can be integrated into the mask's dive computer function. This function allows for dive planning in a manner similar to existing dive computers. However, the dive computer's calculation program now applies not only to preset dive steps and timings but also to real-time measurement data. This enables the mask to detect whether the dive plan is being followed or if there are any deviations, providing information and suggestions on the display screen, and issuing alerts when critical events are detected in the dive plan or physiological and environmental measurements.

[0091] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4The example demonstrates a face mask incorporating an augmented reality display. Information is displayed on the face mask glass in monochrome or RGB color format via miniature light-emitting diode (LED) displays 1 and 5 on the left and right side eyepieces, and optical waveguides 2 and 4. Furthermore, the face mask is equipped with optical sensors for blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) 7, 3, and 12, body temperature sensors 8 and 12, and water temperature and depth / pressure sensors 11.

[0092] Figure 4 The schematic perspective view of the mirror also shows an electronic module box containing a battery, a vibration generator, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Figure 5 A sonar transceiver 13 is shown. Furthermore... Figure 4 It also displays Bluetooth unit 10, NFC unit 10, GNSS 2G / 4G / 5G unit 10, bone conduction headphones 6, and the system command interface. In other versions, two or more communication system components can be integrated into a single chip.

[0093] Figure 6 The anti-glare mechanism of the face mirror is described. The glass in this example consists of three layers: from the outside in, polycarbonate or tempered glass 14, waveguide glass 15, and a waveguide protective film 18 integrating a resistor 17 and a temperature sensor 16. The waveguide glass and the thin-film assembly are isolated from the polycarbonate or tempered glass by a transparent gel with low thermal conductivity. Additionally, an augmented reality projector 19 and a bus 20 for control, data, and power are also shown in the figure.

[0094] A PLD controller is installed in the main processor, which controls the temperature inside the membrane by using a temperature sensor 16 and adjusting the current flowing through a resistor 17. This is further enhanced by using a temperature sensor on the diver's mask and assuming the water content inside the mask is >98%, thus maintaining the temperature at a level that effectively prevents dew point formation. The temperature sensor signal, digital data from the augmented reality (AR) projector, and the resistor current are transmitted to the main processor system via a flexible bus (Flex technology).

[0095] Figure 7 Anti-glare mechanisms are described for use in conventional diving masks, surface breathing masks (snorkeling masks), or winter sports masks. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the mirror consists of an outer glass 26 and an inner polycarbonate glass 25 from the outside in. A membrane 23 with a resistor 24 and a temperature sensor 22 is mounted on the inner polycarbonate glass 25. A PLD controller is installed in the main processor. This controller controls the temperature inside the membrane via the temperature sensor and regulates the current flowing through the resistor 24 via a bus 21 for control, data, and energy, thereby maintaining the temperature at a level that prevents dew point.

[0096] Figure 8A simplified anti-glare mechanism is demonstrated for use with conventional diving masks, surface breathing masks (snorkeling masks), or winter sports masks. The mask comprises, from the outside in, an outer glass layer 28, an inner polycarbonate glass layer 27, and a transparent gel interlayer with low thermal conductivity.

Claims

1. A diving mask comprising a main processor, a data storage device, a plurality of sensors connected to the main processor and used to collect data in real time, an information providing device connected to the main processor and used to provide information to the diver in real time about the data, a communication system connected to the main processor, the communication system configured to allow the mask to communicate bi-directionally with a mobile electronic device, a computing cloud server or / and a constellation of positioning satellites, and a power supply configured to provide the components of the diving mask with the power required for their operation through a power supply system, characterized in that, The device for providing information to the user comprises an augmented reality display screen, wherein the information is displayed in monochrome or color (RGB) form on the face glass through a micro light emitting diode (LED) display and an optical waveguide on one or two eye lenses, wherein the communication system comprises: • a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) 2G / 4G / 5G unit that allows the calculation of the position of the face glass on the Earth based on the satellite constellations Gallileo, Beidu, GPS, GIonass, etc., while it allows the cellular communication of the face glass with the computing cloud for the transmission of diving data, configuration files, firmware / software updates, • a Bluetooth / NFC unit for the near field connection to a mobile device • a system instruction interface wherein the face glass comprises a plurality of sensors integrated in the face glass: • a pressure sensor that provides information about the depth of the diver • an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor that provides information about the three-axis acceleration / deceleration, heading, direction and pitch, roll and yaw • a blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) sensor for monitoring the blood oxygen saturation, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and calories consumed by the diver • a temperature sensor for monitoring the body temperature of the diver • a temperature sensor for monitoring the water temperature, and wherein the main processor is responsible for running the operating system and the face glass software and controlling all the components of the face glass and its interfaces, wherein all data are collected by the main processor and stored in a data storage device, wherein the main processor, among other functions, performs the following functions: • collection of sensor data • calculation based on a plurality of predetermined models to convert the sensor data into user required information • forwarding of the user required information to the information providing device • acting as a dive computer for the free diver • calculation of the dive time, the surface time, the surface direction, and the calories consumed, and providing timestamps and timers, and forwarding this information to the information providing device • monitoring the performance of the face glass components and the user, and sending notifications through the information providing device when values that exceed the limits are detected • checking the availability of the position record and communication for the forwarding or receiving of data, and being responsible for forwarding all or selected stored data to the computing cloud or electronic device as soon as possible through the communication system, using the cellular communication interface or the Bluetooth interface of the face glass through the mobile device of the user.

2. The diving mask of claim 1, wherein, The communication system further comprises a sonar transceiver for low bit rate underwater communication with other compatible devices, such as pressure gauges and other buddy diver face glasses.

3. The diving mask according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The device for providing information to the user further comprises at least one of: • a bone conduction earpiece, wherein the information is provided acoustically through the upper jawbone without the need for earphones, the bone conduction earpiece being located at the point of tangency of the face glass with the upper jawbone to ensure bone conduction • a vibration motor further used in combination with the audio signal when designing the bone conduction earpiece or / and the optical signal when designing the augmented reality display screen, in order to notify the diver when values exceed the data limits or a dangerous / critical situation is detected.

4. The diving mask of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, The mirror glass incorporates anti-glare mechanisms.

5. The diving mask of claim 4, wherein, The mirror glass is composed of, from the outside in, polycarbonate or tempered glass, waveguide glass, a waveguide protective film incorporating a resistor and a temperature sensor, wherein the waveguide glass and film assembly are separated from the polycarbonate or tempered glass by a transparent gel with low thermal conductivity, a PlD controller is installed in the main processor, which controls the temperature in the film by means of the temperature sensor and adjusts the current flowing through the resistor, and by further using the temperature sensor of the mirror on the diver's body and assuming that the water content inside the mirror is > 98%, the temperature is maintained at a level that prevents the formation of dew point.

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