Stabilization system for divers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable stabilization system (100) capable of adjusting a diver's depth position relative to the surface in an underwater environment. The system (100) includes a pressurized gas source (200), a breathing gas source, an inflatable device (300), and a breathing device (400) that allows a diver to inhale breathing gas from the breathing gas source and that allows the diver to manually trigger the filling of the inflatable device (300).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] [Technical field] The present invention relates to the field of scuba diving and finds particular advantageous application in the field of diver stabilization.

[0002] [Prior art] Prior to the invention of stabilization vests, divers were forced to regulate their buoyancy and depth by breathing in and out while more or less inflating their lungs.

[0003] The first stabilization vest, the BCD (Buoyancy Control Device), commonly called a stab in French and English, fundamentally changed the diving experience.

[0004] The stabilization vest has a dual function: first, it regulates the diver's buoyancy during a dive according to depth, specifically controlling the diver's ascent to the surface, and second, it supports one or more scuba tanks that are strapped to the diver's back.

[0005] Over time, various other functions have been assigned to the vest, such as supporting a large number of accessories.

[0006] It is interesting to note that the air regulation in this vest is typically regulated by a pressure regulator.

[0007] Most of the current pressure regulators are two-stage pressure regulators: the 200 bar air in the tank (so-called high pressure (HP) tank) is first reduced to medium pressure (MP), i.e. about 10-12 bar above ambient pressure, by a first stage that is directly installed on the tank's tap. Several medium pressure (MP) pipes run from this pressure regulator. One of these pipes is for the vest, and one or two of these pipes are for the (one or more) second normal pressure expansion stages to allow the diver to breathe. The (one or more) second normal pressure expansion stages are (one or more) so-called low pressure (BP) expansion stages. If there are two second pressure regulators, one of the two is the main stage used by the diver. The other of the two is the so-called backup stage. The backup stage is used in case of failure of the main pressure regulator of this or any other diver. The second stage pressure regulator supplies air at a pressure that the diver can breathe, depending on the ambient pressure, which is the pressure of the water at the depth the diver is at. This pressure supplied by the second stage is equal to or very close to ambient pressure.

[0008] In the prior art, the vest is inflated using a pipe that is directly connected to the first stage of the pressure regulator. This inflation is then driven by an inflation button located on a manual inflator. The manual inflator is a device that includes a mouthpiece into which the diver can inflate the vest. Additionally, the manual inflator also includes another button that allows the vest to be vented and the air contained within the vest to be expelled.

[0009] In this type of prior art system, it is difficult for the diver to adjust the stability because, unlike hard ballast, an inflatable vest system with flexible air pockets is inherently unstable.

[0010] In prior art systems, if a diver is stable at a given depth and a slight imbalance causes the diver to rise slightly, then the ambient pressure drops, then the volume of the vest increases, and the Archimedes force causes the diver to rise more rapidly.

[0011] To be able to ascend at a controlled slow rate to avoid decompression accidents, the diver must permanently deplete the air contained inside the vest in a controlled manner. This is particularly problematic during the phase of ascent towards the surface. The same problems arise during descent.

[0012] Thus, known systems are the cause of numerous diving accidents every year. This problem is even more pronounced at shallower depths, because the pressure gradient as a function of depth varies considerably. Due to the risk of such accidents, scuba diving can only be performed by relatively experienced divers, except for first-time scuba dives at very shallow depths.

[0013] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a solution to at least some of these problems.

[0014] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a consideration of the following description and accompanying drawings, and it should be understood that other advantages may also be incorporated.

[0015] [overview] To this end, according to a first embodiment, a portable stabilization system capable of adjusting the depth position of at least one diver in an underwater environment relative to the surface of the water is provided, said system comprising at least one pressurized gas source, at least one breathing gas source, at least one inflatable device and at least one breathing device, said breathing device being adapted to enable the diver to breathe breathing gas from the breathing gas source and preferably to enable the diver to manually trigger the filling of the inflatable device with gas.

[0016] The system comprises: an inflation configuration in which the inflatable device is configured to at least partially inflate, preferably automatically inflate, so as to decrease the diver's depth position; a stop configuration, in which the inflatable device is configured to inject or withdraw gas to maintain the diver's depth position; a deflation configuration, in which the inflatable device is configured to at least partially and automatically deflate to increase the diver's depth position; and It is configured so that you can switch between

[0017] The stabilization system includes an automatic controller configured to automatically switch the configuration of the system between one of an inflated configuration, an inactive configuration, and a deflated configuration. The automatic control device includes (i) an electronic module configured to evaluate a depth position of the diver, and (ii) a control module configured to receive at least one depth data from the electronic module and determine control commands from at least the depth data.

[0018] The stabilization system also includes a switch device configured to cooperate with the automatic control device to switch the configuration of the system in accordance with at least the control commands. a pressurized gas primary inlet configured to cooperate with a pressurized gas source; a pressurized gas primary outlet configured to cooperate with an inflatable device to inflate the inflatable device when the system is in an inflated configuration; a discharge module configured to cooperate with the inflatable device to reduce the amount of gas contained inside said inflatable device when the system is in a deflated configuration; At least one of the following is provided:

[0019] This allows the diver to easily control his / her depth and stabilize himself / herself at the desired depth.

[0020] The invention therefore makes it possible to significantly reduce the risk of uncontrolled ascent, which could lead to a serious decompression accident. The invention therefore solves the problem of significantly improving the safety of underwater diving systems. The invention thus makes it possible for inexperienced divers to access the pleasures of diving. Furthermore, the invention significantly improves comfort, since it makes it easier for the diver to stabilize himself at the desired depth.

[0021] In particular, this allows for the venting of breathing gas from the inflatable device in a simple, reliable, fast and easy manner.

[0022] Without the present invention, a diver would be forced to assume complex, uncomfortable or cumbersome positions in order to create a pressure differential between (i) the pressure of the air contained within the inflatable device and (ii) the ambient pressure at the outlet of the air contained within the inflatable device in order to expel a portion of the gas present within the inflatable device.

[0023] Advantageously, this technical solution allows the diver's depth to be controlled manually or automatically.

[0024] Another aspect relates to a method for stabilizing the depth position of at least one diver in an underwater environment relative to the surface of the water, the diver being equipped with at least one system according to the invention, a source of pressurized gas, and at least one inflatable device, the method comprising the steps performed by an automatic control device: - determining the diver's breathing rate from a breathing sensor; - determining the diver's change in depth from a breathing rate obtained from a depth sensor; - automatically controlling the switch device by an automatic control device to adjust the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device to compensate for the determined depth variation; The present invention includes at least the following:

[0025] This makes it possible to correct for depth changes associated with variations in the amount of breathing gas present inside the diver's lungs as he breathes.

[0026] Another aspect relates to a computer program product including instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, perform at least each of the steps of the method.

[0027] [Brief description of the drawings] The objects, aims, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments, as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

[0028] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a stopped configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a system in an expanded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a retracted configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 4 shows diagrammatically a diver equipped with the invention according to a first embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a stopped configuration according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a system in an expanded configuration according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a retracted configuration according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 9 shows a schematic enlarged view of a portion of a carriage according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 10 illustrates a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] 11 and 12 show a control device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] 13A to 14B show an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 15 shows a diagram of a part of a system in which an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention is located.

[0041] The drawings are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. These drawings are schematic principle diagrams intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and are not necessarily drawn to scale in practical applications. In particular, the dimensions do not represent actual objects.

[0042] [Detailed Description] Before commencing a detailed discussion of the embodiments of the present invention, optional configurations that may be used in any combination or alternatively are set forth below.

[0043] According to one example, the pressurized gas source and the breathing gas source form one (single) pressurized breathing gas source.

[0044] According to one example, the exhaust module is configured to cooperate with the inflatable device to reduce the amount of gas contained within the inflatable device by generating a pressure differential when the system is in a deflated configuration.

[0045] According to one example, the pressure differential is created automatically and / or manually.

[0046] This may consist of a pressure difference between (i) the pressure of the air contained inside the inflatable device and (ii) the ambient pressure at the outlet of the air contained inside the inflatable device.

[0047] According to one example, the exhaust module comprises an exhaust gas outlet designed (intended) to be located at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device, particularly when the diver is in a horizontal swimming position or an ascending position, the pressure difference being created by placing the control device at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device.

[0048] According to one example, the exhaust module comprises a suction module configured to cooperate with the pressurized gas source and the inflatable device to reduce the amount of gas contained within the inflatable device when the system is in a deflated configuration. A pressure differential is created by the suction module.

[0049] According to one example, this pressure difference corresponds to sucking in a portion of the gas contained in the inflatable device.

[0050] According to one example, the suction module comprises: A first inlet, called the pressurized gas secondary inlet; A second inlet, called the primary suction gas inlet; - Primary suction gas outlet; The system includes a first inlet that is fluidly connected to a source of pressurized gas when the system is in a deflated configuration, the first inlet is not fluidly connected to the source of pressurized gas when the system is in an inflated configuration, and the second inlet that is fluidly connected to the inflatable device when the system is in a deflated configuration.

[0051] The suction module is configured such that when the system is in a deflated configuration, pressurized gas is supplied to the suction module from a source through the pressurized gas secondary inlet of the suction module, the supply of pressurized gas causing suction of air contained within the inflatable device by the Venturi effect, the air being drawn into the interior of the suction module through the suction gas primary inlet of the suction module.

[0052] The suction gas is then discharged through the suction gas primary outlet. According to one example, the primary outlet is fluidly connected to the surrounding environment. In this case, the air drawn from the inflatable device is then released. Pressurized gas supplied from the source through the secondary inlet of the suction module is also discharged through the suction gas primary outlet.

[0053] In fact, only a small amount of air coming from the source is enough to create the Venturi suction, and the diver can quite simply deflate the vest without creating a pressure differential by placing the mouthpiece of the inflator at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device (typically a stabilization vest).

[0054] According to one example, the switch device comprises a pressurized gas secondary outlet configured to cooperate with the suction module and form a contraction circuit with the pressurized gas primary inlet.

[0055] This allows the pressurized gas from the source to be used to create a Venturi effect, which preferably provides the energy to operate the suction device.

[0056] According to one example, the suction module comprises: a secondary pressurized gas inlet; a primary suction gas inlet; a primary suction gas outlet; When the system is in a deflated configuration, the pressurized gas secondary inlet is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas secondary outlet and the suction gas primary inlet is fluidly connected to the inflatable device, whereby the inflatable device is deflated by suction caused by the Venturi effect generated by the pressurized gas flowing through the pressurized gas secondary inlet. The gas drawn in by the suction gas primary inlet and at least a portion of the pressurized gas are then discharged through the suction gas primary outlet.

[0057] This allows the diver to inhale at least a portion of the breathing gas from the inflatable device without physically creating a pressure difference between (i) the pressure of the air contained inside the inflatable device and (ii) the ambient pressure at the outlet of the air contained inside the inflatable device.

[0058] For example, when descending, in order to create a pressure difference between the air inside the vest and the air outlet, the diver should not hold the pipe above his head, which previously forced the diver to adopt a less comfortable position.

[0059] In fact, this allows depleting the air contained within the inflatable device in a manner that is simple, reliable and with few or even no restrictions.

[0060] According to one example, the pressurized gas secondary inlet has a larger diameter than the suction gas primary inlet.

[0061] According to one example, the pressurized gas secondary inlet is aligned with the suction gas primary outlet to define a flow path for the pressurized gas, and the suction gas primary inlet is disposed perpendicular to the flow path for the pressurized gas.

[0062] According to one example, the pressurized gas secondary inlet is aligned with the pressurized gas primary outlet to define a pressurized gas flow path having a diameter that has a constriction at the inhalation gas primary inlet according to a direction of circulation of the pressurized gas along the breathing gas flow path.

[0063] According to one example, the system is further configured with a regulation configuration that is set to stabilize the diver's depth position by adjusting, preferably automatically, the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device.

[0064] According to one example, the electronic module includes at least one depth sensor configured to assess a depth at which a diver is located.

[0065] According to one example, the electronic module is preferably entirely immersed in the sealing material, preferably in a resin.

[0066] According to one example, the control module is preferably entirely immersed in the sealing material, preferably in a resin.

[0067] According to one example, the system includes at least one safety valve configured to switch between allowing and blocking the supply of pressurized gas to the system.

[0068] According to one example, the system includes a manual control device configured to manually switch the configuration of the system between one of an ascent configuration, a stop configuration, and a descent configuration.

[0069] According to one example, the automatic control device and the manual control device are physically fixed to each other.

[0070] According to one example, the switch device comprises at least one multi-valve having at least one actuator capable of moving a movable element between at least a first position, a second position and a third position, the first position configured to switch the system at least partially to a deactivated configuration, the second position configured to switch the system to a deflated configuration, and the third position configured to switch the system to an inflated configuration.

[0071] This makes it possible to control the configuration of the stabilization system by simply moving the movable elements of the multi-valve.

[0072] According to one example, the multi-valve has at least one body in which a movable element is moved by an actuator (521). The body has a pressurized gas primary inlet, a pressurized gas primary outlet, a pressurized gas secondary outlet, and a suction gas secondary outlet. The pressurized gas secondary outlet is fluidly connected to a suction module. The suction gas secondary outlet is fluidly connected to a suction module.

[0073] According to one example, the movable element is at least partially rotationally movable about an axis of rotation.

[0074] According to one example, the movable element is at least partially translatable according to a translation axis.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the pressurized gas secondary outlet is connected to a pressurized gas secondary inlet of the suction module, and the exhaust gas secondary outlet is connected to a suction gas primary inlet of the suction module.

[0076] According to one example, the movable element is configured to cooperate with the body of the multi-valve to form pressurized gas circulation circuits according to the configuration of the system. These paths include: an expansion circuit; a supply circuit of the suction module; - Contractile circuit, The expansion circuit is at least partially defined between the pressurized gas primary inlet and the pressurized gas primary outlet when the system is in the expanded configuration. The suction module supply circuit is at least partially defined between the pressurized gas primary inlet and the pressurized gas secondary outlet when the system is in the collapsed configuration. The deflation circuit is at least partially defined between the suction gas secondary inlet and the suction gas secondary outlet when the system is in the collapsed configuration.

[0077] According to one example, the movable element includes at least one reflective element, the reflective element being capable of reflecting at least one light beam.

[0078] This can provide sensors that allow the control device to know the configuration of the stabilization system in real time.

[0079] This in turn may result in sensors that have little or no sensitivity to marine and underwater environments.

[0080] According to one example, the switch device comprises at least one set of valves, the set including at least an inflation valve, a deflation valve and a supply valve of a suction module. The inflation valve is configured to fluidly connect a pressurized gas source to the inflatable device. The deflation valve is configured to fluidly connect the inflatable device to the suction module such that at least a portion of the gas contained inside the inflatable device is sucked in by a Venturi effect or another suction device. The supply valve of the suction module is configured to fluidly connect the pressurized gas source to the suction module so as to generate said Venturi effect allowing the suction of at least a portion of the gas present inside the inflatable device.

[0081] According to one example, the automatic control device comprises at least - a control module for a switch device; - an optical emitter and an optical receiver; -Electronic module, A plurality of actuators, -Microprocessor, and a control module of the switch device configured to change the configuration of the system. The optical emitter and the optical receiver are configured to be able to monitor the configuration of the system. The electronic module includes at least a breath sensor and a depth sensor. The breath sensor is configured to be able to assess a diver's breathing rate. The depth sensor is configured to be able to assess a diver's depth. The actuator is configured to enable control of the automatic control device by the diver. Preferably, the actuator is configured to be operated (activated) by the diver to enable control of the automatic control device by the diver. In this case, the above-mentioned control command depends on the operation by the diver of the actuators. The microprocessor is configured to execute a set of control commands of the system.

[0082] This allows the diver to control the stabilization system and obtain dive information.

[0083] According to one example, the reflective element is configured to cooperate with the light emitter and the light receiver to define at least one optical path between the light emitter and the light receiver according to a system configuration.

[0084] According to one example, the breath sensor is configured to cooperate with an automatic control device and a depth sensor, the automatic control device controls a switch device to switch configurations of the system in response to adjusting the amount of gas required for the inflatable device to counterbalance the breathing gas present inside the diver's lungs and the resulting depth variations of the diver.

[0085] This allows compensation for depth variations associated with variations in the amount of breathing gas present inside the diver's lungs while breathing.

[0086] According to one example, the system comprises at least a first actuator and a second actuator belonging to a plurality of actuators. The first actuator comprises a first light emitter and a first light receiver. The second actuator comprises a second light emitter and a second light receiver. The first light emitter is configured to emit a first pulse train in the direction of the first light receiver. The second light emitter is configured to emit a second pulse train in the direction of the second light receiver. The emission of the second pulse train is offset in time by a predetermined time with respect to the emission of the first pulse train. That is, when a pulse belonging to the first pulse train is emitted, no pulse belonging to the second pulse train is emitted. And when a pulse belonging to the second pulse train is emitted, no pulse belonging to the first pulse train is emitted.

[0087] Alternatively, the system comprises a specific capture device configured to allow the exchange of a code corresponding to a rise command or a fall command. As it is not possible to illuminate the emitted light on one target while avoiding the other target cells, according to another specific example, the system comprises another alternative solution, namely an optical element configured to focus the emitted light, thereby allowing the emitted light to be illuminated on one target cell.

[0088] According to one example, the system includes at least one exhaust circuit including a plurality of turns disposed between an exhaust gas inlet and an exhaust gas outlet.

[0089] This makes it possible to delay the intrusion of water into the exhaust circuit.

[0090] According to one example, the exhaust gas outlet is fluidly connected to a check valve having a gas exhaust port, the check valve configured to prevent water from entering the exhaust circuit via the exhaust gas outlet.

[0091] According to one example, the automatic control device comprises at least one humidity sensor. A humidity sensor is disposed at least partially within the exhaust circuit, the humidity sensor being configured to detect the presence of water within the exhaust circuit.

[0092] According to one example, the automatic control device is preferably entirely immersed within the sealing material, preferably within the resin.

[0093] This allows all electronic elements of the control device to be protected from the effects of the sea.

[0094] This allows the control device with the optical actuator to be sealed.

[0095] In one example, the system includes an assembly having a turbine and an alternator, an energy system fluidly connected to a source of pressurized gas, and the energy system configured to convert the pressurized gas into electrical energy.

[0096] According to one example, the system includes at least two assemblies configured to be mounted in series or parallel.

[0097] According to one example, the system comprises a storage device capable of supplying electrical energy to the system to enable proper operation of the system, and the storage device is capable of storing electrical energy output by the energy system.

[0098] The present invention relates to a depth stabilization system for a diver, designed to allow the diver to manually or automatically control, via a control device, the diver's ascent, descent and stabilization while scuba diving.

[0099] As will be described later, the system is ingeniously designed to ensure diver safety, reliability, and comfort.

[0100] According to a preferred embodiment, the stabilization system is portable so that it can be carried by a diver.

[0101] According to another embodiment, at least a portion of the system may or may not be located at a remote location on the surface of the earth so as not to be integrally carried by the diver.

[0102] According to one embodiment, a portion of the stabilization system is provided on a marine vehicle, preferably an underwater marine vehicle.

[0103] According to one example, the switch device is carried by a first diver, and the automatic control device is configured to be carried, at least in part, by a second diver, where the second diver controls the switch device of the first diver.

[0104] According to one example, a system includes an energy system including an assembly having at least one turbine and at least one alternator, the energy system being arranged in contact with a flow of gas originating from a pressurized gas source, and the energy system being configured to convert a portion of the energy of the flow into electrical energy.

[0105] According to one example, the system includes at least two assemblies configured to be mounted in series or parallel.

[0106] According to one example, the system comprises an electrical energy storage device capable of supplying electrical energy to the system and storing electrical energy output by the energy system.

[0107] According to one example, the system also includes a respiration sensor configured to perform an assessment of the diver's respiration rate, and the control module is configured to determine control commands according to the assessment of the diver's respiration rate.

[0108] According to another embodiment, a part of the stabilization system may be carried by a first user, and another part of the stabilization system may be carried by a second user. For example, the first user may be a diving professor and the second user may be a diving student. According to this embodiment, the first user may have a remote control device that allows control of the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device carried by the second user.

[0109] This particularly advantageous embodiment makes it possible to avoid decompression accidents when an inexperienced diver tries to quickly ascend to the surface, as well as to prevent an inexperienced diver from descending too deeply without the attention of his instructor.

[0110] For group dives, this embodiment allows the dive leader to place all divers at the desired depth. This depth control may be adjusted individually for each diver. Conversely, this control may be unique for all divers on a group dive. This allows the instructor to fully safely manage multiple stages performed by multiple divers.

[0111] According to one example, the present invention relates to a method for stabilizing the depth position of at least one first diver relative to the surface of an underwater environment using at least one system, in which a switch device is carried by the first diver and an automatic control device is carried at least in part by a second diver. The method comprises the following steps: a. selecting, by a second diver, a switch command from an automatic control device; b. transmitting a switch command from the automatic control device to a switch device carried by the first diver; and c. switching the configuration of the system according to at least said switch command; Contains:

[0112] Thus, the present invention allows untrained divers to perform voyages at depths normally reserved for more experienced divers, without the risk of decompression induced by an overly rapid ascent.

[0113] To this end, a switch device carried by a first diver may be adapted to receive control or switch commands from a second diver (an instructor or dive leader) such that the control device of the second diver remotely transmits the switch commands to the first diver.

[0114] Advantageously, the stabilization system allows the diver to adjust his / her depth position relative to the surface in an underwater environment. In an inventive manner, the stabilization system is configured to cooperate with typical devices and equipment of a diver. The stabilization system is thus configured to cooperate with (i) at least one pressurized gas source, for example one or more scuba tanks, and (ii) at least one inflatable device, for example a stabilization vest, commonly referred to as a stub, or (iii) for example a ballast or a buoy. Preferably, the stabilization system is configured to cooperate with at least one breathing device, which is configured to enable the diver to breathe breathing gas from the pressurized gas source. Advantageously, the pressurized gas source and the breathing gas source form one pressurized breathing gas source. As will be described below, the breathing device may be configured to enable the diver to manually trigger the filling and / or degassing (venting) of the inflatable device via a manual vent circuit.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the stabilization system is configured to have multiple alternating configurations.

[0116] For example, the stabilization system may be configured to have an inflation configuration that is set to decrease a diver's depth position by at least partially inflating an inflatable device and, optionally, subsequently deflating the inflatable device when pressure acting on the inflatable device decreases as the user ascends toward the surface, where decreasing depth position thus means ascending toward the surface.

[0117] For example, the stabilization system may be configured to have a deflated configuration that is configured to increase the diver's depth position by at least partially deflating the inflatable device, where increasing the depth position thus means descending toward the ocean floor and away from the water surface.

[0118] For example, the stabilization system may be configured to have a rest configuration that is configured to stabilize the depth position of a diver by allowing gas to be vented within the device to maintain the diver's depth position, and in the rest configuration, the system may be configured to inject gas into or withdraw gas from the inflatable device.

[0119] It should be understood that by maintaining the diver's position, the depth at which the diver is located will not change by more than 1 meter.

[0120] Advantageously, according to one embodiment, the stabilization system is configured to have a regulation configuration, which is set to regulate the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device. In the regulation configuration, the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device is thus regulated. This regulation, which is preferably automatic, allows adding and / or withdrawing and / or storing a predetermined amount of gas in the inflatable device to compensate for depth variations caused by the diver's breathing.

[0121] Beneficially, therefore, the stabilization system is configured to automatically and / or manually switch from one configuration to another.

[0122] An inflated configuration should be understood to be an inflated configuration of the stabilization system that causes the diver to ascend, and similarly a deflated configuration should be understood to be a deflated configuration of the stabilization system that causes the diver to descend.

[0123] A lower depth should be understood to be a location of the submerged system that is closer to the water surface. In other words, a greater or significant depth should be understood to be a location of the submerged system that is farther from the water surface. Thus, a greater or significant depth should be understood to be a location of the submerged system that is located vertically below the lower depth.

[0124] According to a preferred embodiment, the stabilization system comprises: -An automatic control device; A switch device; The automatic control device is configured to automatically switch the configuration of the system to any one of an up configuration, a stop configuration, a down configuration, and a regulation configuration. The switch device is configured to cooperate with the automatic control device to switch the configuration of the system according to at least the control command.

[0125] As described below, automatic control devices are an electronic module; A control module; The electronic module is configured to assess the depth of the diver. The electronic module may further include a depth sensor. The depth sensor is for example designed to measure at least one physical and / or chemical and / or biological parameter allowing to assess the depth of the diver. The control module is configured to receive the at least one depth data from the electronic module and to determine at least one control command from said depth data.

[0126] As shown in the following figures, the switch device is a pressurized gas primary inlet; a pressurized gas primary outlet; an ejection module; The system includes at least: a pressurized gas primary inlet configured to cooperate with a pressurized gas source; a pressurized gas primary outlet configured to cooperate with an inflatable device to inflate the inflatable device when the system is in an inflated configuration and / or preferably a stabilization configuration; and a drainage module configured to cooperate with an inflatable device to reduce the amount of gas contained inside the inflatable device by creating a pressure differential when the system is in a deflated configuration.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the exhaust module comprises a gas exhaust, which is intended to be placed at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device, thus allowing a pressure difference to be generated. For example, this pressure difference may be generated, for example manually, preferably by the user himself, by placing an automatic control device at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device, thereby generating a pressure difference.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the evacuation module comprises a suction module, which is configured to cooperate with the inflatable device so as to reduce the amount of gas contained inside the inflatable device. Preferably, this suction is generated by the Venturi effect. In a known manner, a nozzle of the suction system allows the pressure difference to be generated by the Venturi effect. In a known manner, the nozzle has a constriction in the passage. This allows the pressure difference to be generated automatically. This avoids the user having to manually generate a pressure difference between the ambient pressure at the depth of the inflatable device and the pressure of the air at the outlet of the inflatable device, for example by positioning the outlet of the inflatable device above his head. It should be noted that the suction module may have another configuration that does not realize the Venturi effect.

[0129] Advantageously, the suction module comprises: - a secondary pressurized gas inlet; - a primary suction gas inlet; - a primary suction gas outlet; At least one of the following is provided:

[0130] It should be noted that the gas present inside the inflatable device may include breathing gas and / or non-breathable gas, e.g., gas resulting from the diver's exhalation, which may be the case if the diver inflates the inflatable device himself.

[0131] Preferably, the suction module is configured such that when the system is in the deflated and / or regulated configuration, the pressurized gas secondary inlet is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas primary inlet and the suction gas primary inlet cooperates with the inflatable device to deflate the inflatable device by suction. According to a non-limiting embodiment, this suction is inventively achieved by the Venturi effect. Advantageously, this Venturi effect is generated by the pressurized gas flowing in through the pressurized gas secondary inlet. Thus, the gas sucked in through the suction gas primary inlet and at least a portion of the pressurized gas are exhausted through the suction gas primary outlet of the suction module.

[0132] According to a particular embodiment, the system 100 comprises a venturi or a venturi device configured to suck in the gas present inside the inflatable device 300, so that the diver does not have to hold the system 100 above his head during the ascent phase. The venturi acts like an aspirator. It allows the inflatable device 300 to be deflated without creating a pressure difference between the pressure level inside the inflatable device 300 and the pressure level at the breathing gas outlet 660. Advantageously, the venturi is arranged in reverse.

[0133] It should be noted that according to a preferred embodiment, the system may also comprise a pressure reduction device, which makes it possible to at least partially isolate the manual vent circuit from the deflation circuit.

[0134] This stabilization system therefore makes it possible to manually or automatically manipulate the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device and therefore to regulate the diver's depth.

[0135] Moreover, as will be described below, in an inventive manner, the breathing rate of the diver can be taken into account in order to counteract the effect of the breathing rate on the diver's stability at depth. In fact, with each inhale or exhale, the amount of breathing gas inside the diver's lungs fluctuates, causing oscillations in the diver's depth. Advantageously, the system also allows the measurement and / or forecasting and / or prediction of the diver's breathing rate, thereby compensating for these fluctuations by adjusting in real time the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device.

[0136] The present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0137] 1 and 5 show a stabilization system 100 according to the present invention, according to one embodiment.

[0138] In these two figures, the system 100 is in the deactivated configuration, i.e. the amount of breathing gas present inside the inflatable device 300 remains unchanged.

[0139] In particular, it should be noted that neither the inflation circuit 611 nor the deflation circuit 621 is open.

[0140] 2 and 6, the system 100 is in an inflated configuration. Indeed, in these two figures, the switch device 600 is configured to direct the flow of pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source 200 towards the inflation device 300, preferably via an inflation circuit 611.

[0141] In Figures 3 and 7, the system 100 is in a deflated configuration. Indeed, in these figures, the switch device 600 is configured to direct the flow of pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source 200 towards the suction module 630, preferably via the supply circuit 612 of the suction module. The switch device 600 is then configured to direct the gas from the inflatable device 300 to be drawn into the suction module 630, preferably via the deflation circuit 621, advantageously by the creation of a Venturi effect by the suction module 630.

[0142] According to one embodiment, when the system is in the regulation configuration, it alternates between the inflation, deflation and even deactivation configurations. In fact, in the regulation configuration, the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device 300 is continuously and in real time regulated or adjusted according to the needs of the user.

[0143] Indeed, according to one embodiment, and by way of non-limiting example, the stabilization system 100 may be configured to limit the speed of ascent of the user. In particular, the stabilization system 100 may be provided with depth stages, in which case, when the user wishes to ascend, the system may automatically control the diver's buoyancy to comply with these predefined stages. Also, when the diver is in a certain stage, the system may automatically prevent ascent for a predefined period of time. However, for safety, an emergency ascent feature may be provided, allowing the automatic system to be bypassed.

[0144] 1-3 and 5-7 it can be seen that a pressurized gas source 200 (e.g. a pressurized air tank) is fluidly connected to a pressure regulator 210 which is itself fluidly connected to a breathing device 400. A breathing mouthpiece 430 is provided on the breathing device 400 to enable a diver to breathe and / or manually inflate the inflatable device 300.

[0145] Thus, advantageously, the pressurized gas source 200 is a pressurized breathing gas source.

[0146] In these figures, the pressurized gas source 200 is also fluidly connected to the switch device 600. In this case, pressurized gas can be supplied to the switch device 600 as needed, preferably when the diver and / or the automatic control device 500 automatically considers it necessary to inflate the inflatable device 300 or deflate the inflatable device 300. It should be noted that the pressurized gas source 200 is fluidly connected to the switch device 600 via the pressurized gas primary inlet 610 described above.

[0147] Finally, the pressurized gas source 200 is fluidly connected to the respiratory device 400. In this case, pressurized gas can be manually supplied to the inflatable device 300 using, for example, a manual inflation actuator 410.

[0148] In these figures, the inflatable device 300 preferably includes, but is not limited to, a stabilization vest worn by a diver. The stabilization vest is fluidly connected to the switch device 600, preferably via the switch device's pressurized gas primary outlet 620. According to one embodiment, the inflatable device 300 is a stabilization vest worn by a diver.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the inflatable device can be filled with gas directly by the user by breathing through a pipe, for example through a breathing mouthpiece 430 .

[0150] In these figures, the inflation device 300 is fluidly connected to the breathing device 400, preferably via the inflation outlet 310. In these figures, the inflation inlet 411 is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas source 200. It should be noted that the manual inflation actuator 410 allows the diver to circulate pressurized gas from the source 200 towards the inflatable device 300, preferably through at least a portion of the breathing device 400, advantageously via a manual inflation valve 412.

[0151] In these figures, it can be seen that the breathing device 400 may include a manual vent actuator 420 of the inflatable device 300. This actuator 420 drives a vent valve 421 configured to open a circuit for manual exhaust of the gas contained inside the inflatable device 300. This exhaust preferably occurs via a breathing gas exhaust port 422. The manual vent actuator 420 and the vent valve 421 are part of a manual vent circuit. Preferably, this manual function, which is common in the prior art, is only a manual solution in case of, for example, malfunction of an automatic control device. However, it forces the diver to assume an uncomfortable position, which is well known for divers.

[0152] According to a preferred embodiment, the system comprises at least one pressure reduction device configured to at least partially isolate the manual vent circuit from the deflation circuit described below. In particular, this device may be manufactured by a ball, knife gate or membrane type valve.

[0153] According to a preferred embodiment, the stabilization system 100 includes at least one safety valve 604. The safety valve 604 is configured to switch between allowing and preventing the supply of pressurized gas to the system 100.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the safety valve 604 allows operation only in manual or automatic mode. This prevents the system from operating according to manual and automatic modes simultaneously. According to this embodiment, the safety valve 604 directs the supply of pressurized gas towards a manual control device or an automatic control device.

[0155] According to another embodiment, the safety valve 604 allows continuous operation in manual and automatic modes. Nevertheless, preferably, switching to the manual position allows disconnecting the supply of pressurized gas to the automatic control device, in order to avoid loss of breathable air in case of defective electronics and / or mechanisms of the automatic control and the pressurized gas source being a pressurized breathing gas source. Thus, according to one arrangement, the safety valve allows disconnecting the automatic mode from the manual mode, thus protecting the safety of the user in case of electronic and / or mechanical problems.

[0156] Advantageously, this safety valve 604 is a ball valve.

[0157] In figures 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 a switch device 600 is shown, the latter having a pressurized gas primary inlet 610, which is designed to form an expansion circuit 611 together with a pressurized gas primary outlet 620. This pressurized gas primary inlet 610 is also designed to form, together with a pressurized gas secondary inlet 631, preferably carried by the suction module 630, a supply circuit 612 of the suction module 630, preferably via a pressurized gas secondary outlet 613 carried by the switch device 600.

[0158] The switch device 600 also includes a suction gas secondary inlet 622. The suction gas secondary inlet 622 is designed to form a contraction circuit 621 together with a suction gas secondary outlet 623. In a combined or alternative manner, as shown in FIG. 4, this secondary outlet 622 may be accompanied by a pressurized gas primary outlet 620. In this case, the primary outlet 620 may include: - in the inflated configuration, pressurized gas is forced out of the switch device 600 and into the inflatable device 300; and - injecting suction gas generated by the inflatable device 300 in the inflated configuration; will be compensated.

[0159] The suction gas secondary outlet 623 is configured to be fluidly connected to the suction gas primary inlet 632 of the suction module 630 when the system 100 is in the retracted configuration and / or the adjusted configuration.

[0160] It should be noted that in these figures, and in accordance with a preferred embodiment, the switch device 600 has multiple valves.

[0161] Preferably, the multi-valve includes at least one movable element and an actuator 521. According to one embodiment, the actuator may include an electric motor and / or a pneumatic device (e.g., a cylinder). Preferably, the actuator 521 is capable of moving the movable element between at least a first position, a second position, and a third position.

[0162] Advantageously, the first position is configured to switch the system 100 to a resting configuration, the second position is configured to switch the system 100 to a deflated configuration, and the third position is configured to switch the system 100 to an inflated configuration.

[0163] Advantageously, the first position (i.e., the position corresponding to the rest configuration) is kinematically located between the second position (i.e., the position corresponding to the contracted configuration) and the third position (i.e., the position corresponding to the expanded configuration).

[0164] Preferably, the multi-valve comprises a body within which a movable element is moved by an actuator 521.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the body has a pressurized gas primary inlet 610, a pressurized gas primary outlet 620, a pressurized gas secondary outlet 613, a suction gas secondary inlet 622, and a suction gas secondary outlet 623. It should be noted that when the system 100 is in the retracted and / or shut down configuration, the pressurized gas secondary outlet 613 is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas secondary inlet 631 of the suction module 630, and the suction gas secondary outlet 623 is fluidly connected to the suction gas primary inlet 632.

[0166] Thus, in an inventive manner, the movable element is configured to cooperate with the body of the multi-valve to form alternating breathing gas circulation paths.

[0167] In the expansion configuration, for example, pressurized gas primary inlet 610 together with pressurized gas primary outlet 620 form an expansion circuit 611. Expansion circuit 611 allows for the circulation of a portion of the pressurized gas from source 200 towards expansion device 300.

[0168] In the deflated configuration, for example, the pressurized gas primary inlet 610 together with the pressurized gas secondary outlet 613 and the secondary inlet 631 of the suction module 630 form a pressurized gas supply circuit 612 of the suction module 630. The suction gas secondary inlet 622 together with the suction gas secondary outlet 623 and the suction gas primary inlet 632 of the suction module 630 form a deflation circuit 621. The deflation circuit 621 allows a portion of the breathing gas to be drawn from the inflatable device 300 towards the suction gas primary outlet 633 of the suction module 630.

[0169] In the deactivation configuration, for example, system 100 can switch, preferably automatically, between the deflated and inflated configurations to regulate the amount of breathing gas present inside inflatable device 300. Alternatively, system 100 can simply close previous circuits 611, 612, and 621 to maintain the amount of breathing gas present inside inflatable device 300.

[0170] According to one embodiment, and more particularly as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the mobile element comprises a mechanical part that is rotationally movable about an axis of rotation, the different gas circulation circuits being formed by rotation about this axis.

[0171] According to another embodiment, and more particularly as shown in Figures 5-7, the movable element includes a carriage 670 translatable along a translation axis.

[0172] According to an embodiment, the movable element (e.g. carriage 670 or rotatable part) may include one or more positioning elements, for example as shown in FIG. 9. These positioning elements are configured to allow the position of the movable element to be determined. According to an embodiment, these positioning elements may include reflective elements 671 and / or waveguides and / or some type of inductive and / or resistive proximity detector, for example servo motors, or simple contacts. Finally, these positioning elements may be based on optical and / or capacitive and / or resistive technology. According to an embodiment, these positioning elements include reflective elements 671. These reflective elements 671 are configured to cooperate with at least one light emitter 531 and light receiver 533 to allow or not allow the transmission of a light flux from the light emitter 531 towards the light receiver 533 depending on the position of the movable element and therefore depending on the form of the system 100.

[0173] In an inventive manner, the or these optical emitter-receivers are mounted on the automatic control device 500. Preferably, the or these optical emitter-receivers are optically connected to the switch device 600 via one or more optical fibers and / or waveguides.

[0174] Thus, when the movable element is in a predetermined position, i.e., when the system 100 is in a predetermined configuration, a predetermined optical path 532 is defined or not defined, and thus is or is not detected by the automatic control device 500. This allows the automatic control device 500 and its embedded electronics to determine, for example, the configuration of the system 100.

[0175] As will be described in more detail below, the automatic control device 500 is entirely potted within a resin to protect all electronic elements from a marine, preferably underwater, environment. Thus, the present system 100 employs, in a highly inventive manner, optical control and transmission techniques based at least in part on fiber optic technology.

[0176] 4 shows a diver 700 using the invention according to an embodiment, in which a pressure difference is created manually by the user 700. The diver places the outlet of the pipe communicating with the air contained inside the inflatable device 300 (the outlet of the inflator) at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device 300. In this way, the diver creates a pressure difference between the ambient pressure at the depth of this outlet and the pressure of the air contained in the inflatable device 300.

[0177] This pressure difference makes it possible to regulate the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device 300. However, even if this pressure difference is created manually, the system 100 can enable or disable the release of gas, for example, to comply with the depth stage.

[0178] According to another embodiment, the pressure differential is generated automatically, without the user having to generate the pressure differential himself.

[0179] 8 shows another embodiment of the present invention, according to which a switch device 600 comprises a number of valves, preferably solenoid valves, controlled by a control device.

[0180] According to this embodiment, the multi-valve may be replaced and / or completed by a plurality of control valves 601, 602, 603 that enable or disable the establishment of the inflation circuit 611, the deflation circuit 621 and the supply circuit 612 of the suction module 630. Preferably, but not exclusively, the plurality of control valves 601, 602, 603 are different from each other.

[0181] Thus, for example, expansion valve 601 operates when the system is in the expansion and / or shutdown configurations, forming expansion circuit 611 .

[0182] For example, the deflate valve 602 operates when the system is in the deflate and / or deactivate configuration to form a deflate circuit 621 .

[0183] For example, the supply valve 603 of the suction module 630 operates when the system is in the retracted and / or shut down configuration to form a circuit 612 for supplying pressurized gas to the suction module 630 .

[0184] Finally, in Figure 8 one will notice the presence of a safety valve 604 that is configured to stop the supply of pressurized gas from the source 200 to the switch device 600. However, the safety valve 604 may also be present in the embodiments according to Figures 1 to 7.

[0185] According to a preferred embodiment, as shown generally in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-7, the system 100 may include an exhaust circuit 640 having an exhaust gas inlet 641 and an exhaust gas outlet 642 .

[0186] In an inventive manner, the exhaust gas inlet 641 is fluidly connected to the suction gas primary outlet 633 of the suction module 630 so as to allow a portion of the gas contained in the inflatable device 300 to be exhausted.

[0187] Preferably, the exhaust gas outlet 642 is fluidly connected to a check valve 650 that is fluidly connected to a gas exhaust port 660. The check valve is configured to allow exhaust of gas from the aspiration module 630 towards the exhaust port 660, while limiting, and preferably preventing, the ingress of water into the aspiration module 630 and preferably the exhaust circuit 640.

[0188] It should be noted that the exhaust circuit 640 advantageously includes multiple turns to slow the water down in the event of a check valve 650 failure or a leak in the exhaust circuit 640 .

[0189] Advantageously, the automatic control device 500 comprises a humidity sensor 540. By way of non-limiting example, the humidity sensor 540 is preferably based on optical technology. Alternatively, the humidity sensor 540 is preferably based on electronic technology for detecting a current between two electrodes. This humidity sensor 540 is configured to detect the ingress of water into the exhaust circuit 640. This allows a warning to be issued to the diver 700. The diver 700 can, for example, inject pressurized gas from the source 200 into the exhaust circuit 640 to expel the water present inside the exhaust circuit 640. This injection of pressurized gas may be automatically triggered by the automatic control device 500.

[0190] 10-12 show various embodiments of an automatic control device 500. FIG.

[0191] Advantageously, the automatic control device 500 comprises and / or cooperates with at least the following:

[0192] A control module 520 of a switch device 600 for changing the configuration of the system 100. For example, this control module 520 may control an actuator 521 according to the embodiment of Figures 1-3 and 5-7, and / or control valves 601, 602, and 603 according to the embodiment of Figure 8.

[0193] b. Optical Sensor 530. Optical sensor 530 includes an optical emitter 531 and an optical receiver 533 configured to monitor, for example, configurations of system 100 described above.

[0194] c. A breathing sensor 510, preferably configured to allow assessment of the diver's breathing rate. Advantageously, this breathing sensor 510 may be at least partially located in the breathing device 400. Advantageously, the breathing sensor 510 may be based on optical technology. According to an embodiment, the switch device may be isolated from the breathing device. According to this embodiment, by way of non-limiting example, in the case where the breathing sensor is not available or is not present, the stabilization system generates a depth curve using the ambient pressure and / or depth data. This depth curve allows the amount of air inhaled / exhaled by the user to be estimated and thus compensated for.

[0195] d. A depth sensor configured to be able to assess the depth of the diver. Again, this depth sensor may be based on optical or mechanical technology, similar to the example of a pressure sensor (e.g., an ambient pressure sensor relative to the water surrounding the diver).

[0196] e. A number of actuators 550, 551, 552, 553, 554, 570, 580, 590, 410, 420 configured to enable a diver to control the automatic control device 500. Each of these actuators may be designed as a user interface element or a button element.

[0197] f. A microprocessor configured to execute a series of control commands for the system 100. Advantageously, to ensure the safety and reliability of the invention, the invention utilizes at least two microprocessors configured to monitor each other. In this case, if one of the two microprocessors fails, the second microprocessor takes over. This technical choice ensures reliability and safety for the diver.

[0198] g. Current source.

[0199] h. Luminous flux source.

[0200] It should be noted that according to one embodiment, the actuators of the manual inflation device 410 and the manual vent 420 may also be attached to the automatic control device 500, allowing the user to have all control over the same device. It should be noted that in a safe manner, the actuators of the manual inflation device 410 and the manual vent 420 may be mechanical actuators, for example as provided for the breathing device 400.

[0201] Beneficially, the breath sensor 510 is configured to cooperate with the automatic control device 500 and the depth sensor such that the automatic control device 500 can determine the diver's depth changes according to the diver's breathing. The automatic control device 500 may thus control the switch device 600, preferably the actuator 521, and / or the control valves 601, 602, and 603, to switch configurations of the system 100 according to adjustments in the amount of gas required for the inflatable device 300 to counterbalance the amount of breathing gas present inside the diver's lungs and the associated depth variations of the diver.

[0202] Advantageously, the automatic control device 500 comprises a humidity sensor 540 arranged inside the exhaust circuit 640, in which case the presence of water inside the exhaust circuit 640 can be detected, as described above.

[0203] 6-8, several developments in the automatic control device 500 can be seen.

[0204] In FIG. 10 the following can be discerned:

[0205] A manual inflation device 410 and a manual vent 420, preferably mechanical.

[0206] b. An actuator 570 for activating a flashlight and controlling its luminous power, which is indicated by an indicator 571 showing the luminous power level of the flashlight.

[0207] c. An indicator 501 showing the remaining amount of electrical energy.

[0208] d. An actuator 551 for switching the system 100 to the inflated configuration, preferably configured to allow inflation of the inflatable device 300, i.e. the stub, at the surface, and preferably configured to allow ascent of the diver 700 during a dive.

[0209] e. An actuator 552 for switching the system 100 to a deflated configuration, preferably configured to deflate the inflatable device 300, i.e. the stub, at the surface, and preferably configured to allow the diver 700 to descend during a dive.

[0210] f. Actuator 553 for switching the system 100 to a static quiescent configuration. Here, this actuator maintains the amount of breathing gas inside the inflatable device 300.

[0211] g. Actuator 554 for switching the system 100 to a dynamic rest configuration. Here, this actuator has the option to allow for compensation of depth variations due to the diver's breathing.

[0212] h. Actuator 555 for activating a multi-stage ascent procedure. Indeed, considering the possibility of automatically controlling the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device 300, the present invention is capable of triggering an automatic ascent procedure, preferably at a controlled speed, by periodically measuring the diver's depth and adjusting the amount of breathing gas inside the inflatable device 300. This allows the diver to not worry about the different stages to follow before ascending. All this is automatically ensured by the stabilization system 100 and pre-programmed into the automatic control device 500.

[0213] In FIG. 11, the embodiment of the automatic control device 500 further includes: a. A screen 502 for displaying data, e.g., depth monitoring or captured photos; b. Camera 581; c. an actuator 590 for capturing a photograph; d. Actuator 580 for recording video.

[0214] In FIG. 12, the automatic control device 500 further includes: a. Dive data display screen 503; b. an actuator 504 for recording dive data; c. An indicator 560 that shows the amount of breathing gas remaining inside the pressurized gas source 200.

[0215] Thus, the automatic control device 500 is uniquely designed to allow the diver to manage all functions of the system 100 to facilitate diving while ensuring the diver's safety.

[0216] It should be noted that, advantageously, the automatic control device 500 comprises an electric battery that is preferably adapted to be recharged by electromagnetic induction.

[0217] To protect the electronic components of the automatic control device 500, the latter are preferably entirely embedded inside a resin. This protects all electronic components from attack by the sea. Furthermore, at least some of the actuators are optical actuators, designed according to the principle of blocking or not blocking the light beam between the light emitter and the light receiver. This optical technology is not or only very little affected by marine and underwater conditions. This effectively guarantees the reliability and longevity of the automatic control device 500.

[0218] The invention also relates to a method for stabilizing, preferably dynamically, the depth position of a diver equipped with the invention, said method comprising at least the following steps executed by a control device:

[0219] The automatic control device 500 determines the diver's breathing rate via the breathing sensor 510.

[0220] b. Determining the diver's depth variation as a function of the breathing rate determined by the automatic control device 500.

[0221] c. Controlling the switch device 600 by the control device to adjust the amount of breathing gas present inside the inflatable device 300 to compensate for the determined depth variation. According to one embodiment, a simple method involves permanently monitoring the depth and adjusting the corresponding exact amount of gas. However, this simple method consumes a lot of air. According to another preferred embodiment, a maximum depth variation (i.e. maximum value of depth variation) is predefined (e.g. 10 cm). And the adjustment of the amount of gas is only performed if the depth variation exceeds the predefined maximum depth variation. According to another advantageous embodiment, it is also possible to calculate the average amount of air to be injected or withdrawn from the inflatable device 300 using an algorithm based on the previous breath. The average amount can be useful to limit the depth variation. In this way, the consumption of air can be optimized.

[0222] In an inventive manner, the diver's depth is no longer or only very little influenced by his breathing, which is very useful when a diver wants to accurately stabilize his depth, for example for underwater video recording, etc. This is also useful for automatically assisting inexperienced divers in stabilizing their depth, to avoid decompression accidents etc.

[0223] According to an embodiment, the automatic control device 500 includes a preferably non-transient memory module, which is capable of storing a plurality of data as well as control instructions for the switch device 600 according to the commands sent by the actuators and according to the parameters measured by the various sensors. The invention therefore also relates to a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by the microprocessor of the automatic control device 500, execute at least the steps of the stabilization method described above. It should be noted that advantageously, and for continuous improvement and / or for legal evidence in case of litigation, at least a part of the latest information and the latest operations is recorded in the non-transient memory, preferably until said memory is saturated. Saturation of the memory may correspond, for example, to tens or hundreds of dives.

[0224] According to one embodiment, the automatic control device 500 includes a number of electronic elements, preferably all of which are immersed within a sealing material (e.g., resin).

[0225] According to one embodiment, at least some of the actuators of the automatic control device 500, and preferably all of them, are optical actuators. That is to say, optical actuators operate according to the principle of blocking or unblocking one or more light beams. Preferably, these beams are infrared. Advantageously, these beams may also be lasers. Thus, for example, to operate the ascent actuator, the diver only has to place his finger in the position corresponding to the actuator. This blocks one of the beams, which then informs the automatic control device 500 of the action performed by the user.

[0226] This optical technique and the electronics immersed inside the sealing material protect the automatic control device 500 from attack by the marine and underwater environment, improving the safety of the embedded electronics. Seawater contains many particles that have the effect of diffracting light rays. This means that the light emitted at the "up" button can perfectly find its way to the receiver at the "down" button. Various techniques have been developed during the development of the invention to combat this parasitic phenomenon. For example, according to one embodiment, the light message transmitted by each emitter is encoded so that it can be interpreted only by the appropriate intended receiver. Encoding the light signal(s) allows for individualization of the light signal. According to another preferred embodiment, each signal includes a pulse train. The transmission of each signal is offset in time between each source, such that one pulse is emitted at a given time. Thus, a first emitter transmits a first pulse train and a second emitter transmits a second pulse train. The transmission of the second pulse train is offset by a given period of time with respect to the transmission of the first pulse train. For example, this predetermined period is equal to 1 / 100th of a second. No first pulse train is emitted simultaneously with a second pulse train, and vice versa. The alternation of these pulses, in other words the transmission frequency, allows the receiver to identify the sender of the received signal. Advantageously, several (for example three) consecutive interruptions are required to confirm the presence of the diver's finger, and thus its movement.

[0227] [Autonomous charging] 13A, according to a particular embodiment, the system 100 comprises an energy generator 800. The energy generator 800 is configured to achieve greater energy autonomy of the system 100.

[0228] In one embodiment, with pressurized gas contained within the source 200, the diver 700 can use an energy generator 800 to convert pneumatic energy into the electrical energy required for proper operation of the system 100.

[0229] The energy generator 800 includes a storage device 820. The storage device 820 is configured to switch between recharging and discharging.

[0230] Advantageously, the energy generator 800 comprises a turbine device 811 and an alternator 812. The turbine device 811 and the alternator 812 are electrically connected to each other to convert the energy of the gas flow coming from the pressurized gas source 200 into electrical energy, in other words to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. The turbine may comprise blades or vanes.

[0231] Additionally, the system 100 is advantageously configured to operate in an energy stand-alone manner, i.e., using only a pneumatic general power source, preferably from air contained at high pressure inside a tank.

[0232] According to certain embodiments, the control device 500 may be configured to enable activation of a pressurized air inlet of the energy generator 800.

[0233] Alternatively, the system is configured to allow the passage of pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source 200 to the energy generator 800, preferably without impeding the inflation or deflation of the inflatable device 300.

[0234] Advantageously, the energy generator 800 comprises an electric system 810. The system 810 has a turbine 811 extending according to a drive axis X8. The turbine 811 is configured to be driven in rotation according to the drive axis X8 by gas coming from a pressurized gas source 200. Preferably, the pressurized gas 200 is expanded at mean pressure through a pipe 814 or a guide nozzle. At least a part of the turbine 811 is located inside the pipe 814 in the operative configuration.

[0235] The turbine 811 and the alternator 812 are further configured to provide power to a storage device 820. For example, the storage device 820 may comprise a rechargeable battery or a capacitor. Recharging and / or discharging of the storage device 820 is configured to be performed directly or via an electronic regulation device.

[0236] 13A, the energy generator 800 may include an electrical system 810a. Preferably, the electrical system 810a includes a turbine 811 and an alternator 812.

[0237] As shown in Fig. 13B, the energy generator 800 comprises a first electric system 810a and a second electric system 810b. The first electric system 810a comprises a first turbine 811a and a first alternator 812a, and the second electric system 810b comprises a second turbine 811b and a second alternator 812b. The first electric system 810a and the second electric system 810b extend along the same drive axis X8. The energy generator 800 is configured such that the first electric system 810a and the second electric system 810b form a series mounting. Advantageously, at least a part of the two turbines is located inside the same guide pipe 814. Preferably, a device 813 for reforming the pressurized gas jet is arranged between the two electric systems 810a and 810b. Advantageously, this configuration allows optimizing the efficiency of the energy generator 800.

[0238] As shown in Fig. 14A, the system 100 includes two electrical systems 810a and 810b, which extend along two colinear and non-coaxial drive axes X8 and X8, respectively. Preferably, the two electrical systems 810a and 810b are juxtaposed adjacent to each other to form a side-by-side (parallel) mounting.

[0239] As shown in Fig. 14B, the system has four electrical systems 810a, 810b, 810c, and 810d, and combines the two embodiments described above. The four electrical systems 810a, 810b, 810c, and 810d are mounted in series in pairs to form two juxtaposed pairs. In other words, according to this embodiment, the energy generator 800 comprises a first assembly having a first electrical system 801a and a second electrical system 810b mounted in series according to a first axis X8. And the energy generator 800 comprises a second assembly having a third electrical system 810c and a fourth electrical system 810d. The second assembly is arranged in series according to a second axis X8. 8’The turbine has a third turbine and a fourth turbine mounted in series according to

[0240] Usefully, the first axis X8 and the second axis X 8’ are collinear and non-coaxial. The energy generator 800 is configured such that the first and second assemblies form a side-by-side attachment. Thus, this embodiment allows for much greater power generation.

[0241] In this embodiment, the energy system 800 includes a pipe with two separate sealed sections.

[0242] 15, the energy generator 800 may be located within the stabilization system 100 between the inflatable device 300 and a distributor 830, preferably a motor-driven type located on the stabilization system 100. In this case, the distributor 830 is configured to direct the airflow from the pressurized gas source 200 to the energy generator 800.

[0243] Preferably, the energy generator 800 comprises at least one alternator and one turbine. The energy generator 800 is configured to directly power the control device 500 via an electronic board and / or to recharge the storage system 820. The storage system 820 may consist of, for example, batteries and / or capacitors.

[0244] The present invention makes diving accessible to novice divers by facilitating many procedures while ensuring user safety.

[0245] Advantageously, the system comprises a battery that can be recharged by induction, for example if the turbine does not provide enough energy or if a lamp is added to the system.

[0246] The present invention should not be limited to the above-described embodiments, but covers all embodiments encompassed within the scope of the claims.

[0247] [Reference sign] 100 Stabilization System 200 Pressurized Gas Supply Source 210 Pressure Regulator 211 Reduced pressure breathing gas inlet inside a breathing device 300 Inflatable Device 310 a respiratory gas deflated outlet for inflating an inflatable device 400 Breathing Devices 410 Manual inflation actuator for inflatable device 411 Pressurized gas inlet inside breathing device 412 Manual expansion valve 420 Manual vent actuator for inflatable device 421 Vent Valve 422 Breathing gas outlet 430 Breathing mouthpiece 500 Control Device 501E Electric Energy Level Indicator 502 Display Screen 503 Dive Data Display 504 Dive Data Recording Actuator 510 Respiration Sensor 520 Control Module 521 Motor 530 Optical Sensor 531 Light Emitter 532 Light path 533 Optical Receiver 540 Humidity Sensor 550 Actuator 551 Lift Actuator 552 Down Actuator 553 Static Stabilization Actuator 554 Dynamic Stabilization Actuator 555 Stage Auto-Up 560 Respiratory gas remaining 570 Flashlight Actuator 571 Flashlight intensity level indicator 580 Photo Photo Capture Actuator 581 Camera 590 Video Capture Actuator 600 Switch Devices 601 Expansion valve 602 Contraction valve 603 Suction module supply valve 604 Safety Valve 610 Pressurized gas primary inlet 611 Expansion circuit 612 Suction module supply circuit 613 Pressurized gas secondary outlet 620 Pressurized gas primary outlet 621 Contraction Circuit 622 Suction gas secondary inlet 623 Suction gas secondary outlet 630 Suction Module 631 Pressurized gas secondary inlet 632 Suction gas primary inlet 633 Suction gas primary outlet 640 Exhaust circuit 641 Exhaust gas inlet 642 Exhaust gas outlet 650 Check valve 660 Breathing gas outlet 670 Carriage 671 Reflective Elements 700 Divers 800 Energy Generator 810a, 810b, 810c, 810d Electrical System 811a, 811b, 811c, 811d Turbines 812a, 812b, 812c, 812d Alternator 813 Remodeling Device 814 Pipe 820 storage device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0248] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a stopped configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system in an expanded configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a retracted configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 shows diagrammatically a diver equipped with the invention according to a first embodiment; [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a stopped configuration according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of a system in an expanded configuration according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of a system in a retracted configuration according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 2 shows a schematic enlarged view of a portion of a carriage according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 2 shows a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 4 shows a control device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 4 shows a control device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13A] 1 illustrates an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13B] 1 illustrates an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14A] 1 illustrates an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14B] 1 illustrates an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 shows a diagram of a part of a system in which an energy system according to an embodiment of the present invention is located.

Claims

1. 1. A portable stabilization system (100) capable of adjusting a depth position of at least one diver (700) relative to a water surface in an underwater environment, comprising: The system (100) comprises: At least one pressurized gas source (200); at least one breathing gas source; At least one inflatable device (300); at least one breathing device (400) enabling the diver to breathe breathing gas from the breathing gas source and preferably enabling the diver to manually trigger the filling of the inflatable device (300) with gas; The system (100) comprises: an inflated configuration in which the inflatable device (300) is at least partially inflated, preferably automatically inflated, to decrease the depth position of the diver (700); a control configuration for injecting or withdrawing gas from the inflatable device (300) to maintain the depth position of the diver (700); a deflated configuration in which the inflatable device (300) at least partially and automatically deflates to increase the depth position of the diver (700); and It is possible to switch between The system (100) comprises: An automatic controller (500); A switch device (600), The automatic controller (500) automatically switches the configuration of the system (100) to any one of an inflation configuration, a regulation configuration, and a deflation configuration; The automatic controller (500) an electronic module for assessing the depth position of the diver (700); a control module (520) that receives at least one depth data from the electronic module and determines a control command from at least the depth data; the switch device (600) cooperating with the automatic controller (500) to switch the configuration of the system (100) according to at least the control command; The switch device (600) a pressurized gas primary inlet (610) cooperating with said pressurized gas source (200); a pressurized gas primary outlet (620) cooperating with the inflatable device (300) to inflate the inflatable device (300) when the system (100) is in the expanded configuration; an exhaust module cooperating with the inflatable device (300) to reduce the amount of gas contained in the inflatable device (300) by creating a pressure differential when the system (100) is in the deflated configuration; The system (100) comprises at least

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the pressurized gas source (200) and the breathing gas source form a single and same pressurized breathing gas source.

3. The system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure differential is generated automatically and / or manually.

4. the exhaust module includes an exhaust gas outlet (642); the exhaust gas outlet (642) is designed to be located at a depth lower than the depth of the inflatable device (300), particularly when the diver is in a horizontal swimming position or an ascending position; The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pressure differential is created by placing the control device (500) at a depth lower than a depth of the inflatable device (300).

5. The exhaust module comprises a suction module (630); The suction module (630) a first inlet, referred to as a pressurized gas secondary inlet (631), that is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas source (200) when the system (100) is in the contracted configuration; a second inlet, referred to as a suction gas primary inlet (632), that is fluidly connected to the inflatable device (300) when the system (100) is in the deflated configuration; a suction gas primary outlet (633); pressurized gas is supplied to the suction module (630) from a source (200) through a pressurized gas secondary inlet (631) of the suction module (630) when the system (100) is in the contracted configuration; This supply of pressurized gas causes, by the Venturi effect, the suction of the air contained in the inflatable device (300); 5. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein air drawn from the inflatable device (300) by the Venturi effect reaches the suction module (630) through the suction gas primary inlet (632) and is discharged from the discharge module through the suction gas primary outlet (633).

6. The exhaust module includes a suction module (630); the suction module (630) cooperates with the pressurized gas source (200) and the inflatable device (300) to reduce the amount of gas contained in the inflatable device (300) when the system (100) is in the deflated configuration; The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pressure differential is generated by the suction module (630).

7. the switch device comprises a pressurized gas secondary outlet (613); The system (100) of claim 6, wherein the pressurized gas secondary outlet (613) cooperates with the suction module (630) to form a contraction circuit (621) with the pressurized gas primary inlet.

8. The suction module (630) A pressurized gas secondary inlet (631); A suction gas primary inlet (632); a suction gas primary outlet (633); when the system is in the deflated configuration, the pressurized gas secondary inlet (631) is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas secondary outlet (613) and the suction gas primary inlet (632) is fluidly connected to the inflatable device (300), thereby causing the inflatable device (300) to deflate due to the venturi effect suction created by the pressurized gas entering through the pressurized gas secondary inlet (631); The system of claim 7, wherein gas drawn through the suction gas secondary inlet (632) and at least a portion of the pressurized gas are exhausted through the suction gas primary outlet (633).

9. 9. The system of claim 5 or 8, wherein the pressurized gas secondary inlet (631) has a larger diameter than the suction gas primary inlet (632).

10. the pressurized gas secondary inlet (631) is aligned with the suction gas primary outlet (633) to define a flow path for the pressurized gas; 9. The system of claim 5 or 8, wherein the suction gas primary inlet (632) is positioned perpendicular to the flow path of the pressurized gas.

11. the pressurized gas secondary inlet (631) is aligned with the pressurized gas primary outlet (633) to define a pressurized gas flow path having a diameter; 11. The system (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the diameter has a narrowing at the inhalation gas primary inlet (632) according to the direction of circulation of the pressurized gas along the breathing gas flow path.

12. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a regulation form for stabilising the depth position of the diver by regulating, preferably automatically, the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device (300).

13. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the electronic module includes at least one depth sensor for assessing a depth at which the diver (700) is located.

14. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the electronic module is preferably entirely immersed in a sealing material, preferably in a resin.

15. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the control module (520) is preferably entirely immersed within the sealing material, preferably within the resin.

16. 16. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising at least one safety valve (604) configured to allow and block the supply of pressurized gas to the system (100).

17. 17. The system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a manual control device for manually switching the configuration of the system (100) between any one of the inflation configuration, the regulation configuration, and the deflation configuration.

18. 20. The system (100) of claim 17, wherein the automatic control device (500) and the manual control device are physically fixed to each other.

19. The switch device (600) comprises at least one multi-valve having at least one actuator (521) for moving a movable element between at least a first position, a second position, and a third position; the first position is configured to switch the system (100) at least partially into the regulation configuration; the second position is configured to switch the system (100) to the contracted configuration; 19. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the third position is configured to switch the system (100) to the expanded configuration.

20. The multi-valve includes at least one body, Within the body, the actuator (521) moves the movable element, The body includes the pressurized gas primary inlet (610), the pressurized gas primary outlet (620), the pressurized gas secondary outlet (613), and the suction gas secondary outlet (623), the pressurized gas secondary outlet (613) is fluidly connected to the suction module (630); 20. The system (100) of claim 19 in combination with claim 5, wherein the suction gas secondary outlet (623) is fluidly connected to the suction module (630).

21. 21. The system (100) of claim 20, wherein the movable element is at least partially rotatable about an axis of rotation.

22. The system (100) of claim 20, wherein the movable element is at least partially translatable according to a translation axis.

23. The pressurized gas secondary outlet (613) is connected to the pressurized gas 2 inlet (631) of the suction module (630); 23. The system (100) of any one of claims 20 to 22 in combination with claim 5 or 8, wherein the suction gas secondary outlet (623) is connected to the suction gas primary inlet (632) of the suction module (630).

24. the movable element is configured to cooperate with the body of the multi-valve to form a pressurized gas circulation path according to the configuration of the system (100); The pressurized gas circulation path includes: an expansion circuit (611) formed at least partially between the pressurized gas primary inlet (610) and the pressurized gas primary outlet (620) when the system (100) is in the expanded configuration; a supply circuit (612) of the suction module formed at least partially between the pressurized gas primary inlet (610) and the pressurized gas secondary outlet (613) when the system (100) is in the contracted configuration; a contraction circuit (621) formed at least partially between the suction gas secondary inlet (622) and the suction gas secondary outlet (623) when the system (100) is in the contracted configuration; The system (100) according to any one of claims 20 to 23, comprising at least

25. 25. The system (100) of any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the movable element comprises at least one reflective element (671) capable of reflecting at least one light beam.

26. said switching device (600) comprises at least one set of valves (601, 602, 603) including at least an inflation valve (601), a deflation valve (602) and a supply valve (603) of said suction module (630); the expansion valve (601) fluidly connects the pressurized gas source (200) to the inflatable device (300); the deflation valve (602) fluidly connects the inflatable device (300) to the suction module (630) such that at least a portion of the gas contained within the inflatable device (300) is suctioned by a Venturi effect; 19. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 18, in combination with claim 6, wherein the supply valve (603) of the suction module (630) fluidly connects the pressurized gas source (200) to the suction module (630) to generate the Venturi effect that enables suction of at least a portion of the gas present inside the inflatable device (300).

27. An energy system (800) having an assembly including at least one turbine (811) and at least one alternator (812), 27. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the energy system (800) is arranged in contact with a flow of gas originating from the pressurized gas source (200) and converts a portion of the energy of the flow into electrical energy.

28. 28. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 27, comprising at least two assemblies configured to be mounted in series or in parallel.

29. 29. The system (100) of claim 27 or 28, further comprising an electrical energy storage device (820) capable of supplying electrical energy to the system (100) and storing electrical energy output by the energy system (800).

30. the system (100) comprising a respiration sensor (510) configured to perform an assessment of the diver's respiration rate; 30. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the control module (520) determines control commands according to an evaluation of the diver's breathing rate.

31. The automatic control device (500) comprises at least the control module (520) of the switch device (600) configured to change a configuration of the system (100); an optical emitter (531) and an optical receiver (533) configured to be able to monitor the configuration of said system (100); an electronic module including at least a respiration sensor (510) configured to be able to assess the respiration rate of the diver, and a depth sensor configured to be able to assess the depth of the diver; a plurality of actuators (550, 551, 552, 553, 554, 570, 580, 590) configured to enable control of the automatic control device (500) by the diver; and a microprocessor for executing a set of control instructions for the system (100); The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 30, in cooperation with

32. The system (100) of claim 31 in combination with claim 24, wherein the reflective element cooperates with the light emitter (531) and the light receiver (533) to define at least one optical path (532) between the light emitter (531) and the light receiver (533) according to a configuration of the system (100).

33. said respiration sensor (510) cooperating with said automatic control device (500) and said depth sensor; 33. The system (100) of claim 31 or 32, wherein the automatic control device (500) controls the switch device (600) to switch between configurations of the system in response to adjustments in the amount of gas required for the inflatable device (300) to compensate for the breathing gas present inside the diver's lungs and the resulting depth variations of the diver.

34. The system (100) includes at least a first actuator and a second actuator belonging to a plurality of the actuators (550, 551, 552, 553, 554, 570, 580, 590), the first actuator comprises a first light emitter and a first light receiver; the second actuator comprises a second light emitter and a second light receiver; the first optical emitter emits a first pulse train in a direction toward the first optical receiver; the second optical emitter emits a second pulse train in a direction toward the second optical receiver; the emission of the second pulse train is offset in time by a predetermined time with respect to the emission of the first pulse train; When a pulse belonging to the first pulse train is emitted, a pulse belonging to the second pulse train is not emitted, 34. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein if a pulse from the second pulse train is emitted, then no pulse from the first pulse train is emitted.

35. the switch device (600) being carried by a first diver; the automatic control device (500) being carried at least in part by a second diver; The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the second diver controls the switch device (600) of the first diver.

36. 36. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 35, comprising at least one exhaust circuit (640) including a plurality of turns disposed between an exhaust gas inlet (641) and an exhaust gas outlet (642).

37. the exhaust gas outlet (642) is fluidly connected to a check valve (650) having a gas exhaust port (660); 37. The system (100) of claim 36, wherein the check valve (650) prevents water from entering the exhaust circuit (640) via the exhaust gas outlet (642).

38. The automatic control device (500) comprises at least one humidity sensor (540), 38. The system (100) of claim 36 or 37, wherein the humidity sensor (540) is at least partially disposed within the exhaust circuit (640) and configured to detect the presence of water within the exhaust circuit (640).

39. 39. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the automatic control device (500) is preferably entirely immersed within the sealing material, preferably within the resin.

40. 40. The system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 39, wherein the inflatable device (300) comprises a stabilization vest worn by the diver (700).

41. 1. A method for stabilizing a depth position of at least one diver relative to a water surface in an underwater environment, comprising: The diver: At least one system (100) according to claim 31; A pressurized gas source (200); At least one inflatable device (300), The method comprises the steps executed by the automatic control device (500): determining the diver's breathing rate from a breathing sensor (510); determining a change in depth of the diver according to a breathing rate obtained from the depth sensor; automatically controlling the switch device (600) by the automatic control device (500) to adjust the amount of gas present inside the inflatable device (300) to compensate for the determined depth change; The method includes at least

42. 40. A method of stabilizing the depth position of at least one first diver in an underwater environment relative to a water surface using at least one system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 39, comprising the steps of: the switch device (600) being carried by a first diver; the automatic control device (500) being carried at least in part by a second diver; The method comprises: selecting, by the second diver, a switch command from the automatic control device (500); transmitting the switch command from the automatic control device (500) to the switch device (600) carried by a first diver; switching a configuration of the system (100) according to at least the switch command; The method includes:

43. 43. A computer program product comprising instructions for performing at least the steps of the method according to claim 41 or 42 when executed by at least one processor.

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