Wireless underwater gauge with underwater communication interface for smart devices

Abstract

A small, waterproof electronic module is provided that wirelessly connects to a wearable device such as a smart watch or a smart device such as a smartphone, and wirelessly connects to underwater diving equipment and / or accessories, such as, for example, a scuba tank pressure transmitter, a skin temperature sensor, a heart rate monitor, a pressure sensor, a navigation buoy, etc. The module is located near the smart device and utilizes terrestrial communication protocols such as Bluetooth, WLAN, Ant+, etc. to connect to the smart device. In one embodiment, the module also utilizes underwater communication protocols such as VLF, ultrasonic, etc. to connect to the underwater diving equipment and / or accessories. In certain embodiments, a display is provided for displaying information, such as scuba tank air pressure, to a user.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to wireless underwater sensors and displays, and more particularly to the underwater communication of SCUBA-specific information such as tank pressure, heart rate, skin temperature, battery status, depth, and navigation information. [Background technology]

[0002] Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other commercially available electronic devices and wearable devices are designed to operate in the air above ground. As such, they use commercially standard communication methods and protocols to enable the communication of information between themselves and with other devices. These methods and protocols include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Global System for Mobiles (GSM), Near Field Communication (NFC), Advanced Adaptive Network Technology (ANT+), and others.

[0003] These various methods and protocols typically use higher frequencies to increase bandwidth and allow for greater amounts of information to be carried. They also typically use low power, limiting battery usage given the mobile nature of such devices, and limiting communication range to reduce interference and enhance security of the transmitted information. For example, GSM (1G through 5G) uses 700 / 800 MHz, 1.8 GHz, 2.6 GHz, 3.6 GHz, and even a planned 40 GHz; WLAN uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz; Bluetooth and ANT+ use 2.4 GHz; and NFC uses 13.56 MHz.

[0004] Unfortunately, due to reflection and conductivity, such high frequencies only penetrate a few tens of centimeters in fresh water and a few centimeters in salt water. Given these distance limitations, devices that need to communicate underwater use designated underwater communication technologies, such as very low frequency (VLF) (typically 3-30 kHz) and / or ultrasonic (typically 25-33 kHz).

[0005] VLF operates underwater and in air due to its magnetic and electric (H&E) components, but is limited to a range of 3 m for consumer electronic devices due to reduced antenna size and transmitter power. Interfering signals also decay by a power of 3, so the link is interrupted primarily only by radiation from nearby electronic devices.

[0006] Ultrasonic communication operates over a very limited range in air (up to tens of centimetres), but has a very good range underwater (up to hundreds of metres).

[0007] Due to the limited bandwidth available at low frequencies (and the limited airborne distance at ultrasound), devices that are not specifically designed for underwater use, or that are not primarily intended for use underwater, typically do not include such communications circuitry, opting instead for the airborne communications methods and protocols discussed above.

[0008] However, the widespread availability of smart devices and improvements in waterproof housings that are part of or available with such devices are opening up opportunities for the development of underwater apps and the use of aerial apps underwater. For example, the Apple Watch Ultra is now water resistant to 100 meters, includes an EN13319-certified housing, and is equipped with a depth gauge that can automatically activate when the user enters water and provides real-time measurement of underwater depth up to 40 meters along with water temperature measurements, dive time, etc. Additionally, underwater cases for smartphones are available that allow users to take underwater photos with their smartphone cameras.

[0009] Unfortunately, the richness of the user experience provided by these smart devices remains limited underwater because, for the reasons discussed above, these different types of devices use different methods and protocols that make communication between various underwater diving accessories and equipment and these smart devices impossible. While smart devices can be designed with both airborne and underwater communication hardware and protocols, the increased cost and size required is an obstacle. This is especially true given the relatively small number of people who engage in both activities.

[0010] Even if manufacturers of such smart devices were to consider including such additional underwater communication hardware to enhance the capabilities of their smart devices despite the additional size and cost, the additional regulatory environment and associated costs associated with devices used as diving equipment would likely dictate otherwise.

[0011] Indeed, if a smartwatch receives scuba tank pressure data to enhance the operation of the dive computer, the smartwatch itself becomes part of the European Union EN250 directive. This directive requires that smartwatches be tested and monitored annually by an external accredited CE Notified Body. While such a requirement and associated costs may be justified, particularly for dedicated dive computers purchased by the diving community, they are unlikely to be acceptable to buyers of smartwatches that may only occasionally be used for such activities.

[0012] In light of the above, there is a need in the art for systems and methods for improving the richness of a smart device user experience when used underwater, for both existing and new smart devices and underwater accessories. Embodiments of the present invention provide such systems and methods. These and other advantages of the present invention, as well as additional inventive features, will be apparent from the description of the invention provided herein. Summary of the Invention

[0013] In one aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide new and improved systems and methods for extending or enhancing the use of smart devices in underwater environments. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide new and improved communication interfaces between underwater equipment and accessories and smart devices. Even more specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide new and improved communication interfaces between underwater equipment and accessories that also serve as the primary display for information requiring certification and monitoring by an external accredited CE notified body.

[0014] In one embodiment, a compact, waterproof electronic module is provided. The module wirelessly connects to a wearable device such as a smart watch or a smart device such as a smartphone, and wirelessly connects to underwater diving equipment and / or accessories, such as scuba tank pressure transmitters, skin temperature sensors, heart rate monitors, positioning and navigation devices (e.g., Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), navigation buoys), depth information, etc. In one embodiment, the module is located near the smart device and connects to the smart device using terrestrial communication protocols such as Bluetooth, WLAN, Ant+, etc. In one embodiment, the module further connects to the underwater diving equipment and / or accessories using underwater communication protocols such as VLF, ultrasonic, etc.

[0015] In one embodiment, the module is attached to the wrist strap of a smartwatch, preferably via a universal or smartwatch-specific connection to keep the module in close proximity to the smartwatch body. In another embodiment, the module is incorporated into a wrist strap that can replace or supplement a standard smartphone strap. In yet another embodiment, the module is clipped or otherwise mechanically positioned on the wrist strap to prevent it from moving outside the very short distance underwater where terrestrial communication protocols can function.

[0016] In one embodiment, the module is attached to or incorporated as part of a case for a smartphone, camera, non-waterproof smartwatch, etc. Preferably, the attachment is via a universal or case-specific connection to keep the module in close proximity to the body of the smartphone, camera, non-waterproof smartwatch, etc. In another embodiment, the module is clipped onto the case or otherwise mechanically positioned to prevent it from moving outside the very short distance underwater where terrestrial communication protocols can function.

[0017] In one embodiment, the module includes a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) with a microcontroller and memory, a battery, a pressure sensor, a terrestrial communication module for communicating with the smart device, an antenna for the terrestrial communication module, an underwater communication module for communicating with underwater diving equipment and / or accessories, and an antenna for the underwater communication module. A user interface and / or activation sensor, which may include a pressure sensor, is also included. In yet another embodiment, the module includes a display for providing the communicated underwater information to a user.

[0018] In one embodiment, the microcontroller buffers underwater data in memory and transmits the underwater data to the smart device after the dive is complete. In one embodiment, the module immediately displays tank pressure data on its display and provides this stored information to the smart device after the dive, adding it to the smart device's complete logbook. In another embodiment, the user can select the desired information provided by the diving equipment and / or accessories. In one embodiment, this transfer of stored or buffered data is performed using terrestrial communication protocols.

[0019] In one embodiment, an underwater app is provided for installation on the smart device. In one embodiment, the app is used to visualize data and metrics provided by underwater diving equipment and / or accessories via a module on the smart device's display. In certain embodiments, the app provides different modes of operation, such as swimming, apnea, snorkeling, and diving, and provides metrics based on the user's activity.

[0020] In one embodiment, the module provides underwater information to a native underwater app installed on the smart device or to an underwater app provided by a third party. In one embodiment, the native or third party app is used to visualize data and metrics provided by underwater diving equipment and / or accessories via the module on the smart device's display.

[0021] In an embodiment usable with a non-waterproof smartwatch, smartphone, or other smart device worn on a user's wrist, the system includes a waterproof housing for the smart device mated to an arm strap that includes a second housing on the strap that contains a pressure sensor, an antenna for terrestrial communications (e.g., Bluetooth®), an antenna for underwater communications (e.g., for receiving information from a transmitter in a scuba tank), a rechargeable battery, and processing electronics.

[0022] In one embodiment, the battery is charged through the wet contacts, and in another embodiment, charging is provided by inductive charging. In one embodiment, the wet contacts are used to power up the module for underwater operation. In one embodiment, the wet contacts provide a simple user interface to enable Bluetooth® communication, such as for pairing. Such an embodiment conserves energy by preventing battery drain that would occur if the module were constantly receiving Bluetooth® requests or transmitting advertising messages. In one embodiment, the wet contacts can also provide a user interface to start and stop memory-based recording of the module. In certain embodiments, the housing further includes other user interfaces, such as a push button, a screw-down crown, or the like.

[0023] In embodiments in which the module includes a display, the module can receive and display scuba tank pressure data and / or data from other submersion or surface sensors as a stand-alone system. In such embodiments, EN250 requirements are met without the need to test a smart device, such as a smartwatch, smart wearable, or smartphone, as part of the system. However, the module can relay information to a smart device, such as via Bluetooth, during submersion as a secondary display of tank pressure, bottom time remaining, pressure warnings, etc., or after submersion for logbook integration or other functionality provided by the smart device.

[0024] In one embodiment, the module uses open and / or proprietary communication protocols specified by the particular manufacturer of the underwater sensor to enable use with the underwater sensor. Such protocols may utilize, for example, VLF, ultrasonic, or other underwater communication systems. Such modules may also use open and / or proprietary terrestrial communication protocols, such as Bluetooth®, to share information from the underwater sensor, such as tank pressure data, heart rate, skin temperature, battery status, depth, navigation, etc. Using such a common format, this data can be defined as public or open source for developers of smart devices (e.g., smartwatches, wearables, smartphones, cameras, underwater cases and housings, etc.).

[0025] In embodiments used with human factors (heart rate, skin temperature, etc.) sensors that may share the same underwater communications link as the tank pressure sensor, this data may also be relayed or shared with the smart device. In embodiments with a simple display and user interface, this and other data and values ​​are not displayed but are simply relayed to the smart device in simple repeater mode. In such embodiments, the module display is dedicated to tank pressure to meet EN250 requirements. In other embodiments, such additional information and data may also be displayed on the module.

[0026] Other aspects, objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a simplified system level communications block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a wireless underwater gauge constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the present invention configured for attachment to an underwater smartwatch. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention configured to accommodate a smartwatch that is not waterproof. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the present invention configured to attach to a wristband of an underwater smartwatch. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention configured to attach to a wristband of an underwater smartwatch. [Figure 7]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the present invention configured to integrate with a waterproof smartphone case configured to enable the smartphone to be used as an underwater camera.

[0029] While the present invention will be described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to those embodiments, but rather to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] With reference to the drawings, there are shown embodiments of the present invention configured to operate with various smart devices, such as smartwatches and smartphones, as well as various underwater sensors commonly used during swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, free diving, and the like. However, while various embodiments, operating environments, and activities are described, it should be noted that they are provided to aid in understanding the present invention. Accordingly, the following description should be taken as exemplary and not limiting. Indeed, various other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, the full scope of which is reserved.

[0031] 1 illustrates a simplified communications block diagram of a WSG (Water Supply Gauge) communication system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the WSG communication system 100 utilizes a WSG module 102 as a communications interface between underwater sensors and accessories 104, such as a tank pressure transmitter 106, a heart rate sensor 108, a skin temperature sensor 110, a lamp / DPV battery status sensor 112, a pressure sensor 166 for determining depth, and a ground-based positioning buoy 168 that provides GPS or other position information via ultrasound or other long-range communications protocols. Such a ground-based positioning buoy 168 that provides GPS or other position information via ultrasound or other long-range communications protocols may be that described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 825,161, entitled "Dive Computer Integrated Navigation System," filed May 26, 2022, and assigned to the assignee of the present application, the teachings and disclosure of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The WSG communication system 100 also includes a smart device 114, such as a smart watch, smartphone, or other smart device.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the communication link between the underwater sensors and accessories 104 and the WSG 102 may utilize a low frequency underwater communication link 116 or other underwater communication technologies, such as longer range ultrasonic as described above and in the '161 application, or a combination of each of these communication technologies depending on the sensors used.

[0033] As is known in the art, such underwater low-frequency communication links 116 typically have a range of up to approximately 3 meters, depending on the frequency, etc. This distance is acceptable because the underwater sensors and accessories 104 are typically located on or in close proximity to the swimmer's or diver's body, similar to a conventional dive computer worn or carried by the swimmer or diver and displaying directly communicated information for the diver's benefit. Also, as is known in the art, such underwater ultrasonic communication links typically have a range of several hundred meters. This range is particularly suitable for information provided by remotely located devices, such as a navigation buoy as described in the '161 application, which is used in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] However, as previously mentioned, current smart devices 114 generally do not include a communication interface capable of receiving information from an underwater communication link 116 (low frequency or ultrasonic). Instead, such smart devices 114 generally include only a terrestrial-based communication interface, which, as previously mentioned, has a very short range underwater, of only a few centimeters.

[0035] To relay information from the underwater sensors and accessories 104 to the smart device 114, the WSG 102 utilizes a terrestrial communication link 118 to provide the information to the smart device 114. As previously mentioned, because the WSG 102 can be located within such distance of the smart device 114, various terrestrial communication links 118 can be utilized in the system 100 of the present invention, even though the transmission range is very limited, only a few centimeters underwater.

[0036] In other words, embodiments of the present invention are enabled by satisfying different transmission distance limitations underwater, i.e., physically locating such sensors and accessories 104 within approximately 3 meters of underwater sensors using low-frequency communications, within several hundred meters of underwater sensors using ultrasonic communications, and within a few centimeters of the smart device 114. In this manner, the WSG 102 can receive information transmitted by the underwater sensors and accessories 104 utilizing the underwater low-frequency and / or ultrasonic communications link 116 for which such devices are designed, and relay such information utilizing the terrestrial communications link 118 for which the smart device 114 is designed. Indeed, specific embodiments of such systems are described in more detail below with reference to Figures 3-7.

[0037] However, before describing a specific embodiment of the system 100 of the present invention, attention is directed to the simplified block diagram of the WSG module 102 shown in FIG. 2. As can be seen, the WSG module 102 utilizes a microcomputer 120 powered by a battery 122. As will be understood by those skilled in the art from the description herein, such battery 122 may be a dedicated, replaceable battery or, in various embodiments, may be rechargeable. Such charging may occur via wetted contacts, inductive charging, or the like. To preserve battery life, the WSG 102 may utilize a simple user interface or activation sensor 124 that turns the WSG 102 on at the beginning of a dive and turns it off once the dive is complete and the user is no longer underwater. In one embodiment, the activation sensor 124 includes a pressure sensor that can measure depth underwater and communicate that depth information to the smart device 114 (see FIG. 1) or to a display 130, described in more detail below.

[0038] The WSG module 102 also includes an underwater low-frequency and / or ultrasonic receiver 126 configured to receive information from the underwater sensors and accessories 104 shown in FIG. 1. Such a receiver 126 may be configured to utilize a specific underwater communication protocol for a particular manufacturer, or may include multiple receivers or multi-band receivers capable of receiving underwater transmissions from sensors and accessories from various manufacturers. In some embodiments, the effectiveness of the receiver may be improved by providing multiple orthogonal antennas on the receiver. This receiver 126 may also have transmit capabilities to enable any necessary pairing or handshake with the underwater sensors and accessories 104.

[0039] The WSG 102 also includes a terrestrial communications link receiver 128 to communicate with smart devices using a corresponding terrestrial communications protocol. Like the receiver 126, the terrestrial communications transmitter 128 may be configured to communicate using a specific terrestrial communications protocol, or may include multiple transmitters or multi-band transmitters to enable compatibility with smart devices from various manufacturers that may utilize different terrestrial communications protocols for communication. Indeed, like the receiver 126, the terrestrial communications transmitter 128 may also include a receiver to participate in handshakes or other pairing requirements of communicating devices.

[0040] 2, the WSG module 102 also includes a memory 121. The memory 121 can be used to store or buffer underwater data and transmit it to the smart device after the dive is complete. This is particularly useful for adding such underwater information to the smart device after a dive to complete a logbook on the smart device.

[0041] 2, the WSG module 102 also includes memory 121 and a display 130. This display 130 is optional for the WSG module 102, particularly in systems that do not utilize a tank pressure transmitter 106 (see FIG. 1) or in systems where the smart device complies with regulatory requirements for monitoring and certification (e.g., EN250). However, in embodiments for use with smart devices that do not comply with such regulatory requirements, the display 130 can be used as the primary tank pressure display for the overall system that includes the WSG module 102, thereby complying with such regulatory requirements as part of the system.

[0042] With an understanding of the overall configuration of the WSG system 100 and the WSG module 102 itself, attention is now directed to Figure 3, which illustrates an example physical embodiment of the system 100 of the present invention. Illustrated is an underwater-compatible smartwatch 132 and its associated wristband 134. In this embodiment, the WSG module 102' includes a smartwatch connection interface 136 and a wristband connection interface 138.

[0043] In such an embodiment, the WSG module 102′ can connect to the smartwatch 132 utilizing the smartwatch connection interface 136 as if the smartwatch connection interface 136 were the end of a wristband 134 configured to mate with the smartwatch 132. In other words, this connection to the smartwatch 132 mimics the connection that the wristband would have if it were directly connected to the body of the smartwatch 132. At the opposite end of the WSG module 102′, the wristband connection interface 138 appears to the wristband 134 as a connection interface provided on the smartwatch 132. In other words, to the wristband 134, the wristband connection interface 138 mimics the connection interface of the body of the smartwatch 132 to which the wristband 134 would normally be attached. In this manner, no additional or different equipment needs to be purchased or acquired to incorporate the WSG module 102′ into the smartwatch 132, as the WSG module 102′ can be simply inserted between the end of the smartwatch 132 and the wristband 134.

[0044] While such a connection interface provides the greatest flexibility in connecting to a variety of different smartwatch / wristband combinations, alternative embodiments may utilize a fixed connection to the wristband portion instead of providing a wristband connection interface 138.

[0045] In either configuration, although a separate display 130 is not specifically shown in the embodiment of WSG module 102' shown in FIG. 3, such a display may be incorporated into the surface of WSG module 102' to display at least tank pressure information.

[0046] While the embodiment of FIG. 3 is particularly suited to an underwater smartwatch 132, the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is particularly suited to a non-underwater smartwatch 140. When using the WSG module 102'' with such a non-underwater smartwatch 140, the WSG module 102'' can be included as part of a waterproof housing 142 sized and configured to accommodate the non-underwater smartwatch 140. Such a waterproof housing 142 also includes user interface buttons 144, crown 146, etc., that are provided on the housing of the non-underwater smartwatch 140, allowing the user to continue to operate the non-underwater smartwatch 140 as normal.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the WSG module 102'' may include a battery access 148, wet charging contacts 150, and / or an inductive charging area 152. In certain embodiments, the wet charging contacts 150 are used to power up the module for underwater operation. In one embodiment, the wet contacts provide a simple user interface to enable Bluetooth® communication, such as for pairing. Such an embodiment conserves energy by preventing battery drain that would occur if the module were constantly receiving Bluetooth® requests or sending advertising messages. In one embodiment, the wet contacts may also provide a user interface to start and stop the module's memory-based recording.

[0048] 4, an activation pressure sensor 154 is also shown, which in some embodiments may be used to activate the module for underwater operation. Antennas for each of the underwater and terrestrial communication links may also be incorporated into the housing and / or watch band 156 of the WSG module 102'' provided in this embodiment.

[0049] 5, another embodiment of a WSG module 102''' is shown having a simplified housing that can fit through the watch band 134 of an underwater smartwatch 132. As shown, the WSG module 102''' is preferably positioned proximate to the body of the underwater smartwatch 132, however, even if the WSG module 102''' is slid to a different position on the band 134, the underwater communication distance will still be within the normal range for underwater communication.

[0050] However, when the WSG module 102'''' includes a display 130 for tank pressure information, such as that shown in FIG. 6, accurate positioning that is easily visible to the diver becomes even more important. In such an embodiment, the WSG module 102'''' may include a clip 158 that can securely position the WSG module 102'''' in a known location on the wristband 134 of the underwater-compatible smartwatch 132. While the embodiment of FIG. 6 shows a clip 158 that is particularly suited for interfacing with an Apple Watch Ultra Ocean Band, other clip configurations and operations can be provided in other embodiments to interface with other wristbands.

[0051] While FIGS. 3-6 illustrate various embodiments of the WSG system 100 of the present invention interfacing with a smartwatch, the embodiment of FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment in which the WSG module 102''''' interfaces with a smartphone 160. In the illustrated embodiment, the WSG module 102 is incorporated into a waterproof smartphone case 162 that is specially configured to enable the smartphone 160 to operate as an underwater camera. In this configuration, the display 130 of the WSG module 102''''' is located in the rear viewing window 164 of the case 162, where the user is most likely to observe it while taking pictures underwater.

[0052] WSG module 102'''''' can be located inside or outside window 164. In certain embodiments, WSG module 102''''' can be powered by the battery in waterproof smartphone case 162, the battery in smartphone 160, or its own internal battery, and can share user interface functionality using buttons on waterproof smartphone case 162. While case 162 is shown as providing underwater camera functionality as described above, such functionality is not required in all embodiments; instead, case 162 can simply be a waterproof smartphone case with the functionality of WSG module 102''''' built in.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, or in embodiments in which the WSG module 102 interfaces with other types of smart devices, a diving app can be provided on the smart device to display the relayed information and use that information to calculate various diving parameters that may be useful to a diver while underwater. Additionally, information provided from the underwater sensors and accessories 104 via the WSG module 102 can be incorporated into existing apps and operating modes on the smart device, or provided by third-party developers, to provide additional and more advanced information and / or calculations for underwater use.

[0054] All references cited in this specification, including publications, patent applications, and patents, are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference was individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0055] In the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the claims below), the use of the terms "a," "an," and "the," and similar referents, are to be construed as including both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to"), unless otherwise indicated. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value within the range, unless otherwise stated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually set forth herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Any use of examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is intended merely to more clearly describe the invention and does not limit the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0056] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of these preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to adopt such variations as appropriate, and they also intend that the invention be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto to the extent permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. an underwater communication interface for receiving information from a diving sensor; a terrestrial communication interface that transmits the information received by the underwater communication interface from the diving sensor to a smart device; a display for displaying to a user the information received by the underwater communication interface from the diving sensor; Includes a wireless underwater gauge.

2. 10. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1, further comprising a memory configured to store the information received from the diving sensor during a dive and, upon completion of a dive, provide the stored information to the ground communication interface for transmitting the information to the smart device.

3. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , wherein the diving sensor is one of a scuba tank pressure transmitter, a skin temperature sensor, a heart rate monitor, a navigation buoy, or a depth sensor.

4. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , wherein the terrestrial communication interface uses a terrestrial communication protocol for transmitting the information received by the underwater communication interface from the diving sensor to the smart device.

5. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 4 , wherein the terrestrial communication protocol is at least one of Bluetooth, WLAN, or Ant+.

6. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , wherein the underwater communication interface uses an underwater communication protocol for receiving the information from the diving sensor.

7. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 6 , wherein the underwater communication protocol is at least one of very low frequency (VLF) or ultrasonic.

8. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , wherein the underwater communication interface that receives information from the diving sensor is further configured to transmit pairing information to the diving sensor.

9. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , wherein the terrestrial communication interface that transmits the information to the smart device is further configured to receive pairing information from the smart device.

10. 10. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1, further comprising an attachment configured to position the wireless underwater gauge near the smart device so that the ground communication interface can transmit the information to the smart device during a dive.

11. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 10 , wherein the attachment is configured to attach to a wrist strap of the smart device.

12. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 10 , wherein the attachment is configured to be interposed between the smart device and a wrist strap.

13. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , further comprising a wrist strap configured to attach to the smart device, the underwater communication interface, the terrestrial communication interface, and the display being integrated into the wrist strap.

14. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , further comprising a waterproof case configured to house the smart device, the underwater communication interface, the terrestrial communication interface, and the display being incorporated as part thereof.

15. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1 , further comprising at least one of a user interface or an activation sensor.

16. 10. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 1, further comprising a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) comprising a microcontroller, a memory, a battery, a pressure sensor, the terrestrial communication interface, a first antenna for the terrestrial communication interface, the underwater communication interface, and a second antenna for the underwater communication interface.

17. 17. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 16, wherein the microcontroller is configured to buffer the information in the memory during a dive and transmit the information to the smart device after a dive is completed.

18. 17. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 16, wherein the microcontroller is configured to display the information on the display during a dive and to transmit the information to the smart device after the dive so that the smart device can add the information to its logbook.

19. 17. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 16, further comprising a wetted contact configured to allow charging of the battery.

20. 20. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 19, wherein the wet contact is further configured to indicate submersion in water for diving and to activate the wireless underwater gauge for operation.

21. 20. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 19, further comprising an underwater app installed on the smart device and configured to visualize the information on a display of the smart device.

22. a diving sensor configured to transmit information using an underwater communication protocol; a wireless underwater gauge including an underwater communication interface for receiving information from the diving sensor, a terrestrial communication interface for transmitting the information received by the underwater communication interface from the diving sensor using a terrestrial communication protocol, and a display for displaying to a user the information received by the underwater communication interface from the diving sensor; a smart device configured to receive the information using the terrestrial communication protocol; An underwater gauge communication system including:

23. 23. The underwater gauge communication system of claim 22, wherein the wireless underwater gauge includes a display configured to display the information to the user.

24. an underwater communication interface for receiving information from a diving sensor; a microcontroller configured to buffer said information in a memory during a dive; a terrestrial communication interface that transmits the information received from the diving sensor by the underwater communication interface to a smart device using a terrestrial communication protocol; Including, the microcontroller is configured to transmit the information to the smart device via the ground communication interface after completion of the dive. Wireless underwater gauge.

25. 25. The wireless underwater gauge of claim 24, further comprising a display, the microcontroller further configured to display the information on the display during a dive.

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