A system and method for pairing between underwater devices

Abstract

The present invention discloses an underwater communication device for use by divers, comprising: at least one permanent magnet positioned at an edge of said device and configured to generate a magnetic field; at least one magnetic sensor with proximity detection functionality positioned at an edge of said device and configured to detect said magnetic field when a second underwater communication device is brought into proximity; a pairing module configured to: receive a proximity indication from said magnetic sensor when said magnetic field is detected, initiate a communication pairing session in response to said proximity indication, and establish a shared connection with said second underwater communication device, wherein the shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices later when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field;

Description

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PAI RING BETWEEN UNDERWATER DEVICESBACKGROU N DTECH NICAL FI ELDThe present invention relates generally to underwater communication, more specifically pairing underwater communication and establishing P2P underwater communication network.SUMMARYThe present invention discloses a coupling / pairing communication system between at least two communication devices, comprised of: at least two communication devices wherein each device is comprised of: at least one permanent magnet, sensor module configured to detect magnetic field in the nearby space; pairing module configured to be activated upon determining proximity for establishing communication channel between the at least two communication devicesThe present invention discloses an underwater communication device for use by divers, comprising: at least one permanent magnet positioned at an edge of said device and configured to generate a magnetic field; at least one magnetic sensor with proximity detection functionality positioned at an edge of said device and configured to detect said magnetic field when a second underwater communication device is brought into proximity; a pairing module configured to: receive a proximity indication from said magnetic sensor when said magnetic field is detected, initiate a communication pairing session in response to said proximity indication, and establish a shared connection with said second underwater communication device, wherein the shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices later when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field.According to some embodiments of the present invention the pairing module is further configured to: randomly select a key number from a uniform distribution between 0 and K-l, wherein K represents a predefined range of polynomial numbers; randomly select at least one carrier frequency number from a range between 0 and C-l, wherein C represents a predefined number of carrier frequencies; and transmit said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number to said second underwater communication device a polynomial numbers table storing a plurality of indexed polynomial numbers within a predefined range.According to some embodiments of the present invention the at least one carrier frequency number comprises: a regular carrier frequency number for normal communication operations; and an SOS carrier frequency number for emergency communications.According to some embodiments of the present invention the device further comprising: a guide pairing module configured to facilitate pairing between a master device and a plurality of user devices by providing step-by-step guidance for aligning and pairing said devices.According to some embodiments of the present invention the guide pairing module is configured to: enter a pairing mode responsive to activation of a pairing button; pair a first set of user devices with said master device by sending a first pairing signal; transmit first polynomial parameters to said first set of user devices upon successful pairing; pair a second set of user devices with said master device by sending a second pairing signal; and transmit second polynomial parameters to said second set of user devices upon successful pairing.According to some embodiments of the present invention, the guide pairing module is further configured to display distinct visual indicators for each set of paired devices to confirm successful pairing.According to some embodiments of the present invention the device further comprising a calibration module configured to determine baseline magnetic field readings when no external magnet or weak magnetic field is present near said magnetic sensor, and distinguish between ambient magnetic fields and magnetic fields from other underwater communication devices based on said baseline magnetic field readings; and a body check module configured to assess communication functionality between paired devices before a dive session.According to some embodiments of the present invention each polynomial number in said polynomial numbers table serves as both a cryptographic key and an identifier for a diver or diver pair.According to some embodiments of the present invention said permanent magnet and said magnetic sensor are strategically positioned at opposing edges of said device to facilitate a seamless pairing process when users bring their hands close together.The present invention discloses a method for establishing secure underwater communication between diving devices, comprising: positioning a first underwater communication device having at least one permanent magnet at an edge thereof in proximity to a second underwater communication device having at least one magnetic sensor at an edge thereof; detecting, by said magnetic sensor of said second underwater communication device, a magnetic field generated by said permanent magnet of said first underwater communication device; generating, by a pairing module of said second underwater communication device, a proximity indication based on said detected magnetic field; initiating, by said pairing module, a communication pairing session in response to said proximity indication; establishing a shared connection with said second underwater communication device wherein the shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices at a later time when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field;. According to some embodiments of the present invention further comprising the steps of: determining a baseline magnetic field reading before initiating communication, wherein said baseline magnetic field reading is measured when no external magnet or weak magnetic field is present near said magnetic sensor; and distinguishing between ambient magnetic fields and magnetic fields from said first underwater communication device based on said baseline magnetic field reading.According to some embodiments of the present invention the method further comprising the steps of: selecting a key number from a polynomial numbers table storing indexed polynomial numbers within a predefined range; selecting at least one carrier frequency number for communication; transmitting said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number to said first underwater communication device; and establishing a shared connection between said first and second underwater communication devices using said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number; wherein said selecting a key number comprises: randomly selecting said key number from a uniform distribution between 0 and K- 1 , wherein K represents a total number of polynomial numbers in said polynomial numbers table.According to some embodiments of the present invention said selecting at least one carrier frequency number comprises: randomly selecting a regular carrier frequency number from a range between 0 and C-l for normal communication operations; and randomly selecting an SOS carrier frequency number from said range between 0 and C-l for emergency communications.According to some embodiments of the present invention the method further comprising the step of: performing a body check operation to assess communication functionality between said first and second underwater communication devices before a dive session.According to some embodiments of the present invention the method further comprising the steps of: determining a diving scenario comprising one of: a group scenario involving multiple diver pairs, or a pair scenario involving a single diver pair; setting a detection threshold using a Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) method based on said diving scenario; and adjusting said detection threshold to maintain a consistent false alarm rate across varying underwater noise levels.According to some embodiments of the present invention when said diving scenario is a group scenario, the method further comprising the steps of: selecting, by a master device, a master key number between 0 and K- 1 ; selecting M / 2 buddy key numbers between 0 and K-l, wherein M represents a number of divers in a group; and distributing said master key number and respective buddy key numbers to diver pairs within said group.According to some embodiments of the present invention when said diving scenario is a pair scenario, further comprising the steps of: selecting, by a leader device, a master key number between 0 and K- 1 ; selecting a single buddy key number between 0 and K- 1 ; and distributing said master key number and said single buddy key number to both divers in said pair.According to some embodiments of the present invention the methods further comprising the steps of: converting said key number into a key polynomial for cryptographic communication.According to some embodiments of the present invention the method further comprising the steps of: placing a header comprising said key number at an end of a transmitted message to reduce computational cost.The present invention discloses a system for underwater communication among a plurality of divers, comprising:• a plurality of diver transceiver units, each configured to transmit and receive underwater communication signals;• a master transceiver unit associated with a guide diver;• a memory within each diver transceiver unit storing a lookup table comprising a set of / 'distinct polynomials, each polynomial being associated with a unique index number and at least one carrier frequency;• wherein each pair of divers is assigned a single polynomial that serves as both a key and an identifier for that pair;• wherein the master transceiver unit is assigned a distinct polynomial different from those assigned to the diver pairs.According to some embodiments of the present invention the number of polynomials / Cis determined according to a pre-defined acceptable rate of group collisions based on an expected range of diver groups.According to some embodiments of the present invention each transmitted message includes, as a header or trailer, an index number representing the assigned polynomial used for recognition and authentication of the transmitting diverBRI EF DESCRI PTION OF TH E SCH EMATICS

[0001] The present invention will be more readily understood from the detailed description of embodiments thereof made in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of which:

[0002] Figure 1A&B are a block diagram, depicting the components of the underwater communication devices, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0003] .

[0004] Figure 2 is a flowchart the pairing module according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0005] Figure 3 outlines a flowchart for the guide pairing module, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0006] Figure 4 presents a block diagram of the body check module, according to some embodiments of the invention

[0007] Figure 5 depicts a detailed flowchart of the pairing module for underwater communication devices, tailored to different diving scenarios, as outlined in some embodiments of the invention.

[0008] Figures 5A&B depicts the transmitter device design, as outlined in some embodiments of the invention.DETAI LED DESCRI PTION OF THE VARIOUS MODULES

[0009] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.Figure 1A&B are a block diagram, depicting the components of the underwater First / second Coupling transmitters, according to some embodiments of the invention. The Coupling transmitters are comprised of at least one parament magnet 70, at least one magnetic sensor with proximity functionality 10, calibration module, pairing module 20 Guide Pairing module 50, body check module 60 and Polynomial numbers table 30.Figure 1A and Figure IB present a block diagram that outlines the components of the underwater First / Second Coupling Transmitters, in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. The design of these Coupling Transmitters includes several key components, each contributing to the device's functionality:1. Permanent Magnet (70): At least one permanent magnet is integrated into the transmitter to establish a magnetic field. This component is crucial for the magnetic coupling process between devices.2. Magnetic Sensor with Proximity Functionality (10): At least one magnetic sensor is installed to detect the presence of the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet. This enables the transmitter to recognize the proximity of another device, critical for initiating coupling and communication.3. Pairing Module (20): Enabling first connection between transmitters when they are within range, utilizing the data from the magnetic sensor to initiate communication protocols.4. Guide Pairing Module (50): Designed to facilitate the pairing process, this module aids in aligning the master or guide device with one or more user devices. It provides step-by-step guidance to ensure that devices are correctly paired, enhancing the reliability and stability of the connection.5. Body Check Module (60): Before beginning any dive session, this module assesses the communication between paired users. It is instrumental in ensuring that all systems are functional and ready, thereby enhancing safety and reliability.6. Polynomial Numbers Table (30): This component houses a carefully indexed table of polynomial numbers, which are used within a predefined range.Together, these components form a robust system designed to operate efficiently in underwater environments, enabling secure and reliable communication between devices.The magnetic sensor unit and the permanent magnet are strategically positioned at the edges of the device to facilitate a seamless pairing process. This design ensures that when users bring their hands close together, the proximity of the permanent magnet to the magnetic sensor triggers a response. This interaction is essential for enabling functionalities that rely on the detection of close physical proximity between two parts of the device or between two separate devices. The placement of these components is critical for enhancing user experience by providing a quick and intuitive pairing mechanism, which can be particularly useful in wearable technology, smart devices, and other interactive applications.The present invention provides solution by providing each pair of divers with a single polynomial, while the Master / guide receives another polynomial. The polynomial will serve as both a key and an identifier of each diver. The polynomials cannot be changed on-the-fly since both the diver’s buddy and Master need to be aware of the change.For groups of 6 divers and Master, are required into 4 polynomials: 3 to each pair in group and 1 for the master.However, since the identity of nearby groups is unknown, the actual range / number of polynomials, K (range sof polynomials), is determined according to pre-defined acceptable rate of group collisions.The polynomial number which represents a recognition key () may serve as the message’s header. This header can be the guided / Masker’ s polynomial number according to other embodiments of the present invent it is proposed to use another source of signal separation by changing main frequency that can be adopted is the spectral domain for separating between regular messages and SOS. The concept below combines these possibilities. Since several divers are expected within a group, to save on computational cost, the header will be placed at the end of the transmitted message.The transmitter unit has built in lookup table of K polynomials wherein each polynomial is associated with index number, and pred-defined C carrier frequencies. . The present invention discloses a system for underwater communication among a plurality of divers, comprising:• a plurality of diver transceiver units, each configured to transmit and receive underwater communication signals;• a master transceiver unit associated with a guide diver;• a memory within each diver transceiver unit storing a lookup table comprising a set of / 'distinct polynomials, each polynomial being associated with a unique index number and at least one carrier frequency;• wherein each pair of divers is assigned a single polynomial that serves as both a key and an identifier for that pair; wherein the master transceiver unit is assigned a distinct polynomial different from those assigned to the diver pairs.According to some embodiments of the present invention the number of polynomials Kis determined according to a pre-defined acceptable rate of group collisions based on an expected range of diver groups.According to some embodiments of the present invention each transmitted message includes, as a header or trailer, an index number representing the assigned polynomial used for recognition and authentication of the transmitting diverFigure 2 illustrates a flowchart detailing the operations of the pairing module as per certain embodiments of the invention. This module is designed to efficiently manage the pairing process between devices using a sequence of well-defined steps that enhance communication security and reliability:1. Receiving Proximity Indication (410): When the module detects a proximity indication from the magnetic sensor, it initiates communication pairing session.2. Key and Frequency Selection: (418) o Master / Leader Key Selection: The Master or Leader device randomly selects a number as its key from a uniform distribution between 0 and K-1K-1K-1. In a group scenario involving multiple diver pairs, M / 2M / 2M / 2 numbers are selected, each within the range from 0 to K-1K-1K-1. For a single pair scenario, only one number is chosen. o Carrier Frequency Selection: The module also randomly selects numbers for the regular and SOS carrier frequencies, each within the range from 0 to C-1C-1C-1. This selection is vital for setting the communication channels during normal operations and emergency situations.3. Establishing Shared Connection (420) by Updating and Confirmation (Sending Polynomial Number, Carrier Frequency Selection and Acknowledgement): After selecting the key and frequencies, the module updates the polynomial number and sends a confirmation or acknowledgement to the second device. This step is crucial for verifying the integrity of the data exchanged and confirming the setup for the next phase.This shared connection is secured using the keys and polynomial numbers exchanged, ensuring that both devices can communicate securely and effectively in their underwater environment.The shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices later when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field.Figure 3 outlines a flowchart for the guide pairing module, according to some embodiments of the invention. This flowchart describes the sequential steps the module takes to facilitate the pairing of multiple devices in an organized and secure manner, utilizing visual indicators and cryptographic parameters to ensure efficient communication:1. Entering Pairing Mode (510): The pairing process begins when the master device and all participating group devices are set to pairing mode. This is typically initiated by pressing a designated pairing button on each device, signaling readiness to establish connections.2. Pairing the First Set of Devices (512): o a. Initiating Pairing by Master Device: The master device actively begins the pairing process with the first set or group of devices by sending out a first pairing signal. This action is triggered by pressing the pairing button on the master device. o b. Acceptance by First Set of Devices: Devices within the first set acknowledge receipt of the pairing signal by pressing their respective pairing buttons. The successful pairing is visually confirmed through a specific color display (e.g., blue) on these devices, indicating they are now paired with the master.3. Sending Polynomial Parameters (514): o a. Distribution by Master Device: Once the first set of devices is successfully paired, the master device proceeds to send polynomial parameters to these devices. These parameters are crucial for setting up encrypted communications and ensuring secure interactions among the paired devices.4. Pairing the Next Set of Devices (516): o a. Initiating Next Pairing Sequence: The master device continues the pairing process by initiating a connection with the next set or group of devices through a second (or subsequent) pairing signal. This is achieved by pressing the pairing button on the master device once more. o b. Acceptance by Next Set of Devices: Similarly, devices in this second set accept the pairing signal by pressing their respective pairing buttons. They display a different color (e.g., green) to indicate successful pairing with the master device.5. Sending Polynomial Parameters to the Next Set (518): o a. Distribution to Second Set: After the successful pairing of the second set of devices, the master device sends the necessary polynomial parameters to these newly paired devices, replicating the secure setup established with the first set.6. Storing Polynomial Parameters (520): o a. Secure Storage by All Devices: All devices that have been paired — across both the first and second sets — store the received polynomial parameters. This storage is crucial for future operations and communications, as it allows the devices to maintain encrypted and secure connections.This flowchart of the guide pairing module demonstrates a systematic approach to pairing multiple devices sets in a sequential manner. Each set is uniquely identified bya color indicator during the pairing process, enhancing user comprehension and interaction. By sending and storing polynomial parameters, the system ensures that all communications remain secure and that each device can reliably interact with the others as intended.Figure 4 presents a block diagram of the body check module, according to some embodiments of the invention.The body check module follows these steps:1. Proximity Detection:Upon receiving an indication of proximity to a nearby device, the module sends a signal to initiate communication with that device 610.2. Initiating Checkup:Before entering the water (or any specific environment or situation), the user presses the pairing button on their device to send a "checkup" message. This message is a request for the paired device to provide specific information or parameters 612.3. Receiving Polynomial Parameters:The paired device receives the "checkup" message and responds by sending a message containing polynomial parameters. 614.4. Verification and Acknowledgment:Upon receiving the message with the polynomial parameters, the user's device verifies and processes the updated polynomial number. If the verification is successful, the device sends a confirmation or acknowledgment message back to the paired device 616.5. Check ultrasound transmission between devices 618This body check module allows the user's device to initiate a checkup process with a nearby paired device. The paired device provides polynomial parameters, which canrepresent different settings, configurations, or data relevant to the specific situation or environment the user is about to enter (e.g., water-related activities).The user's device verifies the received polynomial parameters and sends an acknowledgment back to the paired device, confirming the successful exchange of information. This process ensures that both devices have the necessary information and are synchronized before the user proceeds with their activity or enters the specific environment.Figure 5 depicts a more detailed flowchart of the pairing module for underwater communication devices, tailored to different diving scenarios, as outlined in some embodiments of the invention. This module is designed to adaptively configure communication parameters based on the size and needs of the diving group, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of underwater communication. The process includes several key steps:• Scenario Determination and Threshold Setting: o The Master / Leader first assesses the diving scenario to categorize the group size as 'many', 'average', or 'few' divers. This assessment directly influences the communication strategy to optimize coordination and safety. o Based on the determined group size, the Master / Leader sets the detection threshold, TH1, employing the Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) method. This statistical approach adjusts the threshold to maintain a consistent rate of false alarms across varying noise levels and diver densities, ensuring reliable detection of true signals under different underwater conditions.• Key and Frequency Allocation: o The Master / Leader then generates cryptographic and communication keys in a randomized, uniform manner:■ Master Key: A number is drawn between 0 and K-1K-1K-1. This key is crucial for establishing secure communication across the network.■ Buddy Keys: Depending on the scenario, either M / 2M / 2M / 2 numbers (for a 'group' scenario) or a single number (for a 'pair' scenario) are drawn within the same range to provide individual keys to divers for paired communication.■ Carrier Frequencies: Numbers for the 'regular' and 'SOS' carrier frequencies are selected between 0 and C-1C-1C-1. These frequencies are essential for standard and emergency communications, respectively.• Delivery and Calibration: o Group Scenario:■ In larger groups ('many' or 'average'), the Master calibrates each diver’s unit within the group by providing:■ The Master’s random number, which serves as a common secure key.■ Individual Buddy keys for each diver pair, facilitating private communications.■ Pre-determined 'regular' and 'SOS' carrier frequencies to ensure all members can communicate effectively and switch to emergency channels if needed.■ The detection threshold, TH1, tailored to the group’s size and diving conditions. o Pair Scenario:■ In a pair scenario (typically 'few' divers), the Leader performs a similar calibration for the pair, assigning:■ A common Master key for secure communications.■ A single Buddy key that both divers in the pair use, simplifying the cryptographic management.■ The same 'regular' and 'SOS' carrier frequencies for routine and emergency situations.■ The customized detection threshold, TH1, ensuring optimal detection sensitivity based on the smaller group dynamics.This process, as depicted in the flowchart, ensures a systematic and secure approach to device pairing, crucial for reliable underwater communications.Signal generation: Conversion of numbers into polynomials, a. In the 'group' scenario, each diver converts the Master and Buddy numbers provided into Key polynomials. The Master also converts his numbers as well as all the M / 2 numbers assigned to the diver pairs in the group, b. In the 'pair' scenario, each diver converts the Master and Buddy numbers into Key polynomials.This flowchart outlines a robust pairing module that adaptably configures underwater communication devices to suit different group sizes and scenarios. By tailoring cryptographic keys, communication frequencies, and detection thresholds, the system ensures both the security and reliability of communications among divers, enhancing their coordination and safety under various underwater conditions.AT the Calibration Phase: For a group of M +1 scuba divers, including a Master or GUIDE. The following actions are sequentially performed. Note that some tasks are .different for the ’group’ and ’pair’ scenariosDuring the Calibration Phase, a group of M+l scuba divers, including a Master or Guide, undertake the following actions, with specific tasks differing based on the 'group' or 'pair' scenarios:1. The Master / Leader determines the scenario for the dive, distinguishing between 'many', 'average', and 'few' divers in the group. The detection threshold, TH1, is then set according to the desired false alarm rate, following the constant false alarm rate (CFAR) procedure. A default value is used if this functionality is unavailable.Figures 6A&B depicts the transmitter device design, as outlined in some embodiments of the invention.Figures 6A depicts side view illustrations of the transmitter device design.Figure 6B presents a perspective view illustration of two transmitter devices in a pairing scenario. This illustration shows how the devices are positioned close to each other in opposite orientations to facilitate pairing. Specifically, the edge of one device, which houses a permanent magnet, is aligned to face the magnetic sensor on the edge of the second device. This orientation ensures optimal interaction between the magnetic field of the permanent magnet and the sensor, enabling effective communication and synchronization between the two devices.According to some embodiment, is implemented calibration module: the calibration process is applied before communication devices start moving, determine the baseline readings when no magnet or a weak magnetic field is near the sensor. This helps in distinguishing between ambient magnetic fields and the fields from your devices.In some embodiments of the underwater coupling transmitters, the calibration module is a critical component designed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the device before it becomes mobile. The calibration process involves several crucial steps that are implemented prior to the commencement of any movement or communication between devices.Initially, the calibration module determines baseline readings of the magnetic sensors when they are not influenced by the presence of nearby magnets or significant magnetic fields. This baseline measurement is taken in a controlled environment where ambient magnetic fields are minimal or entirely absent. By establishing this reference point, the module can accurately gauge the strength and orientation of any external magnetic fields during operation.The calibration process plays a pivotal role in distinguishing between the ambient magnetic fields naturally present in the environment and the specific magnetic fields emitted by the coupling devices. This distinction is vital for preventing false triggers or miscommunications caused by environmental interference. It allows the devices toaccurately identify and respond only to the magnetic fields generated by other paired devices.By integrating this calibration module, the transmitters are equipped to maintain high fidelity in magnetic sensing, enhancing the overall effectiveness and dependability of the communication system under various underwater conditions. This ensures that the coupling process between devices is both precise and reliable, leading to better performance and user experience.In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the inventions. The various appearances of "one embodiment,” "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[0001] Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

[0002] Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions.

[0003] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purposes only.

[0004] The principles and uses of the teachings of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples.

[0005] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the invention.

[0006] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above.

[0007] It is to be understood that the terms “including”, “comprising”, “consisting of’ and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers.

[0008] If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional elements.

[0009] It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not construed that there is only one of that element.

[0010] It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

[0011] Where applicable, although state diagrams, flow diagrams or both may be used to describe embodiments, the invention is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in the same order as illustrated and described.

[0012] Methods of the present invention may be implemented by performing or completing manually, automatically, or a combination thereof, selected steps or tasks.

[0013] The term "method" may refer to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of the art to which the invention belongs.

[0014] The descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as limiting but rather as illustrative only.

[0015] Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined.

[0016] The present invention may be implemented in the testing or practice with methods and materials equivalent or like those described herein.

[0017] Any publications, including patents, patent applications and articles, referenced or mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in the description of some embodiments of the invention shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

[0018] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible variations, modifications, and applications are also within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be limited by what has thus far been described, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. What is claimed is1. An underwater communication device for use by divers, comprising: at least one permanent magnet positioned at an edge of said device and configured to generate a magnetic field; at least one magnetic sensor with proximity detection functionality positioned at an edge of said device and configured to detect said magnetic field when a second underwater communication device is brought into proximity; a pairing module configured to: receive a proximity indication from said magnetic sensor when said magnetic field is detected, initiate a communication pairing session in response to said proximity indication, and establish a shared connection with said second underwater communication device, wherein the shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices later when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field;2. The underwater communication device of claim 1, wherein said pairing module is further configured to: randomly select a key number from a uniform distribution between 0 and K-l, wherein K represents a predefined range of polynomial numbers; randomly select at least one carrier frequency number from a range between 0 and C-l, wherein C represents a predefined number of carrier frequencies; and transmit said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number to said second underwater communication device a polynomial numbers table storing a plurality of indexed polynomial numbers within a predefined range.

3. The underwater communication device of claim 2, wherein said at least one carrier frequency number comprises: a regular carrier frequency number for normal communication operations; and an SOS carrier frequency number for emergency communications.

4. The underwater communication device of claim 1, further comprising: a guide pairing module configured to facilitate pairing between a master device and a plurality of user devices by providing step-by-step guidance for aligning and pairing said devices.

5. The underwater communication device of claim 4, wherein said guide pairing module is configured to: enter a pairing mode responsive to activation of a pairing button; pair a first set of user devices with said master device by sending a first pairing signal; transmit first polynomial parameters to said first set of user devices upon successful pairing; pair a second set of user devices with said master device by sending a second pairing signal; and transmit second polynomial parameters to said second set of user devices upon successful pairing.

6. The underwater communication device of claim 5, wherein said guide pairing module is further configured to display distinct visual indicators for each set of paired devices to confirm successful pairing.

7. The underwater communication device of claim 1, further comprising a calibration module configured to determine baseline magnetic field readings when no external magnet or weak magnetic field is present near said magnetic sensor, and distinguish between ambient magnetic fields and magnetic fields from other underwater communication devices based on said baseline magnetic field readings; and a body check module configured to assess communication functionality between paired devices before a dive session.

8. The underwater communication device of claim 2, wherein each polynomial number in said polynomial numbers table serves as both a cryptographic key and an identifier for a diver or diver pair.

9. The underwater communication device of claim 1, wherein said permanent magnet and said magnetic sensor are strategically positioned at opposing edges of said device to facilitate a seamless pairing process when users bring their hands close together.

10. A method for establishing secure underwater communication between diving devices, comprising:positioning a first underwater communication device having at least one permanent magnet at an edge thereof in proximity to a second underwater communication device having at least one magnetic sensor at an edge thereof; detecting, by said magnetic sensor of said second underwater communication device, a magnetic field generated by said permanent magnet of said first underwater communication device; generating, by a pairing module of said second underwater communication device, a proximity indication based on said detected magnetic field; initiating, by said pairing module, a communication pairing session in response to said proximity indication; establishing a shared connection with said second underwater communication device wherein the shared communication link enables subsequent underwater communication between the devices later when the devices are no longer in proximity identified by said magnetic field;11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: determining a baseline magnetic field reading before initiating communication, wherein said baseline magnetic field reading is measured when no external magnet or weak magnetic field is present near said magnetic sensor; and distinguishing between ambient magnetic fields and magnetic fields from said first underwater communication device based on said baseline magnetic field reading.

12. The method of claim 10, further comprising the steps of: selecting a key number from a polynomial numbers table storing indexed polynomial numbers within a predefined range; selecting at least one carrier frequency number for communication; transmitting said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number to said first underwater communication device; and establishing a shared connection between said first and second underwater communication devices using said key number and said at least one carrier frequency number; wherein said selecting a key number comprises: randomly selecting said key number from a uniform distribution between 0 and K- 1 , wherein K represents a total number of polynomial numbers in said polynomial numbers table.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein said selecting at least one carrier frequency number comprises: randomly selecting a regular carrier frequency number from a range between 0 and C-l for normal communication operations; and randomly selecting an SOS carrier frequency number from said range between 0 and C-l for emergency communications.

14. The method of claim 10, further comprising: performing a body check operation to assess communication functionality between said first and second underwater communication devices before a dive session.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising: determining a diving scenario comprising one of: a group scenario involving multiple diver pairs, or a pair scenario involving a single diver pair; setting a detection threshold using a Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) method based on said diving scenario; and adjusting said detection threshold to maintain a consistent false alarm rate across varying underwater noise levels.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein in case of diving scenario is a group scenario, further comprising: selecting, by a master device, a master key number between 0 and K- 1 ; selecting M / 2 buddy key numbers between 0 and K-l, wherein M represents a number of divers in a group; and distributing said master key number and respective buddy key numbers to diver pairs within said group.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein when said diving scenario is a pair scenario, further comprising: selecting, by a leader device, a master key number between 0 and K- 1 ; selecting a single buddy key number between 0 and K- 1 ; and distributing said master key number and said single buddy key number to both divers in said pair.

18. The method of claim 10, further comprising: converting said key number into a key polynomial for cryptographic communication.

19. The method of claim 10, further comprising: placing a header comprising said key number at an end of a transmitted message to reduce computational cost.

20. A system for underwater communication among a plurality of divers, comprising:• a plurality of diver transceiver units, each configured to transmit and receive underwater communication signals;• a master transceiver unit associated with a guide diver;• a memory within each diver transceiver unit storing a lookup table comprising a set of / 'distinct polynomials, each polynomial being associated with a unique index number and at least one carrier frequency;• wherein each pair of divers is assigned a single polynomial that serves as both a key and an identifier for that pair;• wherein the master transceiver unit is assigned a distinct polynomial different from those assigned to the diver pairs.

21. The system of claim 1 wherein the number of polynomials / Cis determined according to a pre-defined acceptable rate of group collisions based on an expected range of diver groups.

22. The system of claim 1 wherein each transmitted message includes, as a header or trailer, an index number representing the assigned polynomial used for recognition and authentication of the transmitting diver.

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