Self-propelled buoy for monitoring underwater objects

摘要

Various embodiments of the invention provide a buoy and system for monitoring divers and other underwater objects. In many embodiments, the buoy has capabilities to monitor a diver, obtain position information about the diver and use that information to move itself to an effective range for continued monitoring. The buoy can connect and communicate with a communication device attached to a diver to communicate, position, biometric and other data. In one embodiment, the buoy comprises a propulsion system for propelling the buoy, an acoustic communication module for communicating with the diver and a propulsion controller for controlling the propulsion system to move to the effective range. Other embodiments provide a power generation system using a power generating buoy comprising an inertial weight, an energy converter and a connecting linkage. The system may comprise a single or multiple buoys and can include an electrical storage such as an electrical battery.

主权项

1. A self-propelled buoy for communication with an underwater object, the buoy comprising:
a propulsion system for propelling the buoy; an acoustic communication module configured to at least receive acoustic communications from a communication device associated with the underwater object; and a propulsion controller that identifies, from the acoustic communications received by the acoustic communication module, position information for the communication device associated with the underwater object, wherein the propulsion controller outputs control information to control the propulsion system of the buoy to stay within a selected distance of the underwater object, and wherein the propulsion controller includes a pattern mode for moving the buoy in a predetermined pattern to stay within the selected distance of the underwater object.