Methods and devices for rescuing a distressed diver

Abstract

The invention discloses devices and methods for identifying a diver in distress and initiating a rescue response. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention allow for identification of a diver who is not breathing properly and in response giving local stimuli to allow the diver to response. Should he/she not respond, the instant invention will initiate steps to bring the diver back to the water surface and alert others as to his/her need of assistance.

1 . A device for rescuing a diver in distress, including:
 an air pressure sensor for determining air pressure in said diver's breathing system;   an electronic controller;   a power source;   an alarm adapted to alert said diver of a change in said air pressure;   a reset button adapted to turn off said alarm, said reset button being accessible to said diver during a dive; and,   at least one response element.   
     
     
         2 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said sensor is placed in a high pressure environment 
     
     
         3 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said sensor is placed in a medium pressure environment. 
     
     
         4 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said sensor is placed in a low pressure environment. 
     
     
         5 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said sensor and said electronic controller are realized as a single element. 
     
     
         6 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said power source is realized as batteries. 
     
     
         7 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said at least one response element includes an inflatable vest. 
     
     
         8 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said response element includes a buoyancy component. 
     
     
         9 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said at least one response element includes an inflatable balloon. 
     
     
         10 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said at least one response element includes a belt having a plurality of weights. 
     
     
         11 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said alarm any of the following features: lights, sounds, voice, and vibration. 
     
     
         12 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said controller is adapted for preprogramming with respect to the medium pressure according to breathing patterns of said diver. 
     
     
         13 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said controller is preprogrammed to recognize any anomalies recorded with respect to gas pressure or diver breathing. 
     
     
         14 . The device according to  claim 13 , wherein one manifestation of said anomalies is said diver not breathing. 
     
     
         15 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein said alarm is adapted to provide an alarm for a predetermined period of time prior to activation of said response element. 
     
     
         14 . The alarm according to  claim 1 , further including a communication element for alerting an authority as to the distress state of said diver. 
     
     
         16 . The device according to  claim 1 , further including a depth monitor adapted to modifying the diving depth of said diver. 
     
     
         17 . A component of a buoyancy compensator inflator or inflation device adapted for rescuing a diver in distress, including:
 an air pressure sensor for determining air pressure in said diver's breathing system;   an electronic controller;   a power source;   an alarm adapted to alert said diver of a change in said air pressure;   a reset button adapted to turn off said alarm, said reset button being accessible to said diver during a dive; and,   at least one response element.