Abstract: An underwater audio communication system to be worn by a diver is connected with and carried by a conventional face mask such that bone conduction occurs through the mastoid bone of the diver (i.e., behind the ear of the diver). The underwater audio communication system includes a face mask with a head strap for placement behind the head of the diver. A transceiver which is connected with and carried by the head strap is configured for receiving and transmitting ultrasonic signals in the water. At least one bone conduction transducer assembly is connected with and carried by the head strap at a location for placement against a mastoid bone of the diver. Each bone conduction transducer assembly is electrically connected with the transceiver.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a scuba diving mouthpiece for supplying air to a diver. The mouthpiece includes a mouth engageable body having at least one biteplate. Each biteplate is adapted for being disposed between and engaged by the teeth of the diver. A sound transducer is associated with the body, and includes a magnetostrictive element with opposing ends. The magnetostrictive element is expandable and contractible in an axial direction in a presence of a magnetic field. A sound conducting member includes a movable distal end and an opposing fixed end. The sound conducting member is operatively connected with one of the ends of the magnetostrictive element at a location between the distal end and the fixed end. The sound conducting member is embedded within the body and configured to receive audio sounds from the connected sound transducer.