Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed having a sensor configured to measure a biological parameter of a diver and transmit a sensor signal. A controller is configured to determine that the biological parameter value correlated to the sensor signal is anomalous and responsively issue a rescue deployment signal to a buoyancy valve assembly. The buoyancy valve assembly has an inlet port connectable to a source of pressurized gas and an outlet port connectable to a buoyancy control bladder. The buoyancy valve assembly configured to receive the rescue deployment signal and responsively supply pressurized gas from the inlet port to the outlet port and buoyancy bladder, whereby the diver may ascend the water surface, even if disabled.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed having a sensor configured to measure a biological parameter of a diver and transmit a sensor signal. A controller is configured to determine that the biological parameter value correlated to the sensor signal is anomalous and responsively issue a rescue deployment signal to a buoyancy valve assembly. The buoyancy valve assembly has an inlet port connectable to a source of pressurized gas and an outlet port connectable to a buoyancy control bladder. The buoyancy valve assembly configured to receive the rescue deployment signal and responsively supply pressurized gas from the inlet port to the outlet port and buoyancy bladder, whereby the diver may ascend the water surface, even if disabled.

Abstract: An apparatus for divers is disclosed that includes both a buoy and an ascent device. The system also includes a biological sensor for detecting when a diver is in distress. Upon the biological sensor detecting an anomalous condition, the system inflates a bladder, such as that found in a diver's Buoyancy Control Device, to urge the diver toward the water surface. The system also releases a buoy, allowing the buoy to float to the water surface and alert others of the diver in distress. In an example embodiment, the buoy detects its position upon reaching the surface and issues an alarm.

Abstract: An example safety system for underwater diving includes a biological sensor for detecting a diver in distress, an alarm system, and a rescue deployment system. The sensor detects an anomalous condition and issues an alarm, such as, for example, a buzzer or a flashing light. In another example embodiment, upon determining the existence of a major, persistent, time-critical anomaly, or upon being instructed by the diver, the system inflates the diver's buoyancy compensation device and brings her toward the surface at a controlled rate. In another example embodiment, upon determining the existence of such an anomaly, or upon being instructed by the diver, the system releases a buoy, allowing the buoy to float to the water surface and alert others. In another example embodiment, the buoy detects its position upon reaching the surface and issues a radio signal, indicating distress and its current position.