Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of underwater communication and data transmission. Specifically, the invention pertains to the development of a data transmission device that enables efficient and secure communication in underwater environments.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] In the vast expanse of our oceans and water bodies lies a hidden world of mysteries and unexplored territories. Underwater environments have always intrigued researchers, scientists, and explorers, driving them to unlock the secrets hidden beneath the surface. From marine biologists studying marine life to oceanographers researching ocean currents and climate change, there is a constant need to gather data and communicate in these submerged realms. However, one of the most significant challenges faced in these endeavors is the establishment of reliable communication links in the underwater domain.
[0004] Traditional communication methods, such as radio waves or microwaves, which work effectively in air, become ineffective and inefficient underwater due to high absorption and scattering of electromagnetic waves in water. As a result, specialized techniques are required to enable efficient data transmission and communication in this unique environment.
[0005] The demand for underwater communication has grown exponentially with the increasing importance of ocean exploration, marine research, underwater surveillance, and offshore industries such as oil and gas exploration. In recent years, underwater robotics and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) have become indispensable tools for various underwater missions, ranging from pipeline inspection to archaeological explorations. These autonomous systems heavily rely on underwater communication to transmit real-time data, receive instructions, and communicate their status.
[0006] To address the challenges of underwater communication, various technologies have been developed, with a primary focus on acoustic-based communication systems. Acoustic waves, with their ability to travel long distances in water, have emerged as the preferred medium for underwater data transmission. Acoustic communication systems utilize underwater acoustic waves to transmit and receive data between underwater devices and surface control stations.
[0007] However, underwater communication still faces several challenges. The propagation of acoustic signals is affected by various factors, such as water temperature, salinity, and ambient noise, leading to signal attenuation and degradation. Additionally, the underwater environment is dynamic, and acoustic signals may experience multipath propagation, where signals are reflected and refracted, leading to signal distortions and delays. These complexities make it crucial to design advanced communication systems that can mitigate signal degradation and ensure reliable data transmission.
[0008] In recent years, advancements in signal processing, data compression, error correction, and multi-channel communication techniques have significantly improved the performance of underwater communication systems. Innovative approaches like MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) and OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) have been adapted to enhance the capacity and robustness of underwater data transmission. These advancements have paved the way for more efficient and secure underwater communication.
[0009] The present invention focuses on addressing the limitations of existing underwater communication devices and proposes a novel Data Transmission Device for Underwater Communication. The device incorporates state-of-the-art acoustic transducers, advanced signal processing algorithms, and error correction techniques to achieve reliable and high-speed data transmission in underwater environments. With a compact and robust design, the device can be easily integrated into various underwater systems, including AUVs, underwater sensors, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
[0010] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a data transmission device for underwater communication.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide advanced communication systems that can mitigate signal degradation and ensure reliable data transmission.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to achieve reliable and high-speed data transmission in underwater environments.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide an elegant, reliable and precise approach towards the data transmission device for underwater communication.
[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a process of improving functionalities of the data transmission device for underwater communication.
SUMMARY
[0017] The present invention relates to the field of underwater communication and data transmission. Specifically, the invention pertains to the development of a data transmission device that enables efficient and secure communication in underwater environments. The device utilizes acoustic transducers and advanced signal processing techniques to facilitate wireless communication between underwater devices and control stations. This invention finds application in various underwater activities such as underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and underwater robotics, where reliable and accurate data transmission is essential for successful operation and data collection in challenging aquatic conditions.
[0018] The data transmission device for underwater communication, includes a waterproof and pressure-resistant housing suitable for submersion in water, a data transmission module capable of encoding and decoding data for communication, a high-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to convert electrical signals from the data transmission module into high-frequency acoustic signals for transmission through water, a low-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to receive incoming high-frequency acoustic signals and convert them into electrical signals for further processing by the data transmission module, a signal processing unit within the housing, connected to the data transmission module and the high-frequency and low-frequency acoustic transducers, adapted to perform signal conditioning, filtering, and amplification of acoustic signals during data transmission and reception, a power source within the housing, providing electrical power to all internal components, a control unit integrated into the housing, responsible for managing data transmission operations, controlling signal processing, and coordinating communication with external devices, an antenna integrated into the housing, suitable for establishing wireless communication with an external control station or other underwater devices, a memory storage unit within the housing, capable of storing data for later transmission or receiving and processing data received from external devices, a user interface comprising a display and input controls, facilitating device configuration, data monitoring, and user interaction, a connector port on the housing, allowing for physical data transfer and recharging of the power source, a stabilizing mechanism or buoyancy control system to maintain the device at a desired depth during underwater operations, and a data encryption module integrated into the data transmission module, ensuring secure and confidential communication between the device and external systems.
[0019] According to an aspect, the high-frequency acoustic transducer operates within a frequency range optimized for efficient underwater communication, based on the water medium's acoustic properties. The low-frequency acoustic transducer is designed to be sensitive to a wide range of high-frequency acoustic signals, enabling effective reception of transmitted data from various sources. The signal processing unit includes adaptive filtering capabilities to reduce noise interference and improve data communication reliability.
[0020] According to an aspect, the power source comprises rechargeable batteries and a power management system to optimize energy usage during extended underwater missions. The control unit is programmable, allowing for customization of communication protocols, transmission frequencies, and data encoding formats. The data transmission device further comprising an integrated global positioning system (GPS) module for precise underwater positioning and navigation. The memory storage unit is equipped with data compression capabilities to maximize storage capacity and data transfer rates.
[0021] According to an aspect, the user interface provides real-time data visualization and monitoring, enabling operators to assess device status and data transmission performance. The connector port supports various communication protocols, including USB, Ethernet, or serial communication, for versatile data exchange with external devices. The data transmission device further comprising an external sensor interface, allowing for integration with underwater sensors to collect environmental data and enhance data transmission context. The device deployable for underwater communication in various applications, including underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and underwater robotics.
[0022] These and other features will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings. While the invention has been described and shown with reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0023] The accompanying illustrations are incorporated into and form a part of this specification in order to aid in comprehending the current disclosure. The pictures demonstrate exemplary implementations of the current disclosure and, along with the description, assist to clarify its fundamental ideas.
[0024] Fig.1 illustrates flowchart for working model of the data transmission device for underwater communication.
[0025] It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale, and the elements of similar structure and functions are generally represented by like reference numerals for illustrative purposes throughout the figures. It should be noted that the figures do not illustrate every aspect of the described embodiment sand do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.
[0026] Other objects, advantages, and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the present embodiment when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[0028] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[0029] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[0030] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations.
[0031] The present invention relates to the field of underwater communication and data transmission. Specifically, the invention pertains to the development of a data transmission device that enables efficient and secure communication in underwater environments. The device utilizes acoustic transducers and advanced signal processing techniques to facilitate wireless communication between underwater devices and control stations. This invention finds application in various underwater activities such as underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and underwater robotics, where reliable and accurate data transmission is essential for successful operation and data collection in challenging aquatic conditions.
[0032] The data transmission device for underwater communication, includes a waterproof and pressure-resistant housing suitable for submersion in water, a data transmission module capable of encoding and decoding data for communication, a high-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to convert electrical signals from the data transmission module into high-frequency acoustic signals for transmission through water, a low-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to receive incoming high-frequency acoustic signals and convert them into electrical signals for further processing by the data transmission module, a signal processing unit within the housing, connected to the data transmission module and the high-frequency and low-frequency acoustic transducers, adapted to perform signal conditioning, filtering, and amplification of acoustic signals during data transmission and reception, a power source within the housing, providing electrical power to all internal components, a control unit integrated into the housing, responsible for managing data transmission operations, controlling signal processing, and coordinating communication with external devices, an antenna integrated into the housing, suitable for establishing wireless communication with an external control station or other underwater devices, a memory storage unit within the housing, capable of storing data for later transmission or receiving and processing data received from external devices, a user interface comprising a display and input controls, facilitating device configuration, data monitoring, and user interaction, a connector port on the housing, allowing for physical data transfer and recharging of the power source, a stabilizing mechanism or buoyancy control system to maintain the device at a desired depth during underwater operations, and a data encryption module integrated into the data transmission module, ensuring secure and confidential communication between the device and external systems.
[0033] According to an aspect, the high-frequency acoustic transducer operates within a frequency range optimized for efficient underwater communication, based on the water medium's acoustic properties. The low-frequency acoustic transducer is designed to be sensitive to a wide range of high-frequency acoustic signals, enabling effective reception of transmitted data from various sources. The signal processing unit includes adaptive filtering capabilities to reduce noise interference and improve data communication reliability.
[0034] According to an aspect, the power source comprises rechargeable batteries and a power management system to optimize energy usage during extended underwater missions. The control unit is programmable, allowing for customization of communication protocols, transmission frequencies, and data encoding formats. The data transmission device further comprising an integrated global positioning system (GPS) module for precise underwater positioning and navigation. The memory storage unit is equipped with data compression capabilities to maximize storage capacity and data transfer rates.
[0035] According to an aspect, the user interface provides real-time data visualization and monitoring, enabling operators to assess device status and data transmission performance. The connector port supports various communication protocols, including USB, Ethernet, or serial communication, for versatile data exchange with external devices. The data transmission device further comprising an external sensor interface, allowing for integration with underwater sensors to collect environmental data and enhance data transmission context. The device deployable for underwater communication in various applications, including underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and underwater robotics.
[0036] The device comprises several key components, housed within a waterproof and pressure-resistant casing suitable for submersion in water. These components include a data transmission module responsible for encoding and decoding data for communication purposes. The device is equipped with both high-frequency and low-frequency acoustic transducers, mounted within the housing. The high-frequency transducer converts electrical signals from the data transmission module into high-frequency acoustic signals, facilitating transmission through water. Conversely, the low-frequency transducer receives incoming high-frequency acoustic signals and converts them back into electrical signals for further processing.
[0037] To ensure efficient data transmission and reception, the device incorporates a signal processing unit that performs signal conditioning, filtering, and amplification of the acoustic signals. This unit enhances the reliability of data communication by reducing noise interference and signal degradation caused by the underwater environment. The device is powered by an internal power source, comprising rechargeable batteries and a power management system to optimize energy usage during extended underwater missions.
[0038] The control unit is integrated into the housing, responsible for managing data transmission operations, controlling signal processing, and coordinating communication with external devices. The device's user interface features a display and input controls, facilitating device configuration, data monitoring, and user interaction. A connector port is provided on the housing, allowing for physical data transfer and recharging of the power source.
[0039] The data transmission device is equipped with a data encryption module within the data transmission module, ensuring secure and confidential communication between the device and external systems. This feature guarantees that data transmitted and received remains protected from unauthorized access.
[0040] The invention's high-frequency acoustic transducer operates within a frequency range optimized for efficient underwater communication, based on the water medium's acoustic properties. Similarly, the low-frequency acoustic transducer is designed to be sensitive to a wide range of high-frequency acoustic signals, enabling effective reception of transmitted data from various sources.
[0041] The device's programmable control unit allows for customization of communication protocols, transmission frequencies, and data encoding formats, enhancing its versatility and adaptability to different underwater communication requirements. Additionally, the device may include an integrated global positioning system (GPS) module for precise underwater positioning and navigation.
[0042] The memory storage unit within the housing is equipped with data compression capabilities to maximize storage capacity and data transfer rates. Furthermore, the user interface provides real-time data visualization and monitoring, enabling operators to assess device status and data transmission performance at a glance.
[0043] The connector port supports various communication protocols, including USB, Ethernet, or serial communication, facilitating versatile data exchange with external devices. Additionally, the device may feature an external sensor interface, enabling integration with underwater sensors to collect environmental data and enhance data transmission context.
[0044] The data transmission device has a wide range of applications, including underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and underwater robotics. Its compact and robust design makes it suitable for deployment in various underwater communication scenarios, providing reliable and secure data transmission capabilities in challenging underwater environments.
[0045] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0046] Thus, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and includes both combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications thereof, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A data transmission device for underwater communication, comprising:
a waterproof and pressure-resistant housing suitable for submersion in water;
a data transmission module capable of encoding and decoding data for communication;
a high-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to convert electrical signals from the data transmission module into high-frequency acoustic signals for transmission through water;
a low-frequency acoustic transducer mounted within the housing, configured to receive incoming high-frequency acoustic signals and convert them into electrical signals for further processing by the data transmission module;
a signal processing unit within the housing, connected to the data transmission module and the high-frequency and low-frequency acoustic transducers, adapted to perform signal conditioning, filtering, and amplification of acoustic signals during data transmission and reception;
a power source within the housing, providing electrical power to all internal components;
a control unit integrated into the housing, responsible for managing data transmission operations, controlling signal processing, and coordinating communication with external devices;
an antenna integrated into the housing, suitable for establishing wireless communication with an external control station or other underwater devices;
a memory storage unit within the housing, capable of storing data for later transmission or receiving and processing data received from external devices;
a user interface comprising a display and input controls, facilitating device configuration, data monitoring, and user interaction;
a connector port on the housing, allowing for physical data transfer and recharging of the power source;
a stabilizing mechanism or buoyancy control system to maintain the device at a desired depth during underwater operations; and
a data encryption module integrated into the data transmission module, ensuring secure and confidential communication between the device and external systems.
2. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the high-frequency acoustic transducer operates within a frequency range optimized for efficient underwater communication, based on the water medium's acoustic properties.
3. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the low-frequency acoustic transducer is designed to be sensitive to a wide range of high-frequency acoustic signals, enabling effective reception of transmitted data from various sources.
4. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the signal processing unit includes adaptive filtering capabilities to reduce noise interference and improve data communication reliability.
5. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises rechargeable batteries and a power management system to optimize energy usage during extended underwater missions.
6. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the programmable control unit allowing for customization of communication protocols, transmission frequencies, and data encoding formats.
7. The data transmission device of claim 1, further comprising an integrated global positioning system (GPS) module for precise underwater positioning and navigation.
8. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the memory storage unit equipped with data compression capabilities to maximize storage capacity and data transfer rates.
9. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the user interface provides real-time data visualization and monitoring, enabling operators to assess device status and data transmission performance.
10. The data transmission device of claim 1, wherein the connector port supports various communication protocols, including USB, Ethernet, or serial communication, for versatile data exchange with external devices.