Underwater audio communication system using bone conducted sound

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention provides an underwater audio communication system including a transceiver and at least one bone conduction transducer assembly which may be 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 invention comprises, in one form thereof, an underwater audio communication system for use by a diver in water.
A face mask has 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.
An advantage of the present invention is that the underwater audio communication system may be used with conventional face masks worn by a diver.
Another advantage is that underwater audio communication is effected without the diver wearing a face mask which covers the mouth.
Yet another advantage is that the bone conduction transducer assembly is placed in association with the mastoid bone and thereby provides good audio communication through bone conducted sound.
An additional advantage is that the bone conduction transducer assembly is held against the mastoid bone of the diver to ensure good audio communication.
A still further advantage is that the underwater audio communication system of the present invention may be easily and effectively used with little or no training.