Diver Helmet Mounted Television System

An advanced version of an underwater television system has been recently developed and qualified for use by U. S. Navy Divers (AN/WXQ-(Number to be assigned)). The system consists of a lightweight miniature television camera and integral light assembly. The camera is capable of producing picture resolution exceeding 600 TV lines, yet is compact enough to be mounted onto a divers helmet for "hands free" observation of underwater surveys and work tasks. The topside system control unit (SCU) is of unitized construction and features a microcomputer base for signal processing and display. A high resolutlon television monitor is utilized to present real time underwater images from the camera together with digital readout of the diver\´s depth and elapsed time. Low voltage operation of both the camera and light coupled with a built in ground fault interrupter at the control unit insure diver safety and confidence. A video cassette recorder provides permanent records of the television survey. This visual data together with voice communication between the diver and surface enable careful analysis of the dive and serve as a valuable record for future reference and training. A miniature 1 cm diameter umbilical cable provides the interface between the diver and the surface, containing the necessary conductors for all power requirements in addition to low attenuation television transmission, 4 wire communications, remote camera focusing, and depth measurement. Lightweight, high impact strength shipping/ carrying cases are provided for equipment storage and protection and allow rapid mobilization of the system. The U. S. Navy system closely follows the design of the commercial diving version with provisions for specific military requirements.