The Anglerfish Underwater Optical Communication System (UWOC)
Wireless underwater communication is a very challenging task. The most commonly used methods for wireless communication in the air, do not work in the water. There are three types of underwater communication in literature. These are Radio Frequency (RF), Acoustic and Optical communication.
Radio Frequency based underwater communications held on VLF (Very Low Frequency) and ELF (Extremely Low Frequency) radio waves. In both frequencies, underwater RF communication system requires large sized antennas and it consumes high energy when it’s compared with other methods. Also RF communication emits radio waves, which can be detected or intercepted by other underwater measurement systems with antennas. Therefore, underwater RF communication is not feasible for implementation. For acoustic based underwater communication, acoustic modems are used. The speed of the acoustic waves in the water is much greater than the acoustic waves in the air, and acoustic modem communication signals can also be detected or intercepted by an underwater measurement system with a hydrophone. When we compare underwater communication systems, optical communication has more energy efficiency, more communication channels and is more secure than RF and acoustic underwater communication systems. Therefore optical communication is the best option for underwater communication.
What is “The Anglerfish UWOC”?
With the cooperation of Bahcesehir University (BAU) and Savunma Teknoloji Mühendislik A.Ş. (STM) they innovated an underwater optical communication system known as “The AnglerfishTM UWOC”. Using the supplied full-face diver mask headsets, “The AnglerfishTM UWOC” provides full-duplex voice communication with an eye-safe LED that allows visible underwater communication up to 50 meters. Due to optical communication technology there is no question of communication disturbance by RF and acoustic means. Communication is secure because it is directed and modulation frequencies are unknown. The AnglerfishTM UWOC is easy to use with its user-friendly application. The AnglerfishTM UWOC has a wide range of usage that enhances diver-to-diver communication in any underwater operation.
Properties
Performance Calculations
Operational in waters as per Jerlov’s Water Mass Classification I to III
Neutral buoyancy for handheld unit in seawater density @ 1,025 gr/ml (adjustable with compensating plates)
Continuous 12 hours of endurance for voice transmissions
Scalable range extentions as per unit size
Specifications
Optical voice communication (directed or scattered)
Full duplex communication
No disturbance of communication by RF & acoustic means
Wearable and portable design
User friendly application and easy to use
Almost maintenance-free
Full face diver mask with integrated mike & headphones
Selectable operational types as per requirements
Weights : 1500 grams for mask, 3600 grams for handheld unit
User manuals
Applicable Standards
MIL-STD-810 F (for High/Low Temperature, Humidity, Solar Radiation, Salt Fog, Immersion, Vibration, Shock)
