Abstract: A device is described for the automatic closing of openings on a floating structure whereby the need for human or manual intervention is eliminated. Once the floating structure is subjected to tilting (heeling), lateral, or other accelerating forces, an unstable mass is used as a triggering device to remove a block from interfering with the path of the closure. The closure rolls down a ramp and covers an adjacent opening to seal it., thus preventing uncontrollable flooding or fire from spreading within the structure.

Abstract: A device is described for the automatic closing of openings on a floating structure whereby the need for human or manual intervention is eliminated. Once the floating structure is subjected to tilting (heeling), lateral, or other accelerating forces, an unstable mass is used as a triggering device to remove a block from interfering with the path of the closure. The closure rolls down a ramp and covers an adjacent opening to seal it, thus preventing uncontrolled flooding or fire from spreading within the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hard hat which may be collapsed and easily stored when not in use. The hat uses a brim as a structural support, multiple curved segments and means for locking the segments into place. The multiple curved segments have raised and lowered portions, decreasing radii, and a common pivot point on the sides of the brim. In the collapsed position all the segments are stacked on one side of the brim, but when the hat is to be extended, the first curved segment is rotated about the common axis. As it is rotated a lowered portion on the back inner surface of the segment engages a raised portion on the front outer face of the next segment and it is drawn (as are the remaining segment) along with the first segment. Once the first segment has reached its position on the further side of the brim, the first segment is then locked into place and the hat is complete.

Abstract: A coupling unit is provided for joining flanged pipe ends. The ends are held in a pair of semicircular clamp members having inclined recesses and wedge elements for separating the flanges apart and bringing them into contact with the clamp.

Abstract: A system for loading/unloading a series of vertically stacked weights, each eight being substantially flat and having a central aperture. Two parallel aligned spatially separated c-tubes receive a weight and are caused to rotate via a right angle drive system. The weight held by the rotating c-tubes is then lifted vertically and received by a holding mechanism aligned with the central aperture of the weight.

Abstract: An apparatus to be mounted on conventional sextants permitting faster, more accurate readings with memory storage capability. Alternative transducing means are attached to a sextant arm and generate electronic signals corresponding to amount of rotation of the arm. An electronic timing circuit is coupled to the angle signal generator such that both angle and time may be displayed instantaneously in digital format or stored for later display. Multiple memory circuits allow multiple sextant readings and times to be consecutively taken and stored without requiring separate acts of manual data recordation by the operator after each sighting.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided allowing submersible vessels to selectly control buoyancy by use of a simple, selective weight release system. A stacked series of weights varying in shape, size or composition is releasably held on a rotating shaft. Orientation of the weight on the shaft and its location in the stack determine when it is released from the shaft.

Abstract: A system for separating fluids from each other. The mixture of fluids to be separated is injected into a cylindrical tank so as to cause the fluids to rotate and thereby accelerate their separation into strata. A float valve at the top of the tank allows lighter fluids to be exhausted while a second float valve at the bottom of the tank provides for the exhaust of heavier fluids. In the event of an oil spill on an open body of water, the present invention would provide for the clean up of the oil slick by separating it from the water.

Abstract: A system to maintain the pressure within a pressurized container within dgn limits and to vent undesirable fluids to the ambient atmosphere. A float floats near the top of the container on the surface of oil supplied to the container by a pressure compensator and is seated to seal an opening as long as the oil level remains above a given level. Sufficient displacement of the oil by gases generated within the container will unseat the float to allow the venting of such gases to the ambient atmosphere. Another opening is also located in the top of the container and is sealed by a weighted lid. If the pressure in the container exceeds the local ambient atmospheric pressure by an amount that would otherwise rupture the container, the lid will be forced open to allow the relief of the excess pressure. When seated, another float seals an opening located in the bottom of the container. This float will float on atmospheric fluid which accumulates in the bottom of the container.

Abstract: A tube with weights slidably located inside and apparatus to remotely conl their position and thereby change the vehicle's center of gravity. The tube is rigidly attached to the vehicle with its centerline running fore and aft if trim is to be controlled or running athwartships if the system is to be used to control list.