Steering Patents (Class 114/246)
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Patent number: 11673630Abstract: The invention relates to an inflatable surfboard with an inflatable hull component with two lateral arms (7a, 7b) which form a receptacle, and drive unit (6) which forms an outer contour which fits into the receptacle in a positively locking manner, and at least one fastening means (23, 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b, 26a, 26b, 27, 27a, 27b, 28, 61a, 61b) at the stern end of the surfboard (1), wherein the at least one fastening means (23, 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b, 26a, 26b, 27, 27a, 27b, 28, 61a, 61b) is inelastic.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2018Date of Patent: June 13, 2023Assignee: WBV Weisenburger Bau+Verwaltung GmbHInventor: Nicolai Weisenburger
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Patent number: 10703447Abstract: A fuel tender for providing fuel to an internal combustion engine of a marine vessel may include a first pontoon, a second pontoon, and a truss structure connecting the first pontoon to the second pontoon with the first pontoon being separated from the second pontoon by a pontoon separation distance that is greater than a vessel width of the marine vessel so that the first pontoon and the second pontoon can straddle a vessel stern of the marine vessel with the truss structure disposed above a stern deck of the marine vessel. A fuel reservoir may be mounted on the truss structure and have a fuel supply line extending therefrom, with the fuel supply line being fluidly connectable to a fuel inlet port for the internal combustion engine when the first pontoon and the second pontoon straddle the vessel stern of the marine vessel.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2018Date of Patent: July 7, 2020Assignee: Progress Rail Locomotive Inc.Inventors: Richard Christopher Kulaga, Gerald Robert West
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Patent number: 10620333Abstract: The invention relates to a method for seismic survey by autonomous seismic nodes (1) at a sea floor (2), comprising: —attaching the seismic nodes (1) to a rope (3); —loading the rope (3) with the seismic nodes into a node deployer (4); —lowering the node deployer (4) into the sea (5); —towing the node deployer (4) above the sea floor (2); —deploying the rope (3) with the seismic nodes (1) at the sea floor (2); —collecting seismic data by the seismic nodes (1); —retrieving the rope (3) with the seismic nodes (1) from the sea floor (2), and —unloading seismic data from the seismic nodes (1). The invention also relates to a node deployer (4) for deploying a rope (3) with seismic nodes (1) at the sea floor (2), comprising a magazine (7) for the rope (3) with the seismic nodes (1).Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2015Date of Patent: April 14, 2020Assignee: MAGSEIS ASInventors: Karsten Dons, John Emil Halden, Nils Halvor Heieren
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Patent number: 10526057Abstract: The invention relates to a water sports device comprising an inflatable body component (1) having a longitudinal direction (L) and inflatable arms (8a, 8b) on a rear end, the arms being distanced from one another and orientated in the longitudinal direction (L), between which arms a receptacle (2) having an inner contour is formed, and comprising a drive component (7) having a tread surface (4) and an underwater surface (3), which drive component is formed with a complimentary contour (10a, 10b, 11) on two longitudinal sides (10a, 10b) that are distanced from one another and which component can be inserted into the receptacle (2) from the rear end, wherein the inner contour and the complimentary outer contour (10a, 10b, 11) form a connection to one another and a position of the inserted drive component (7) in the receptacle (2) is secured in the direction of the tread surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2016Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: Lampuga GmbHInventor: Benjamin Kohnsen
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Patent number: 10293893Abstract: According to some aspects, a tug and barge arrangement is provided that is configured with an articulated conduit system for transferring fluid between the tug and the barge. In some embodiments, an articulated conduit system is provided that comprises a plurality of conduits fluidically interconnected by rotatable joints configured to permit positional alterations of the fluid conduits that result from differential movement between a tug and barge.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2017Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: Moran Towing CorporationInventors: Sean Reiley Perreault, Curtis Leffers, Matthew William Roddy, Matthew Jacob Wichgers, Jeremy Paul Rice
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Patent number: 10259537Abstract: A bridle block is for a deflector, and has a stem and a rocker arm attached to each other on a pivot axis. The stem has an attachment for a vessel towline, a forward portion of the rocker arm has an attachment for fore bridle lines of the deflector, and an aft portion of the rocker arm has an attachment for aft bridle lines of the deflector. A hydraulic cylinder has a valve, and is attached to the stem and the rocker arm to hold the stem and the rocker arm in a relative position. The valve is operated by a signal from a control unit. The valve takes an open position when a signal is missing, so there is an open fluid connection between a piston side of a piston and a reservoir or an open fluid connection between the piston-rod side of the piston and the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Mørenot Offshore ASInventors: Stig Hurlen, Terje Søvik
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Patent number: 10232913Abstract: The present invention relates to a pontoon boats that may couple and be driven by a PWC. The invention further relates to pontoon boats having a portion that moves into an open water recess at the rear of the pontoon boat. The invention further relates to an engagement assembly for securing a PWC to such a pontoon boat.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2018Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Inventors: Larry Brown, Danielle Brown
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Patent number: 9944354Abstract: An extendable and retractable lower deck for a watercraft is attached to and supported by one or more amidships hulls. The lower deck and hulls slide between an extended position and a stowed position on rails that are secured to the underside frame of the main, upper deck that is supported by abeam hulls. When fully extended, the extendable deck remains attached to the watercraft. A rotatable gate positioned within the lower hull can be used for improved accessibility to and from the water; the gate is stowed when its distal end is in the raised position and is deployed when its distal end extends below the bottom side of the hull into the water in the lowered position. Laterally expandable panels in the lower deck provide increased width, and other accessories used with the watercraft can be contained in one or more storage holds in the amidships hull.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Quadratoon Company LLCInventors: Michael Timothy O'Neal, Blaine Lawson, Michael Thomas Farmer
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Patent number: 9914506Abstract: The present invention relates to a pontoon boats that may couple and be driven by a PWC. The invention further relates to pontoon boats having a portion that moves into an open water recess at the rear of the pontoon boat. The invention further relates to an engagement assembly for securing a PWC to such a pontoon boat.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2016Date of Patent: March 13, 2018Inventors: Larry Brown, Danielle Brown
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Patent number: 9678234Abstract: A depth-varying marine acoustic source array is configured for generating an acoustic wave in a body of water. The depth-varying marine acoustic source array includes a float; plural source points connected to the float through corresponding cables; and a housing extending from a first source point to a last source point, the housing including plural segments. The at least one segment is configured to withstand bending.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2013Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: CGG SERVICES SASInventor: Junya Konno
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Patent number: 9631614Abstract: An oil supply system may include a first hydraulic pump pumping oil to a low pressure portion through a first main line, a second hydraulic pump pumping oil to a high pressure portion through a second main line, first and second check valves that are respectively disposed at one side of the first and second main lines, a first convert valve supply the oil flowing the second main line to the low pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the first check valve of the first main line, and a second convert valve supplying oil flowing the first main line to the high pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the second check valve of the second main line.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2013Date of Patent: April 25, 2017Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Youngchul Kim, Jong Hyun Kim, Taeho Kim, Seungjae Kang
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Patent number: 9599105Abstract: An oil supply system may include a first hydraulic pump pumping oil to a low pressure portion through a first main line, a second hydraulic pump pumping oil to a high pressure portion through a second main line, first and second check valves that are respectively disposed at one side of the first and second main lines, a first convert valve supply the oil flowing the second main line to the low pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the first check valve of the first main line, and a second convert valve supplying oil flowing the first main line to the high pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the second check valve of the second main line.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: Hyundai Motor CopmanyInventors: Youngchul Kim, Jong Hyun Kim, Taeho Kim, Seungjae Kang
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Patent number: 9470365Abstract: A storage tank for storing liquids on the seafloor in a subsea environment is disclosed. The storage tank includes a protective enclosure having a removable cover. The storage tank has at least one compartment therein within which is a container including an outer flexible bladder and an inner flexible bladder within the outer flexible bladder. The inner flexible bladder is capable of containing an inner liquid. The space between the inner flexible bladder and the outer flexible bladder is capable of containing an outer liquid. The inner flexible bladder has a liquid inlet capable of connecting to a source of the inner liquid. The inner flexible bladder has a liquid outlet capable of connecting to a line for conveying the inner liquid to a desired location. The storage tank further includes a recirculation loop for circulating the outer liquid in the space between the inner flexible bladder and the outer flexible bladder.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2015Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventors: Robert Brian Atkinson, Gregory Arthur Winslow, Dengen Zhou
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Patent number: 9457883Abstract: A remote operating device for remotely operating a floating device having a water jet drive includes a first operating unit for receiving control data as well as an actuator for controlling and/or adjusting the power of the water jet drive. The actuator may include a first actuating element for mechanically controlling the power of the water jet drive of the floating device. Alternatively, the actuator may include a first electronic module for feeding a voltage signal into engine electronics of the floating device, for controlling the power of the water jet drive.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventors: Tobias Fieback, Lars Ramcke, Svetlana Immel
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Patent number: 9428252Abstract: The present invention relates to a pontoon boats that may couple and be driven by a PWC. The invention further relates to pontoon boats having a portion that moves into an open water recess at the rear of the pontoon boat. The invention further relates to an engagement assembly for securing a PWC to such a pontoon boat.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2014Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Inventors: Larry Brown, Danielle Brown
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Patent number: 9244187Abstract: A towable and steerable elongated float for a marine seismic source arrangement for use in making a seismic survey at sea, having first attachment means at a lower or bottom part of a float body for allowing at least one seismic source to be suspended from the float, and second attachment means on a fore part of the float body for attachment of a strength taking source towing line or umbilical. The float body comprises first and second elongated steering foils being attached to and spaced from respective port and starboard sides of the fore part of said float body by respective support arrangement. The steering foils have respective longitudinal steering foil axes being oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the float body and so as to be substantially perpendicular to a sea surface when in use, the elongated steering foils having respective first and second chord axes.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: CGG SERVICES SAInventors: Peder Aasmund Berentzen, Stig Runar Valdal, Svein Dale, Peer Øyvind Toftner
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Patent number: 8854918Abstract: Marine seismic streamer steering apparatus are described having an elongate body, at least a portion of which is positioned eccentric of a marine seismic streamer, the apparatus having stability features selected from: one or more lateral steering control surfaces providing a center of lift approximately through a vertical streamer axis; one or more buoyancy elements providing a center of buoyancy through the same or a different vertical axis approximately through the center of the streamer; and combinations thereof. The apparatus have improved stability and avoid heeling during use.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Rune Toennessen
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Patent number: 8817574Abstract: A compound buoy. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are buoy systems that include: a surface buoy; a subsurface buoy comprising an elongated outer body; a connector disposed on the lower surface; and a winch having a line, the line coupled between the surface buoy and the subsurface buoy. The buoy system has first configuration in which the upper surface of the subsurface buoy abuts the surface buoy, the abutting relationship held by tension in the line, and the buoy system has a second configuration where a distance between the surface buoy and the subsurface is limited by a length of the line spooled off the winch. In operation, the subsurface buoy supports more of the subsurface load than the surface buoy.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: PGS Geophysical ASInventor: Karl Petter Elvestad
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Patent number: 8626392Abstract: A vehicle driving control apparatus is provided at least with: a rudder angle varying device capable of changing a relation between a steering angle, which is a rotation angle of a steering input shaft, and a rudder angle, which is a rotation angle of steered wheels; and a trajectory controlling device for controlling the rudder angle varying device such that a trajectory of a vehicle approaches a target driving route of the vehicle. The vehicle driving control apparatus is further provided with a changing device for changing responsiveness of control by the trajectory controlling device when there is a steering input given to the steering input shaft through a steering wheel by a driver of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takahiro Kojo
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Patent number: 8612095Abstract: A vehicle driving control apparatus is provided at least with: a rudder angle varying device capable of changing a relation between a steering angle, which is a rotation angle of a steering input shaft, and a rudder angle, which is a rotation angle of steered wheels; and a trajectory controlling device for determining a control amount and controlling the rudder angle varying device such that a trajectory of a vehicle approaches a target driving route of the vehicle. The vehicle driving control apparatus is further provided with a correcting device for correcting (i) a rate of change in the rudder angle with respect to a steering amount of the steering input or (ii) the determined control amount, in accordance with whether or not a steering direction of the steering input inputted to the steering input shaft through a steering member by a driver of the vehicle is identical with a rudder angle control direction of the control amount determined by the trajectory controlling device.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takahiro Kojo, Yoshiaki Tsuchiya, Theerawat Limpibunterng
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Patent number: 8397656Abstract: A method of towing a craft having a fore rudder and rear rudder using a towing vehicle with the fore rudder and rear rudder initially oriented parallel to the length of the craft such that the craft follows directly behind the towing vehicle. The fore rudder is rotated to a position less than 90 degrees off parallel to the length of the craft. The rear rudder is rotated in an opposite direction to the fore rudder and to a position less than 90 degrees off parallel to the length of the craft, causing the craft to move off to the side of the track of the towing vehicle while the craft maintains movement substantially parallel to the towing vehicle, producing an of offset tow.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: David Purdy, Chris Vandergeugten, Douglas O'Neill, Dustin Draper, Evan Harriger, Mark Seal
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Patent number: 8327789Abstract: A sectional barge assembly and a hydraulic thruster apparatus for maneuvering the sectional barge assembly. The hydraulic thruster apparatus includes a hydraulic power unit and a thruster unit. The hydraulic power unit includes an engine and a hydraulic pump connected to the engine. The thruster unit includes a hydraulic motor and a propeller drivingly connected to the hydraulic motor to provide a thrust force that acts to move the sectional barge assembly. The sectional barge assembly includes a plurality of barges interconnected by connector devices that are also used to interconnect the thruster unit to the sectional barge assembly. Further, a hydraulic connection panel is mounted on the thruster unit and includes a plurality of hydraulic connectors which allow a plurality of hydraulic lines to be removably connectable thereto, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Mid-America Foundation Supply Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey J. Emch
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Patent number: 8275493Abstract: A system and method are provided for launching and recovering an unmanned, water-born vehicle (UWBV) from a mother ship. The UWBV mimics the behavior of dolphins and is positioned ahead of the ship in preparation for bow riding. The UWBV uses a guidance system to position and keep in the bow wave. A high-frequency (HF) sonar transceiver array aboard the ship computes and sends course corrections to maintain the UWBV within the bow wave. The frequency range of the HF array can be 100 kHz or higher due to the short distance between the ship and the UWBV. Accordingly, the HF array can have a small aperture allowing for accurate bearing resolution. Course corrections can be sent on a near-continuous basis such that changes in thrust and rudder angle can be minimized to allow for accurate control of the UWBV.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Inventor: Anthony A. Ruffa
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Publication number: 20120226636Abstract: Disclosed is a tug-barge offshore cargo transport device and method, comprised of two separate elements which are removably attached: a barge and a tug boat. The barge includes a bow shaped to cut through and deflect waves, a rectangular cargo deck protected by a bulwark, compartments below the cargo deck, means for maneuvering the barge, and means at the stern of the barge for removably attaching the barge to a tug boat. The tug boat includes means at the bow to removably attach to the barge, and means to control the means for maneuvering the barge from the tug boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: Robert H. Perez
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Patent number: 8230801Abstract: A method of controlling a streamer positioning device (18) configured to be attached to a marine seismic streamer (12) and towed by seismic survey vessel (10) and having a wing and a wing motor for changing the orientation of the wing. The method includes the steps of: obtaining an estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, calculating a desired change in the orientation of the wing using the estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, and actuating the wing motor to produce the desired change in the orientation of the wing. The invention also involves an apparatus for controlling a streamer positioning device including means for obtaining an estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, means for calculating a desired change in the orientation of the wing using the estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, and means for actuating the wing motor to produce the desired change in the orientation of the wing.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Oyvind Hillesund, Simon Hastings Bittleston
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Publication number: 20120145064Abstract: An intercepting vehicle, which is being towed by a towing vehicle, may home in on and attach to a retrievable vehicle that catches up to the intercepting vehicle from behind. Then, the intercepting vehicle, with the retrievable vehicle docked thereto, may be brought to the towing vehicle by reeling in the intercepting vehicle with the retrievable vehicle docked thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: VEHICLE CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Thomas F. Tureaud, Daniel N. Dietz, Stacy J. Hills, Douglas E. Humphreys, Alexander V. Roup
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Publication number: 20120039669Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for applying a dispersant or other substances to a water surface. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method according to the present invention. Significant for the method according to the present invention is in that a nozzle hose system is used, said system comprising a hose (1) or a set of hoses, that the hose (1) or set of hoses is elevated at both ends, that one end of the hose (1) or set of hoses is based at an operation unit (6), and that the other end of the hose (1) or set of hoses is connected to a paravane (9; 109; 209) that is towed by or connected to the operation unit (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2010Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Magnus Claeson, Peter Lofgren
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Patent number: 8100078Abstract: The present invention provides a steerable hydrofoil. The apparatus includes at least one steerable hydrofoil panel, at least one body part coupled to the at least one steerable hydrofoil panel to allow the at least one steerable hydrofoil panel to rotate about an axis, and at least one actuator for rotating the at least one steerable hydrofoil panel by a selected angle about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Eskild Storteig, Rune Tønnessen
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Patent number: 8072172Abstract: A redundant electromechanical actuator is provided that includes first and second electric motors, a common output shaft, first and second drive cable drums, first and second driven cable drums, a first cable, and a second cable. The first and second electric motors are each adapted to be controllably energized to supply a drive torque. The common output shaft is coupled to receive the drive torque supplied from one or both of the motors. The first and second drive cable drums are coupled to the common output shaft to receive the drive torque from one or both of the motors. The first and second driven cable drums are each configured, upon being driven, to rotate. The first cable is coupled between the first drive cable drum and the first driven cable drum, and the second cable is coupled between the second drive cable drum and the second driven cable drum.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Casey Hanlon, David M. Eschborn
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Patent number: 8028638Abstract: A method of dynamic positioning of a vessel (16, 32), wherein a positioning system controls at least one positioning machinery (18), and where two or more buoys (1), each comprising at least one positioning machinery (18), are coupled to the vessel (16, 32).Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Inventors: Claes W. Olsen, Bjorn E. Gustavsen
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Patent number: 7946237Abstract: An apparatus for retarding and/or changing the direction of travel of a sailing vessel is disclosed. The apparatus includes a watercraft (10) with moveable flaps (12A, 12B, 12C) internal ballast tanks, solenoid banks (20) and explosive activated nut and bolt clamps. The watercraft (10) is manually navigated or navigated by remote control. A method of utilizing the watercraft (10) to retard and/or change the direction of travel of the sailing vessel is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Singapore Technologies Dynamics Pte Ltd.Inventors: Saik Hay Fong, Hong Soon Tan, Tee Peng Toh
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Patent number: 7738317Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for remotely controlling position of marine seismic equipment. One apparatus comprises a source connected to a tow member; and an adjustment mechanism connected to the source and the tow member, the adjustment mechanism adapted to actively manipulate an angle of attack of the source. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Rune Toennessen
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Patent number: 7658161Abstract: A system for adjusting a deflector in a seismic survey comprises a generally upright deflector body and at least one bridle connected to a seismic cable. The bridle includes an upper segment secured to an upper connection point on the deflector body, and a lower segment coupled to a lower connection point on the deflector body. The upper bridle segment, lower bridle segment and deflector body define a geometry between themselves. This geometry is adjustable by at least one actuator so as to control the tilt angle of the deflector body.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Rune Toennessen, Emmanuel Keskes, Eskild Storteig, Per Helgerud, Vahid Moosavi, Philippe Saint-Pere
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Patent number: 7507128Abstract: Personal watercraft systems and watercraft power systems are described. The personal watercraft power systems include a housing for supporting a water jet pump and engine system. The housing is constructed to support the power system and removably engage a watercraft. An engine and a centrifugal pump are enclosed in the housing and operatively connected by an endless drive, such as a belt. A crankshaft of the engine is generally aligned and offset for a pump shaft of the centrifugal pump. An impeller is connected to the pump shaft and is constructed in rotate in a plane generally aligned, and preferably offset from, a plane of a water surface. The orientation of the engine and the centrifugal pump provides a watercraft power system that has a reduced profile and is particularly applicable for watercraft constructed to support an operator in a prone position.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2007Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Bomboard LLCInventors: John H. West, Richard J. Page
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Patent number: 7499373Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for connecting two seismic streamers are disclosed that enable two streamers to be towed in a desired arrangement. One apparatus comprises an elongate member having a first portion and a second portion, and an orientation member connected to the elongate member between the first and second portions, the orientation member functioning, when the streamers are connected by the apparatus and towed, to maintain orientation of the streamers. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Rune Toennessen
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Publication number: 20090013916Abstract: A method for intercepting and yawing an errant sailing vessel is disclosed, wherein the vessel might have been hijacked or malfunctioned and in danger of colliding with an object. The method comprises dispatching a watercraft to approach the sailing vessel and secures itself to one side of the sailing vessel's hull. Preferably, a second watercraft is secured to the other side of the vessel's hull. At least one of the watercrafts is then operated to direct propulsion thrust to yaw the vessel in a desired direction. Preferably still, the first and second watercrafts are each secured respectively to the right and left sides of the vessel's hull proximate to the stem or bow end. The first (right side) watercraft then operates a fluid propulsion which thrust is directed away from the vessel's right side while the second (left side) watercraft's propulsion is on standby. As a result, the vessel is turned rightward or clockwise.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2007Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventors: Saik Hay Fong, Hong Soon Tan, Tee Peng Toh
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Patent number: 7426896Abstract: Personal watercraft systems are described. The personal watercraft systems include a housing for supporting a water jet engine system. The housing has a pickle fork shaped hull for operation enjoyment. A pair of sponsons is removably attachable to the housing to facilitate breakdown of the watercraft system assembly into more easily transportable components. A cowling is disposed in the housing about the water jet engine system for forming a water jacket about the engine. A support is attached to the housing to support a torso area of an operator. A seal is disposed between the support and the housing for sealing the interface therebetween and absorbing impacts. A steering mechanism is connected to the personal watercraft system for allowing an operator to control the personal watercraft systems direction of travel. The steering mechanism is located below the support for preventing inadvertent operator contact therewith.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Assignee: Bomboard LLCInventor: John H. West
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Patent number: 7423929Abstract: A device and a method for laterally steering a streamer cable towed underwater behind a seismic survey vessel. The device includes a cable-steering assembly rotatably attached to a streamer cable. The assembly includes a body to which one or more wings are mounted. The wings are arranged to pivot about pivot axes. The assembly is ballasted so that the pivot axes of the wings are largely in a vertical plane. A conventional cable-leveling bird is converted to one version of a cable-steering device by ballasting to maintain the pivot axes of the bird's wings largely vertical. With an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the wings, the cable-steering device adjusts the angle of the wings to provide a sideward component of force to steer the streamer.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2006Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Input/Output, Inc.Inventor: André W. Olivier
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Patent number: 7404370Abstract: A paravane for a marine seismic survey system includes a float and at least one diverter operatively coupled to the float. The diverter is configured to redirect flow of water past the paravane with respect to a direction of motion of the paravane through water. The paravane also includes a steering device. The steering device is configured to controllably redirect the flow of water so as to control an amount of lateral force generated by the paravane.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: PGS Norway Geophysical ASInventor: Jan Erik Stokkeland
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Patent number: 7167412Abstract: A marine seismic streamer steering device comprises at least two hinged sections pivotally coupled to each other and connected between two adjacent sections of the seismic streamer, and a bend control unit that controls bending of the hinged sections relative to the longitudinal axis of the seismic streamer. The steering device further comprises a roll sensor which determines rotational orientation of the body and transmits the orientation to the bend control unit, a lateral position sensor which determines lateral position of the body and transmits the lateral position to the bend control unit, and a depth sensor which determines depth of the body and transmits the depth to the bend control unit. The bend control unit then controls the bending of the hinged sections based on the transmitted rotational orientation, lateral position, and depth of the body.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Stig Rune Lennart Tenghamn
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Patent number: 7092315Abstract: A device and a method for laterally steering a streamer cable towed underwater behind a seismic survey vessel. The device includes a cable-steering assembly rotatably attached to a streamer cable. The assembly includes a body to which one or more wings are mounted. The wings are arranged to pivot about pivot axes. The assembly is ballasted so that the pivot axes of the wings are largely in a vertical plane. A conventional cable-leveling bird is converted to one version of a cable-steering device by ballasting to maintain the pivot axes of the bird's wings largely vertical. With an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the wings, the cable-steering device adjusts the angle of the wings to provide a sideward component of force to steer the streamer.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Input/Output, Inc.Inventor: Andre′ W. Olivier
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Patent number: 6910436Abstract: A conventional style of towboat has been used on U.S. waterways for decades, with steering control reliant on a triad of rudders for each screw, resulting in up to a dozen rudders installed. This propulsion steered towboat relies on an enhanced method of steering with engines to turn towboat, tow, and, an optional pivotal hull slewing under the foredeck and pilothouse. The simple device of horizontally angling fixed propulsion shafting to increase the turning moment available to the propulsion is described, as is the expectation that no measurable propulsion loss is expected for low angles of such horizontal deviation from the standard parallel alignment. If the pivotal hull is included, turning force is greatly increased even at low power settings; it should be possible to top a tow roughly within its own length. Hull position indication is provided with a fixed arm always parallel to the hull, and follow-up type steering is provided with a single steering lever.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Inventor: W. Zack Hayman, III
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Patent number: 6883453Abstract: An underwater retrieval body connected at its forward bow end by a towing line to a retrieval ship, has attachment facilities at its opposite aft end for attachment thereof during underwater propulsion with an unmanned watercraft by engaging its projecting hook or reception of a projecting probe. During propulsion of the underwater retrieval body toward the unmanned watercraft, it is maneuvered into alignment therewith through steering rudder fins under control of a homing control system on the underwater retrieval body, in response to reception of tracking signals emitted from the unmanned watercraft.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Francis M. Mulhern
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Patent number: 6678589Abstract: An anchorless boat positioning system for establishing and maintaining a boat at a selected geographic location without the use of a conventional anchor. In one embodiment, a steerable thruster is used whose thrust and steering direction are determined and controlled on the basis of position information signals received from global positioning system (GPS) satellites, relative steering angle between the boat and the thruster and boat heading indication signals from a magnetic compass. The system continuously monitors the position and heading of the boat and compares it with the stored coordinates of the selected anchoring location(s) to generate control signals for the steerable motor. Several modes of operation are disclosed and Euler transformations for offset antenna placement for error reduction are taught. Proportional, integral, and derivative control (PID) of four constants of vessel control is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Inventors: Glen E. Robertson, John Webster
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Patent number: 6655311Abstract: The present invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for steering one or more cables towed through water by a vessel. In general, a diverter attached to the one or more cables may comprise a float, a vane extending from a bottom surface of the float, and one or more vortex generators disposed on a suction side surface of the vane. The one or more vortex generators may prevent stall of the diverter at high attack angles.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: WesternGeco, L.L.C.Inventors: Daniel George Martin, Mark S. Zajac
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Patent number: 6488445Abstract: A method and a device for performing the methods, for response to a spill on water whereby one end of an oil boom is towed from the shore of a watercourse with flowing water, at an angle to the water current, to a suitable position in the watercourse, using a waterborne current rudder. The current rudder is secured to one end of a line, the other end of the line is secured to an upstream point ashore, allowing the current rudder to move out into the stream and to maintain one end of the oil boom in a suitable position in the watercourse, while the other end of the oil boom is secured to a downstream point ashore, where an oil recovery device is positioned. The current rudder is fitted with a balance rudder operated by a line or a remote control from shore, allowing the current rudder and the oil boom end attached thereto, to be recovered to shore when so required.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Inventors: Claes Magnus Claeson, Peter Lofgren
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Patent number: 6354235Abstract: A ship convoy is provided that is towed by an ocean tug, and includes a series of specially made ocean going, modular, self propelling cargo ships, for transoceanic voyages. The tug also controls the cargo ships remotely. Each cargo ship is a medium tonnage, independently powered, independently controllable, freight carrying vessel with an oceanworthy hull. The hulls preferably have a standardized external design, which makes them modular. Inside, each has cargo space for either generic cargo, or for special cargo, such as refrigerated cargo or containers. Their engines need be no more powerful than is required for river navigation, but with a tank that holds enough fuel for a transoceanic voyage. The special cargo ships go up a river preferably using autonomous navigation. Upon reaching a port, the cargo ship is loaded, and then exits the river. Then it is combined with the tug and the other cargo ships for the transoceanic voyage.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1999Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Robert C. Davies
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Patent number: 6267070Abstract: A system for towing equipment at sea comprises a main vessel adapted to tow the equipment in a given direction of movement. At least one active deflector is disposed behind and on each side of the main vessel for pulling at least part of the towed equipment transversely in relation to the direction of movement of the main vessel. At least one support vessel is connected to each deflector for assisting the deflector in pulling at least part of the towed equipment transversely in relation to the direction of movement of the main vessel, and for assisting the main vessel by providing additional towing force to the towed equipment. The additional towing force provided by the support vessel is essentially parallel in direction to the force provided by the main vessel. A cable connects each support vessel to the associated active deflector for supplying one or more of power and control signals from the support vessel to the associated deflector. At least one wing is attached to each deflector.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Petroleum Geo-Services ASInventors: Michael John Russell, Erik Godøy
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Patent number: 6182594Abstract: An innertube accessory that facilitates towing an innertube by a boat. The accessory includes a shell for receiving any size innertube and attaching it. The accessory is suitable for being towed by the boat, by a track and trolley mechanism that adapts to different towing angles away from the boat center line. The innertube rider can steer the accessory by operating a rudder. The rudder is a steering rope that controls pivoting of a rudder fin relative to the shell. Additional fins provide stability.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventor: Charles G. Wilson
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Patent number: 6079346Abstract: There is described a tugboat (1) having three azimuthal propelling units (10, 20, 30), two (10, 20) of which are juxtaposed below the stern (7), symmetrically relative to the main plane of symmetry (2), while the third azimuthal propelling unit (30) is disposed in the main plane of symmetry (2) the stern (6), preferably before the rearmost towing point (8).Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: Sar Holding N.V.Inventor: Antonie Marius Kooren