Abstract: Systems and methods for displaying a marine signaling device are disclosed. A flag coupled to a top section of a telescoping shaft includes a folding arm pivotally coupled to the top section that folds upward to gather the flag into alignment with the telescoping shaft. A housing couples to a boat and supports the shaft in the display configuration and receives the shaft in the storage configuration. As the shaft is retracted, the folding arm contacts an upper surface of the housing and gathers the flag into alignment with the shaft. A motor automatically extends/retracts the shaft based on detected tension on a tow rope mount of the boat or a tow rope coupled to the boat. A tension switch detects tension and activates the motor based on the detected tension. The tension switch may include arms that rotate in response to tension to activate a limit switch.

Abstract: A rudder position indicator that is gravity driven, designed to reduce the opportunity for misalignment, and can be recalibrated without being detached in the event that misalignment occurs. The rudder position indicator includes a gear assembly having an angle indicator and a position indicator assembly that are housed within an indicator case. A dampening fluid is filled within the indicator case as well, and acts to reduce the possibility of misalignment by reducing wobble of the angle indicator as a ship wheel is rotated. The indicator case is attached to the ship wheel by means of a mounting case; the mounting case being attached to the ship wheel using an adhesive. The indicator case is rotatably positioned into the mounting case and is stepped, such that the indicator case can be locked in and out of position to calibrate the angle indicator.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the condition of apparatus located at an underwater facility that includes sensing at least one parameter associated with the apparatus, providing a model of expected behavior of said at least one parameter, comparing said sensed parameter with said model, and assessing the condition of the apparatus based upon said comparison.

Abstract: A nautical instrument that can be repetitively mounted to and removed from a surface within a ship without the use of tools or other instruments. The nautical instrument incorporates a mounting system that achieves slidable locking engagement of the nautical instrument to a bulkhead plate that is permanently secured to the surface of the ship. In one embodiment, the invention is a nautical instrument comprising a housing having a bracket assembly comprising a downwardly extending overhang section that forms first and second channels between the overhang section and a rear surface of the back plate, the channels opposing one another in an angled orientation; and a mounting plate assembly connected to a front surface of a bulkhead plate, the mounting plate assembly having first and second angled edges adapted to be slidably inserted into the first and second channels of the bracket assembly.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for rescuing and recovering underwater vehicles. In one embodiment, a system is provided that includes a modular rescue device configured to attach to an underwater vehicle, such as with a tow line. The rescue device can include one or more emergency mechanisms that can be automatically and/or manually activated to aid in detecting the location of the underwater vehicle in the event of an emergency. One exemplary emergency mechanism includes a buoyancy mechanism, e.g., an expandable lift bag, configured to be inflated with a fluid to add buoyancy force to the system to pull the underwater vehicle toward a water surface. Another exemplary emergency mechanism includes a signaling mechanism configured to signal the underwater vehicle's location.

Abstract: The present invention provides a safety flag for a watercraft that comprises an elongated pole, a pennant flag and a connector having upper, intermediate and bottom portions. The upper portion of the connector has an aperture for receiving the bottom portion of the pole. The intermediate portion of the connector has a shoulder for abutting against the upper surface of wall. The bottom portion of the connector is at least partially made of a flexible elastomeric material such that, in use, a user can insert the bottom portion in a watercraft aperture by rotating or pressing the connector up to a position wherein the shoulder abuts a watercraft wall and the safety flag is maintained in a stand up position.

Abstract: Systems and methods for displaying a marine signaling device are disclosed. A flag coupled to a top section of a telescoping shaft includes a folding arm pivotally coupled to the top section that folds upward to gather the flag into alignment with the telescoping shaft. A housing couples to a boat and supports the shaft in the display configuration and receives the shaft in the storage configuration. As the shaft is retracted, the folding arm contacts an upper surface of the housing and gathers the flag into alignment with the shaft. A motor automatically extends/retracts the shaft based on detected tension on a tow rope mount of the boat or a tow rope coupled to the boat. A tension switch detects tension and activates the motor based on the detected tension. The tension switch may include arms that rotate in response to tension to activate a limit switch.

Abstract: A system of signal emitting modules is disclosed. The modules emit light or other signals to warn oncoming traffic that a road or other pathway has changed or is traversing a tortuous pathway. The modules are interconnected in a sequence so that they flash on and off in a pattern that leads the driver or observer along a path with less confusion than with randomly flashing or steady lights or reflectors. The modules are self-powered and can be arrayed first and programmed following deployment. The programming can be done with “mesh” technology, an external controller, or by dialing a specific number in each of a plurality of distributed controllers. The modules can improve highway safety by reducing driver confusion. The modules are arrayed to prevent a driver from seeing them from an oncoming direction. The driver coming from the opposite direction will have his or her own guiding system.

Abstract: an apparatus comprising a sensor system and a controller. The sensor system may be configured to provide information about an angle of a ski rope relative to a ski pylon. The controller may be configured to provide (i) a first indication if the sensor indicates the ski rope reaches a target angle within a target time and (ii) a second indication if the sensor does not indicate the ski rope reaches the target angle be within the target time.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a housing unit having a hollow cylinder shape with a longitudinal slot and a short section of slot situated at a right angle to the longitudinal slot. A flagpole is inserted into the housing unit for movement within the housing unit, where the flagpole is completely contained within the housing unit at a first position. A lower guide is joined to the flagpole for guiding movement of the flagpole. A caution flag is joined to the flagpole proximate a flagpole end. At least one bracket assembly joins the apparatus to a vehicle. A compressible spring is disposed within the housing unit for driving the flagpole in a first direction to a second position to display the flag. A trigger lever extends through the longitudinal slot where a placement of the trigger lever in the short section of slot prevents the compressible spring from moving the flagpole.

Abstract: There is provided an automated warning system which includes a receiver/controller, an actuator, one or more relays electrically connected to both the receiver and the linear actuator, a flag holder and a mechanical linkage connecting the linear actuator to the flag holder such that movement of the linear actuator causes the flag holder to move between raised and lowered positions.

Abstract: A deployable signaling device and method of use thereof which includes material with detectable properties such that it can be distinguished from a background when deployed in various environments. Such detectable properties may include visible detection, detection by hyperspectral imaging sensors, radio wave detection, and/or detection other electromagnetic differentiation from the background in which the material is associated or adjacent to. In one preferred form, the selectively detectable material has an deployable shape having a plurality of directional biasing elements associated with said material.

Abstract: A visual locating device comprises an elongate, inherently buoyant, flexible sheet for floating on the surface of a body of water that has a longitudinal axis. At least three buoyant support struts are secured to the sheet and disposed across the longitudinal axis of the sheet such that the sheet is divided into a plurality of sections defined between respective pairs of struts. A light source is disposed on the sheet to provide nighttime visibility to the sheet. A pouch, which receives the sheet when stowed, is configured to release the sheet when immersed in water. The sheet is at least z-folded inside the pouch.

Abstract: A separation and guidance structure comprises an arm having an inner end with a crosspiece secured in use to a pontoon or the like, and an outer end provided with fenders extending above and beyond the end of the arm. Flotation is provided to support the outer end of the arm, and may be in the form of a flotation member or be provided by the fenders. In use a number of such structures are secured in parallel to a pontoon or dock to form a berthing system.

Abstract: A handheld multi-purpose device and methods used for communication, stabilization, position control, self-defense and environmental protection while in, or under, water. Said multi-purpose device is comprised of a rod approximately 24? in length, a handle shaped into one end of the rod, created by bending the rod into two loops one-on-top of the other, leaving approximately 12? of the rod straight from the handle, and two end caps, one glued on each end of the rod.

Abstract: An improved safety signaling apparatus intended to be used with watercraft to increase the visibility of the watercraft to others, incorporating a mast-supported signaling device, a base member for attachment to the watercraft, and a retention member removably attaching the mast assembly to the base member. The retention member is suitably adapted to maintain the mast assembly in a fixed orientation in relation to the base member under certain conditions, namely ordinary operation of the watercraft, and to permit independent movement of the mast relative to the base member under different conditions, namely when the mast is in danger of damage or for independent use or storage.

Abstract: A power efficient, acoustical Helmholtz resonator foghorn including a plurality of electrical emitters, some of which are redundant, arrayed at one end of a blocked tube with a plurality of exhaust ports located therein surrounded by a standoff tubular member. The foghorn tuned to provide a high pitch thus providing a compact horn having an acoustical path capable of producing an exceptional wavelength in a generally concentric horizontal sound propagation the horn configurable for use as either a one-half mile or two mile marine navigational aid for offshore structures, buoys, and the like.

Abstract: A system and method for a horn controller is provided that automatically operates a vessel's horn as a foghorn. The horn controller automatically causes the vessel's horn to sound according to the proper foghorn sounding schedule. The horn controller is designed to be installed in a new vessel, and/or to be retrofitted to an existing vessel.

Abstract: A counterweight assembly is provided to enhance heads up surface positioning of a person. The assembly includes a weight/ballast member strategically disposed on a cylinder/tank worn by a diver during a dive. The weight member can be attached by several different embodiments. Preferably, the weight member is attached such that the diver cannot release or adjust the weight member while he or she is diving. The weight member rotates the person to ensure heads up surface positioning in the event the person becomes incapacitated. Also provided are several other water safety and survival devices. Also disclosed is a combined ballast and signaling device preferably neutralized by attachment to an eccentrically buoyant personal flotation device.

Abstract: A signaling device for marine vessels that is functionally and operationally similar to the directional devices (i.e., turn signal devices) found in automobiles including an actuating means selectively connectable to a sound source that is connected to a sound controller, and to a light source that is connected to a light controller. The actuating means of the present invention has the same look, feel, and is operated in the same manner as those provided in an automobile. The present invention thus reduces the dependency of the vessel operator on his or her memorization of the applicable required sound and optional light maneuvering signals for operation of the vessel in inland and international waters while at the same time helping to ensure that the required signals are given.

Abstract: An underwater signaling device 10 provides an enclosure 20 having handle 25 and barrel 21 portions. A trigger 40 is pivotally carried by the handle portion, and provides a pivoting spur 50 which extends into the barrel portion. A hammer 30 is sized for travel within the barrel portion. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A secondary spring 65, carried within a forward end portion of the barrel is sized to urge the hammer out of contact with the bell after the initial impact, thereby preventing the hammer from damping the vibration of the bell. In operation, the trigger is manually activated, urging the hammer rearwardly, thereby compressing the primary spring.

Abstract: An improved manually operated signaling device to produce audible sound underwater. An air tight housing comprising a tubular member with end-caps permanently sealing each of its two ends and having contained within a metal echo-chamber fixed at each end of the housing plus a solid metal piston member. The inside diameter at each end of the housing is step-relieved so as to accept and hold fast the outside diameter and depth of the echo-chambers. The echo-chamber is a cylinder having one end open and one end closed with its closed end inserted into the ends of the housing. The outside diameter of the piston is slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the housing. The piston also has a length greater than its own diameter which allows the piston free movement along the longitudinal axis of the housing. A colored thin walled jacket may optionally cover a part or all of the housing exterior. A ring may be connected to the exterior of one of the housing end-caps for attaching a lanyard.

Abstract: A distance safety lighting system for boats, comprising three electroluminescent strips disposed in the bumper guard surrounding the gunwale of a boat so as to form a substantially continuous illuminated loop around the boat. Preferably, a red strip extends along the port side of the boat, a green strip extends along the starboard side of the boat, and a white strip extends along the stern of the boat. The three-colored illuminated strips provide a visually discernable profile of the boat for identification at night.

Abstract: An underwater communication device that is simple in design, is simple to operate, is powered solely by a user's wrist action, has only one moving part, is maintenance free, can offer multiple modes of operation, can be made resistant to accidental sound generation, can be made neutrally buoyant, offers a wide margin of safety and reliability, and enables underwater communication up to 100 feet between scuba divers. The underwater communication device including a striker rod, a tubular housing and a support and guide member. The support and guide member supporting the rod in the housing. Communicating underwater with the underwater communication device by the steps of grasping the device approximately along its midpoint, and rapidly rocking or shaking the device from side to side or end to end, causing the endpoints of the striker rod to strike an inner surface of the housing, creating a sound that is readily propagated through the water.

Abstract: A signalling device for indicating, by day or night, the position of a person lost at sea (on land or in space) comprises an elongate brilliantly colored streamer made up of flat, flexible, inherently buoyant material with built-in support struts to keep the material at maximum outstretched surface area. The streamer can be coated with any one or more of the following in any combination: brilliant color, phosphorescent pigment, reflective material, or International Distress Signal indicia. The device may be attached to a life jacket and rolls up into a water-release container secured to the life jacket. Upon deployment, the container converts into a sun-protective, radar-visual reflective, and water catchment hat. The streamer is extended manually or automatically and can remain in an outstretched manner indefinitely.

Abstract: A marine dye composition comprising a water soluble or dispersible dye, particles of a density controlling material having a bulk density and being present in an amount so as to cause said composition to have a relative density of about 1 and to be capable of floating at the surface of a body of water and a water soluble or dispersible binding agent for binding the dye and particles of density controlling material together.

Abstract: A brightly colored underwater signaling device having a brightly colored watertight container filled with one or more freely-movable spherical objects. Vigorous displacement of the container causes the spheres to collide with and impact both each other and the inner wall of the container to produce an audible rattling sound with a pitch, timbre and intensity which is easily transmitted through water. The device is preferably constructed of PVC pipe containing a plurality of ball-bearings and connected to a skin diver's diving apparatus with a connecting strap.

Abstract: A signalling device for scuba divers uses their compressed air supply to drive a piston (42, 51, 72) against a diaphragm (22, 48, 49, 57, 63, 90) to generate sound in water against the diaphragm. A bistable valve 34, 52) switches pressurised air alternately to opposite ends of the piston (42, 51, 72) to cause it to reciprocate and repeatedly impact against the diaphragm (22, 48, 49, 57, 63, 90). Air is exhausted from the cylinder (11, 54, 70) through ports (27, 28, 29, 30, 110, 111, 73, 74), the ports being valved by movement of the piston.

Abstract: An emergency location marker system for capsized vessels is housed in an emergency location marker canister or container (10) secured by a bracket (22) to an exposed or outside surface of the vessel (60). An inflatable aerial location marker (40) is deflated and folded in the small space of the canister. The aerial location marker is formed to provide upon inflation a relatively large surface area flat configuration to blanket a sufficient area of the sea surface for high visibility. The high visibility sea surface area blanketing marker (40) is formed with at least one flexible joint (41) for responding flexibly to wave motion while adhering to the sea surface. The sea surface area marker may be in a flat circular configuration, for example six feet in diameter and formed with a high visibility color. Flexible joints (41) along intersecting diameters permit flexing of the flat circular configuration marker in response to waves from all directions.

Abstract: A hand worn signalling mechanism for use in scuba diving includes a flexible article which is designed to be worn on a hand of the user. A striker is mounted by a mounting means to the flexible article adjacent the palm of the user. The user easily and quickly produces a percussive sound upon striking of an air tank also worn by the user with the striker. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible article is loosely mounted adjacent to the palm of the user with a backer underneath and such that the striker is laterally adjacent a center of the palm and longitudinally between the center and a distal end of the palm. Preferably, this is accomplished by making the striker as a cylinder with a longitudinal aperture, and then the mounting means is a flexible member (loop or strap) passing through the longitudinal aperture and secured to the flexible article. In one preferred embodiment, the flexible article is a glove, while in another embodiment the flexible article is a band.

Abstract: Apparatus for indicating the absence of a drain plug in a boat drain when the boat is in a launch condition includes an electrically activated alarm connected in series with an electrical power source and a control circuit for connecting and disconnecting the alarm to the power source. The control circuit is contained in a housing mounted proximate the boat drain on an exterior portion of the boat and includes a normally open switch closable by immersion of the contacts in water and normally closed switch operable in response to an actuator mounted on the drain plug so that, when the drain plug is properly seated in the boat drain, the actuator will throw the switch to an open condition. Thus, if the drain plug is not properly seated in the drain when the boat is launched into the water, the control circuit will be completed by immersion of the first switch in the water and the alarm will be activated.

Abstract: A flag and buoy apparatus includes a body having a plurality of receptacles therein. The flag and buoy apparatus also includes a plurality of buoyant arms, each arm being receivable in one of the receptacles and extending radially from the body. Each arm is also tethered to the body. A pole assembly extends axially from the body to support the flag, the pole assembly being attachable to the body. The arms and the pole assembly may be detached from the body for storage of the apparatus.

Abstract: Apparatus for indicating the absence of a drain plug in a boat drain when the boat is in a launch condition includes an electrically activated alarm connected in series with an electrical power source and a control circuit for connecting and disconnecting the alarm to the power source. The control circuit is contained in a housing mounted proximate the boat drain on an exterior portion of the boat and includes a normally open switch closable by immersion of contacts in water and operable in response to an actuator mounted on the drain plug so that, when the drain plug is properly seated in the boat drain, the switch will be in an open condition. Thus, if the drain plug is not properly seated in the drain when the boat is launched into the water, the control circuit will be completed by immersion of the contacts in the water and the alarm will be activated.

Abstract: A sea marker for emergency flights of ship-based planes onto a ship is disclosed which comprises a float, a tube containing a pyrotechnical charge and also a percussion igniter. The tube consists of a material which does not burn away, and is provided with a light charge consisting of about 30 to 60% by weight of sodium nitrate, about 3 to 18% by weight of polyolefin resin and about 30 to 60% by weight of magnesium.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a warning apparatus with respect to a small sailing craft having a structure for holding a sail. The invention is comprised of a device for signaling that does not require the craft to be seen in order for a signal provided by the signaling device to be noticed. The signaling device is attached to the structure. Additionally, there is a device for activating the signaling device so a signal is produced thereby, the activating device is in communication with the signaling device. In a preferred embodiment, the activating device includes a powering device connected to the signaling device; and a device for actuating the powering device so the signaling device receives power to produce the signal.

Abstract: A signalling device for scuba divers is disclosed. A substantially cylindrical rod has an opening formed therein along its longitudinal axis. A closed loop of resilient latex tubing extends through the opening. The loop of tubing is slipped over the scuba tank. The rod may be banged against the scuba tank for the purpose of signalling by pulling the rod away from the tank and then releasing it.

Abstract: A waterproof flush-mountable marine horn assembly includes a generally cup-shaped housing having a bottom wall and upstanding side wall means. The side wall means includes a top edge portion which defines a top rim of the housing, which top rim defines thereinside an opening in said housing. A flange extends from the top rim in a direction substantially opposite the housing opening and has a top surface facing away from the bottom wall and surrounding the opening. A horn is disposed within and secured to the housing. A water-proof membrane is stretched across the housing opening and secured to the top surface of the flange so as to completely cover the housing opening.

Abstract: A hollow, elongated tubular member, constructed of flexible resilient material, an inlet-outlet for admitting and discharging air, and including a separate, removable sleeve constructed of material as resilient, or less resilient than the buoy bladder, for its upper portion is adapted for deployment as a portable, large, and versatile marker buoy. The height above the waterline is adjustable by controlling the amount of air therein, the sleeve is removable, interchangable, and is to be printed with the insignia to designate its use. The air pressure in the buoy is used to hold the sleeve and any lightweight device inserted between the two members in position without the use of a fastening device. The method of deploying this marker buoy includes the steps of partial inflation, positioning of the sleeve, attaching ballast weight and or anchor weight, and adjusting to the desired height above the waterline by controlling the volume of air therein.

Abstract: A directional guidance device is provided for use on pleasure boats to indicate the direction of propeller thrust of an outboard motor or inboard/outboard steerable mechanism that are hidden from the view of the pilot by the transom during docking. The device includes an upright member with a rigged directional flag member pointing in the direction of thrust with an attachment device at the lower end of the upright member to attach and detach the device to the top of or to the top of the inboard/outboard steerable propeller.

Abstract: A diver's alarm apparatus, for use with conventional diving equipment, having a body portion (34) and a noisemaker portion (32). The body portion (34) includes a first opening (42) therethrough communicating at opposite ends thereof with connections for a first hose (14) from an air tank and a second hose (16) from a buoyancy vest (12). The body portion (34) includes another opening (50) in fluid communication with the first opening in which is positioned a guide element (68). A movable stem element (75) is positioned within said guide element (68). A bore (64) extends between the second opening (50) and the noisemaker portion (32) in which a horn bell (84) supported by a diaphragm (94) are positioned. A button (80) is connected to the stem element (75) and is biased in one position by a spring (82). Actuation of the button (80) results in fluid communication between the first opening (42) in the body portion (34) and the noisemaker portion (32), further resulting in an audible alarm.

Abstract: A water-ski locator device is comprised of a buoyant body fixed in position on the top surface of the water-ski's toe piece by a number of straps. So positioned, the buoyant body does not create water drag while the ski is in use. The device is also particularly adapted to restore the body uppermost over the ski and to visibly project above the water's surface in the event the ski becomes detached, or is purposely left by the skier, and comes to rest in an upside down orientation, i.e., if the ski initially comes to rest, as a water-ski is otherwise often inclined to do, with its bottom surface floating on the water and its shoe piece facing downward.

Abstract: An underwater signaling device being removably mounted to the strap commonly found in scuba diving tanks. The device includes two elongated members an one of them being removably secured to the strap while the other one, hingedly mounted to the first one, is urged towards the latter by the spring action of the wound common ends connecting each other. A solid mass is rigidly mounted to the movable elongated member and an impact receiving plate is mounted to the fixed elongated member so that when the movable member is released the impact is taken by the plate and not directly by the tank.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for providing an all weather day and night ltion marker on the surface of a body of water enable optional visual, radar and IR detection to ensure the timely rescue of a disaster victim. A cohesive surfactant is mixed with an evaporation reducer and contained in a packet that allows the dispersing of a film made up of the two compounds after they are placed in the water. The film creates a surface that has a slick appearance with respect to the surrounding water, that has a reduced radar backscatter with respect to the surrounding water and which, as a result of reduced evaporative cooling, results in a local increase in the surface temperature with respect to the surrounding water to assure the visual, radar and IR detection.

Abstract: Marine buoy lantern employs a heavily damped two-axis gimbal including an outer gimbal frame supported to the lantern housing by a pair of hinges and an inner gimbal member mounted to the outer gimbal frame by another pair of hinges. The hinges are made of plastic and respond very slowly to a torque applied thereto unlike gimbals employing bearings. The inner gimbal member supports the drum lens, flasher, lampchanger, and counterweights. The hinged gimbal cooperates with the counterweights immersed in a very viscous fluid to maintain the lantern vertically disposed notwithstanding angles of inclination of .+-.9.degree., or a total of 18.degree., of the marine buoy mounting the lantern atop thereof.

Abstract: Chemiluminescent mixtures utilize mono and di-alkyl substituted 9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene derivatives to provide higher chemiluminescence efficiencies. The preferred fluorescers are 2-ethyl-9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene and 1,4-dimethyl-9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene.

Abstract: A water-skier towrope-handling system is provided that provides an alarm to the driver of a ski towboat when the skier falls. The alarm is triggered by the release of the towrope handle by the skier, independent of the tension on the ski rope. Preferably, a back-up switch is provided that activates the alarm upon contact with the water. The back-up switch is mounted on the towrope in close proximity to the handle assembly to signal the boat driver that the towrope handle assembly is in the water. The monitoring system also provides a tracking system that provides signals to the boat driver of the skier's position relative to the towboat. Preferably, the position indicator is frozen at the time of a fall to indicate the relative position of the skier at the time of the fall to facilitate finding the downed skier. The towrope handling system can also be used to vary the length of the towrope without affecting the action of the alarm and position-monitoring devices.

Abstract: A safety diving backpack, specifically a one-piece, detachable diving backpack, that may serve to dispose water-resistant handlights, life buoys, kettles and spin reel, complete with wires or ropes in the hollow cylinder and in the spaces as provided on both sides and on the underside thereof respectively. The linkage as provided by such wire-ropes to fellow divers allows divers to ask for help from such fellow divers in case of an emergency that befalls a diver equipped accordingly. In addition, by virtue of the striking marks and alarm signals of the headlights and life buoys released at the outbreak of fatal tides or other dangerous situations to the diver, the rescue teams can detect them in time so as to give necessary help to the endangered diver.

Abstract: A safety marker for divers comprising detection means (5) designed to emit electrical signals upon the appearance of an element dangerous to the divers within a specific zone around said marker, means (8) for shaping these signals to control signalling means (6, 7) arranged on one hand at the surface to signal the presence of divers and on the other hand below surface to signal the presence of a danger to the divers.

Abstract: An airflow direction indicator in accordance with the invention is intended for sailboards, in which the front portion of the sail includes a tunnel which is slipped onto the mast and is rotatable relative thereto when varying the sheeting and curvature of the sail. In accordance with the invention, the indicator is supported by a fitting to be attached to the forward portion of the tunnel, this fitting carrying a mounting shaft forming an acute angle to the longitudinal direction of the tunnel and mast, and carrying a wind vane which is biased to return to a substantially vertical position adjacent the tunnel with the main longitudinal direction of the vane substantially parallel with the longitudinal direction of the fitting and tunnel, respectively, when the fitting is held in a vertical position, whereby the vane will indicate changes in the direction of the flow of air around the forward edge of the sail.

Abstract: A counterweight assembly is provided to enhance heads up surface positioning of a person. The assembly includes a weight/ballast member strategically disposed on a cylinder/tank worn by a diver during a dive. The weight member can be attached by several different embodiments. Preferably, the weight member is attached such that the diver cannot release or adjust the weight member while he or she is diving. The weight member rotates the person to ensure heads up surface positioning in the event the person becomes incapacitated. Also provided are several other water safety and survival devices. Also disclosed is a combined ballast and signaling device preferably neutralized by attachment to an eccentrically buoyant personal flotation device.