Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for marine navigation and course calculation for avoiding preselected conditions. An electronic marine navigation device with marine course calculation capabilities includes a processor connected to a memory that includes cartographic data. A potential waypoint can be identified and a marine route calculation algorithm can be preformed to calculate a course between a first location and the potential waypoint in view of preselected conditions. Performing the marine route calculation algorithm includes analyzing the cartographic data for the area between the first location and the potential waypoint with a preference for providing a course that avoids preselected conditions. A display is connected to the processor and is capable of displaying the calculated course and cartographic data. The device is also adapted to dynamically analyze an area surrounding the first location for preselected conditions and display the results of the analysis.

Abstract: An indicator light apparatus of a marine vessel is provided. The indicator light apparatus includes a sensor for detecting a value related to a traveling speed of the marine vessel, an indicator light provided in the marine vessel, and a control device configured to change an illuminating pattern of the indicator light based on the value related to the traveling speed detected by the sensor.

Abstract: In a navigation assistance system, information is received via the Internet from a user pertaining to a water trip contemplated by the user. The system includes a database storing waterway data. The database is accessed in response to the information from the user. At least one recommended over-water route is derived in response to the user information and in accordance with waterway data in the database, the recommended route being communicated to the user via the computer network. The deriving of the route preferably comprises including only route segments extending through operatively navigable areas.

Abstract: A method for displaying marine vessel information automatically selects a chosen visual display based on the magnitudes of one or more vessel-related parameters, such as engine speed, gear selector position, or vessel velocity. Based on the selected marine vessel operating condition, the chosen visual display is selected and the contents of that chosen visual display are presented on an information display device, such as a liquid crystal display or other type of monitor. As the marine vessel changes its operating condition, the process is repeated so that the marine vessel operator always is presented with the most appropriate screen images relating to the marine vessel at its current operating condition.

Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.

Abstract: A water skier tow bar assembly includes a tow bar handle and control actuators that can be actuated by a user and indicative of a desired skier condition. A housing is connected to the tow bar and includes a wireless radio transmitter operatively connected to the control actuators for generating wireless radio signals of desired skier conditions or generating wireless radio signals indicative of a skier down condition. In one aspect of the invention, a wireless radio transmitter is contained in a housing formed as a float assembly and has an aperture through which a tow rope passes to permit the housing to be carried by a tow rope. When a skier falls, a water actuated switch initiates transmission of a wireless radio signal indicative of a skier down condition.

Abstract: A detection system and method for a marine vessel uses an infrared sensor to detect the presence of a human being or mammal in a target area near the propulsor. A visible light detector is used to determine whether or not a signal received from the infrared sensor is caused by reflected sunlight and not the actual presence of a human being or mammal. By detecting visible light, false triggering of the system in response to infrared radiation received from sunlight can be significantly reduced. Embodiments of the system can monitor gear position and engine speed in combination with signals received from the infrared sensor and visible light sensors to determine an appropriate action to take in response to the presence of infrared radiation above a preselected threshold.

Abstract: An automation and platform management system for navel vessels configured to be operated from a multimedia information and operation control center. This automation and management system has a system for monitoring and commanding the ship, a system for navigating the ship, a system for coordinating weapons deployment, a system for handling the external and internal radio communications, a system for controlling and handling the information distribution, a system for power generation and distribution (power management monitoring), and a system for monitoring ship operations. To be able further to reduce the number of crewmembers of a ship equipped with the automation and management system, the automation and management system further has a system for automated ship damage control and/or an integrated onboard information and data network (2) and/or an integrated system for monitoring and control of a COPAW drive of the ship.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a vehicular collision avoidance method is provided that includes monitoring a control of a vehicle and activating a first alarm if the control is not adjusted in a sufficient amount of time. The monitored control is normally and regularly adjusted by the vehicle's operator such that the time between adjustments is sufficiently smaller than the time normally needed to avoid a collision after it is detected that the control is no longer being controlled. The first alarm is activated if it is determined that the control is not adjusted in a sufficiently small amount of time from its preceding adjustment. Thus, the vehicle's operator or other vehicle member can react and take measures to ensure that the vehicle is under suitable control upon activation of the alarm and thereby avoid a possible collision.

Abstract: A method and a device for detection of physical or approximately physical bottom contact for objects, for instance fishing tackles, which are dragged closely above or on a sea bottom, said method consisting of sensoring an alteration of a force acting on a tension sensor (4) as a consequence of a mass (7) coupled to the tension sensor (4) coming into physical contact with the bottom, said alteration being used as indication of bottom contact, and that frictional forces (F2) being due to the dragging of the mass (7) along the bottom mainly are taken up by means of a tension release means (8). The device comprise the mass (7) being suspended in a tension sensor (4) in such a manner that the sensor (4) is actuated by bottom contact, and at least one tension release means (8) connected to the mass (7) and adapted to take up forces caused by dragging of the mass above the bottom.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for indicating the existence of a critical event within a pilot house, including the existence of a condition of no motion.

Abstract: A method and system is utilized to produce an output corresponding to a safety level, particularly in relation to an activity on a moving body. The method involving producing an output corresponding to the ability to perform an operation within a safe limit on a moving vessel. The method comprising the steps of acquiring real time data from instrumentation on the vessel indicative of first and second elements of vessel motion relevant to the safety of the operation. Processing the data relating to each element of motion. Scaling the data relating to each element to a common scale to provide first and second values relating to the respective elements of vessel motion. Determining which value is of greatest significance and providing a output indicative of the greatest value.

Abstract: The vessel monitoring system of the present invention enables vessel owners to monitor their vessels when they are unable or unavailable to personally do so. The system of the present invention provides an efficient method for inspecting and repairing a designated vessel at periodic intervals and for reporting the results of such inspections and repairs to the vessel's owner in a timely manner for the owner's review and consideration.

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 high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.

Abstract: A system and method for wirelessly linking electronic marine components (14) to associated displays (16) to reduce or eliminate the need for application-specific wiring between the components (14) and the displays (16). The system includes an electronic component (14) adapted for mounting on a marine vessel (12) and operable for generating data representative of a function of the electronic component (14); a wireless transmitter (20) coupled with the electronic component (14) for wirelessly transmitting the data; a display (16) adapted for mounting on the marine vessel (12) remotely from the electronic component (14) and operable for displaying information corresponding to the data; and a wireless receiver (24) coupled with the display (16) and operable for wirelessly receiving the data from the wireless transmitter (20). The wireless transmitter (20) and the wireless receiver (24) transmit and receive the data via BlueTooth or WiFi communication protocols.

Abstract: A system and method autonomously clears obstacles and mines from an approach lane. A ship is distantly located from an approach lane spanning a surf zone and beach portion, and the ship has operator control station software in an onboard computer. At least one system delivery vehicle having a storage bay and propulsion system transits from the ship to the approach lane in response to instructions from the operator control station. A line charge is disposed in each bay and has one end coupled to the system delivery vehicle. A line charge delivery vehicle in the bay is connected to another end of the line charge to pull the line charge from the bay and emplace it in a straight path in the approach lane in response to instructions from the operator control station. Explosives in all line charges are detonated to clear the approach lane.

Abstract: Readout devices and controls are provided that alert the user to unusual propeller slip conditions. Embodiments of the invention incorporate some signal processing to account for a progressively greater slip at lower watercraft speeds. Thus, the invention provides simple information that tells the user if a boat propeller combination is being operated suboptimally, without requiring the knowledge and use of multiple slip figures for differing boat speeds. The invention allows greater economy of operation, automatic anticavitation control and can alert the watercraft operator to unusual conditions such as anchor down, propeller up other situations that affect propeller loading.

Abstract: A safety device includes a base section having arms extended from a first end. Securing straps are connected to the arms for holding the device in place. The base has a recess in one section of the base wherein a illuminating is placed. The illuminating includes Light Emitting Diodes that may be powered by a cable conducting electricity from an associated power source.

Abstract: A jet propulsion watercraft is provided with a multifunctional display portion that displays operating information and various types of warning conditions. Operation switches operate a content displayed in the multifunctional display portion. A fuel injection system injects fuel for a driving source. A warning mark warns of a faulty condition developing in the fuel injection system. Functions are provided that cause the warning mark to light steadily or flash off and on and that indicate a faulty symptom by means of a flashing pattern of a warning lamp (for example, the warning lamp flashes off and on once, twice, three time, or the like) given when the operation switches are operated while the warning mark is lit steadily or flashing off and on. A prompt action can be taken against a malfunction of the fuel injection system. As a result, convenience in eliminating malfunctions of the fuel injection system can be enhanced.

Abstract: A flameless and smokeless marker attracts attention to a site. A battery and electronics section has a battery module and electronics module. The battery module connects power to the electronics module for creating responsive power-activation signals. An inflatable bag section is connected to the battery and electronics section and has an inflator and flexible bag. The flexible bag is metalized to reflect radar signals and has ChLCD strips receiving the power-activation signals to be visible to radiation from a remotely located search beacon. A beacon section connected to the battery and electronics section and inflatable bag section has IR laser diode arrays arranged in a circular pattern and a strobe light. The IR laser diode arrays and strobe light are coupled to receive the power-activation signals from the battery and electronics section to emit IR radiation and visible radiation, respectively.

Abstract: A waterway shield system comprises a plurality of autonomous underwater nodes wherein each underwater node comprises acoustic detectors which may comprise horizontal and/or vertical acoustic arrays which may be directly mounted thereto or extend outwardly therefrom. Each underwater node comprises an acoustic modem for transmitting high resolution acoustic data to a gateway node that provides a connection to a surface system and a network of other underwater nodes in other waterways. The data from the underwater nodes may be utilized to produce acoustic attribute data for hulls of ships in the waterways. An acoustic database is provided that compiles the predetermined acoustic attribute data for a variety of ships and other entities thereby providing previously stored identifying means. The acoustic database is utilized in conjunction with one or more databases of other physical attributes of ships or other objects to thereby provide an automated identification process.

Abstract: A method for determining heave and heave rate for a vessel is described. The vessel includes an inertial navigation system (INS), and sensors for the INS being located at a point A of the vessel, the vessel having a zero heave reference point B, and the described method provides heave and heave rate at a point C of the vessel. The method includes determining reference coordinates for points A, B, and C of the vessel, generating a velocity signal representative of a velocity at a point on the vessel, generating a heave rate signal based upon the velocity signal, and generating a heave based upon the heave rate signal.

Abstract: A water skier tow bar and float assembly includes a tow bar handle, control buttons on the tow bar handle and a float assembly connected to the tow bar handle. A wireless radio transmitter is mounted within the float assembly for generating wireless signals indicative of desired water skier conditions based on water skier actuation of the control buttons.

Abstract: A survival device for use in an emergency situation includes a battery, a lamp, and a detection circuit for detecting an occurrence of the emergency situation and for switching the lamp to be powered by the battery when such an occurrence is detected. In one form, the detection circuit detects a presence of water along a surface of the device, with safety tools for escaping from an submerged vehicle being provided. In another form, the detection circuit detects a failure of electrical service within a building, with safety tools for escaping a fire being provided.

Abstract: The marine vessel monitoring system of the present invention enables marine vessel owners to monitor their vessels when they are unable or unavailable to personally do so. The system of the present invention provides an efficient method for inspecting and repairing a designated marine vessel at periodic intervals and for reporting the results of such inspections and repairs to the vessel's owner in a timely manner for the owner's review and consideration.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining an accurate count of multiple species of fish caught by multiple fishermen, the system including an electronic counter, having a face plate comprising a first numerical LCD display; a counter button for increasing the numerical LCD display when the button is struck; a reset button for resetting the numerical LCD display to zero when depressed; a second button for increasing or decreasing the number displayed on the numerical LCD display depending on the part of the second button depressed; at least a second set of numerical LCD display; counter button; and second button for allowing at least two individuals to utilize the counting system during fishing; means for securing the counting system to a fixture on a boat for easy access as fish are caught and being counted; and battery-powered electronics to carry out the functions.

Abstract: A navigational system for submersible vessels that provides warning of impending grounding occurrences. A data base of bottom contours and submerged obstructions is compared to various indicators of the submersible vessel's position and motion to provide alerts and to display bottom hazards ahead of the vessel.

Abstract: A circuit configuration for switching navigation lights of a watercraft, especially a sailing vessel, includes elements that prevent a position light configuration from not being in compliance with regulations as well as elements that prevent navigation lights that have mutually exclusive meanings from being switched on at the same time, and a single multiway switch (1) with which the navigation lights and additional lights, that are independent therefrom can be switched.

Abstract: A system and method provides automatic monitoring of data representing the onset of, or occurrence of fault conditions for a submarine mast system. The system is separately programmable and transparently operable with respect to the mast host system that controls mast functions. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of sensors are in communication with a microprocessor system to record data by time and date of the event. The communication of data from the sensors to the microprocessor is electrically isolated from control signal communications to mast components, and the sensors are further individually opto-isolated. The microprocessor may selectively transfer data on a time-shared basis over host system communication lines to an independent memory collecting submarine fleet data, as an aid in fleet-wide maintenance decision making.

Abstract: An above-the-water system for and method of finding targets, both animate and inanimate, in a marine environment, especially by determining the distance and depth of targets at, above or below the surface of, the water. An optical transmitter transmits infrared and ultraviolet light beams toward different zones of coverage on the water. An optical receiver equipped with a segmented detector separately detects return target reflections. An indicator, including range and depth indicators, provides information as to the distance to the target and, if it is below the water, its depth. A rotating deviation prism increases the target search area.

Abstract: An improved marine engine control methodology is utilized in either single or twin engine applications, and provides a safe and logical transitioning between manual and automatic operating modes. A standard software instruction set is installed in a microprocessor-based engine control module for each engine, and a discrete input informs the control module if the respective engine is a master engine or a slave engine. In single engine applications, the engine is identified as a master engine, while in twin engine applications, one of the engines is identified as a master engine, and the other as a slave engine. The control software provides an operator activated speed control function for a master engine, and an operator activated sync control function for a slave engine. Each engine has an operator manipulated throttle lever for controlling the respective engine throttle position during the manual operating mode, and for defining a limit throttle position during the automatic operating modes.

Abstract: A compact antenna transmits and receives broadband electromagnetic energy signals over a 180° hemispherical pattern in air at the ocean's surface. The antenna has an elongate semi-cylindrical shell and a circular end disc connected to one end, and a semi-circular end disc connected to the other end to form a half-cylinder cavity. A curved plate is connected to the circular end disc and a curved body portion has a curved end extending parallel with the semi-cylindrical shell. A vertical stem has an upper portion connected to the curved plate. The semi-cylindrical shell, circular end disc, semi-circular end disc, and vertical stem are made from a material that is conductive of electromagnetic signals, and they can be differently dimensioned to change the center frequencies to embrace different broadband ranges. The antenna is deployed and retrieved from a submarine in a tow body.

Abstract: A lighted signaling system connected to the electrical indicating system of a vehicle or devices on the vehicle which cause the vehicle to change direction or speed. The signaling system allows the user of the vehicle to clearly signal directional and vehicular intentions, including right turns, left turns, running and braking.

Abstract: An anti-terrorist ship control system includes satellites that automatically take control of a waterborne vessel when the vessel's position or speed deviate from planned tracks or when the vessel transmits a distress signal or when the vessel stops reporting its status to the satellites.

Abstract: A navigation light system for a watercraft including an accessory light located at the bow or the stern that operates as a masthead or stern light, respectively, and that is located relative to the hull perimeter and shear line of the hull to reduce the glare perceived by an occupant of the watercraft. The glare is further reduced by the use of suitable masks to control the horizontal and vertical beam spread sectors of emitted light to minimize glare as perceived by an occupant of the watercraft. The accessory light may include a fiber optic to an annunciator panel. The accessory light may be mounted to an appurtenance, such as a railing or pulpit or the like. An adjustable eyeball light fixture that serves as the accessory light. A docking light modified to include an accessory lamp for operating as a masthead or stern light.

Abstract: The present invention provides a marine warning light system for a motorboat having an outboard marine engine. The system includes securing a warning light facing aft on the outboard motor. A switch is adapted to the throttle control assembly located on the outboard motor that controls the speed of the operation of the throttle and the speed of the motorboat. As the throttle control assembly is operated, a position sensing device, such as a lever, provides feedback from the throttle control assembly to the switch and causes the switch to activate and close a circuit from a power source to energize the warning light upon the throttle control assembly moving to slow or stop the motorboat. The position sensing device may consist of a lever that lifts when it contacts a trunnion on the throttle control assembly when in the forward accelerated operating position. The switch is activated to warn boats in the vicinity behind the motorboat when slowing or stopped.

Abstract: A water skier tow bar and float assembly includes a tow bar handle, control buttons on the tow bar handle and a float assembly connected to the tow bar handle. A wireless radio transmitter is mounted within the float assembly for generating wireless signals indicative of desired water skier conditions based on water skier actuation of the control buttons.

Abstract: A system and method provides automatic monitoring of data representing the onset of, or occurrence of fault conditions for a submarine mast system. The system is separately programmable and transparently operable with respect to the mast host system that controls mast functions. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of sensors are in communication with a microprocessor system to record data by time and date of the event. The communication of data from the sensors to the microprocessor is electrically isolated from control signal communications to mast components, and the sensors are further individually opto-isolated. The microprocessor may selectively transfer data on a time-shared basis over host system communication lines to an independent memory collecting submarine fleet data, as an aid in fleet-wide maintenance decision making.

Abstract: A water skier alert system is used with a boat towing a water skier via a rope and tow bar handle secured thereto. A radio receiver is adapted to be positioned on the boat towing the water skier for receiving wireless radio signals transmitted from the tow bar handle in response to a skier down condition or water skier actuation of a desired water skier condition. A display is operative with the receiver and has indicia on the display that are actuated by the wireless transmitter signals and indicative of the skier down condition and each of desired water skier conditions. The tow bar handle includes at least one battery and a pressure sensor positioned at the grip portion and sensitive to hand and/or finger pressure exerted by a water skier. Control actuators are positioned along the grip portion and indicate a desired water skier condition.

Abstract: A navigational system for surface vessels that provides warning of impending grounding occurrences. A data base of bottom contours and submerged obstructions is compared to various indicators of the surface vessel's position and motion to provide alerts and to display bottom hazards ahead of the vessel.

Abstract: A jet propulsion watercraft is provided with a multifunctional display portion that displays operating information and various types of warning conditions. Operation switches operate a content displayed in the multifunctional display portion. A fuel injection system injects fuel for a driving source. A warning lamp warns of a faulty condition developing in the fuel injection system. Functions are provided that cause the warning lamp to light steadily or flash off and on and that indicate a faulty symptom by means of a flashing pattern of the warning lamp (for example, the warning lamp flashes off and on once, twice, three time, or the like) given when the operation switches are operated while the warning lamp is lit steadily or flashing off and on. A prompt action can be taken against a malfunction of the fuel injection system. As a result, convenience in eliminating malfunctions of the fuel injection system can be enhanced.

Abstract: A motorcycle jacket which has turn signal lights attached to the back of the jacket in the upper left and right shoulder areas. The lights are electrically connected to the motorcycle electrical system, so that when the motorcycle turn signals are actuated, the jacket turn signals will flash in synchronism with them.

Abstract: A garment is provided for deterring a physical assault on a wearer and creating evidence of the assault, comprising a vest having visual indicia affixed thereto, such as the word “Evidence”, displaying that the vest may be used as evidence in a criminal investigation. A dye release system containing a permanent and luminescent dye is affixed to the vest, which can be activated by the wearer prior to or during an assault. The dye is caused to be forcefully ejected from the dye release system, thereby contaminating the vest, the wearer, the assailant and the place where the assault took place. Preferably, the vest includes an electronic locating device, such as a sonic transmitter or GPS transmitter. Also, the vest preferably includes an audible alarm, a canine-detectable scent, and fingerprint susceptible surfaces thereon.

Abstract: A vehicle information display apparatus receives multiple pieces of information on mobile vehicles, determines degrees of importance of the individual pieces of information according to specific conditions, and displays symbols of only those mobile vehicles of which importance falls within a predefined range or symbols of only a specific number of mobile vehicles selected according to their importance in graphic form with enhanced visibility.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting an object approaching a vessel at rest on a water surface include a laser light curtain comprising at least one pulsed laser light beam extending radially from the ship toward a perimeter thereabout, the laser light curtain positioned spaced apart from and approximately parallel to an approach surface for detecting an object interrupting the light curtain; at least one pulsed laser rangefinder connected to the ship and positioned outboard therefrom to generate the laser light curtain; a power source connected to the pulsed laser rangefinder to supply power thereto; a processor connected to the pulsed laser rangefinder to process data therefrom; and at least one display connected to the processor to display information obtained from the processed data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fender, which is used as cushioning material mainly at the time of a ship being moored, and a management system thereof. A transponder is mounted in a fender 1 that is an object to be managed, and an ID code is read by the transponder in the fender 1 being accessed by terminals 2A through 2D provided in areas where are areas to be managed and each have one or more terminals. Historical information showing an installed place and an installed period of the fender 1 and individual update information including the ID code is transferred to a control system 4 through communication networks 6A through 6D. The control system 4 not only stores manufacturing information and historical information of all the fenders 1 that are objects to be managed, but also updates the historical information on the basis of the individual update information received from the terminal 2.

Abstract: A water skier alert system is used with a boat towing a water skier via a rope and tow bar handle secured thereto. A radio receiver is adapted to be positioned on the boat towing the water skier for receiving wireless radio signals transmitted from the tow bar handle in response to a skier down condition or water skier actuation of a desired water skier condition. A display is operative with the receiver and has indicia on the display that are actuated by the wireless transmitter signals and indicative of the skier down condition and each of desired water skier conditions. The tow bar handle includes at least one battery and a pressure sensor positioned at the grip portion and sensitive to hand and/or finger pressure exerted by a water skier. Control actuators are positioned along the grip portion and indicate a desired water skier condition.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a remote marine monitoring and control system that compiles security information and statistics for on-board equipment on unattended boats, uses a wireless transmitter to send this data to a user over a communications network and allows a user to remotely operate the user's boat in response. Boat operational data can be provided to a user on a variety of personal communication devices and/or through a monitoring web site. These devices can also be used by the user to send a user command to remotely control the operation of the boat. The remote marine monitoring system identifies normal operating conditions for on-board equipment and compares these conditions to current operating activity in order to detect unusual activity. Security information can also be compiled and reported relating to intrusion sensors, keyless entry and the boat's physical location.

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.