Abstract: Devices, systems and methods wherein sequential signals are emitted from a plurality of signaling modules positioned in an array which demarcates a route or boundaries to be followed by a pedestrian or vehicle.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus for an automated or partially automated vehicle, having a light module, which contains a light source unit having a number of light sources and an optical unit assigned to the light source unit for generating a light signal, a surroundings sensor unit for detecting road users in surroundings of the vehicle, a control unit for controlling the light module, so that the light module generates the light signal as a function of the road users detected by the surroundings sensor unit and/or a relative position thereof with respect to the vehicle, the light module being positioned in a defined location of the vehicle and being designed in such a way that the light signal may be radiated at different horizontal and/or vertical spatial angles.

Abstract: Systems and related methods for controlling vehicle position and movement are disclosed. A system includes one or more computers configured to receive data corresponding to video image frames of at least a portion of a course, and analyze the video image frame to estimate at least one of position and orientation of the vehicle within the course. A method includes identifying groups of pixels from the video image frames that are determined to correspond to non-background objects in the course. The method also includes correlating at least a portion of the identified groups of pixels with known objects in the course, and analyzing positions of the groups of pixels within the video image frames and known positions of at least one of an image capture device and known objects relative to the course to estimate at least one of the position and orientation of the vehicle within the course.

Abstract: A light bar is described that is of a modular construction based on one or more large circuit boards that are populated with light beam assemblies and then fastened to an interior space of the light bar housing. Keys that automatically align the light beam assemblies on each of the boards precisely control placement of the assemblies on the board. In turn, each of the boards is keyed to the interior of the light bar housing so that when the board is fastened to the housing the light beam assemblies are automatically registered into alignment with the lenses in the housing so that the beams from the assemblies are properly oriented. The light bar is inexpensive to fabricate and can be assembled quickly and reliably, yet it provides for a high degree of customization, which is a requirement in the emergency vehicle lighting industry.

Abstract: Method for maneuvering a buoyant body of a wave power converter having a mechanical-electric, mechanical-hydraulic or piezo-electric energy converter which is arranged in the sea under the buoyant body, the buoyant body and wave power converter being connected by a wire, and which buoyant body is provided with at least one ballast tank for controlling the buoyancy of the buoyant body, where the method includes, by means of measuring equipment acquiring information regarding wire tension, filling level/pressure in the ballast tank and stroke of the energy converter, and controlling the buoyancy of the buoyant body by supplying/discharging water/air to/from the ballast tank while at the same time adjusting the tension of the wire by operating a winch arranged in the buoyant body. The invention also relates to a wave power plant for executing the method.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed comprising a plurality of small independent light sources which are arranged in a mesh network and capable of exchanging data such that they can be operated together and under control of a controller in order to provide enhanced lighting effects in particular applications.

Abstract: Lighting devices are provided including those which have an array of spatially distributed optoelectronic sources, each source being adapted to emit a respective incident optical beam; a first reflector having an optical axis, and having a first reflective surface that is concave and facing the array of sources to intercept said incident optical beams and to produce corresponding reflected optical beams; a second reflector having a second reflective surface interposed along said optical axis between said array of optoelectronic sources and the first reflector adapted to intercept and deflect said reflected optical beams producing corresponding deflected optical beams, the first reflector being adapted to concentrate the reflected optical beams on the second reflective surface.

Abstract: A solar powered navigational light including: a casing; at least one illuminated lenses on a front side of the casing; a battery compartment within the casing, where the battery compartment houses a rechargeable battery; and a solar panel array on a top side of the casing, where the solar panel array produces energy to charge the rechargeable battery. The solar panel array may function as a sensor to activate the illumination of the at least one illuminated lenses. In one particular embodiment, the illuminated lenses may emit a combination of red, green or white lights. The illuminated lenses may include a first lenses and a second lenses in combination.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein include a visual guidance system for a boat trailer that can include a housing defining a cavity, the housing having a plurality of openings such that fluid can pass into the cavity, a first track and a second track, where the first track and the second track have a substantially vertical orientation, and a laser head mounted on the first track and the second track that can include a housing, a laser module positioned within the housing that is configured to provide a first illumination beam, and a float.

Abstract: Multifunctional displays for a marine vessel having a propulsion system can include a sequential indicator, a first portion, a second portion and a transition portion between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion depicts changes in a characteristic of a first component of the propulsion system during a first operational mode of the propulsion system. The second portion depicts changes in a characteristic of a second component of the propulsion system during a second operational mode of the propulsion system. The transition portion depicts a change in operation of propulsion system between the first operational mode and the second operational mode. A marine vessel icon has first and second icons depicting changes in characteristics of the first and second components. The icon changes position when the operational mode of the marine vessel changes.

Abstract: An indicator device on a marine vessel is configured to display motion. A controller operates the indicator device according to at least a first mode wherein the indicator device displays motion and a second mode wherein the indicator device does not display motion. The controller operates the indicator device based upon an operational characteristic of the marine vessel to thereby inform a swimmer located proximate to the marine vessel of the operational characteristic.

Abstract: A solar powered navigational light including: a casing; at least one illuminated lenses on a front side of the casing; a battery compartment within the casing, where the battery compartment houses a rechargeable battery; and a solar panel array on a top side of the casing, where the solar panel array produces energy to charge the rechargeable battery. The solar panel array may function as a sensor to active the illumination of the at least one illuminated lenses. In one particular embodiment, the illuminated lenses may emit a combination of red, green or white lights. The illuminated lenses may include a first lenses and a second lenses in combination.

Abstract: Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) collect and transmit information about ice floes with respect to their areal extent, vertical underwater profile, thickness, density, location, speed, direction and other properties to determine the possible trajectory of the ice floe. This information is used to alert drilling platforms in icy ocean conditions of pending ice floe dangers.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus, system, and method to utilize road markers to control vehicle speeds. The road markers may be commanded to emit a light for a pre-determined period of time. Further, the road markers may be controlled such that they are commanded to emit the light based upon a timing sequence associated with a desired speed so that the road markers emit light in a strobe pattern. In this way, if a vehicle is traveling at the desired speed, then the strobe pattern appears static to a driver of the vehicle. Additionally, a message may be transmitted from a traffic authority to increase or decrease the timing sequence of the strobe pattern to increase or decrease the speed to the desired speed.

Abstract: System for detection and depiction of objects in the path of marine vessels and for warning about objects that may constitute a risk to the navigational safety. The system includes a sweeping unit for illumination of objects within the field of view of the system, including a light source which emits a beam within the field of view of the system, an optical sensor and pulse processing unit including optical detectors for monitoring of the beam output power and generation of a start pulse for measurement of distance, for detection/reception of radiant energy reflected from objects, including measurement of distance to the reflecting object(s) based on the time delay between emitted and reflected light, including energy and peak effect of the pulses.

Abstract: Lighting devices are provided including those which have an array of spatially distributed optoelectronic sources, each source being adapted to emit a respective incident optical beam; a first reflector having an optical axis, and having a first reflective surface that is concave and facing the array of sources to intercept said incident optical beams and to produce corresponding reflected optical beams; a second reflector having a second reflective surface interposed along said optical axis between said array of optoelectronic sources and the first reflector adapted to intercept and deflect said reflected optical beams producing corresponding deflected optical beams, the first reflector being adapted to concentrate the reflected optical beams on the second reflective surface.

Abstract: A system for marking a route, path or boundary. The system may comprise a plurality of modules, each of which comprises a signaling device, a radiofrequency apparatus and control circuitry. Such modules are positionable in an array which marks the route, path or boundary. When positioned in the array, the modules undergo radiofrequency communication with one another and the control circuitry causes the signaling devices of the modules to emit warning signals in sequence from a first-positioned module of the array to a last-positioned module of the array.

Abstract: A light emitting inflatable safety beacon is disclosed for identifying a location of the beacon. The beacon comprises an elongated bladder defining an interior chamber extending between an upper end and a lower end. A tether extends between a first end and a second end. A couple links the tether with the elongated bladder for suspending the tether within the interior chamber. A light source is secured to the tether for emitting an electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation internally illuminates the elongated bladder for creating an illuminated beacon. The electromagnetic radiation traverses the elongated bladder for creating a location beacon.

Abstract: Signaling methods and apparatuses are described for preventing flood irrigation water from overflowing in a trench, field, or other area. Signaling devices may include indicators such as a reflector, a flag, a light, or a sound device provided on an end of an elongate member having its opposite end engaged with the ground. A stake is driven into the ground near the elongate member in the trench or other area where water will flow. A breakaway link such as a strip of paper is engaged to either the indicator or the elongate member and also to the stake, causing the elongate member to be bent downward, with the breakaway link located in the trench where water will flow. When exposed to the flow of water, the breakaway link weakens and eventually tears such that the elongate member springs upward carrying the indicator with it, signaling an operator that water has reached that location in the trench.

Abstract: A safety light apparatus includes a first light source to emit a first light beam and a first light modulator to modulate the first light beam to project a first light image resembling a left boundary of a bike lane. A second light source emits a second light beam, and a second light modulator modulates the second light beam to project a second light image resembling a right boundary of a bike lane. A housing supports the first and second light sources and the first and second light modulators. A mounting device is provided for mounting the housing to a bicycle.

Abstract: Disclosed is to an aircraft radiofrequency communication system. The system includes at least one at least one radiofrequency transceiver device that is configured to transmit and receive data according to a VDL mode 3 standard and to receive status information that relates to at least one radio link of the radiofrequency transceiver device and includes the status concerning the possibility of transmitting on a particular, selected frequency. In one embodiment, a man/machine interface unit is configured to display configuration information and at least a portion of the status information. In an alternative embodiment, at least one radiofrequency transceiver device is configured to further determine status information that represents a possibility of using the radiofrequency transceiver device in transmission.

Abstract: Safe driving evaluation systems, methods, and programs acquire traffic signal information that indicates the display status of a traffic signal present ahead in the traveling direction of a vehicle, determine the vehicle is within a prescribed stop supplement zone set up in front of the traffic signal installation point, and determine a red light encounter, which is a state where the vehicle is within the stop supplement zone and the traffic signal information indicates that the traffic signal is red. The systems, methods, and programs perform a stop supplementary operation with respect to a driver in order to stop the vehicle at the traffic signal installation point based on a driving operation of the vehicle during the red light encounter, and calculate a stop supplement percentage.

Abstract: A variable lighting system (“VLS”) for optimizing object visibility at night by setting a base level of lighting, adding a variable light to that base level of lighting, and a synchronizing the timing and sequence of the base level of lighting and the variable lighting. The VLS varies the illumination by intensity, color, direction, or a combination thereof and optionally includes a detector for detecting motion, noise, and other occurrences. The VLS can be implemented as a fixed lighting source, a movable lighting source, or a vehicle mounted lighting source. The VLS improves visibility at night for viewers or motorists thereby reducing accidents and damage costs, saves energy, and improves the environment and enhances quality of life by reducing light pollution and light trespass.

Abstract: An exclusion zone compliance circuit comprises a terrestrial radio signal reception component for receiving a terrestrial radio signal comprising a unique identification of a transmission source. A non-volatile memory component of the circuit stores an encrypted data set describing boundaries of an exclusion zone. A navigation data deriving component of the circuit accesses a data set and compares the unique identification with a station identification of the transmission source and the geographic position of the transmission source. The navigation data deriving component derives a geographic position of the exclusion zone compliance circuit and determines whether the exclusion zone compliance circuit is located within an exclusion zone. A data blocking component of the circuit accesses the encrypted data set. A data control component of the exclusion zone compliance circuit blocks output of a signal in response to an indication that the circuit is located within an exclusion zone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for safety of a vessel and a method for safety of the vessel, and more particularly, to a system for safety of a vessel and a method for safety of the vessel using a mobile terminal device. According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vessel collision preventing function which is available only in high-price exclusive marine equipment by utilizing a radio communication function and a location tracking function of a mobile terminal device even to small and medium-sized vessels and furthermore, rapidly and accurately display a vessel which is in a collision risk and allow a user to specifically recognize a collision preventing alarm so as to prevent collisions of the vessels.

Abstract: System for detection and depiction of objects in the path of marine vessels and for warning about objects that may constitute a risk to the navigational safety. The system includes a sweeping unit for illumination of objects within the field of view of the system, including a light source which emits a beam within the field of view of the system, an optical sensor and pulse processing unit including optical detectors for monitoring of the beam output power and generation of a start pulse for measurement of distance, for detection/reception of radiant energy reflected from objects, including measurement of distance to the reflecting object(s) based on the time delay between emitted and reflected light, including energy and peak effect of the pulses.

Abstract: A circuit for exclusion zone compliance is recited. In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a satellite navigation signal reception component configured for receiving at least one signal from at least one Global Navigation Satellite System satellite and a navigation data deriving component configured for deriving position data and a clock time from the at least one signal. The circuit further comprises a non-volatile memory component configured for storing an encrypted data set describing the boundaries of an exclusion zone and a data blocking component configured for controlling the accessing of the encrypted data set. The circuit further comprises a data control component configured for blocking the output of a signal from the circuit in response an indication selected from the group consisting of: an indication that the circuit is located within an exclusion zone and an indication that output of said signal is not permitted based upon said clock time.

Abstract: A Water Friend or Foe System (WFSS) includes a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card in a SIM reader on a marine vessel. A transmitter, which is coupled to the SIM reader, transmits information from the SIM card, as well as positioning information, to a WFFS tracking station.

Abstract: A global position system device including a host and a plurality of direction indicating lights is provided. The direction indicating lights are disposed at the host, wherein each direction indicating light is represented as one direction. The host controls the direction indicating lights such that one of the direction indicating lights is bright and the others are dark. Then, users are indicated by the direction indicating lights to make a turn or keep running straightforward.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a dynamic content design, delivery and distribution software architecture that enables a centrally located designer, using a graphical interface, to create, edit, manage, and organize a matrix of trigger points that are plotted on a computerized map of geographical space. Each of these trigger points may be tagged with content, which is then relayed to a dynamic client device that is remotely located. The client device then displays the content to a remote user in a manner predetermined by the centrally located designer, the content varying based on feedback provided by the client device. The system and methods disclosed enable a centrally located designer to assume the role of an automated tour designer. As such, designers can compile a variety of different tours, each aimed at users with particular preferences. The architecture further offers a means to publish tour scripts for public consumption.

Abstract: The invention relates to a port marker which comprises lighting means and which is intended to be positioned next to the red and green light signals, lighting columns or lighthouses at the port entrance. The inventive marker comprises a self-supporting half-ring having a maximum height which is essentially greater than the height of the light source of the lighting column, lighthouse or light signal. The invention also comprises and electronic unit for powering and controlling the lighting means. The lighting means are distributed between the two ends of the self-supporting half-ring along the length thereof and are disposed such as to be visible to a boat or similar vessel approaching the port. The color of said lighting means corresponds to that of the respective obligatory lighting column, lighthouse or light signal at the entrance to the port, which, as mentioned above, can be red or green.

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 rotating beacon including a plurality of light emitting diodes and a plurality of reflectors is disclosed. The light emitting diodes are attached to one or more printed circuit boards mounted on a base. The reflectors gather light from the light emitting diodes into a plurality of beams which are directed away from the base. A motor and shaft assembly rotates a mirror element. The mirror element is arranged to reflect the beams into a horizontal plane of the rotating beacon.

Abstract: A positioning and recording information system with multi-hopping means for rescue on the sea. At least two stations are utilized to transmit navigation information to one another in the form of data packets. The data packets are received and temporarily stored in the stations. The steps of transmitting, receiving and storing are repeated to form a network topology which records a moving track of a station set on a ship. As the ship meets with misfortune on the ocean, the latest data packet transmitted by the ship facilitates positioning so that the disastrous position is identified. Consequently, the rescue can be started immediately and the efficiency is improved as compared with traditional ways.

Abstract: An instrumented navigation system for aiding a towboat and barge configuration in the entry and traversal of a lock located on a waterway or for navigation around other structures, such as bridge piers or docks. The system consists of wirelessly linked computers on the towboat and the lock which display navigational charts showing the position of the tows as they approach and enter the locks. The computers are also linked to sensors which send information, such as the speed and position of the tows, to the computers for display.

Abstract: A tracking system (10) for tracking movable assets (16) and several methods for using the system are provided. The tracking system includes a monitoring device (22), a tracking information network (20), a data communication network (18), a tracker tag (12), and a tracking information server (14). The tracker tag uses GPS technology. The tracking information server provides programmed instructions to the tracker tag in messages via a messaging system. The tracker tag selectively retrieves the messages from the messaging system. The tracking information server provides tracking information and related information to a subscriber. In one embodiment, the tracker tag is in communication with an Iridium satellite constellation (28) and tracking information is displayed to the subscriber when the asset is substantially anywhere in the world.

Abstract: A rear entertainment system has a voice synthesis circuit, an OSD unit, a video camera, a DVD playback unit, a rear monitor, a navigation unit, a mixer, an IR circuit, and headphones. The voice synthesis circuit and the OSD unit receive driving information from a handle, a brake, a winker, and so on. The voice synthesis circuit presents the driving condition in an audio form, while the OSD unit presents the driving condition in a video form. The video camera takes a scene in a forward direction. The navigation unit supports the driving of the vehicle. The mixer synthesizes the voice output of the voice synthesis circuit, audio signals from the DVD playback unit and audio signals from the navigation unit. The IR circuit converts the synthesized audio signals into IR signals. The headphones receive the IR signals from the IR circuit and convert the IR signals into audio.

Abstract: A method and system for visually guiding an aircraft in its landing approach to a runway having an approach area equipped with approach lights operable in off, low, medium, and high intensity states. The lights are communicated with a secondary side of a transformer, which has a primary side with low, medium, and high taps that correspond to the light states. Off, low, medium, and high lighting intensity requests correspond to the low, medium, and high states of the plurality of lights. AC power is switched between the transformer taps in response to a request for an increase in lighting intensity. Power is sequentially applied to the taps by supplying the power to the low tap for a first predetermined time interval before supplying the power to the medium tap.

Abstract: Onboard a marine vessel in transit a speedometer, a fathometer and a computer run in conjunction to track the Froude depth number (which is a function of vessel speed and water depth). A warning (e.g., display, signal and/or alarm) appears and/or sounds when the vessel nears or approaches the critical Froude depth number value of one (which is associated with wake wash at its most deleterious level), thus alerting the crew that the vessel's speed must be adjusted (usually, reduced) in order to avoid Froude depth number criticality. Typical embodiments establish a Froude depth number threshold value below 1.0 (e.g., 0.8), above which a red (prohibitive) zone warning is given. Some embodiments additionally establish a Froude depth number value above 1.0 (e.g., 1.2), below which a red (prohibitive) zone warning is given, above which an yellow (cautionary) zone warning (appreciably different from the red zone warning) is given.

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 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 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: A synchronisation system for synchronisation of multiple markers (12,13,14) in a geographical location or waterway (16). Synchronisation is achieved by periodically re-synchronising each marker (12,13,14) to a common reference signal. A wireless communications system is used to distribute the reference signal to isolated markers. The markers (12,13,14) are also remotely monitored to indicate the status of multiple markers which is communicated to a central control centre. The status can indicate the number of spare light bulbs left. the status of the spare bulbs, the correct or incorrect flashing of the light, unauthorised entry to or tampering with the marker or lighthouse. the condition of the battery and/or the correct function of a solar panel or other remote power source. The status of multiple markers is then communicated to a central control centre or to another location.

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 plurality of bi-color lights is mounted to the stern of a ship such as an aircraft carrier. The lights are arranged so that they are visible from an escort ship that is following the aircraft carrier while attempting to maintain a selected range and angular position relative to the aircraft carrier. The lights are arranged such that the number of lights of each color that are visible from the escort ship depends upon the angular position of the escort ship relative to the aircraft carrier.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating buoy light signals using a collimated light source. The system provides for communication of system conditions and ambient conditions, and can provide homeland security monitoring. The system senses motion of the buoy and compensates the direction of lighting, and optionally acoustics, being generated out over a body of water. Numerous other transportation related embodiments are described including devices for providing user comfort when flying, automotive signaling, auto parking control, sports bottles, visors, and lures.

Abstract: A fishing lighting system comprising at least one lighting assembly wherein the lighting assembly comprises at least one ultraviolet light source, at least one white light source, a controller for controlling the ultraviolet light source and the white light source and a mounting base. The mounting base carries the ultraviolet light source, the white light source and the controller. The fishing lighting system is preferably made integral with a portion of the gunwale of a boat.

Abstract: The present invention provides a navigational safety lighting system for use in low visibility conditions caused by fog, mist, rain, snow or other particulate matter in the atmosphere. A laser light source is utilized which emits a beam of laser light that is visible to the naked eye when it strikes the particulate matter in the atmosphere. The laser light source may be mounted on an air, water or land craft, or may be mounted on navigational or other objects to identify them in such low visibility conditions. Also, the laser light source on an air, water or land craft may be directed in the direction of movement of the craft to identify obstacles in the path of the craft in such low visibility conditions.

Abstract: A marine safety light for maximizing a boat's visibility to other boaters during darkness and inclement weather conditions consisting of a LED array which consists of a plurality of LEDs arranged in a star configuration. The LED array preferably consists of six white LEDs evenly spaced in the horizontal plane and positioned within a fresnel lens such that an even omni-directional distribution of light is emitted. LED array is powered using a power circuit which includes two conventional DC to DC converters which regulate the output voltage, allowing the marine light to operate at a constant brightness for a substantial period of time on a conventional 1.5 volt power source. Further, the power circuit automatically shuts the marine safety light off when sufficient ambient light is available and provides a continuous flashing signal when the power source is low.

Abstract: A marker light device includes a bendable printed circuit board, a group of light emitting diodes disposed on the bendable printed circuit board and electrically connected thereto, and a power source electrically connected to the bendable printed circuit board, thereby causing the illumination of the group of light emitting diodes. The bendable printed circuit board includes an electronic circuit for intermittently turning the group of light emitting diodes on and off at a predetermined time interval to provide a flashing light. The bendable printed circuit board, when folded such that the opposite ends thereof substantially meet, includes two panels such that the group of light emitting diodes disposed on the first panel faces in a direction generally opposite to the group of light emitting diodes disposed on the second panel, whereby the light emitting diodes project light in substantially parallel beams.