Electric Light Patents (Class 441/16)
  • Patent number: 11913329
    Abstract: An untethered device includes a housing, a magnetic actuator that is coupled to the housing, and a buoyancy device. The buoyancy device includes an attachment plate that is securable to the magnetic actuator, a degradable ballast weight that is coupled to the attachment plate, and a buoyancy-enhancing feature that is positioned adjacent to the attachment plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Mohamed Larbi Zeghlache, Huseyin Rahmi Seren
  • Patent number: 11485454
    Abstract: An anchor assembly for discerning if an anchor has securely engaged with the seabed, having a float with a length of line below no more than twice the distance from the water's surface to the seabed. The float includes a redirection element that allows the line to support a ballast weight via a descending portion of the line and an ascending portion that is secured to an anchor. The volume of the float and ballast weight are selected such that the float remains visibly buoyant when the anchor is stationary, yet becomes wholly or partially submerged when the anchor is in motion with respect to the seabed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Ronald Sasiela
  • Patent number: 11062821
    Abstract: Electrical power in a marine environment is generated using a power generator. The electrical power generated by the power generator is delivered using a power feed equipment. The delivery of the electrical power is via a power switching unit coupled to a submarine cable. The power switching unit selectively provides to at least a portion of the submarine cable the electrical power delivered by the power feed equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: Facebook, Inc.
    Inventors: Herve Albert Pierre Fevrier, Andrew James Palmer-Felgate
  • Patent number: 10850810
    Abstract: A marine monitoring buoy with an improved structure belongs to the technical field of marine buoys. The marine monitoring buoy includes a first buoy body, a cylindrical portion and a conical portion. A vertical through hole is disposed in the first buoy body, a horizontal through hole is disposed in an upper part of the cylindrical portion, an upper end of the vertical through hole extends to the cylindrical portion and is in communication with the horizontal through hole, a lower end of the vertical through hole penetrates through the conical portion, a wind power generator is disposed in the vertical through hole, two guiding grooves are disposed on a side wall of a lower part of the vertical through hole, a metal piston rod is disposed in the vertical through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Inventors: Huiwen Cai, Tiejun Li, Yonghua Ren
  • Patent number: 9644388
    Abstract: A housing has a front panel, a rear panel, side panels, a bottom panel, and an open top. A major chamber is within the housing. An envelope formed with a minor chamber is attached to one of the panels of the housing. A fire shelter system is removably positioned in the major chamber. A global positioning system is removably positioned within the envelope. A cord extending between the major chamber and the minor chamber couples the fire shelter system and the global positioning system. Deployment of the fire shelter system by removal from the major chamber will pull the cord to activate the global positioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: EVOKE INC.
    Inventors: Dennis Ho, Norman Ho
  • Patent number: 9127246
    Abstract: A method for processing a fluid includes sparging a fluid within the compartment of a container with an initial gas so that the initial gas passes through a portion of the fluid to form a humid gas within the compartment. The humid gas is passed out of the compartment of the container and into a flexible condenser bag. The humid gas within the condenser bag is cooled so as to separate the humid gas within the condenser bag into a condensed fluid and a dehumidified gas. The condensed fluid and the dehumidified gas is then removed from the condenser bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Clinton C. Staheli, Nephi D. Jones, Michael E. Goodwin
  • Patent number: 9096297
    Abstract: A visibility system includes a portable navigational lighting system including a housing and a light source located in the housing and being visible from outside the housing such that when the light source is illuminated at least one of a first and a second color is displayed. A quick connect and release bracket is connected to the housing. The quick connect and release bracket is configured to releasably connect to a mount bracket. The portable navigational lighting system is configured to display each of the first and second colors, the second color being different from the first color. A first mount bracket is located on a wearable structure. The first mount bracket is configured to releasably connect to the quick connect and release bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventors: John Christian O'Maley, Mark David Brunton
  • Publication number: 20140199900
    Abstract: A multi-directional signal assembly includes a signal display unit having one or more display surface, and at least one signal indicia affixed to each display surface. The multi-directional display assembly comprises a buoyant construction such that the signal indicia affixed to the display surface(s) are readily visible above the surface of a body of water in which the assembly is deployed. A counterweight mechanism is mounted to the signal display unit to maintain the signal display unit in a substantially upright, operative orientation when deployed. An illumination system comprising one or more illumination member is mounted to the signal display unit, and is actuated to increase visibility of the signal display unit while it is deployed n the surface of a body of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Greenfield
  • Patent number: 8439716
    Abstract: A floating marker for marking the location of a line in the water. The marker has a cylindrical shape and includes a pair of clips for attaching to a line while allowing the marker to move along the line. The marker includes a lighting module having a plurality of LEDs for illuminating the marker at during low visibility conditions, e.g. at night. The lighting module also includes a solar collector for charging a power source during the day. Finally, the lighting module includes a light sensor and controller allowing the amount of light emitted from the marker to be controlled either automatically or manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Mandrik
  • Patent number: 8430704
    Abstract: A device which will act efficiently as a float for any article (e.g. keys, mobile telephone, wallet) attached thereto when dropped into water comprises an inflatable bag (14) of substantially waterproof and air impervious material, a container (12) of compressed gas, and trigger means (16,30,32) associated with the container (12) and operable upon immersion of the device in water to open the container (12) and allow gas from the container (14) to inflate the bag (14). The trigger means comprises a valve (16) mounted on the container (12) and connecting the container to the inflatable bag (14), retainer means (30) operative to hold the valve (16) in a closed condition, and water reactive means (32) which, upon contact with water, serves to release the retainer means (30) and allow the valve to open. The water reactive means may comprise a band of material (32), at least part of which is water reactive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Seatriever International Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Peter Jeffrey
  • Publication number: 20120190256
    Abstract: A silhouette illuminating solar powered buoy with a protected illumination source such as a solar lighting unit. The buoy body can be shaped, colored, and formed to various and or necessary buoy standards or regulations. The buoy body has an accessible opening to allow the solar lighting unit to be placed in a manor which allows it to internally illuminate the buoy body. Reflective sticker messages and symbols may be placed on the buoy to convey important information to boaters. When the illumination source is turned on at night, the stickers block the emitting light projected from the buoy body, and thus create a highly visible and legible silhouette image of the message and symbol content. The illuminating buoy and silhouette image of the message and symbol content makes the buoy easily visible at night from all angles and thus adds to the safety of person and watercraft operating at night.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey Scott Martzall
  • Publication number: 20120171911
    Abstract: The present invention is an inflatable safety marker for a diver comprising a cylindrical hollow housing having a lid, a puncture plate, an inflatable bladder and a length of line connecting the bladder to the housing. The lid is hingably affixed to one end of the housing. The puncture plate is affixed within the housing below the lid. The puncture plate comprises a pierce needle positioned at the center with the sharp end exposed on the lower surface of the plate and the other end of the pierce needle exposed on the upper surface of the plate. The puncture plate also has a threaded cylindrical skirt depending from the lower surface about the sharp end of the pierce needle. The threaded cylindrical skirt is able to receive a threaded end of a canister containing gas for inflating the bladder. The inflatable bladder is positioned on the upper surface of the puncture plate with its open end removably affixed to the other end of the pierce needle. A length of line connects the bladder to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventor: Donald Pisor
  • Patent number: 8127702
    Abstract: There is a grasping device for a mast buoy comprising a body, at least one loop coupled to the body, and at least one locking element for locking the body to a shaft of a mast buoy. The grasping device can also optionally be coupled to a light such as a remote controlled light which can be turned on remotely using a switch and wireless communication. The grasping device can also include a telescoping body, adjustable loops, an annunciator, and a locating system as well. There can also be an optional solar panel coupled to the grasping device which can be used to charge a battery to provide power to a light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Scarcello, Maureen Scarcello
  • Publication number: 20110136399
    Abstract: A floating marker for marking the location of a line in the water. The marker has a cylindrical shape and includes a pair of clips for attaching to a line while allowing the marker to move along the line. The marker includes a lighting module having a plurality of LEDs for illuminating the marker at during low visibility conditions, e.g. at night. The lighting module also includes a solar collector for charging a power source during the day. Finally, the lighting module includes a light sensor and controller allowing the amount of light emitted from the marker to be controlled either automatically or manually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Mandrik
  • Publication number: 20110104967
    Abstract: A device which will act efficiently as a float for any article (e.g. keys, mobile telephone, wallet) attached thereto when dropped into water comprises an inflatable bag (14) of substantially waterproof and air impervious material, a container (12) of compressed gas, and trigger means (16,30,32) associated with the container (12) and operable upon immersion of the device in water to open the container (12) and allow gas from the container (14) to inflate the bag (14). The trigger means comprises a valve (16) mounted on the container (12) and connecting the container to the inflatable bag (14), retainer means (30) operative to hold the valve (16) in a closed condition, and water reactive means (32) which, upon contact with water, serves to release the retainer means (30) and allow the valve to open. The water reactive means may comprise a band of material (32), at least part of which is water reactive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Peter Jeffrey
  • Publication number: 20110065342
    Abstract: A diver's buoy is provided. The buoy includes a floatation device that carries a display panel. A power source and light source are provided to increase visibility of the buoy. Stabilization devices may be provided to reduce pitching of the buoy to also improve visibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: Jack F. Hudson
  • Patent number: 7699018
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for repelling geese include a solar-powered, photocell controlled flasher for disposition on a body of water or on land where geese inhabit. The method includes the steps of intermittently flashing a light into an area where geese sleep, and disturbing the geese from rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas G. Wells
  • Patent number: 7639161
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Arch Beach, S.L.
    Inventor: Álvaro Ortiz Sacristán
  • Patent number: 7410269
    Abstract: A decorative light system includes a base and a portable light device capable of communicating with each other to generate a light show. The system includes a base defining a receptacle and including a microcontroller, a transceiver operably coupled to the microcontroller and adapted to generate a control signal, a first power source operably coupled to the microcontroller, and a user interface operably coupled to the microcontroller and including at least one switch for activating the microcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Harrity, Simon M. Conway, Kamran Faterioun, Sarah E. Heathcock, Matthew Abbondanzio, Scott W. Demarest, Scott D. Walter, Ronald R. Dir, Edwin T. Horton
  • Patent number: 7401935
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to beverage accessory devices for use within beverage receptacles. In one exemplary embodiment, a beverage accessory device generally includes a housing having sidewalls defining a cavity therein. A substantially fluid-tight container is within the cavity of the housing. The container includes sidewalls defining a chamber. At least one of the container's sidewalls is spaced apart from at least one of the housing's sidewalls such that a portion of the housing's cavity remains separating the at least one container sidewall from the at least one housing sidewall. At least one electric light source is substantially entirely within the container's chamber. The chamber can also be configured for receiving at least one power source. The at least one electric light source is operable for illuminating at least a portion of a liquid within the beverage receptacle when the beverage accessory device is within the beverage receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Carl R. VanderSchuit
  • Patent number: 7320631
    Abstract: A nautical light emitting diode (“LED”) safety channel marker that is cylindrical in shape, capable of displaying lighted oceanic regulation symbols on either side, and that at night illuminates the panels that display a red triangle and a green square through the use of LEDs that surround the perimeter of the square and triangle in order to more effectively prevent boats from colliding with the markers during the darkness hours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew Distefano, Charles Taylor
  • Patent number: 7207701
    Abstract: A self-powered illumination device includes an illumination source protruding from its lower surface for projecting light into a body of water to provide light that is emitted preferentially outwardly to illuminate the sides of a pool. Light emitted with an upward angle of inclination strikes the underside surface of the water-air interface surrounding the device and is reflected outwardly and laterally away the from the light source after striking such underside surface. Preferably, the illumination source has a length that extends downwardly that is commensurate or greater than its width and may be in the form of a fluorescent tube. The illumination device is fully self righting when inverted on the surface of a body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Ultra-Light Floating Objects Inc.
    Inventors: Miles Kennedy, John Charles Tutton, Aldo Balatti, Marcus Willi Karl Gerhard Bosch
  • Patent number: 7083484
    Abstract: An inflatable diver marker and collection bag is disclosed which can be utilized by a diver for collecting lobster, conch, etc., as well as providing for a diver location marker to boats and other water vehicles traveling in the vicinity of the diver. The dive marker/collection bag also provides for an individual ascent line for the diver. The inflatable dive marker/collection bag allows the diver to send the collected items to the surface without the diver having to surface. In one embodiment, the shape of at least the bottom half of the collection bag is “bell” shaped to help prevent the collected items from escaping when additional items to the collection bag. Additional embodiments for a dive marker are also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Robert Manuel Carmichael
  • Patent number: 6860773
    Abstract: An inflatable diver marker and collection bag is disclosed which can be utilized by a diver for collecting lobster, conch, etc., as well as providing for a diver location marker to boats and other water vehicles traveling in the vicinity of the diver. The dive marker/collection bag also provides for an individual ascent line for the diver. The inflatable dive marker/collection bag allows the diver to send the collected items to the surface without the diver having to surface. In one embodiment, the shape of at least the bottom half of the collection bag is “bell” shaped to help prevent the collected items from escaping when additional items to the collection bag. Additional embodiments for a dive marker are also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Robert M. Carmichael
  • Patent number: 6791205
    Abstract: A Reciprocating Generator Wave Power Buoy consists of a reciprocating generator rigidly attached to the underside of an ocean buoy and creates electric power from the surface ocean swells. The generator coil maintains a stable position beneath the ocean surface while the magnetic field housing reciprocates with the vertical motion of the buoy in response to interaction with swell and waves on the surface of the ocean. Damping plates attached to the generator coil inhibit the motion of the generator coil, thus keeping it in a stable position relative to the motion of the magnetic housing. The magnetic housing focuses the magnetic field through the generator coil and the relative motion between the magnetic housing and generator coil creates an electromotive force in the coil. The design of the generator provides a uniform field of single magnetic orientation throughout the entire stroke of the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Aqua Magnetics, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas C. Woodbridge
  • Patent number: 6776502
    Abstract: A newly constructed fishing lamp is disclosed. It is capable of reducing the production cost and simplifying fabrication process by fabricating several essential parts integrally in one piece so as to save use of extra separated components. Several O-rings are employed to hermetically seal the lamp housing to assure the perfect watertight feature. A durable, colorful, and power saving LED-flash is selected as the light source to emit diffused light-imitating as that of planktons to tempt fish group approaching with the consumption of very small amount of power. A specially designed 360° turnable bearing including a suspension ring to hang the fishing lamp thereby capable of preventing lamps from overturning in the water stream incurring kinking of fishing rope or curling of fishing line that leads to a broken rope or line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: Chih-Wen Hung
  • Publication number: 20020155767
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a buoy having a means for self-generating electricity using wave power. The buoy includes a float body floating on the sea, and a lower actuating unit extending though a hole formed at the center portion of the float body in such a way as to be vertically set through the body and rectilinearly reciprocating through the body in a vertical direction due to a difference in a moving velocity between the float body and the actuating body when the body is moved by waves. An electric generator is mounted on the float body and generates electric energy by a rotating force generated by conversion of a vertical reciprocating movement of the lower actuating unit into a rotating movement of a pinion engaging with a rack formed along the upper portion of the actuating unit. An upper support unit is installed on the float body for supporting the lower actuating unit. The buoy also has a lamp indicating a position of the buoy using the electric energy generated by the electric generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Tae-Whan Sung
  • Patent number: 6394862
    Abstract: A structure improvement of electric buoy is a buoy composed of a lower body and an upper body. The primary design improvement is an adjustable button equipped in the lower body of the buoy, near the hook surroundings and several magnetic rings. Some screw threads are formed at the outer rim of the button. The screw threads and the square-shape lower body of a buoy match perfectly and function as micro adjustment. When buoyancy or lead weight varies and buoy sensitivity is poor, one may properly adjust the button to obtain optimal sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Chien-Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 6247827
    Abstract: An improved floatable lighting assembly includes a base with a central concave wall that can face a liquid surface and a peripheral portion extending around the concave wall. A shell is constructed so as to extend from the peripheral portion to form a chamber around the concave wall that provides the lighting assembly with buoyancy. A lamp has a lower light-emitting portion and an electrical contact portion. The electrical contact portion is disposed in an interior region formed by the concave wall. A heat shield is disposed between the shell and the lamp. Electrical wire is electrically connected to the contact portion of the lamp. Structure in the base directs electrical wire from a lower portion of the base into the liquid. The electrical cable includes a loop strain relief member for preventing the cable from pulling away from the structure during use of the lighting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.
    Inventor: Ronald S. Carter
  • Patent number: 6030264
    Abstract: A Rotatable lighting assembly includes a base with a central concave wall that can face a liquid surface and a peripheral portion extending around the concave wall. A shell is constructed so as to extend from the peripheral portion to form a chamber around the concave wall that provides the lighting assembly with buoyancy. A lamp has a lower light-emitting portion and an electrical contact portion. The electrical contact portion is disposed in an interior region formed by the concave wall. Electrical wire is electrically connected to the contact portion of the lamp. Structure in the base directs electrical wire from a lower portion of the base into the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Company
    Inventor: Ronald S. Carter
  • Patent number: 5766049
    Abstract: This nautical buoy is used to monitor the surface projection of a deployed anchor by floating above the anchor. This is accomplished by a connecting tether-line (16) from the buoy to the trip-eye of an anchor (48) attached using a shackle (18). As the anchor is lowered using the vessel's normal ground tackle, the tether-line (16) is deployed by unreeling from the buoy until the anchor rests on the bottom. The tether-line (16) is then secured from further deployment using a tether-line restraining tab (19) and the buoy is tossed overboard so as to float above the deployed anchor. A steady or flashing, light can be affixed to the top of the buoy to identify its location in subdued-light conditions. The buoy can also assist in retrieving an anchor, while aboard the vessel, that has been fouled on bottom vegetation, rocks, and/or other debris. Retrieving the anchor is accomplished by pulling on the tether-line (16), thus applying tensional forces nearly opposite to the frictional forces fouling the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Dana Letourneau
  • Patent number: 5362267
    Abstract: A solar powered lantern device is visible even without a beacon under reflected light and can be easily color coded to conform to the marking requirements of a new location. The lantern device includes a housing, a lighting element supported by a luminescent internal frame, a photovoltaic power supply, and an omnidirectional reflector. In particularly preferred forms, the lantern device is a buoy having a modular housing with interchangeable colored elements. A lighting element is centrally supported inside the housing by a luminescent frame, which serves to reflect light from approaching craft when the lighting element fails. The device may also be mounted atop a pole. In preferred forms the frame is hollow and forms a conduit for electrical conductors from the power supply to the lighting element. A pair of conical reflectors is positioned within the housing to reflect the beacon light omnidirectionally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Cynthia K. Forrest
  • Patent number: 5295882
    Abstract: A battery powered signaling device for the rescue of overboard swimmers is arranged in an elongated container in which reciprocal sliding batteries are used as ballast for the erection of the signaling elements above the water line; and further, upon deployed erection gravity supplemented by minor force of a conducting compressible spring that is always in contact with the uppermost positive battery terminal automatically forces the batteries downward to close an electric circuit by making contact between the negative casing of the bottommost battery and conductors leading to activate the signaling subsystem which is a lighting source in a preferred embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Inventor: Kevin McDermott
  • Patent number: 5231781
    Abstract: An illuminated float comprises a plurality of solar generators, a storage battery for storing therein the electrical energy generated by the solar generator, a light-emitting element which emits the light by the energy supplied from the storage battery, a homing device which emits a high-frequency beacon displayed on the ships display screen, and an energy control means which permits the supply of electrical energy from the storage battery to the light-emitting element and the homing device only when ambient illumination drops below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Bret Allen Dunbar
    Inventor: Bret A. Dunbar
  • Patent number: 5176552
    Abstract: A luminous float includes a float body, a resistance plate and a light-emitting device, and causes the light-emitting device to emit light by electricity generated by a dynamo through the relative motions of the float body and the resistance plate, which are caused by waves and tidal currents. In a preferred embodiment, a contractible and extensible bellows provided at the bottom of the float body is connected with the resistance plate through a connecting element. Furthermore, one end of a spring is coupled to an inner member of the float body, and the other end of the spring is coupled to the bottom of the bellows through a coupling means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignees: Ohumi Tsusho Kabushiki Kaisha, Iron Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeo Kuboyama, Kenichi Shigetomi, Hideki Noda, Yasu Osaka, Yuji Osaka
  • Patent number: 5066338
    Abstract: A solar electric generating system is provided which directly generates D.C. current from ambient light to charge a rechargeable battery through a blocking diode, and a wiring harness adaptable to connect to the existing internal circuitry of conventional existing navigation bouys. This invention is designed to be used as an add on to convert existing navigation bouys that now use throw-away batteries to more economical rechargeable batteries at a very low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Roy D. Meyers
  • Patent number: 5066256
    Abstract: An improved water flotation release device for locating the submerged position of ships that have sunk. The device comprises an improved release buoy that is self contained and communicating and a releasing system that leads to non-violent and reliable release from the sinking ship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Robert B. Ward, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5033984
    Abstract: A spherical buoy of translucent plastic material has a circular cutout leading to the open interior of the buoy. A cylindrical insert having a closed inner end portion and an open unobstructed interior is inserted into the cutout. The outer end portion of the insert is bonded to the margin of the cutout. A self-contained battery-operated light is actuated and inserted into the insert whereupon the outer end of the insert is closed by a screw cap to retain the actuated light in the insert. The insert is of light transmissive material such that the buoy is illuminated from the interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: Hugh I. Shroeder
  • Patent number: 4981453
    Abstract: An emergency position indicating radio beacon is controlled by an annular switch ring which rotates to ON, OFF, SET, and TEST positions. In the SET position, the buoy transmitter automatically turns on in response to removal of the buoy from a mounting bracket. A light and an audible alarm on the buoy are activated during buoy transmission to alert an operator to the transmission in order to avoid false alarms. The mounting bracket automatically releases and ejects the buoy in an emergency situation in response to ambient water pressure, or the buoy may be manually removed from the bracket for deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Krishan, Peter W. Bressler, Harry F. Buschmeier, III, Fernando M. Guidone, Eugene F. Keohane, Robert J. Malloy, Albert C. Paulovitz, David R. Schiff, Nicholas M. Tinari, Jr., John G. Vattima
  • Patent number: 4932910
    Abstract: The emergency location marker system carried by a vessel for marking a location on the water and signaling, especially for locating and rescuing an individual in the water, comprises a flotation and support structure with an advantageously collapsible self-erecting tower, location-indicating devices at least one of which is mounted on the top portion of the tower, a mechanical deploying and actuating assembly for launching and activating the emergency location marker system and an electrical supply and control system. The location-indicating devices may include audio sounders, a strobe light and a self-erecting passive reflector for light and radar mounted at the top portion of the collapsible self-erecting tower below the strobe light, a low frequency transmitter and an electrical and retracting cable connected to the top portion of the collapsible self-erecting antenna tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Inventor: Birgitt B. Hayday
  • Patent number: 4896620
    Abstract: A buoy (10) carries a light (16) at the upper end of a mast (14). The lower end of the mast (14) is connected to a buoyant body (12) which is weighted to present a maximum diameter zone (20) slightly below the water level when the buoy (10) is at rest in the water. The body (12) tapers inwardly both above and below the maximum diameter zone 20. A towing bar assembly (18) is provided on one side of the buoy (10). It includes an upwardly and outwardly sloping guide bar (30) connected at its upper end to a tow bar (36). An eye (50) at an end of a control line (46) is slidably received on the guide bar (30). An initial tug on the control line (46) causes the eye (50) to slide upwardly along the guide bar (30) until it engages a bight (38) of the tow bar (36). The bight (38) is positioned radially outwardly from the maximum diameter zone (20). Then, when the control line (46) is pulled upon, it pulls the buoy (10) into the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Inventor: Harry E. Jones
  • Patent number: 4781636
    Abstract: The portable marine marker buoy having a transparent signal support housing which is carried by a float and is stabilized in the water by a depending weight assembly and which is restrained from drifting by an anchor which is deployed by an automatically locking anchor line dispensing reel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1988
    Inventor: Thomas Schurr
  • Patent number: 4763126
    Abstract: A buoy for marine vessels that is responsive to a transmitted RF signal of a set frequency consisting of an RF receiver disposed within the buoy and tuned to a set frequency of the transmitted RF signal and an antenna coupled to the input of the RF receiver. A switching circuit is coupled to the RF receiver, and a lamp is disposed on the buoy so that when the RF receiver receives a signal at the set frequency, it will operate said switching circuit and turn on said lamp. The buoy may be a pick-up buoy having an elongated stem on the top of the buoy, and containing the antenna. The lamp can also be mounted on the end of the antenna. A sound source coupled to the output of the switching circuit can sound an audible signal in response to the transmitted RF signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Inventor: Ira Jawetz
  • Patent number: 4759735
    Abstract: A solar-powered beacon comprises a water-tight caisson housing a battery for storing electricity produced by solar cells atop the beacon. An electronic circuit within the caisson controls operation of the beacon. The caisson material acts as a heat sink for the solar cells, and insulation is provided below the cells to further protect the electronic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Inventors: Frederic Pagnol, Claude Ratti
  • Patent number: 4736205
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1988
    Assignee: Automatic Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Dodge
  • Patent number: 4669990
    Abstract: The battery operated signal device employs a gravity operated switching system with a time delay. The time delay is effected in one embodiment by having a weighted element move through a tortuous path when the signal device is thrown into the water before activating the contacts of a switch to energize a circuit. In other embodiments, the time delay is effected by pendular members which pivot when the signal device is inverted to either actuate a switch or to permit passage of a ball to actuate the switch. The time delay extends the time required to turn on the light so that forces developed on the light by the pitching, plunging and rolling action of a vessel do not result in intermittent unwanted operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Inventor: Kevin McDermott
  • Patent number: 4626852
    Abstract: Lantern employs clear lens protective cover around the drum lens and a clear dome over the solar panel mounted above the lens. A heavily damped gimbal supported by the lantern housing mounts the lens, lampchanger, and flasher above a bank of batteries suspended from the gimbal. The weight of the batteries aids in providing a righting moment to the gimbal when the marine buoy, atop of which the lantern is secured, is tilted or inclined for sustained periods due to current and/or wind. Interior of the lantern is readily accessible by merely pivoting upwardly an annulus supporting the lens cover, solar panel, and dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Assignee: Pennwalt Corporation
    Inventor: Robert J. Dodge
  • Patent number: 4601126
    Abstract: A buoyant marking light for fishermen is disclosed comprising a pair of buoyant body members interconnected by an elongated sleeve. A light element extends radially outwardly from the center axis of each body member. A weight element is secured within each body member directly opposite each of the light elements. A line element is secured to the elongated sleeve and is normally wrapped therearound and the free end thereof extends through an eyelet located on the sleeve and radially positioned in-between the radial positions of each of the weights. A sinker element is secured to the free end of the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Inventor: Howard W. Klocksiem
  • Patent number: 4579536
    Abstract: A pyramid constructed of upstanding inflatable beam members extending from an inflatable base upwardly to an apex. The inflatable base carries an integral sea anchor depending therefrom, comprising an inflatable cross tube carrying a centrally depending inflatable anchor tube with an achor weight positioned in the lowermost end portion thereof. The sea anchor includes a plurality of flood ports positioned in lower flat panels of flexible sheet material extending between the base and the end of the anchor tube to form a pyramidal surface enclosing the vertical anchor tube and weight. Upper flat panels of flexible sheet material extend between the upstanding inflatable beam to form a pyramidal surface. The upper panels include an upper radar reflective panel portion, a lower colored panel portion, and a translucent panel portion positioned between the upper and lower panel portions. A solar still mechanism is positioned within the enclosure formed by the pyramidal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1986
    Inventor: Robert W. Cameron
  • Patent number: 4573933
    Abstract: A pyramid constructed of upstanding inflatable beam members extending from an inflatable base upwardly to an apex. The inflatable base carries an integral sea anchor depending therefrom, comprising an inflatable cross tube carrying a depending inflatable anchor tube with an anchor weight positioned in the lowermost portion thereof. The sea anchor has a plurality of flood ports positioned in panels enclosing the vertical anchor tube and weight. Flat panels of flexible sheet material extend between the upstanding inflatable beams to form a pyramidal surface. The panels include an upper radar reflective panel portion, a lower colored panel portion, and a translucent panel portion positioned between the upper and lower panel portions. A solar still mechanism is positioned within the enclosure formed by the pyramidal surface. Pockets are provided for survival gear on the exterior of the pyramidal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1986
    Inventor: Robert W. Cameron