Abstract: An apparatus for automatically reporting an event includes an actuator having a sensor for sensing the event and providing an actuation signal, a controller having a signal generator for formatting data corresponding to the event to form a report signal, and a transmitter for transmitting the report signal. The actuator may include a water-activated switch to sense the event or a motion detector to sense the event. The actuator may sense a signal corresponding to a change in a monitored physiological parameter of a person coupled to the apparatus. The apparatus may also include a global positioning system receiver. The report signal may be formed according to standard digital selective calling. A process of automatically reporting an event includes sensing the event, providing an actuation signal in response to the sensed event, formatting data corresponding to the event in response to the actuation signal, to form a report signal, and transmitting the report signal.

Abstract: An overboard alarm system includes a signal device and a receiving station. The signal device includes a water-activated switch, a transmitter controlled by the switch to generate a signal, an antenna for providing the signal from the transmitter, and a floatation aid for keeping an end of the antenna above water when the signal device is located in the water. The transmitter may be an RF transmitter. The receiving station includes a receiving antenna for receiving the signal transmitted by the signal device, and an interface for providing the received signal to a navigational system. The receiving station may further include a processor for formatting the received signal and for providing the formatted signal to the interface. The receiving station may further include an alarm device for providing an alarm output in response to the received signal. The processor may include means for recording the position of the receiving station when the received signal is provided to the navigational system.