Abstract: A network of interlocks and input devices and a system for tracking their use and control, in which each interlock and input device is associated with a machine which performs a process. Machines are associated with input devices by reading machine identifications from Data Storage Devices (DSDs) with input devices. To disarm an interlock prior to using a machine, the input device is used to read one or more DSDs containing information required to track the process. The input device sends the DSD data to a CPU which then sends an authorization signal to a machine interface. Upon receiving the signal, the machine interface enables the machine to be turned on. The CPU logs the process and DSD data. Once the operator turns off the machine, it cannot be restarted until the operator reads the DSDs required by the machine.

Abstract: A network of interlocks and input devices and a system for tracking their use and control, in which each interlock and input device is associated with a machine which performs a process. Machines are associated with input devices by reading machine identifications from Data Storage Devices (DSDs) with input devices. To disarm an interlock prior to using a machine, the input device is used to read one or more DSDs containing information required to track the process. The input device sends the DSD data to a CPU which then sends an authorization signal to a machine interface. Upon receiving the signal, the machine interface enables the machine to be turned on. The CPU logs the process and DSD data. Once the operator turns off the machine, it cannot be restarted until the operator reads the DSDs required by the machine.

Abstract: A crew overboard self rescue device including a tether and an ascension device. The tether has attachment loops for the ascension device disposed along its length. The ascension device includes a flexible strap with attached footholds and an attachment to the tether. The tether is attached between a hard point on a watercraft and a harness worn by the crew. The ascension device is stowed in a container such as a fanny pack worn by the crew. In a crew overboard situation, the crew retrieves the ascension device from the container, attaches the ascension device to one of the attachment loops disposed on the tether, and using the footholds, climbs the ascension device while stabilizing his upper torso by grasping the tether.

Abstract: An apparatus for the control of fluid flow through a valve. A single shaft-mounted cam moves translationally along the length of the shaft, stopping sequentially at positions adjacent to and in operative engagement with an actuator disposed on or near a valve body. Once in position with a predetermined valve, the cam, which is also coupled to a rotational member, is rotated, thus causing an eccentric portion of the cam to engage the actuator in such a way so as to force the valve to open or close. A flow detection system is integrated into a main fluid transport conduit, allowing sensed flow variations to be sent to a controller. The controller uses a comparison algorithm to determine what fluid settings in the valve are necessary to effect a desired fluid flow through the valve, and prepares an input signal to be sent to one or more motors controlling the translational and rotational motion of the cam.

Abstract: An apparatus for the control of fluid flow through a valve. A single shaft-mounted cam moves translationally along the length of the shaft, stopping sequentially at positions adjacent to and in operative engagement with an actuator disposed on or near a valve body. Once in position with a predetermined valve, the cam, which is also coupled to a rotational member, is rotated, thus causing an eccentric portion of the cam to engage the actuator in such a way so as to force the valve to open or close. A flow detection system is integrated into a main fluid transport conduit, allowing sensed flow variations to be sent to a controller. The controller uses a comparison algorithm to determine what fluid settings in the valve are necessary to effect a desired fluid flow through the valve, and prepares an input signal to be sent to one or more motors controlling the translational and rotational motion of the cam.