Abstract: This patent describes a method for steering an unmanned surface vessel consisting of a hull, keel, and non-self-tacking rigid wing sail. Unlike conventional vessels, it doesn't require a rudder. Steering is achieved by rotating the wing sail around a vertical axis using an actuator. The center of lateral resistance is spaced aft of the center of windage, balancing the vessel to the wind. The vessel maintains various angles relative to the wind and holds a port or starboard tack without active steering. The sail position only needs changing when a new course is desired. The vessel can progress at all angles to the wind, whether by a zigzagging course or a straight line. This method eliminates the need for an active rudder to maintain course, reducing power consumption and component wear.

Abstract: Apparatus for downconverting a received frequency modulated communication signal is provided. The apparatus comprises processing circuitry to: obtain first digital frequency domain data based on the received frequency modulated communication signal; process the first digital frequency domain data in the frequency domain to provide downconverted digital frequency domain data, wherein the processing is to comprise frequency shifting data based on at least a portion of the first digital frequency domain data, wherein the downconverted digital frequency domain data has fewer data points than the first digital frequency domain data; and convert the downconverted digital frequency domain data into the time domain.

Abstract: A trimaran which includes a self-righting structure positioned near the stern that substantially raises the center of buoyancy. The trimarans two peripheral hulls are shorter than the main hull and positioned near the one end to create an unstable inverted environment wherein when inverted the vessel rests primarily on the self-righting structure and an end of the main hull, substantially raising the center of gravity and creating an unstable configuration. This causes a pitch or roll about the vessel's longitudinal axis, which continues until the vessel has returned to its more stable upright position resting on three hulls.

Abstract: A trimaran which includes a self-righting structure positioned near the stern that substantially raises the center of buoyancy. The trimarans two peripheral hulls are shorter than the main hull and positioned near the one end to create an unstable inverted environment wherein when inverted the vessel rests primarily on the self-righting structure and an end of the main hull, substantially raising the center of gravity and creating an unstable configuration. This causes a pitch or roll about the vessel's longitudinal axis, which continues until the vessel has returned to its more stable upright position resting on three hulls.

Abstract: Various embodiments include composite security interconnect devices and methods. One method embodiment that may be performed by a composite security interconnect device, also referred to herein as a security controller, includes decrypting a first encrypted input received from a peripheral device with a first encryption key to obtain clear text. The first encryption key may be an encryption key established between the security controller and the peripheral device. The method further includes encrypting the clear text with a second encryption key to obtain second encrypted input, the second encryption key being a key of an encryption key pair established with a transaction processing host.

Abstract: Various embodiments include composite security interconnect devices and methods. One method embodiment that may be performed by a composite security interconnect device, also referred to herein as a security controller, includes decrypting a first encrypted input received from a peripheral device with a first encryption key to obtain clear text. The first encryption key may be an encryption key established between the security controller and the peripheral device. The method further includes encrypting the clear text with a second encryption key to obtain second encrypted input, the second encryption key being a key of an encryption key pair established with a transaction processing host.