Abstract: A current regulator is disclosed which utilizes a well known driver chip. The driver chip has an input signal known as a brake signal "BRK" which typically is used to stop a standard DC motor. In this invention, the brake signal "BRK" is used to create a low resistance current path in order to sustain the current of the current regulator which is used in conjunction with a stepper motor.

Abstract: A system for automatically detecting the event of a person or object falling overboard from a vessel into water includes a portable ultrasonic transmitter worn by each person or attached to selected objects on board and designed to be activated upon immersion in water, and an alarm control unit carried by the vessel containing an ultrasonic receiver. When the receiver detects a signal produced by a portable transmitter, it sounds an alarm and displays the vector velocity of the vessel relative to the portable transmitter, allowing rescue operations to be initiated and carried out even in conditions of zero visibility.