Abstract: A computer program product contains computer-readable instructions, which, when operated on by a computer, performs the following method. A combination is determined of relative circumferential positions of the individual rotor components associated to a bow shape configuration of the centers of mass along the axially-extending sequence based on geometrical reference values concerning individual rotor components each having a center of mass and configured to be assembled to one another in an axial sequence to form a rotor assembly, the geometrical reference values being stored in a computer readable memory accessible to the computer.

Abstract: Fixtures and methods for induction heating of bored parts are described. The fixtures and methods may be used to counter the effects of convective heat transfer and thereby promote a more uniform temperature distribution around a bore of a bored part being heated. The fixture includes a base including one or more locators engaged with the part and locating the base relative to the part, and an induction heating coil supported by the base. The induction heating coil is disposed inside the bore of the part and is inductively coupled to the part. The induction heating coil is wound about a coil axis which is non-coaxial with a bore axis of the bore of the part during heating of the part.

Abstract: The method of assembling the rotor assembly can include obtaining geometrical reference values about the individual rotor components, based on the geometrical reference values, determining a combination of relative circumferential positions of the individual rotor components associated to a bow shape configuration of the centers of mass along the axially-extending sequence; and assembling the rotor components to one another in said determined combination of relative circumferential positions, into the rotor assembly.

Abstract: A method of assembling a first part to a second part while applying thermal energy to at least one of the parts. The application of thermal energy is terminated when the first part and second part are in a completed assembly position relative to each other. The thermal energy absorbed by the at least one of: the first part; and the second part is then dissipated until the first part and second part are engaged in an interference fit.

Abstract: A method of assembling a first part to a second part while applying thermal energy to at least one of the parts. The application of thermal energy is terminated when the first part and second part are in a completed assembly position relative to each other. The thermal energy absorbed by the at least one of: the first part; and the second part is then dissipated until the first part and second part are engaged in an interference fit.

Abstract: The method of assembling the rotor assembly can include obtaining geometrical reference values about the individual rotor components, based on the geometrical reference values, determining a combination of relative circumferential positions of the individual rotor components associated to a bow shape configuration of the centers of mass along the axially-extending sequence; and assembling the rotor components to one another in said determined combination of relative circumferential positions, into the rotor assembly.

Abstract: A method of validating a compressive axial preload on adjacent rotatable elements serially arranged around a shaft, created through application of a progressively increasing axial tension to a tensioning member configured to compress the elements when the axial tension is applied. The method includes monitoring a load in the tensioning member and/or in one or more of the elements, and an elongation of the tensioning member, during application of the axial tension, determining at least one validation parameter from the load and the elongation, comparing each validation parameter with a respective predetermined range therefor; and if at least one of the at least one validation parameter is out of the respective predetermined range, correcting the preload on the elements, and repeating the method. A method of applying the compressive preload and a system for validating the compressive preload are also described.

Abstract: A method of validating a compressive axial preload on adjacent rotatable elements serially arranged around a shaft, created through application of a progressively increasing axial tension to a tensioning member configured to compress the elements when the axial tension is applied. The method includes monitoring a load in the tensioning member and/or in one or more of the elements, and an elongation of the tensioning member, during application of the axial tension, determining at least one validation parameter from the load and the elongation, comparing each validation parameter with a respective predetermined range therefor; and if at least one of the at least one validation parameter is out of the respective predetermined range, correcting the preload on the elements, and repeating the method. A method of applying the compressive preload and a system for validating the compressive preload are also described.

Abstract: An automatic trim system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with a steering angle sensor to monitor the steering angle of the watercraft, and evaluate a target setting for the trim taking the steering angle into consideration. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device for adjusting the trim angle accordingly.

Abstract: An automatic trim system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with a steering angle sensor to monitor the steering angle of the watercraft, and evaluate a target setting for the trim taking the steering angle into consideration. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device for adjusting the trim angle accordingly.

Abstract: An automatic trim system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with a steering angle sensor to monitor the steering angle of the watercraft, and evaluate a target setting for the trim taking the steering angle into consideration. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device for adjusting the trim angle accordingly.

Abstract: A commonly actuated trim and reverse system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. The system includes a movable actuator connected to a movement transfer mechanism. The movement transfer mechanism is operable to adjust both the trim angle of the steering nozzle of the watercraft and the orientation of the reverse gate, as a function of the movement of the actuator. Control electronics evaluate the target steering for the trim angle and gate orientation and control the movement of the actuator accordingly.

Abstract: An electronically assisted reverse gate system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with the operator interface of the watercraft to obtain commands from the operator, such as a selection between a forward, reverse or neutral mode, a braking command or a slow mode. The control electronics evaluates the target setting for these commands. This evaluation is made taking into consideration the operating conditions of the watercraft. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device to adjust the gate orientation accordingly.

Abstract: A fall detection system informs a driver of a water vehicle of a fallen rider being towed by the vehicle. The system includes a detection device coupled to a handle for detecting contact between the rider and the handle. The device generates a contact signal that automatically stops or changes if contact is broken. The system further includes a transmitter coupled to the detection device that transmits a contact signal therefrom and a receiver that receives the contact signal. A display presents a warning message upon an interruption in the reception of the contact signal. Alternatively, the transmitter may be coupled to a speed control unit of the vehicle to stop or reduce the speed of the vehicle if a fall is detected. A communication system may also be provided.

Abstract: An electronically assisted reverse gate system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with the operator interface of the watercraft to obtain commands from the operator, such as a selection between a forward, reverse or neutral mode, a braking command or a slow mode. The control electronics evaluates the target setting for these commands. This evaluation is made taking into consideration the operating conditions of the watercraft. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device to adjust the gate orientation accordingly.

Abstract: A commonly actuated trim and reverse system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. The system includes a movable actuator connected to a movement transfer mechanism. The movement transfer mechanism is operable to adjust both the trim angle of the steering nozzle of the watercraft and the orientation of the reverse gate, as a function of the movement of the actuator. Control electronics evaluate the target steering for the trim angle and gate orientation and control the movement of the actuator accordingly.

Abstract: A configurable keypad assembly adapted for vehicular controls. A kit for assembling such a configurable keypad is also disclosed. The overlay is provided with identification markings. The keypad assembly includes a configurable keypad circuit provided with a plurality of switches responsive to pressure thereon. The keypad circuit is encased in a flexible sleeve that is shaped to fit over the circuit. The top surface of the sleeve has a number of independently pressable button areas in alignment with the switches, such that any pressure exerted on a given button area activates the switch under it. The assembly also includes means for securing the rigid fascia overlay over the button areas. The identification markings on the overlay, once installed, are in alignment with the button areas. The configurable keypad assembly has the flexibility of being distributed with or without the fascia overlay and can be made waterproof for marine applications.

Abstract: An automatic trim system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with a steering angle sensor to monitor the steering angle of the watercraft, and evaluate a target setting for the trim taking the steering angle into consideration. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device for adjusting the trim angle accordingly.

Abstract: A car seat mat for use with a child's restraint seat over the seat of an automobile, consisting of a flexible waterproof sheet. This sheet has a main, generally quadrangular section and a lip portion coextensive with the main section. The sheet lip portion is sized for conforming to the seat portion of the child's restraint seat, and the sheet main portion is sized for overlapping the vertical car body panel straddling the front end of the car fixed seat and the car flooring. A first, transverse, substantially rigid flange extends in between the sheet main portion and the sheet lip portion, and a second, substantially rigid flange extends at an end edge section of the mat opposite said first flange. The first flange is sized for flat abutment against the front end portion of the child's restraint seat, and the second flange is adapted to form a water collecting pocket in spaced overlying fashion relative to the car flooring.