Abstract: A device for transmitting a distress signal is provided which includes: an impact surface; a power supply for generating electrical energy resulting from an impact force applied to the impact surface; and a transmitter powered by the power supply for transmitter the distress signal. The distress signal can be an RF signal, which can be polarized. The power supply can include one or more piezoelectric generators, at least one capacitor in which the electrical energy generated by the piezoelectric generators is stored and/or an electronics component for regulating a generated voltage and for charging the capacitors. The device can also include a GPS receiver for receiving position data and providing such position data to the transmitter for inclusion into the distress signal.

Abstract: A device for transmitting a distress signal is provided which includes: an impact surface; a power supply for generating electrical energy resulting from an impact force applied to the impact surface; and a transmitter powered by the power supply for transmitter the distress signal. The distress signal can be an RF signal, which can be polarized. The power supply can include one or more piezoelectric generators, at least one capacitor in which the electrical energy generated by the piezoelectric generators is stored and/or an electronics component for regulating a generated voltage and for charging the capacitors. The device can also include a GPS receiver for receiving position data and providing such position data to the transmitter for inclusion into the distress signal.

Abstract: A device including: a housing; a powered element disposed on or in the housing; and an impact power producing element housed on or in the housing and operatively connected to the powered element, the impact power producing element producing power upon an impact of at least a portion of the housing with another surface.