Abstract: Methods for monitoring windlass rotation are provided to determine the real time rate and length of rode release when anchoring a boat. The rotation can be monitored in real time using directional sound and/or electromagnetic radiation receivers and/or transmitters that can be in a module attached to the windlass. Another windlass module can monitor windlass rotation using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components such as accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, and/or inertial measurement units (IMU) to sense motion and/or position.

Abstract: Methods for monitoring windlass rotation are provided to determine the real time rate and length of rode release when anchoring a boat. The rotation can be monitored in real time using directional sound and/or electromagnetic radiation receivers and/or transmitters that can be in a module attached to the windlass. Another windlass module can monitor windlass rotation using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components such as accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, and/or inertial measurement units (IMU) to sense motion and/or position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for monitoring windlass rotation are provided to determine the real time rate and length of rode release when anchoring a boat. The rotation can be monitored in real time using directional sound and/or electromagnetic radiation receivers and/or transmitter in a module attached to the windlass. Another windlass module can monitor windlass rotation using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components such as accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, and/or inertial measurement units (IMU) to sense motion and/or position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for monitoring windlass rotation are provided to determine the real time rate and length of rode release when anchoring a boat. The rotation can be monitored in real time using directional sound and/or electromagnetic radiation receivers and/or transmitter in a module attached to the windlass. Another windlass module can monitor windlass rotation using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components such as accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, and/or inertial measurement units (IMU) to sense motion and/or position.

Abstract: Novel techniques and equipment for anchoring a boat include sensing and measuring the real time rate and length of rode release based on detecting real time changes in the angular position of a windlass by computer vision using a portable computing device. Rode release is also detected using novel methods based on sensing sound, rode chain movement, and sensing acceleration and/or motion. The apparatus can include software operable to provide safe anchoring based on monitoring real times values of the rate and length of rode release, comparing these values to the speed and position of the boat, and providing local and remote status and alarm information to crew members.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for anchoring a boat are described. Novel methods provide means for sensing and measuring the real time rate and length of rode release based on detecting real time changes in the angular position of a windlass by computer vision using a portable computing device. Rode release is also detected using novel methods based on sensing sound, rode chain movement, and sensing acceleration and/or motion. The apparatus can include software operable to provide safe anchoring based on monitoring real times values of the rate and length of rode release, comparing these values to the speed and position of the boat, and providing local and remote status and alarm information to crew members.