Abstract: A vehicle system is arranged for allowing transition from an autonomous driving mode to a second driving mode in a road vehicle having autonomous driving capabilities and including a vehicle compartment, a steering wheel and at least one pedal. The vehicle system includes a control arrangement, a first switch arranged at a first position at the steering wheel, a second switch arranged at a second position within the vehicle compartment, and a first determination arrangement for determining if the at least one pedal is depressed. The control arrangement is configured to allow the transition when the at least one pedal of the vehicle is depressed when the first switch and the second switch are simultaneously activated.

Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a driver assistance system having a display unit and an evaluation unit for generating and displaying a refueling and/or recharging message which is generated in dependence on and independently of a fuel tank filling level or a state of charge of a battery and can be displayed for a defined time period. The evaluation unit is configured to check for the presence of conditions which are to be predefined, and given the presence of at least one condition, to generate a refueling and/or recharging message and to output the refueling and/or recharging message via the display unit.

Abstract: A conveyance device utilizing coupled wagons includes front and rear adjacent wagons and a pair of left and right coupling units coupling left and right side portions of the adjacent wagons. The coupling units are switchable between a coupled state in which the left and right side portions of the adjacent wagons are respectively allowed for relative horizontal rotations about vertical shafts and an uncoupled state. A first coupling control mechanism operating at least one of the coupling units is provided at a horizontal turn path section in a travel path. By the operation of the first coupling control mechanism, the conveying traveling body can enter the horizontal turn path section while the coupling unit on the inner side of the horizontal turn path section is in the coupled state and the coupling unit on the outer side of the horizontal turn path section is in the uncoupled state.

Abstract: A vehicle which is intended to travel along a downward sloping cable, which is suspended between two supports having a change in elevation. Preferably, the vehicle includes a fuselage, a trolley assembly, a translation system, a seat, a counterweight system, and at least one wing. The trolley assembly is attached to the cable. This connection allows the vehicle to travel along the cable. A counterweight system is included in order to balance the weight of the rider sitting in the seat below the fuselage. This allows the vehicle to easily rotate, via rotary joint, around the cable while traveling along the line. Preferably, the rider can induce roll by either activating ailerons or by rotating one of the wings about the lateral axis in order to increase the lift on one side of the aircraft depending on whether the wings are fixed.

Abstract: A gladhand coupling that prevents inadvertent separation of the coupling halves. Each half is equipped with a lug having a ramped pad and a flange defining a channel having a corresponding ramped pad. When two halves are positioned together then rotated into the locked position, the ramped pad of the lug is positioned proximately to the ramped pad of the flange to prevent inadvertent lateral compression of the two halves that could cause unintentional uncoupling. The coupling may be disconnected by simple rotation of one coupling half relative to the other and by pulling the coupling apart as done by current rail car decoupling procedures.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an online fault detection device for train wheels, including: base rails 1, working rails 2, guard rails 3, and transducer detectors 4. A section is cut off from each of the symmetrically arranged base rails 1; a section of the working rail 2 transitions into and is attached to an outer side of the base rail 1 for bearing a train wheel; a section of the guard rail 3 transitions into and is attached to a position near an inner side of the base rail 1 for preventing a wheel rim from derailment; transducer detectors 4 and sensors thereof are placed in the space between working rail and guard rail; and the transducer detectors 4 perform automated detection by connecting to a data collection and processing system such as an external computer. With the present invention, good detection effects, low cost, and quick detection of a fault can be achieved.

Abstract: A portable box table that includes a storage body comprising a plurality of sides enclosing a space suitable for storing items therein, and a wheel assembly coupled to the storage body suitable for enabling transportation of the portable box table over a ground surface. A side of the storage body is configured to be detachable from the storage body, wherein the detachable side further includes extendable legs coupled to an underneath surface of the detachable side, wherein the extendable legs are configured to retract in a storage position parallel and adjacent to the underneath surface of the detachable side, and wherein the extendable legs are configured to extend from the storage position to an extended position to support a work surface of the detachable side in a position substantially parallel to the ground surface.

Abstract: This device relates to devices that can be used to transport equipment, tools and goods and other items from one location to another. The device can haul equipment such as test or analysis equipment. The device has a pocket and compartment for holding a laptop securely during transport. Affixed to the pocket is a folding first shelf for taking notes or working surface. There is a folding second shelf having telescoping holders for securing equipment. The device has wheels that roll smoothly over uneven surfaces. There are collapsing legs that are used to keep the device stable on uneven surfaces. A collapsing base is used to haul equipment, boxes and other large bulky or heavy items. The device is adjustable in the vertical direction to allow the user to adjust the shelf surfaces to a height that is comfortable.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for a convertible service and recycling cart for food and beverage service and waste sorting, compaction and storage are disclosed. An example cart apparatus includes a base, a first sidewall and a second sidewall each coupled to the base and a top support coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall. At least one opening is defined in the top support and a lid is removably coupled to the top support. The apparatus also includes at least one container that is configured to be removably coupled to the at least one opening in the top support.

Abstract: A hand truck that includes a carriage, and an elongated frame that connects to a front side of the carriage and is configured to pivot in relation to the carriage. The hand truck also includes a stabilizer plate configured to extend outward from the front side of the carriage to stabilize the hand truck as the elongated frame pivots in relation to the carriage, and to retract inward toward the front side of the carriage.

Abstract: A seal assembly includes a body having a wall. The body includes a detent that is attached to the wall at a hinge. The detent is bendable about the hinge in a radial direction relative to a central axis. A locking pin is supported by a post extending from the body, and is axially moveable along the central axis, between an insertion position and a locking position. When in the insertion position, the locking pin is disengaged from the detent to allow the detent to bend about the hinge. When disposed in the locking position, the locking pin is engaged with the detent to prevent the detent from bending about the hinge. The post and/or the locking pin include a tactile feature to provide tactile feedback when the locking pin is moved between the insertion position and the locking position.

Abstract: A steering column for a motor vehicle may include a holding element that is securable on a chassis of the motor vehicle, an adjustment element that is adjustable relative to the holding element and is configured to receive a steering shaft, and a locking device for locking the adjustment element relative to the holding element. The locking device may include a clamping lever that is movable between a locking position where the adjustment element is locked with respect to the holding element and an open position where the adjustment element is adjustable with respect to the holding element. The steering column may further include a retaining element that provides a form-fitting connection between the holding element and the adjustment element in the locking position of the clamping lever. The retaining element may include a slotted guide contour, which in the locking position of the clamping lever, is supported on a contact section of the clamping lever.

Abstract: Disclosed are vehicle steering column assemblies with viscous dampers, methods for making and for using such assemblies, and motor vehicles with steering column assemblies having viscous dampers. A steering column assembly is disclosed that includes a first shaft member that connects to a steering wheel/handle, and a second shaft member that connects to a vehicle body. These shaft members are telescopingly connected such that one shaft member selectively translates longitudinally with respect to the other shaft member. A viscous damper assembly is interposed between the two shaft members. The viscous damper assembly includes a damper housing with first and second reservoir volumes disposed inside the housing. Multiple constricted flow channels fluidly connect the reservoir volumes.

Abstract: A steering assistance actuator for a vehicle includes a actuator shaft, a torque sensor, a motor, a drive mechanism and a drive housing. The actuator shaft is rotatable about a first axis. The actuator shaft includes an integral torque sensor. The motor has an output shaft rotatable about a second axis. The second axis is substantially parallel to the first axis. The drive mechanism is disposed between and drivingly connects the motor and the steering column. The drive mechanism provides a speed reduction from the motor to the actuator shaft. The drive housing encloses the torque sensor and the drive mechanism and is separate from a steering gear. The drive housing also has a mounting feature to which a housing of the motor is fixed. The drive housing also has a first bearing and a second bearing rotatably supporting the actuator shaft in the drive housing.

Abstract: A method for operating a ratchet assembly. The method includes, when a ratchet lock mechanism is in a first locked position, causing a drive mechanism to rotate by operating a steer cylinder in a selected direction until a first predetermined value, which may be associated with an amount of rotation of the drive mechanism, is reached. The method includes unlocking the ratchet lock mechanism, and resetting the steer cylinder by operating the steer cylinder in an opposite direction until a second predetermined value is reached. The method includes locking the ratchet lock mechanism in a second locked position, and, upon locking the ratchet lock mechanism in the second locked position, causing the drive mechanism to further rotate by operating the steer cylinder in the selected direction until a third predetermined value is reached, wherein the third predetermined value is associated with a selected amount of rotation of the drive mechanism.

Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus includes an input shaft, an output shaft, a torsion bar coaxially coupling the input and output shafts to each other, and a torque detection sleeve. One of the input and output shafts includes a cylindrical portion. On the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion, a female stopper is provided. The other of the input and output shafts includes a male stopper to be engaged with the female stopper, and a torque detection concave-convex section adjacent to the male stopper in the axial direction. The male stopper includes a plurality of male grooves. The torque detection concave-convex section includes a plurality of detection grooves. The torque detection sleeve is arranged radially outside the torque detection concave-convex section. The diameter of a groove bottom circle of the male stopper is smaller than the diameter of a groove bottom circle of the torque detection concave-convex section.

Abstract: An electric power assisted steering system comprising an input shaft and an output shaft, an electric motor connected to the output shaft, at least two sensors including one or more of: a position sensor, a torque sensor, and a motor position, and a motor controller that causes the motor to apply an assistance torque as a function of the torque measured by the torque sensor, in which each of the sensors produces at least one output signal represented by a stream of digital samples captured at discrete times, and in which the apparatus further comprises: processing means arranged to process together the output signals from both processing units to produce at least one further signal.

Abstract: A backup assist system for a vehicle and trailer combination includes a steering system and a first sensor detecting a first dynamic condition of the combination. The system further includes a controller receiving a value for the first dynamic condition from the first sensor at a plurality of instances. The controller further solves for a corresponding plurality of parameters in a kinematic model of the combination and controls the steering system using the plurality of parameters in the kinematic model.

Abstract: A vehicle traveling control apparatus includes a setting unit and a adjusting unit. The setting unit sets a set position of a preceding vehicle ahead of an own vehicle in a vehicle width direction as a control target point of follow-up traveling allowing for traveling while following the preceding vehicle. The control amount adjusting unit adjusts, on a basis of a first control adjustment value that is based on shape data of the preceding vehicle, a control amount that controls the own vehicle to the control target point.

Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the toe and camber of a wheel including a spindle, a spindle sleeve, the spindle disposed inside the spindle sleeve, a spindle sleeve bolt, disposed through the spindle through hole and the spindle sleeve through hole, an alignment cam, including an eccentric cam through hole, a cam bolt head, a spindle cup, the eccentric cam through hole offset from an alignment cam constant center of the alignment cam, and a spindle bolt, securely connecting the alignment cam to the spindle. The alignment cam is connected to a first end of the spindle, with the alignment cam and the spindle disposed inside the spindle sleeve.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an assembly for a motor vehicle with an auxiliary frame to connect to a wheel suspension, whereby the auxiliary frame may be constructed in a shell construction having an upper shell and a lower shell. The shells may enclose an internal shell space and be rigidly connected to each other. The assembly may also comprise a shock-absorbing structure. The shock-absorbing structure can be fully or partially integrated in the internal shell space of the auxiliary frame in the form of an insert and immovably positioned within it.

Abstract: A module bracket device for a suspension system, which is used to mount a shock absorber at a vehicle body side may include a bush cup having an insulator bush mounted therein, a steel bracket disposed at an upper portion of the bush cup with a gap therebetween, and a module bracket injection molded at a lower portion of the steel bracket while surrounding the bush cup.

Abstract: In one example, a tailgate assembly is provided that includes a front panel and a top panel adjacent to the front panel. A top cover is disposed on the upper panel and extends along the tailgate. A cover on the tailgate defines a T-shaped track that extends along the tailgate. The T-shaped track is configured to slidably receive a fastening element, and includes opposing lips spaced above a bottom track surface. The lips are configured to retain the fastening element.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hatch actuation unit of a motor vehicle for a drive based opening and closing of a hatch leaf comprising a hatch drive arrangement for moving the hatch leaf in an opening sequence from a closed hatch position into an open hatch position and in a closing sequence from an open hatch position into a closed hatch position, a first closing element for engaging a second closing element for closing of the hatch leaf in a cinching subsequence of the closing sequence, wherein the first closing element is driven by the hatch drive arrangement in the cinching subsequence of the closing sequence.

Abstract: A self-adjusting, self-damping air spring having a first air spring disposed between a cab and a frame of a vehicle and a second air spring in fluid communication with the first air spring. The second air spring positioned relative to the first to provide an opposition force in response to a change in height of the first air spring. This change in height corresponds to a change in displacement between the cab and the frame. The opposition force provided by the second air spring acting to dampen the changes in displacement.

Abstract: A work vehicle includes a body. The vehicle includes a panel configured to cover a portion of the body of the vehicle. The vehicle includes an operator station configured to be stowed within the body of the vehicle to enable the panel to cover the operator station while the vehicle is at least partially autonomously controlled. The operator station is configured to be deployed at least partially external to the body of the vehicle to enable an operator to control the vehicle.

Abstract: An active bed cover system having at least one deployable panel and at least one actuator. The deployable panel extends and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract within the tailgate and/or cargo bed liner allowing for access to the bed and improved usability and aesthetics. The active bed cover provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.

Abstract: A device for exerting torque on an object includes: at least one rotating mass rotatably supported about an axis of rotation; a drive for driving the rotating mass; a bearing which enables a change in the alignment of the axis of rotation relative to the object; and a coupling unit which engages on the bearing and couples the rotating mass to the object.

Abstract: A three point connection dolly for connecting an articulating tractor to a plow includes a dolly having a three point plow hitch configured to connect to a plow. The dolly also includes a chassis frame with a tractor hitch extension configured to extend the three point plow hitch a distance from the articulating tractor sufficient to allow rear wheels of the articulating tractor to fully turn.

Abstract: A portable towing system for a motorcycle or similar vehicle, such as a trike, the frame of which can be lowered to ground level to facilitate loading of the motorcycle or similar vehicle by pushing or riding the vehicle onto the frame without risk of the vehicle falling off the sides of a steeply inclined ramp. The towing system may be assembled, raised, lowered, and disassembled by a single person, if desired. The towing system also comprises a cargo box to store the frame when disassembled. The raising and lowering of the frame is effected by a lifting and lowering mechanism connected with the wheel assemblies, and at least three heights of the frame are achieved by rotation of the lifting and lowering mechanism of the wheel assemblies. The cargo box and the frame can use the wheel assemblies interchangeably.

Abstract: A semi-generic steering knuckle adapter assembly provides predetermined attachment locations for installing a wheel-replacing track system on a steering knuckle. The adapter assembly comprises one or more customized adapting members (e.g. frame(s), plate(s)) configured to be mounted to the steering knuckle of a vehicle, and a generic supporting member (e.g. frame, plate) configured to be mounted to the adapting member(s) and comprising the predetermined attachment locations where the support frame of the track system can be releasably yet rigidly secured. By providing predetermined and preconfigured attachment locations where the wheel-replacing track system can be secured, the adapter assembly allows the track system to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient and/or weak locations.

Abstract: A suspension assembly is provided for use with a vehicle having a chassis enclosing a drive system for rotatably driving a closed-loop track. The suspension assembly includes at least one elongated ground contact engaged with the closed-loop track, and an elongated swing arm angularly disposed in the closed-loop track. The swing arm extends between a front end portion adapted to be coupled to the chassis, and a rear end portion coupled to the at least one ground contact. A mounting arrangement is coupled to the swing arm for permitting at least rotation of the swing arm about a pivot axis extending longitudinally of the at least one ground contact wherein the mounting arrangement includes a wire rope mount.

Abstract: The present invention provides track assemblies and a method that allow bringing the contact patch towards the inside (the outside) of the suspension arm, by providing a asymmetric track assembly, either by lowering at least one inside (outside) support wheel relative to the remaining support wheels, or by using a belt that comprises, transversally, at least one first profile on the outer (inner) side thereof lower than a second profile on an inner side thereof.

Abstract: A headliner assembly apparatus includes an input delivery device attempting to deliver an input related to a predetermined headliner to a controller that is in communication with the input delivery device. An indexing assembly is in communication with the controller, wherein the indexing assembly positions at least one headliner detail in an installation position in response to the input related to the predetermined headliner. A headliner support is adapted to position the predetermined headliner, wherein the predetermined headliner is placed on the indexing assembly, and wherein the headliner is placed to engage the at least one headliner detail in the installation position. A detail installing assembly couples the at least one headliner detail in the installation position to the predetermined headliner.

Abstract: A bicycle seat cushion lifting and adjusting device is disposed on an outer side of a piston rod inside a hydraulic cylinder and sheathed with an elastic member. The elastic member is compressed by an oil inside the cylinder into a compress status in a room temperature environment. In a low temperature environment, the volume of the oil is decreased, and the elastic member resumes its original status to fill up the space of the cylinder caused by the decreased volume of the oil, to maintain a stable oil pressure inside the cylinder. When the seat cushion lifting and adjusting device is used in a low temperature or room temperature environment, the height of the seat cushion can be adjusted successfully to maintain a stable use of the bicycle seat cushion lifting and adjusting device.

Abstract: In a saddle bag lock device for a saddle-ride type vehicle, in which a bag base body forming a saddle bag together with a lid is provided with multiple catch mechanisms switchable between a locked state where the catch mechanisms are engaged with multiple strikers provided on the lid and an unlocked state where the catch mechanisms are disengaged from the strikers. A switching operation member is manually-operable to synchronously switch the catch mechanisms from the locked state to the unlocked state. The saddle bag is formed to have a mountain-shaped bulging portion in an upper portion, the bulging portion bulging upwardly in a side view, and the switching operation member and the multiple catch mechanisms disposed in base portions of the bulging portion are connected to one another by cables corresponding individually to the catch mechanisms.

Abstract: A straddle-type vehicle comprises a front wheel and a rear wheel, an engine disposed between the front wheel and the rear wheel, an air cleaner box disposed above the engine, and a vehicle body behavior sensor provided on a periphery of the air cleaner box and located above a bottom wall surface of the air cleaner box.

Abstract: A rotatable stem assembly for a bicycle is provided. The assembly includes: a tubular sleeve configured to fit over a steerer tube of the bicycle, an outer surface of the sleeve having a plurality of first splines and first channels; and a stem including a first bore for receiving the sleeve, the first bore having an inner surface with a plurality of second splines and second channels configured for mating engagement with the plurality of first splines and first channels; wherein the first and second splines and channels are matingly engageable in a riding configuration and in a storage configuration, wherein in the riding configuration the stem relative to the sleeve is rotationally perpendicular with the stem relative to the sleeve in the storage configuration.

Abstract: A bicycle operating device includes a bicycle component positioning unit that basically includes a positioning structure and a maintaining member. The positioning structure is configured to be movable in a first direction and a second direction that is opposite the first direction. The maintaining member is configured to move between a first position that maintains the positioning structure in one of a plurality of predetermined positions and a second position that releases the positioning structure to move to another one of the predetermined positions. The maintaining member contacts the positioning structure. The positioning structure and the maintaining member are configured such that the maintaining member applies a rotating force on the positioning structure in the first direction as the maintaining member moves from the second position to the first position.

Abstract: An operating device for a bicycle that includes a fixing member that is adapted to be fixed to a bicycle handlebar and includes an adjustment portion, and a housing that includes first, second and third members. The first member and the second member define an adjustment space therebetween and the third member fixes the first member and the second member to each other without passing through the adjustment portion. The adjustment portion of the fixing member is at least partially received in the adjustment space such that the adjustment portion is adjustable relative to the housing in at least a first adjustment direction.

Abstract: A bottom bracket having a shaft having a longitudinal axis (X), first and second adapters radially outside of the shaft and associated with respective ends of a bottom bracket housing. Rolling bearings are radially interposed between the shaft and the first adapters with axial locking members axially outside the rolling bearings and in axial abutment on the first and second slewing bearings. A protective screen, positioned between a selected adapter and a radially outer surface of the associated axial locking members in the axial direction and at least partially outside of the first adapter, is fixedly connected to the selected adapter and comprising a sealing member arranged in sliding contact on the radially outer surface of the associated axial locking members.

Abstract: A bicycle driving device: a first socket coupled to a frame; a first crankshaft rotatably coupled to the inside of the first socket; a first left crank arm coupled to the left side of the first crankshaft; a first right crank arm coupled to the right side of the first crankshaft; a second socket coupled to the frame at a location spaced from the first socket; a second crankshaft rotatably coupled to the inside of the second socket; a second left crank arm coupled to the left side of the second crankshaft; a second right crank arm coupled to the right side of the second crankshaft; a left pedal arm pivotally coupled to an end portion of the first left crank arm and to an end portion of the second left crank arm, the left pedal arm having a left pedal coupling portion positioned on an end thereof to be closer to the front than the end portion of the first left crank arm; a left pedal rotatably coupled to the left pedal coupling portion; a right pedal arm pivotally coupled to an end portion of the first right cr

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle pedal equipped with a center-of-gravity changing means. The bicycle pedal is coupled to a crank arm of a bicycle. The bicycle pedal includes: a pedal unit including a rectangular pedal body coupled to one surface of the crank arm, and a rotation cavity formed through the top and bottom surfaces of the inside of the pedal body; and a center-of-gravity changing means provided above the pedal unit, and configured such that a center of gravity is moved forward or backward. The center-of-gravity changing means includes: a rod-shaped rotation changing shaft fitted into the inside surface of the rotation cavity; a rotation changing bent portion formed to protrude in the center of the rotation changing shaft; a plate-shaped rotation changing connection member fitted over the outside surface of the rotation changing bent portion; and a plate-shaped changing foot support provided above the rotation changing connection member.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to improved friction drive systems, control algorithms for friction drive systems, and automatic traction control for friction drive systems. Embodiments of friction drive systems and methods may improve control over an amount of normal force between a contact surface on a friction drive (e.g., disposed on a drive motor) and a tire or wheel of a wheeled vehicle. Embodiments of friction drive systems and methods may dynamically adjust the normal force between the contact surface and the tire or wheel in response to rapidly changing conditions, such as weather, road surface, and/or tire inflation. Embodiments of an automatic traction control system may adjust the normal force to avoid slippage while minimizing tire wear and maximizing battery efficiency. Embodiments of friction drive systems and methods may allow a user to calibrate or adjust the amount of normal force delivered based on their preferences or based on a selected mode of operation.

Abstract: A bicycle derailleur includes movable member, chain guide member and resistance applying member. The movable member is connected to linkage assembly. The chain guide member is pivoted to the movable member. The resistance applying member is connected between the movable member and the chain guide member. The resistance applying member includes pivot base, first engagement member and second engagement member. The pivot base includes pivot part and pressing part. The pressing part extends radially outwardly from the pivot part. The first engagement member is pivoted to the pivot part and pressed by the pressing part. The second engagement member is engageable with the first engagement member so that the first engagement member is only rotatable with respect to the second engagement member in a rotatable direction.

Abstract: A bicycle driving system includes a crank assembly and a multiple rear sprocket assembly. The crank assembly includes a front sprocket including a rotational center axis and a crank arm. The front sprocket is movable relative to the crank arm in an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis. The multiple rear sprocket assembly includes eleven or more rear sprockets.

Abstract: A bicycle component operating device has a base member, an operating member, a positioning ratchet member, a pulling pawl, a positioning pawl, a release member and a releasing pawl. The positioning ratchet member is rotatably mounted to the base member. The pulling pawl rotates the positioning ratchet member in a first rotational direction in response to a pulling operation of the operating member. The positioning pawl prevents rotation of the positioning ratchet member in the second rotational direction while the positioning pawl is in a holding position. The positioning pawl releases the positioning ratchet member for rotation in the second rotational direction while the positioning pawl is in a releasing position. The releasing pawl moves the release member in response to a releasing operation of the operating member. The release member moves the positioning pawl from the holding position to the releasing position in response to the releasing operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connector, such as a subsea connector (100), for connecting a line or lines such as mooring lines (140), to a subsea structure (145), such as a submerged turret loading or a submerged turret production buoy. The invention also relates to associated apparatus, structures and methods. The subsea connector (100) comprises a first portion (105) and a second portion (110) and means (115) for connecting the first (105) and second portions (110). The means (115) for connecting comprise at least part of a through-passage (120) in the second portion (110). The first portion may comprise means (125) for connection to one or more lines (140), such as mooring lines, allowing rotational movement around or about a transverse axis of the first portion (105) with respect to the line (140).

Abstract: An unmanned seismic vessel system can include a hull system configured to provide buoyancy and a storage apparatus configured for storing one or more seismic nodes, each seismic node having at least one seismic sensor configured to acquire seismic data. A deployment system can be configured for deploying the seismic nodes from the storage apparatus to the water column, where the seismic data are responsive to a seismic wavefield, with a controller configured to operate the deployment system so that the seismic nodes are automatically deployed in a seismic array.

Abstract: An under deck mid cabin entry system for a mono hull boat including an entry console disposed to the side of a center console and providing access to steps extending beneath the main deck. A top step is within the entry console proximate to the front surface and the steps curve towards a central beam of the boat and descend into the mid cabin such that a bottom step proximate to a floor of the mid cabin directs a user into a central area of the mid cabin and terminates to avoid obstructing movement in the central area. The bottom step further defines a landing platform for users of the boat.