Abstract: A steering system for a boat, comprising a steering unit, at least one push-pull control cable and a pinion-rack unit.The above pinion-rack unit has a rack casing, a rack slidably inserted into the rack casing, a cable guide for outwardly guiding an inner cable of the push-pull control cable; the inner cable being inserted into an inner cable path formed in a surface of the rack, a small guide groove being formed in the inner cable path and a small projection piece slidably inserted into the small guide groove and is formed on the front bottom portion of the cable guide, whereby the inner cable can be very smoothly operated and the space for arranging the push-pull control cable can be saved.

Abstract: A hydrofoil craft strut (365) steerable when the craft (5) is foil-borne and retractable when the strut (365) is not in use. In a preferred embodiment, the strut (365) is provided with a spherical bearing (185) disposed at the intersection of a steering axis (S--S) and a retraction axis (R--R). The bearing (185) allows a steering assembly (200) to steer the strut (365) about the steering axis (S--S). A downlock assembly (390) constrains the strut (365) in a vertical portion during the strut steering mode and releases the strut (365) during the retraction mode. During the retraction mode, a retraction assembly (385) rotates the strut (365) about the retraction axis (R--R) from its vertical position to a position within a recess (40) within the craft (5) in which it is fixed by an uplock assembly (715).

Abstract: A steering system for a marine drive having a propulsion unit pivotally mounted on the transom of a watercraft and a tiller. The steering system includes a steering vane rotatably mounted on the propulsion unit for generating hydrodynamic forces to pivot or assist in pivoting the propulsion unit and to counteract propeller torque. A mount interposed between the propulsion unit and the tiller mounts the tiller for movement relative to the propulsion unit. A cable connects the tiller to the steering vane so that movement of the tiller with respect to the propulsion unit rotates the vane. The mount includes mutually engageable elements that can lock the tiller against movement relative to the propulsion unit so that the tiller may be used to directly steer the propulsion unit, if desired. For this purpose, the elements of the mount may be engaged by applying a downward pressure on the tiller.

Abstract: A boat steering mechanism for permitting a remotely mounted rudder control by means of a push-pull control cable, comprising a rack engaging with a pinion and being formed with a groove for inserting an inner cable, a projection projecting from the center or its vicinity of a rack casing into which the rack is slidably inserted, an inclined hole for slidably inserting the inner cable, perforated through the projection into the groove and a fitting member for fastening one end of the inner cable, to the rack at one end of the groove, whereby the push-pull control cable can be provided with a large curvature and the sliding resistance of the whole mechanism can be decreased.

Abstract: The linear motion power assist mechanism includes a stationary member, a friction drum rotatably supported on the stationary member, an output member mounted for linear, reciprocative movement relative to the stationary member, an input member mounted for linear, reciprocative movement relative to the stationary member and relative to the output member, a first flexible member, such as a wire cable, loosely wound around the drum in one direction, a second flexible member loosely wound around the drum in the opposite direction, and an unidirectional motor rotating the drum. The first cable is tightened on the rotating drum and pulls the output member in a first direction in response to movement of the input member in the first direction. The second cable is tightened on the rotating drum and pulls the output member in the opposite or second direction in response to movement of the input in the second direction.

Abstract: An arrangement for steerably mounting an outboard motor on a boat in which the mounting is effected such that the steering axis of rotation of the motor is angled rearwardly so that the center of gravity of the motor lies at or forward of the axis. The outboard motor has a lower pivotal attachment point generally forward of the motor drive shaft and preferably above and/or forward of the hydraulic center of pressure on the lower motor gear case housing. The upper pivotal attachment of the outboard motor may be effected by a single pivot point generally rearward of the motor drive shaft or by the provision of a virtual pivot point to provide the desired angle for the axis of rotation. The virtual pivot point is obtained through the use of a linkage arrangement including a pair of links. The links are pivotally attached to the rear of the boat at their first ends and pivotally attached on opposite sides of the lower gear case housing at their other ends.

Abstract: A steering system (15) for a boat (16) includes a dampening apparatus (130) providing a fluid filled piston assembly (131) having a cylindrically shaped fluid containing housing (132) pivotally connected to a drive unit (18) and a piston head (137) and attached piston rod (137) pivotally connected to a vane control member (27) attached to a control vane (22). The piston head (137) provides a metering orifice (140) to control the flow of fluid between spaced fluid containing chambers (141, 142) to restrain rapid rotation of the vane (22) while within the slip stream (34) of the steerable drive (18) to control the rotative position of the steerable drive (18).

Abstract: A tiller control device is provided for controlling the position of a tiller on a watercraft and includes an attachment shaft adapted to be attached to either the tiller or the watercraft, and a variable pressure brake adapted to engage the attachment shaft and adapted to be attached to the other of the tiller or the watercraft. A handle is attached to the variable pressure brake for variably adjusting the amount of the pressure exerted on the attachment shaft, whereby the attachment shaft may remain fixed relative to the brake when unattended but may be moved relative to the brake when desired without further adjustment of the handle.

Abstract: A boat steering assembly including a pedestal steering actuator for actuating steering movement, a rudder having a steering axis, and cables for transmitting steering movement from the pedestal steering actuator to the rudder. The assembly further includes an idler plate sheave assembly for guiding the cables from the pedestal steering actuator in a substantially vertical orientation to the rudder in a substantially horizontal orientation. The idler sheave assembly is mounted on bolts by adjustable nuts for adjustingly angulating the idler sheave assembly in relation to the rudder to guide the cables leading from the idler sheave assembly in a plane perpendicular to the steering axis of the rudder.

Abstract: Device for positioning a moving body in a plane indicated by the axes OX and OY by using a magnetic field. A current i, which is the sum of a current i.sub.o at frequency f.sub.o in which f.sub.o .perspectiveto.100 Hz and a current i.sub.1 at frequency f.sub.1 in which f.sub.1 .perspectiveto.10 kHz modulated by bursts of recurring pulses having a period T.sub.o with T.sub.o =1/f.sub.o flows through a conductor. The moving body carries two pairs of magnetometers supplying the components of the magnetic field h.sub.x.sup.o, h.sub.y.sup.o and h.sub.x.sup.1, h.sub.y.sup.1 with respect to axes associated with the moving body about frequencies f.sub.o and f.sub.1. A subassembly, on the basis of the values of h.sub.x.sup.o and h.sub.y.sup.o, supplies a signal U.sub.1 of frequency 2f.sub.o. A subassembly, on the basis of the signal U.sub.1, supplies two signals S.sub.1 and S.sub.2 displaced by T.sub.o /2. Another subassembly supplies signals T on the basis of the values of h.sub.x.sup.1 and h.sub.y.sup.

Abstract: An improved rudder steering apparatus for ships is disclosed including a rudder-jam-responsive device for automatically disconnecting the tiller from the rudder shaft upon the occurrence of jamming or wedging of the rudder. A pair of cam track levers pivotally connected with a plate mounted on the rudder shaft are normally biased by an hydraulic piston-cylinder motor into engagement with a follower that is connected with the tiller. The motor is automatically operable by an overload-responsive device (such as a pressure-relief safety valve or an accumulator tank) to disconnect the levers from the follower device when the rudder is in a wedged or jammed condition.

Abstract: A steering apparatus comprising an operating unit having an operating pulley rotated by a steering wheel, a steering unit having a steering pulley rotated by two inner cables so as to steer a rudder means through a steering screw rotated by the steering pulley and a steering pipe moved by the steering screw, and substantially two pull cables having the two inner cables connecting the operating unit and the steering unit, whereby the rudder is operated by the steering wheel without the influence of waves, and further the steering apparatus can be constructed by combination of the plural operating units and the plural steering units.

Abstract: Steering apparatus for a boat includes a pair of laterally spaced rudders, each having a forwardly directed control arm. In each of three embodiments a tiller arm is employed. In one embodiment a pinion gear is journaled for rotation on the tiller arm, being in mesh with two gear racks each of which connects with a control arm. In a second embodiment, the tiller arm shifts a pair of pulleys about which is entrained a rope or cable, one control arm being clamped to a cable section at one side of the pulleys and the other control arm being clamped to the cable section of the other side of the pulleys. In the third embodiment, a pair of hydraulic cylinders have their closed ends pivotally connected to the tiller arm and their piston rods connected to the control arms. The open end of one cylinder is hydraulically coupled to the closed end of the other cylinder, and the closed end of said one cylinder is hydraulically coupled to the open end of said other cylinder.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hydraulic control unit for a marine installation comprising a helm station including a pump comprising first and second pump discharge ports, which pump is selectively and alternatively operable to deliver fluid under pressure from the first and second pump discharge ports, a plurality of steerable marine propulsion units, a plurality of corresponding hydraulic steering cylinders respectively connected to each of the propulsion units and including respective first ports which, when subject to fluid under pressure, tend to steer the propulsion units in one direction and including respective second ports which, when subject to fluid under pressure, tend to steer the propulsion units in the opposite direction, and a hydraulic tie line connecting the second port of each steering cylinder except the last steering cylinder with the first port of the following steering cylinder, which hydraulic control unit includes a hydraulic circuit adapted for communication between the first pump discharge

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an outboard motor for a boat having a hull and including a support adapted to be fixed relative to the boat hull, and a propulsion assembly including a rotatably mounted propeller and being connected to the support for pivotal steering movement about a steering axis. The outboard motor also includes a pair of elongated members, coupled together for linear extension and retraction upon rotation of one of the elongated members with respect to the other of the elongated members, an end of one of the members being connected to the propulsion assembly for causing pivotal movement of the propulsion assembly about the steering axis, an assembly for fixing the other of the elongated members against longitudinal movement, and a push pull cable assembly for selectively causing rotation of one of the elongated members with respect to the other of the elongated members.

Abstract: An apparatus for driving and controlling a watercraft or the like having at least one pair of steerable propellers, the steerable propellers of each pair being located substantially symmetrically on opposite sides of the center line of the watercraft, such center line extending through the center of lateral resistance of the watercraft. A control element is provided for carrying out control movements in two degrees of freedom. Each control movement acts for remote control of the steerable propellers through transmitters corresponding respectively to such steerable propellers. Movement of the control element in one degree of freedom effects a rotation about an axis for controlling, through the transmitters, a synchronous pivoting of the servo propellers of each pair. Movement of the control element in the second degree of freedom effects movement of a rack element for controlling, through the same transmitters, an oppositely directed pivoting of the servo propellers relative to one another.

Abstract: A compact, gearless steering control unit for open fishing boats, for example, employs a pivoting stick or rod to control steering rather than a conventional steering wheel. The unit includes a plurality of pulleys and timing belts to rotate a flexible shaft which controls a steering member. The stick is centrally disposed enabling either front seat occupant to easily move it, or at either side of the boat. By eliminating the protruding steering wheel, the front seat fisherman have additional room to manipulate their gear. The steering control stick may readily be removed to deter theft of the vessel.

Abstract: A steering system (15) for a boat (16) provides a loss motion connector (85) having a cavity (87) to rotatably retain a selectively movable input member (79). The cavity (87) includes a pair of spaced side walls (92, 93) forming stops which are rotatable in response to the movement of the input member (79). The input member (79) is connected through a pin (97) located within the cavity (87) to an inter-connecting cable (36) to rotate a pivotal vane (22) located within the slip stream (34) of a drive unit (18) to control the direction of boat movement in response to the movement of the input member (79) when spaced from the stops (92, 93) without imparting a rotative steering force to a steering arm (82).

Abstract: Sea-going lifeboats made of thin-walled, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (F-R P), with an oversupply of poured-in-place urethane foam in functionally advantageous spaces; having totally watertight or weathertight covers; with bow-pull hand-propeller replacing rowing oars. A hand driven, multi-purpose flywheel for Diesel engine starting, dynamo for lights and radio, et-cetera; with hanging steel pipe structure in the bilge supporting heavy items, which are compacted close to the keel. Outer hull doubling allows space for stowage of an automatic inflatable rubber air tube on each side of the lifeboat.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a sailing vehicle with a collapsible frame comprising two longitudinal supports, a plurality of identically constructed transverse struts detachably connected to the longitudinal supports, at least one sail mast, at least one seat, two rear moving elements, and one forward moving element, the latter being steerable via a steering suspension, and a cross arm which is detachably connected to the rear end of the longitudinal supports. The mast, the seat, the forward moving element, and the steering suspension are supported by separate ones of the transverse struts and at least the transverse strut supporting the seat is connected to the longitudinal supports for adjustment lengthwise thereof.

Abstract: A fishing boat for use with a pair of electrically powered fishing motors wherein the boat hull has double end bottom running surfaces and a bottom pod extending below the running surfaces between the bow and the stern of the hull along the center line of the hull, the pod being shaped to receive an electrical power source for the motors and having a longitudinal dimension greater than the transverse dimension of the pod and each of the dimensions being less than the corresponding dimensions of the boat hull. The boat hull has a first well molded into the bottom thereof between the bow and the adjacent end of the pod along the center line of the hull and the boat hull has a second well molded into the bottom thereof between the stern and the other end of the pod along the center line of the hull. The boat also includes a removably mounted electrically powered fishing motor in each of the first and second wells in the bottom of the boat hull.

Abstract: A ship steering system includes a pump assembly for controlling hydraulicy actuated rudders, a first actuation unit for translating a helm steering command signal into a mechanical control signal for the pump assembly, and a second actuation unit for translating a combined helm steering command signal and ship roll reduction command signal into a mechanical control signal for the pump assembly. The second actuation unit includes an electrically activated mechanical actuator that translates the electrical helm and roll reduction command signal into a mechanical impulse that controls the operation of the pump assembly. The mechanical actuator includes a switch apparatus for switching the rudder control function from the first actuation unit to the second actuation unit when the switch apparatus and second actuation unit are activated.

Abstract: A self contained electro-mechanical arrangement for use in autopilot for yachts for securement to a steering wheel pedestal column is disclosed. The arrangement comprises a magnetic directional indicator, sensing apparatus associated with the magnetic directional indicator for determining movement thereof, and electrical drive controlled by the sensing apparatus. The electrical drive includes an electric motor, and a transmission, with the electric motor being bi-directional to allow rotation of the output shaft of the transmission in either direction. A mechanical drive is associated with the transmission for engaging the steering wheel shaft of such yacht wherein the motor and the directional indicator are separated to reduce any effect of the motor on the movement of the magnetic directional indicator.

Abstract: A wheel steering apparatus for a boat. A pedestal housing is mounted onto a cockpit sole or other support member. The housing supports a shaft and sprocket that are rotated by a wheel. A sheave is mounted onto the rudder post that extends from the rudder. A chain and cable linkage couples the sprocket and the sheave to pivot the sheave as the wheel rotates the sprocket. The pedestal housing encloses the entire assembly. The apparatus is particularly suited to convert boats steered by a tiller normally attached to the rudder post to wheel steering.

Abstract: A ship stabilization system, which utilizes the rudders to compensate for nd and wave induced roll motions, includes a hydraulically actuated mechanism for controlling the position of the rudders; a pump coupled to the hydraulic mechanism for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid; and a flow control device connected to the pump for controlling the flow rate of fluid through the pump. The ship stabilization system also includes a first actuation device for translating helm steering command signals into control impulses for the flow control device and a second actuation device for translating helm steering command signals and roll reduction control signals into control impulses for the flow control device. A coupler is connected to the first and second actuation devices and the flow control device for disengaging the first actuation device from the flow control device when the second actuation device is activated.

Abstract: A support arm is pivotally supported on the side of a boat for movement from a horizontal to an alternate stowed side position, this arm in its horizontal position extending transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the boat across the steering device which may comprise a tiller or wheel in the close proximity thereto. Supported on the arm for movement along the longitudinal axis thereof is a coupler member having drive cable connected thereto, the drive cable being wound about suitable blocks so as to enable positioning of the coupler along the axis of the support arm in response to movement of the cable. The coupler member has a plurality of apertures spaced longitudinally therealong which enables the selective connection of the coupler member at any one of its apertures to a mating attachment member on the tiller. Thus, the coupler is driven laterally in either direction in response to movement of the cable, thereby actuating the steering control accordingly.

Abstract: An improved steering system includes a guide tube (29) fixed to the end of the outer casing of a steering cable (27). A link rod (32) connects between the steering arm (19) and the inner core (30) of the steering cable. A guide means (33) is fixed with respect to the transom support means to guide the linear movement of the inner core (30). A limiting means (49) limits the range of movement of the inner core (30) and a restoring means (49) moves the steerable drive unit (13) from the extreme range of the range of movement of the ram (31).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an outboard motor comprising a propulsion unit including a rotatably mounted propeller, structure adapted to be fixedly connected to a boat transom and connected to the propulsion unit for mounting of the propulsion unit for pivotal movement about an axis which is horizontal when the mounting structure is boat mounted, a trim tab mounted on the propulsion unit for pivotal movement about an axis transverse to the horizontal axis, and a linkage for displacing the trim tab about the transverse axis in response to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis.

Abstract: Position indicating device for constantly visually indicating angular disposition of the rudder of a marine vessel. The device employs a first ball screw cylinder which converts the linear motion from a second ball screw cylinder into rotary motion, which rotary motion is transmitted by a rotatable flexible shaft to the needle pointer of the device. Linear motion of the second ball screw cylinder is generated when the vessel's steering wheel is turned which rotates another flexible shaft connected to the second ball screw cylinder. Linear motion of the second ball screw cylinder controls the position of the rudder simultaneously with conversion of said linear motion into rotary motion by the first ball screw cylinder.

Abstract: A reversing mechanism for steerable propellers on ships wherein the direction of travel of the ship is controlled by the position of the steerable propeller. A selector switch is provided for controlling the direction of travel as well as directions forward and rearward such that when the direction of travel is to be reversed, the steerable propeller will be sequentially disengaged from the propeller driving mechanism and automatically pivoted through 180.degree. to effect a reverse operation without altering the position of the steering control. In other words, the position of the steerable propeller will be altered without altering the position of the steering control when the direction of travel of the ship is to be reversed.

Abstract: A marine vessel is provided with substantially identical steering mechanisms at a main deck dashboard and flying bridge, for example. The vessel may be steered from either location by flexible shafting interconnecting the two steering mechanisms. No gears of servomechanisms are required in the entire steering system, although a modification of the invention discloses a conventional T-coupling device employing bevel gears therein for coupling the outputs of each steering mechanism to a common output which controls the rudder. Structure is disclosed for disengaging that steering wheel not actually steering.

Abstract: An improved boat steering apparatus for an outboard or inboard-outboard type boat wherein a propeller assembly is turned about a vertical axis to steer the boat, comprising a slide tube having a horizontal opening, the slide tube being attached to the propeller assembly for applying steering force to the assembly and having a slot therein; a link arm having one end thereof slidably received in the opening in the slide tube, the other end being attached to a boat steering device, such as a steering wheel, whereby the arm is displaced axially in a horizontal plane for steering the boat; a fin supported about a vertical shaft in the propeller slip stream; a horizontal disc affixed to the fin shaft upper end; a pin affixed to the link arm and extending through the slot in the slide tube; and first and second cables, each having one end affixed to the pin and extending in opposed horizontal planes perpendicular to the pin, the other ends of the cable being attached opposite each other on the peripheral surface of

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting and permitting swivel movement through 360.degree. of an engine driven aerodynamic propeller type of propulsion and steering unit such as used on aquatic craft. The engine and propeller are mounted on a pedestal which in turn is mounted to swivel about an axis substantially normal to the boat deck. The engine throttle cable is connected to an unique universal coupling which permits axially reciprocal movement of the throttle cable, and thereby control of the engine, independent of either the position of the engine or the extent of the rotational movement of the propulsion unit relative to the platform on which it is mounted. The propeller is connected to the engine by a centrifugal clutch to permit the engine to be started and idled without operating as a propulsion device.

Abstract: A watercraft has two pontoons interconnected by framework which supports a propelling unit adjacent its bow end. The unit includes a paddle wheel between the two pontoons with exposed pedals to be engaged by the feet of a seated occupant. A rudder is attached to the stern end of the framework to an intermediate portion of which a seating unit is attached adjacent which the rudder control is located. An outboard motor may be attached to the rear end of the framework and the seating unit, constructed to enable the watercraft to accommodate two persons seated back-to-back, is adjustable lengthwise of the framework.

Abstract: A steering mechanism for a boat comprises a support and a steering shaft which is rotatably mounted in the support and connected with a rudder operating device. A hand steering wheel is secured to one end of the steering shaft and a rotary power actuator is connected with the opposite end of the steering shaft through a self-locking reduction gear and a clutch. The clutch comprises a splined torque-transmitting member which is movable between an engaged and a disengaged position by a knob mounted on the steering wheel end of the steering shaft.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rudder for aquatic craft wherein the rudder member is provided with a fin which is pivotable independently thereof and with a rotor on the front edge of the rudder member and/or between the latter and the fin or between the rudder member and a guide member mounted in front of said rudder member.

Abstract: An elongated bar is provided and a mounting bracket is mounted on the bar for guided movement therealong. A reversible electric motor driven capstan is journaled from the mounting bracket, an elongated flexible tension member extends between and is anchored relative to the opposite end portion of the bar and an intermediate portion of the tension member is looped about the capstan. First and second connection structure is carried by the bracket and one end of the bar for releasable universal connection with a first stationary mounting location on a boat and a second steering control mounting location on a lightweight trolling motor oscillatably supported from the boat.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an inboard-outboard driving mechanism for a boat having a hull, the driving mechanism including a support adapted to be fixed relative to the boat hull, an engine mounted on of the support, a propulsion leg including a rotatably mounted propeller, and structure for connecting the propulsion leg to the support for pivotal steering movement about a steering axis. The inboard-outboard driving mechanism also includes apparatus for causing pivotal steering movement of the propulsion leg including a steering shaft rotatably journaled in the support, and gearing connecting the steering shaft and the propulsion leg for pivoting the propulsion leg in response to rotation of the steering shaft. The steering shaft is selectively rotated by a lever mounted on the engine for pivotal movement and having opposite ends, one of the ends being connected through a gear box to the steering shaft.

Abstract: A multi-hull craft steering system having a plurality of hulls made from flexible envelopes inflated to maintain buoyancy. One of the hulls is located between the remaining hulls and is pivotally mounted for controlling the angular variation in azimuth. The hull is located ahead of the remaining hulls to permit rotation without interference. The hulls have a variable track wherein the distance between the outer hulls may be selected and locked. The craft is provided with a means for angularly rotating the outer hulls with respect to the longitudinal axis of the craft to permit first working position and a second stowed position.

Abstract: A marine steering arrangement which includes a hydraulic steering machine, variable discharge type pump units for actuating the hydraulic steering machine and power units for remotely manipulating the pump units. The power units are provided respectively in at least two channels which includes a spare channel. Additionally, a mechanical control for mechanically coupling the pump units to the power units to control the pump units and mechanically receive a feedback of an amount of steering done by the steering machine is provided in the at least two channels which include a spare channel. Further, there are hydraulic coupling/decoupling devices interposed in control force transmission systems in the mechanical control, each of which can be switched between a first state for transmitting a control force and a second state for not transmitting a control force.

Abstract: A bidirectional steering mechanism is disclosed for a vehicle such as a motor boat wherein a manually steerable wheel is connected through the steering mechanism to steer an outboard motor; however, wave action or torque reaction from the motor cannot act in an opposite direction through the steering mechanism to the wheel. This provides a non-kickback steering control mechanism. The steering mechanism has first, second and third elongated members, the first connected to the steering wheel, the second connected to the outboard motor, and the third restrained against longitudinal movement. Wedge means and lock means act between the second and third members as urged by spring means with trip surfaces movable with the first member to relatively unlock the second and third members after a first lost motion distance and then actuator means acts after a greater second lost motion distance to move the second member from the first member.

Abstract: The hiking stick is made up of first and second telescoping members which may be set in a desired telescoped position to define an overall length. One end of the stick is coupled to the end of the rudder tiller and the other end of the stick terminates in a handle. The use of the stick is simply to facilitate steering of the sailboat, particularly in situations of "coming about" where maintaining a proper hold of the rudder tiller can become awkward in the absence of the stick. The handle of the stick is designed to define an engaging structure for cooperation with a clip arranged to be secured to the tiller. By this arrangement, the handle can be received in the clip to hold the stick in generally parallel overlying position with the tiller and thus in an out-of-the-way location for convenient storage when not in use.

Abstract: A remote control steering attachment for a steering wheel wherein a driving motor is releasably attached to the steering wheel by means of a cross member adjustably bolted to the steering wheel. A clutch is interposed between the driving motor and the steering wheel so that the steering wheel can be operated when the unit is declutched and the driving motor is not being used. A remote control is used for controlling the driving motor and thus turning the steering wheel from a location distant from the steering wheel.

Abstract: Steering mechanism utilizes a pair of serially connected pulley-belt systems having a stepped-up output which causes a flexible shaft to rotate in the remote steering of a marine vessel. Upon fracture of a belt and/or when travelling at high speeds, the safeguard mechanism permits a rapid changeover to a direct drive steering capability such that steering shaft rotation is transmitted directly to the output shaft which rotates the flexible shaft.

Abstract: A quick release locking device to hold a tiller arm of a sailing boat is disclosed. The device allows a helmsman to engage or disengage the locking mechanism almost instantaneously with one hand, and also allows the tiller arm to be locked in any position. The device comprises two rope attachment anchors, one at each side of the boat, positioned an equi-distance from the rudder axis, rope locking device located on the underside of the tiller arm which includes two opposing cam detents to positively grip the rope, flexible rope tautly strung between the two attachment anchors passing through the rope locking device, quick release control lever located on the tiller arm and a connection between the control lever and the rope locking device such that depression of the control lever releases the rope from the locking device allowing the tiller arm to rotate as desired, and release of the control lever grips the rope in the locking device preventing the tiller arm from rotating.

Abstract: A self steerer for use in sailing vessels is described. The device comprises a balance reel and associated control lines. The steerer balance reel is mounted on the tiller and uses both sail and rudder corrections simultaneously to keep the boat on a preselected course.

Abstract: A hydrofoil sailboat having a sailing frame that is secured by swivel connection to a conventional hull, the frame comprising a plurality of prestressed interconnected spars, guys and a sail, a pair of buoyant hydrofoils, one at each of the leeward extremities of the frame, and a single manually operable tiller situated at the hull for governing the direction of movement by articulating the hydrofoils in accordance with the point of sailing and the direction of the wind. The tiller is operatively associated with the hydrofoils through pairs of spreaders and multiple cables. The sail is inclined to the vertical axis, and is tightly stretched to define an air foil spaced laterally away from the hull. The crank adjusts the inclination of sail and the hydrofoils cancel out listing moments. The sail frame exerts a towing force on the hull.

Abstract: A tiller-crossbar connector for catamaran rudder control includes a central bolt member passing through a spherical nylon member at one end and through a hemispherical nylon member at the opposite end with a spring member disposed between the two nylon members. Each nylon member is positioned within the bolt-retaining recess of a corresponding standard end cap and the spherical curvatures of these nylon members conform to the hemispherical curvature of the standard bolt-retaining recess. With the spring member disposed between these two end caps, the entire connector and end cap assembly is able to be tightly clamped together by means of a nut threadedly received on one end of the central bolt member.

Abstract: A safety steering system to control torque rotation for boats having directable propeller outboard motors capable of pivoting about a vertical axis. An arm extending from the motor is connected to a flexible cable having two ends, a first end connected to a steering device and a second end connected to the arm. An actuator control valve interposed along the flexible cable is capable of locking the arm in a single position when no force from the cable is being exerted on the arm. The control valve has a valve body with a central bore therethrough and a first external port and a second external port in fluid communication with the central bore. A hydraulic piston-cylinder is connected between the end of the motor arm and a tab in the motor well. The hydraulic cylinder has a first chamber of confined liquid and a second chamber of confined liquid.

Abstract: A steering assembly or system for vehicles such as a car comprises a speed increasing gear for the turning movement of the car steering wheel located under the steering wheel, at least one flexible shaft having the inner end connected to the speed increasing gear mechanism, and a transmission mechanism connected between the outer end of the flexible shaft and the steered road wheels of the car for transforming and transmitting the turning or rotary movement to a swinging movement of the steered road wheels. In one embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes a speed reduction gear mechanism at the terminal output end of the flexible shaft.