Abstract: A marine outboard engine including an engine unit; a drive unit operatively connected to the engine unit; an engine unit housing for supporting and covering the engine unit, the engine unit housing having a top surface; and one or more bumpers connected to the engine unit housing. The bumper projects above the top surface of the engine unit housing; or rearward of an upper rear end of the engine unit housing; or both above the top surface of the engine unit housing and rearward of an upper rear end of the engine unit housing. When the marine outboard engine is located under a boat hatch is in a closed position and the marine outboard engine is pivoted in at least one portion of a tilt range, the bumper is adapted for abutting a bottom surface of the hatch.

Abstract: A three stage watercraft for operation in the water as a traditional boat at low speeds in stage one, for operation on the water's surface at mid-range speeds at stage two, and for traveling in ground effect at higher range speeds is disclosed. The three stage craft includes a hydro-wing 12, either at least a single hydrofoil 13 or gyration rotor 14 to aid with lift from stage one to stage two, and a pair of outboard floats or hydro-floats 16a, 16b supported by the hydro-wing 12, which are also designed to aid with lift from stage one to stage two.

Abstract: A steering apparatus comprises a rotatable steering shaft and a sensor which senses angular movement of the steering shaft. An electromagnetic actuator actuates a stop mechanism to releasable engage the steering shaft. There is a microcontroller which causes the electromagnetic actuator to actuate the stop mechanism to fully engage the steering shaft and prevent rotation of the steering shaft in a first rotational direction, which corresponds to movement towards the hardstop position, while allowing rotational play between the steering shaft and the stop mechanism in a second direction, which corresponds to rotational movement away from the hardstop position, when the sensor senses that the steering shaft has reached a hardstop position. A driver applies a reserve polarity pulse to the electromagnetic actuator when the stop mechanism is fully engaged and the steering shaft is rotated, as permitted by the rotational play, in the second rotational direction.

Abstract: A boat is provided with a steering arrangement comprising a main steering system and control-surface subsystem. The control-surface subsystem comprises a control-surface assembly attached to the stern of the boat and comprising a trim tab pivotally connected to the stern of the boat, and a skeg rotatably mounted by the trim tab. The control-surface assembly further comprises a trim-tab operating arrangement for pivoting the trim tab, and a skeg operating arrangement. The main steering system and the skeg operating arrangement can be selectively set to operate independently of each other, or in coordination with each other, in steering the boat.

Abstract: In a power steering apparatus for a small vessel, an electrically driven assist device (26) and a helm pump (27) formed of a swash plate type axial piston pump are arranged in parallel on a common base (28). The electrically driven assist device (26) and the helm pump 27 are connected through a transmission system (34) under the common base 28 and integrated into a steering oil pressure generating unit (6) functioning as the power steering apparatus. The electrically driven assist device (26) is carried on an instrument panel (3). The parallel arrangement of the electrically driven assist device (26) and the helm pump (27) allows the steering oil pressure generating device (6) to be reduced in vertical length, so that it is possible to shorten the distance between the instrument panel (3) and a bottom (2) of the vessel and to lower positions of a handle and an operator's seat, thereby realizing the low center of gravity.

Abstract: A steering actuator (1) designed as a linear electro-mechanical actuator for a ship control system which comprises an electric motor (2), a controller (11) connected, via a CAN bus, to the electronic control unit of the ship control system (ECU) and an angle sensor (12) actively connected to the controller (11) for determining the angular position of the rudder (13). The electric motor (2) is designed as a vector-controlled brushless motor.

Abstract: A control handle for a vessel, the control handle having a handle bar, two handles, at least one throttle control arranged in connection with one or both handles, and an additional control. A vessel having a control handle for a vessel with a handle bar, two handles, at least one throttle control arranged in connection with one or both handles, and an additional control. The throttle control can be a twist grip. The additional control can be for adjustment of one or several of: shifting between forward or backward propulsion of the vessel, force distribution between motors provided on the vessel, adjustment of an angular position of trimming tabs of the vessel, adjustment of a banking angle of a propeller drive provided in the vessel, and adjustment of a position of a reversing scoop of a water jet.

Abstract: A control handle for a vessel, the control handle having a handle bar, two handles, at least one throttle control arranged in connection with one or both handles, and an additional control. A vessel having a control handle for a vessel with a handle bar, two handles, at least one throttle control arranged in connection with one or both handles, and an additional control. The throttle control can be a twist grip. The additional control can be for adjustment of one or several of: shifting between forward or backward propulsion of the vessel, force distribution between motors provided on the vessel, adjustment of an angular position of trimming tabs of the vessel, adjustment of a banking angle of a propeller drive provided in the vessel, and adjustment of a position of a reversing scoop of a water jet.

Abstract: A rudder control system having adjustable rudder drive turn off and “turn on,” and component wear monitoring. The rudder drive “turn off” being adjusted in accordance with the rudder stop position relative to the rudder order stop position, thereby improving position accuracy. Frequency of system “turn on” is compared to an acceptable “turn on” frequency for solenoid operation. Should the “turn on” frequency exceed the acceptable “turn on” frequency, the rudder angle at which “turn on” is implemented is adjusted to protect solenoids in the system from burnout. The rate of change of the rudder repeatback signal is monitored. A slow rate of change providing an indication of some component problem.

Abstract: In an outboard motor control system, equipped with two outboard motors and actuators for steering, changing shift position and regulating engine speed, two navigation units responsive to operations of the operator for producing outputs indicative of actuator operation commands, two ECUs that control the operation of the actuators based on the outputs from the navigation units, an output forwarding ECU which forwards the outputs of one of the navigation units to the ECUs, and two switchover buttons for changing the outputs to be forwarded. Therefore, only the set of outputs for the one navigation unit selected by the operator is sent to the ECUs. In other words, in the case where multiple navigation units are provided, use of the navigation units is limited to a desired one thereof, so that the outboard motors can be stably controlled even when the control inputs to the individual navigation units are different.

Abstract: An outboard motor control system can have a first PTT switch and a second PTT switch in a first steering station and in a second steering station respectively, and a third PTT switch in a location outside of a boat hull. Operation instruction given by each PTT switch can be input to a first microcomputer of a first ECU. The first microcomputer can determine if the inputted operation instruction is to be sent to the outboard motor, based on which PTT switch the operation instruction came from, whether the main switch is ON or OFF, and which steering station has precedence in boat control.

Abstract: A steering apparatus for a marine craft or other vehicle having a communication bus and a plurality of helm apparatuses. Each of the helm apparatuses includes a steering device. Additionally, each of the helm apparatuses is connected to the communication bus. Each of the helm apparatuses provides helm signals indicative of incremental and decremental movement, of the steering device thereof. The helm signals are transmitted over the communication bus. The steering apparatus further includes a rudder which has an actuator and a control means for receiving each of the helm signals and which provides rudder signals to the actuator to steer the rudder in accordance with movement of the steering devices of the helm apparatuses. The control means is connected to the communication bus. Each of the rudder signals are derived from each of the helm signals from one of the helm apparatuses which is steered fastest when a plurality of the helm apparatuses is simultaneously steered.

Abstract: An auxiliary steering device for a trolling motor employing a steering block attached to the directional shaft of the trolling motor that is connected via a continuous cable to a pivoting stick positioned on the gunwale of a boat. The stick, working in combination with the directional shaft, provides remote steering of an outboard trolling motor. Remote steering enables the operator to be seated in a central location within the boat and to observe the condition of the water immediately in front of the bow. Such a remote steering arrangement also facilitates fishing and casting in all directions.

Abstract: A trolling motor extension handle bracket for attaching any sufficiently rigid member having a substantially circular cross-section to the handle or shaft of a trolling motor. The bracket has a pivot end and a handle receiving end. The pivot end is pivotally connected to a clamping assembly clamped to the trolling motor. The receiving end has a first semicircular channel formed therein, the channel being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bracket. A second semicircular channel is also formed therein perpendicular to the first channel. Either channel is capable of receiving the tubular member which will serve as the trolling motor extension handle. Structures such as broom handles, dowel rods, pipes, and conduit may be utilized as the trolling motor extension handle.

Abstract: The present invention provides a practical solution to the problem of failure of a pedal operated steering control for a fishing boat trolling motor. The emergency controller has a pair of links inner ends of which mount on the trolling motor support assembly and outer ends of which are secured to a rod. The rod is generally situated at its lower end parallel to a motor mount conduit which supports the electric drive motor and has a handle at its upper end for steering. When mounted on the trolling motor assembly, the emergency controller of the invention provides a simple steering means and may be so mounted while the fishing boat is in the water.

Abstract: Device which is independent of the main propulsion system of a ship, and which can be used selectively as a passive rudder or as an active maneuvering mechanism, and consists of one or more blades, a wheel body, a transmission and one or more control units.When the wheel body is stationary, in response to commands from the control unit or units, the blades can be oriented separately by means of the transmission and can be coupled or uncoupled to set the required angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the ship. In that case, the device acts as a passive rudder.When the wheel body is rotating, the position of the eccentrically located blade or blades is varied during a rotation of the wheel body so that a resulting thrust is generated on account of the hydrodynamic forces which act on the blade or blades. The direction of the thrust can be set in any desired direction by means of the control unit or control units and the sun wheel or the sun wheels of the transmission.

Abstract: A steering and speed control mechanism is disclosed for a hand-controlled trolling motor. The mechanism includes a yoke assembly having a first section attached to the trolling motor and a second section hingedly attached to the first section. There is a control arm extension, which includes an axially rotatable shaft that carries a handle. A tubular receptacle operably engages the control arm of the trolling motor. A universal joint pivotably interconnects the receptacle and the shaft. A tubular sleeve interconnects the shaft to the second section of the yoke assembly such that the shaft is pivotable and axially rotatable relative to the second section of the yoke assembly. The trolling motor control arm is operated through the control arm extension to control steering and speed of the trolling motor.

Abstract: A steering wheel bracket used to permit the pilot of a marine vessel, such as a sailboat, to steer the vessel from a location remote from the steering wheel. The invention permits the operator to move about the vessel for a better view during such activities as tacking or jibing. It also permits the operator to select between steering methods, i.e. the vessel can be steered via the regular method or it can be a tiller handled vessel. The bracket consists of a first larger block and a second smaller block clamped together around the spoke of and against the inside curvature of the steering wheel. This second smaller block is sized to fit within a notch in the first larger block. One end of a tiller extension removably fits within an opening in the larger block and by using such extension, the operator at the other end of the tiller extension is able to steer the vessel from a remote location.

Abstract: A remote control tiller arm is provided for controlling the operation of an outboard motor. An inverted U-shaped steering boom is attached to the outboard motor and extends over-the motor boat operator. The steering boom includes a throttle mechanism for remotely controlling the speed of the outboard motor. By using the steering boom, the motor board operator can steer the boat from a forward looking position.

Abstract: A unique wind propelled craft including a body, a deck which forms the upper surface of the body, a sail for propelling the body by wind forces, a rudder for maneuvering the craft, and a rudder control assembly for controlling and adjusting the position of the rudder. The rudder control assembly includes a steering assembly and a pair of rotating steering members operably connected to the rudder for turning the rudder upon rotation of the steering members. Each of the steering members is adapted to releasibly engage the steering assembly at two separate locations along the deck. The steering assembly includes an elongated multi-function rudder control arm. The control arm includes at its distal end a grip for engagement with a user's hand and at its proximate end a universal joint assembly. The universal joint assembly allows a user to manipulate the control arm throughout an entire hemisphere of positions without effectuating any corresponding movement of the steering members or the rudder.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an emergency tiller mechanism for an outboard motor movable about a steering axis by a tiller steering arm attached thereto. The emergency tiller mechanism comprises a durable, flexible flat pad having backing of non-slip material, which firmly cushions a plate to a side or a top surface of the motor housing, and a compressible rubbery top. The plate and pad are secured to the motor housing by a pair of strong, durable non-slip straps tightened around the motor and plate. A hollow support socket is secured to the outer surface of the plate into which the tiller steering arm is secured. The tiller arm extends horizontally within the cockpit of the boat.

Abstract: A wheel drive for a boat steering wheel comprises a front drivable ring for clamping to the spokes of the wheel, and a driving part including an autopilot-controlled motor supported on a rear ring that is itself supported on the front ring by a series of circumferential rollers engaging a grooved path around the front ring. A torque reaction engagement between the rear ring and an adjacent object prevents rotation of the driving part so that the motor can drive the front ring and the wheel in rotation by means of a drive belt. The engagement does not carry the weight of the driving part, which forms a self-contained unit with the drivable part.

Abstract: A marine propulsion device comprising a mounting bracket adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat, a propulsion unt mounted on the mounting bracket for pivotal movement relative thereto about a generally vertical steering axis, the propulsion unit including a pivotally mounted propeller and an engine drivingly connected to the propeller by a transmission, and a shift handle assembly including an inner member mounted on the propulsion unit for movement relative thereto, the inner member being connected to the transmission for actuation of the transmission in response to movement of the inner member, an outer member movable between spaced first and second positions relative to the inner member, and a bolt for securing the outer member in the first position so as to cause movement of the inner member in response to movement of the outer member, and for selectively permitting movement of the outer member to the second position.

Abstract: A kit includes apparatus for converting a normally remote controlled trolling motor such that the motor can be directly hand operated. The kit includes a gear mechanism which attaches to and cooperates with a directional control shaft associated with the trolling motor. An elongate transfer shaft is pivotably attachable near a lower end thereof to the trolling motor control shaft and has an outwardly extending handle near an upper end thereof for use by an operator. The transfer shaft cooperates with the gearing mechanism to rotate the directional control shaft of the trolling motor by movement of the handle by an operator. The kit may be quickly and easily retrofitted to a trolling motor after failure of remote control for the trolling motor without a fisherman having to disassemble the trolling motor or to come to shore and remove the trolling motor from the boat to effect repairs.

Abstract: A marine propulsion device comprising a propulsion unit adapted to be pivotally mounted on the transom of a boat for pivotal movement relative to the transom about a generally vertical steering axis, the propulsion unit including a rotatably mounted propeller, and a powerhead drivingly connected to the propeller, a steering handle connected to the propulsion unit and extending generally horizontally therefrom for causing pivotal steering movement of the propulsion unit in response to lateral movement of the steering handle, and an extension handle assembly removably attached to the steering handle and including an extension handle, a coupling device including a plurality of fingers spaced around the steering handle and having respective inner ends pivotally connected to the extension handle, and respective outer ends biased outwardly from the steering handle, and a cylindrical sleeve surrounding the coupling device and being slideable around the fingers longitudinally thereof for moving the outer ends inwardl

Abstract: A sailboat steering assembly is provided which has a hiking stick that assumes fixed positions in use, but smoothly responds to any changes induced by manual manipulation of the helmsman. Typical swinging and flopping of the unattended hiking stick are eliminated.

Abstract: The invention provides, for conventional electric trolling motors, a steering arm which allows positive and convenient steering from positions spaced a substantial distance from the motor, can be adjusted to allow steering by one who is standing in the boat being powered by the trolling motor, and is foldable to a stowed position while still mounted on the trolling motor.

Abstract: A hand control for a foot control of a trolling motor on a boat is provided being of a construction so that an operator can turn the trolling motor switch ON and OFF and steer the boat by hand instead of by foot.

Abstract: An apparatus for aiding in the steerage of boats has one or more fins connected to each side of the aft part of the boat, such that the fins are entirely above the water until the boat is so heeled as to have moderate helm, and after that the fin(s) on the heeled-down side become progressively more immersed as the boat heels further. The spanwise axes of the fins are about vertically disposed when the boat is upright. The cordwise axes of the fins slope inward toward the longitudinal axis of the boat. The fore-aft sectional shape of the fins may be asymmetrical to improve the lift/drag characteristics. One fin on either side may be attached spanwise to a shaft mounted in a shaft housing extending obliquely through the hull and deck; the shafts may be fixed at several angles, or actively adjusted to counter variations in the magnitude of weather-helm and lee-helm experienced by the boat.

Abstract: A supplementary steering assembly designed to be used in combination with an outboard motor when the primary steering assembly such as a cable and steering wheel system or an outboard motor hydraulic-type steering system become incapacitated. A mounting link fixedly attachable to a tiller arm of the outboard motor is configured for movable attachment to a steering arm extending outwardly from the motor and inwardly in an accessible position to one positioned within the boat and having sufficient length to provide enough leverage to overcome the accompanying torque present during the operation of relatively high powered outboard motors.

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 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: 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 auxiliary steering control for a remote control electric trolling motor in which a coupling is attached to a second pinion of a rack and pinion steering mechanism for an outboard motor, the coupling having a socket for attaching an auxiliary control rod so that upon failure of the foot pedal control cable the control handle is inserted into the socket and the boat can be manually steered until the day's fishing is completed.

Abstract: A system is provided for controlling a motor and rudder of a power boat selectively from either of two remote stations, each of which includes means for producing linear input signals for motor shift and throttle control and for steering control. The system includes a steering input selector mechanism which is capable of transmitting the linear input signal for steering control from one of the stations to the rudder while isolating the signal from the other station. A motor input selector mechanism is capable of transmitting the linear input signals for motor shift and throttle control from one of the stations to the motor while isolating the signals from the other station. The steering and motor input selector mechanism may be actuated to facilitate the selection of one of the stations whenever corresponding linear input signals from the two stations are substantially equal.