Abstract: A tiller system for steering a marine propulsion device. The tiller system includes a tiller arm rotatably coupled to the marine propulsion device. The tiller arm is rotatable from a down position to an up position through a plurality of lock positions therebetween. A toothed member is coupled to one of the tiller arm and the marine propulsion device. The toothed member defines a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of lock positions for the tiller arm. A pawl is coupled to another of the tiller arm and the marine propulsion device, where the pawl engages with the plurality of teeth to prevent the tiller arm from rotating downwardly through the plurality of lock positions.

Abstract: An actuator for imparting steering movement to a tiller of a propulsion unit of a marine vessel comprises an absolute position sensor which senses a steering position and a relative position sensor which senses a position of the motor. A steering control unit calibrates the relative position sensor based on a signal of the absolute position sensor. Calibration of the relative position sensor based on a signal of the absolute position sensor initializes an accumulative position which accumulates a relative position as the actuator moves over time.

Abstract: A steering system for a watercraft has steering position sensors sensing a steering position of first and second outboard motors, hydraulic steering actuators for steering the outboard motors, a hydraulic helm selectively supplying hydraulic fluid to the steering actuators, at least one valve for reversing a direction of flow of hydraulic fluid into the steering actuators, and a steering controller. The steering controller executes a realignment process including: receiving signals indicative of the steering positions of the outboard motors from the steering position sensors; based at least in part on the signals, determining if the outboard motors are misaligned; and, if the outboard motors are misaligned, actuating the at least one valve to direct the flow of hydraulic fluid into a corresponding steering actuator in a direction opposite to that corresponding to an active steering direction set by the hydraulic helm so as to reduce misalignment of the outboard motors.

Abstract: A security device for preventing theft of an instrument may include a primary cord having a first looped end and a second looped end; a secondary cord connected to the primary cord proximate to the first looped end and the second looped end; and an internal support cable attached to a central portion of both the primary cord and the secondary cord. The first looped end and the second looped end may be designed to be locked together to secure the security device around the instrument.

Abstract: A cable lock assembly for securing an object to a securing structure. The cable lock assembly includes a flexible cable extending from a first end segment to a second end segment. A connecting portion of a collar is connected to the first end segment of the cable, and a flexible portion of the collar extends away from the connecting segment to a distal end. A lock is fixed to the collar. The flexible portion of the collar is movable relative to the flexible cable from an open position to a closed position to open and close the collar. The lock can lock the collar in the closed position around an object.

Abstract: The present anchor device provides a support for holding a security anchor within a hole, such as a grommet hole, formed through a work surface, such as a table top, a shelf, or other board or sheet. The security anchor has a loop for attaching a lock or receiving a cable lock wrapped about the loop and a cross member to prevent the withdrawal of the security anchor from the grommet hole. The anchor device has a cross member with a dipped portion that supports the loop of the security anchor. The present support device prevents the security anchor from falling down through the hole, while holding the loop of the security anchor just within the hole and within easy grasp of the user.

Abstract: An improved tiller restraining device is provided for attachment to the underside of a boat's tiller to selectively control the position of the tiller and rudder. The device features a specialized mechanical clutch that grips or releases a control rope, which runs through the clutch and is secured across the cockpit. The device is operated with one hand by moving an integrated clutch lever upward to release the rope and allow free tiller movement, or downward to engage the rope and restrict tiller movement. Inside the device, a spring acts on the lever to pinch and bind the rope against the openings where the rope passes through the clutch housing. The spring and lever are aligned so they toggle, enabling the clutch to remain either engaged or disengaged with no additional controls.

Abstract: A hydraulic lock of a tiller-based watercraft steering system is responsive to tiller release to lock a watercraft's steered element in the last commanded position upon tiller release. The hydraulic lock can be controlled through an actuator assembly that is provided between a tiller arm and the watercraft's steered element. One or more cables connect the actuator assembly to other components of the hydraulic lock. A thermal compensator regulates pressure within the hydraulic lock by accommodating changes in temperature related characteristics of the fluid within the hydraulic lock Increases in fluid pressure due to thermal expansion can be mitigated within the thermal compensator by automatically or manually directing a volume of fluid from the hydraulic lock, through a compensating valve assembly, and into a reservoir. Decreases in fluid pressure can be mitigated by directing fluid from the reservoir back into the hydraulic lock.

Abstract: A locking device for a watersports apparatus which in one embodiment, comprises a pair of interlocking brackets which form an inverted “T” when slidably disposed in a channel associated with a fin box. Apertures are provided to allow a cable or other security device to traverse the inverted “T” locking device for securing the watersports apparatus. In a second embodiment, a pair of generally planar scissor members having a pair of unguiform clasping elements aligned in opposition and configured to clasp a rod disposed in a tether plug aperture by scissor action. Useful watersport tools may be provided on the distal ends of the generally planar scissor members. The useful tools include a screwdriver, a wax comb, a bottle cap opener and a wax scrapper.

Abstract: A tiller-based watercraft steering system is responsive to tiller release to lock a watercraft's steered element in the last commanded position upon tiller release. The system is locked by closing a valve assembly to prevent flow to opposed chamber of a hydraulic lock coupled to the steered element. The tiller preferably comprises an actuator portion which is movable relative to the remainder of the tiller. The actuator portion may, for example, be a grip on an articulating outer end portion of a tiller arm. The valve assembly may be connected to the hydraulic lock to form a combined module. It may be actuated by a mechanical link such as one or more cables leading from the actuator portion of the tiller to the valve assembly. The system may be used as either a manual or a power-assisted steering system.

Abstract: A steering system for a marine vessel is provided with a connecting link attached to first and second marine propulsion devices. The connecting link is selectively disposable in first and second states of operation which either require synchronous rotation of the first and second marine propulsion devices or, alternatively, independent rotation of the two marine propulsion devices. This allows both marine propulsion devices to be operated by a single actuator or, alternatively, independent maneuvering of the two marine propulsion devices during certain types of docking procedures.

Abstract: An outboard motor has a tiller lock which retains the rotational orientation of the outboard motor relative to a watercraft. The tiller lock allows the motor to be pivoted about a substantially horizontal tilt and trim axis while the tiller lock is engaged. The tiller lock includes a friction track advantageously arranged rearward of the tilt and trim axis. The positioning of the friction track protects the it from damage due to inadvertent contact with other components of the outboard motor mounting assembly. In particular, the friction track is protected throughout a full range of motion of the outboard motor. In addition, a pair of opposing brake members are alternately engageable with the friction track to secure the motor in a desired orientation. A bi-directional actuator handle urges either of the brake members into the friction plate independent of the other brake member to create a locking drag force which accompanies a substantially normal compressive force.

Abstract: An outboard motor has a steering lock which retains the rotational orientation of the outboard motor relative to a watercraft. The steering lock allows the motor to be pivoted about a substantially horizontal tilt and trim axis while the steering lock is engaged. The steering lock includes a friction plate which is advantageously straight. The friction plate is connected to the steering arm, and movement of either the steering arm or the friction plate requires movement of the other. At least one friction lock engages with the friction plate to secure the motor in a desired orientation. The friction lock is rigidly affixed to the outboard motor. The friction lock includes one or more disc pads. Movement of an operation lever urges the disc pads against the friction plate hold the friction plate and consequently, the steering arm, in a predetermined position.

Abstract: First and second latch mechanisms are provided that allow a boat operator to prevent the moveable and stationary portions of an outboard from moving relative to each other. This device can be used during shipping, transportation, or use of an outboard motor in conjunction with a sailboat in which the rudder of the sailboat is used for steering, and it is desirable to maintain the moveable and stationary portions of an outboard motor rigidly with respect to each other. A first latch mechanism is attached to the moveable portion of the outboard motor, and a second latch mechanism is attached to the stationary portion of an outboard motor. The second latch mechanism is rotatable to place a receptacle into a region where a locking device can retain it.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for stabilizing an outboard motor during transport in two embodiments. A first preferred embodiment includes a rigid block which is pivotally mounted from a bracket so as to be adjacent to a yoke which connects between the push rod end of a steering cable and a link to the outboard motor. The block has a hole in a position to enable engagement of an extended bolt on the yoke and can be pivoted to cause such engagement. In the engaged position, a wing nut is tightened to hold the block in position over the bolt, thus preventing movement of the outboard motor.In the second embodiment, a split block is provided of a material possessing a highly frictional surface. The split block has a hole with a split to an outer surface and is permanently mounted with a push rod of the steering cable extending through the hole.

Abstract: A steering device for an outboard motor that retains the motor under constant, although adjustable, pressure to releasably hold it in a plurality of secured positions. Moreover, the releasable restraining device permits rotation of the motor about the tilt and trim axis while the retaining device is in any of a plurality of retained positions.

Abstract: A rudder control system for a boat rudder comprises a rudder control line extending from the tiller to guide spools displaced from the center line of the hull. The ends of the control line are joined by a resilient section which may take the form of a coil spring or resilient cord. Stop means affixed to the control line and the boat hull resiliently return the rudder to the center position. Adjustment of the tension in the cord provides for resistance to turning movement of the rudder.

Abstract: An emergency bulk liquid handling system for tankvessels suffering damage which incapacitates their primary liquid cargo system wherein valving in the normal cargo loading drop lines, deck headers and tank walls combined with means to prime the deck headers and drop lines provides a backup cargo offloading path which bypasses the damaged system and allows movement/offloading of liquid cargo despite the otherwise incapacitating damage.

Abstract: A kinetic integral steering system is provided for a sailboat of the type having a hull, a cockpit with a pair of side cockpit seats located at the stern, a cabin, a mast, a boom, a rudder with post and a pivotable tiller to control the rudder. The system consists of a pair of crossbars, a mechanism for securing the crossbars between the cockpit seats in a horizontal parallel relationship and a wheel concentrically pivoted between the center of the crossbars. The wheel has a cutout area to receive the tiller to normally keep the tiller in a straight stationary position to allow the sailboat to travel in a straight line through the water. The tiller can be adjustably positioned thereto to compensate for wind and course corrections.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for use with surfboards and other articles which attaches to a cross bar on the article. The locking apparatus includes a member which surrounds the cross bar and a means for locking and unlocking the member to the cross bar thereby preventing unauthorized persons from removing the member from the cross bar. Used with a conventional surfboard, the lock apparatus advantageously attaches to an existing leash plug cross bar, requiring no modification or retrofit to the surfboard, and attaches without removal of a leash cord which likewise typically attaches to the cross bar. Further, a cable secures to the locking apparatus and is looped around or affixes to a generally stationary structure, such as an automobile surfboard roof rack, bicycle rack, post, etc., in order that the article cannot be moved without first unlocking the member.

Abstract: A one piece locking device for securing kayaks and similarly shaped objects to stationary objects and automobile-mounted cartop carriers. The apparatus consists of a single plastic coated cable with a larger fixed loop at one end and two smaller fixed loops near and at the other end. The larger fixed loop is placed around one end of a kayak and the remaining cable passed under the crossbars of a cartop carrier and then around the opposite end of the kayak. By securing the two smaller fixed loops together with a lock, a loop is formed around this opposite end of the kayak. This newly formed loop and the larger fixed loop have approximately the same circumference, which is larger than the ends of the kayak but smaller than the cross-sectional circumference of the cockpit area of the kayak.

Abstract: An apparatus for continuous adjustment of the direction of the rudder position of an outboard motor powered boat while trolling and permitting the fisherman's hands to be free as the boat follows the desired course. A tubular sleeve (24) slides over a rod (18) which is pivotally attached to a mounting bracket (10) affixed to the side of the boat. The sleeve (24) includes a pin (26) for engaging a hole (48) in a pilot bracket (38) attached to the outboard motor (40) or the tiller (52) of the boat, and a rotatable mechanism (34) to lock the sleeve to the rod. Sliding the sleeve (24) along the rod (18) changes the rudder position of the boat, the position being fixed when the sleeve (24) is locked to the rod (18). Manual operation is restored by lifting the rod (18) to disengage the pin (26) from the pilot bracket (38).

Abstract: An adapter alarm for boats for theft prevention. A multiple number of spaced brackets attached to the gunnels of the boat, and an automotive alarm plunger switch actuator is secured in each bracket and wired to a key operated alarm unit that is battery operated. Engaged with each plunger switch actuator is a split-edged clamp that is force-fitted to the shaft of the plunger and which is secured by a cord to a hook attached to the boat covering canvas. The circuit is wired to the plungers in the brackets and when the canvas is disturbed the clamps release the plungers which close the circuit to the alarm unit aboard the boat.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a kayak or similar shaped elongated object. The apparatus includes a pair of hoops each having a diameter large enough to slip over an end of the kayak but not large enough to slip over the entire body thereof. A cable is secured at one end to each of the hoops, the combined length of the cables being shorter than the length of the kayak. A padlock secures the other end of each cable together. A third cable in one embodiment is looped about one of the hoops and a stationary body and has its ends locked together, and in another embodiment one end of the third cable is secured to one of the hoops and locked by the same padlock to the free ends of the first mentioned cables.

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 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: An accessory for use on vessels, particularly sail boats, to maintain the tiller selectively in different positions. This accessory, or tiller minder, has an elongated portion connected at one end by a turnbuckle. The other end of the turnbuckle is articulated to a gunwale of the boat and the other end of the elongated portion is adjustably connected to the tiller.

Abstract: A combined tiller extension, holding and controlling device for watercraft embodying an elongated tubular member removably attached at opposing ends to a vessel coaming and tiller, and including spring loaded telescoping and detent retained sections whereby the tiller is extensibly operable and is retained on a predetermined course, but permitting of limited lateral deviations therefrom. In addition, manual rotational control of the tubular sections enables finer course rudder adjustment within such a course.

Abstract: A two-part hinge device for mounting on a tiller of a sailboat which is operable to confine and release a cross-line in a manner to lock a tiller in any desired position while the sailor is otherwise occupied.