Watercraft Alarm Or Indicating Systems Patents (Class 340/984)
  • Patent number: 11926396
    Abstract: An advisory system of a vessel that monitors variables of a vessel system inclusive of systems and subsystems that are used to operate the vessel. The advisory system may use machine-learning to learn from an operator (i) whether or not two variables are related to one another, and (ii) likelihood that a variable will reach a threshold, and, optionally, time until reaching the threshold. The system may receive operator feedback (i) to indicate whether the two variables are related to one another, and (ii) whether a behavior of the variable is normal or not normal. Thereafter, if a determination that the same two variables are related to one another and behaving in a similar manner, provide notification to the operator of the behavior. In response to determining that the variable is behaving (e.g., trending) in a similar manner that is not normal, providing a notification to the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Marine Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Tor Eirik Oestrem, Kjell Erik Larsen
  • Patent number: 11904996
    Abstract: A method for controlling propulsion of a marine vessel powered by a marine propulsion system including a plurality of propulsion devices includes operating at least one proximity sensor to determine a relative position of the marine vessel with respect to an object, the at least one proximity sensor having a field of view (FOV), identifying a trigger condition for expanding the FOV of the at least one proximity sensor, and determining whether the object will be sufficiently captured based on recent vessel angle data of the marine vessel. Upon determining that the object will not be sufficiently captured, thrust and/or steering position of at least one of the plurality of propulsion devices is controlled to expand the FOV of the at least one proximity sensor by inducing a roll movement or a pitch movement of the marine vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew Eric Derginer, Aaron J. Ward, Travis C. Malouf
  • Patent number: 11908032
    Abstract: A method for planning collaborative search-and-rescue missions using a plurality of search-and-rescue equipment in medium to far sea areas, includes: step 1: performing environmental modeling for maritime search-and-rescue missions; step 2: performing modeling for search-and-rescue modes using a plurality of search-and-rescue equipment; step 3: defining a maritime collaborative search-and-rescue mission planning model; based on the maritime collaborative search-and-rescue mission planning model, generating an overall matrix RP for the search-and-rescue mission planning using a plurality of search and rescue equipment; step 4: selecting target parameters, and defining a target function ƒ(RP) of the maritime collaborative search-and-rescue mission; based on an overall matrix RP of the maritime search-and-rescue mission environment model, the search-and-rescue mode model using a plurality of search-and-rescue equipment, and the overall matrix RP of the search-and-rescue mission planning using a plurality of sear
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Beihang University
    Inventors: Hu Liu, Xin Li, Yongliang Tian, Siliang Liu
  • Patent number: 11899052
    Abstract: A vehicle LED lighting outage detection circuit is disclosed for detecting a fault in the LED light and automatically increasing the power drawn from the light power supply in response to the fault. A complementary detection circuit is also disclosed for detecting the increased power draw and signaling a fault to an operator. The increased power draw can be selected to be in the form of a pulse that settles to a lower power draw state after a time to avoid excessive and wasteful power draw. The system can be mounted in a vehicle and, more particularly, to a semi-tractor truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Grote Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy W. Brooks, Eric Thorstensen, Christopher Busse
  • Patent number: 11787515
    Abstract: The disclosure includes embodiments of systems, methods, and a kit to monitor remotely operational conditions of a pump engine and a pump mounted on a marine barge during offloading operation of barge petroleum product contents. According to an embodiment, a marine barge monitoring system may include a housing connected to the marine barge in a position to monitor the pump engine and the pump and having an electronic assembly positioned in the housing. The marine barge monitoring system also may include one or more sensors communicatively connected to the relay control module via the input/output module; a status monitoring and communication device communicatively connected to the relay control module; a warning indicator connected to the electronic assembly; and one or more remotely positioned monitoring servers having a memory positioned remote from the marine barge and in communication with the status monitoring and communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: MARATHON PETROLEUM COMPANY LP
    Inventors: Travis McCall, Brian McClure, Travis Vollmar
  • Patent number: 11748326
    Abstract: A dataflow control apparatus has a causal network storage unit that stores a causal network representing a causal relationship between a plurality of indices that include at least a plurality of device indices which are respectively data obtained in a plurality of devices and an objective index which is an index that an application controls or predicts, a device index selection unit that selects, based on the causal network, at least one device index having a causal relationship with the objective index of the application, from among the plurality of device indices, in a case where a data request is received from the application, and a dataflow control unit that controls the dataflow, such that data obtained in the device corresponding to the selected device index is provided to the application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Omron Corporation
    Inventor: Atsushi Hisano
  • Patent number: 11741823
    Abstract: Systems and processes for initiating a rescue, using peer-to-peer distress alert systems, are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: PELAGIC DATA SYSTEMS, INC
    Inventor: David Belu Solomon
  • Patent number: 11686839
    Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods for a continuous-wave (CW) radar system for detecting, geolocating, identifying, discriminating between, and mapping ferrous and non-ferrous metals in brackish and saltwater environments. The radar system (e.g., the CW radar system) generates multiple extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic waves simultaneously and uses said waves to detect, locate, and classify objects of interest. These objects include all types of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as changing material boundary layers (e.g., soil to water, sand to mud, rock to organic materials, water to air, etc.). The radar system (e.g., the CW radar system) is operable to detect objects of interest in near real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: HG PARTNERS, LLC
    Inventors: Carlos Alberto Fonts, Carlos Ernesto Fonts, Mark Allen O'Hair, John Richard O'Hair, Richard Dolan Randall
  • Patent number: 11683756
    Abstract: A communication device that reduces power consumption is realized by appropriately setting a transmission output power value for DSC communication. A communication device (1) includes: an AIS receiving section (11) for receiving information related to an AIS; a DSC communication section (12) for performing DSC communication; and a transmission output power setting section (15c) configured to set a transmission output power value for communication performed on a conversation channel by the DSC communication section to a value corresponding to a distance, which is calculated based on the information, between the communication device and a communication target vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: Icom Incorporated
    Inventor: Yoshio Sekiyama
  • Patent number: 11662458
    Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods for a continuous-wave (CW) radar system for detecting, geolocating, identifying, discriminating between, and mapping ferrous and non-ferrous metals in brackish and saltwater environments. The CW radar system generates multiple extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic waves simultaneously and uses said waves to detect, locate, and classify objects of interest. These objects include all types of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as changing material boundary layers (e.g., soil to water, sand to mud, rock to organic materials, water to air, etc.). The CW radar system is operable to detect objects of interest in near real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: HG PARTNERS, LLC
    Inventors: Carlos Alberto Fonts, Carlos Ernesto Fonts, Mark Allen O'Hair, John Richard O'Hair, Richard Dolan Randall
  • Patent number: 11565827
    Abstract: Rotorcraft lighting equipment includes a plurality of lighting devices configured to be mounted to an exterior of a rotorcraft, wherein each of the lighting devices comprises a plurality of individually controllable lighting modules which are configured for emitting light into different spatial directions; and a lighting control device configured for individually controlling the operation of the plurality of lighting modules for generating a desired light distribution of the light emitted by the plurality of lighting modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: GOODRICH LIGHTING SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Andre Hessling- Von Heimendahl, Anil Kumar Jha, Andreas Ueberschaer
  • Patent number: 11519732
    Abstract: Cleaning of a swimming pool may be facilitated by systems and methods for mapping a pool environment. Such mapping may occur in three dimensions when appropriate. At least some of the systems may include an apparatus for light detection and ranging (LIDAR) tethered to an automatic swimming pool cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventors: Phillip Newman, Abian van der Meijden, Hendrikus Johannes van der Meijden
  • Patent number: 11512997
    Abstract: A full charge notification device of a urea water tank for a vehicle is provided. The device is configured to generate a predetermined sound when urea water is normally injected into the urea water tank before a full state, to provide a notification to a user of a full state of the urea water tank through non-generation of the sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Seung Hoon Choi, June Young Park, Jun Sik Lim, Tae Yoon Lee, Sung Won Lee
  • Patent number: 11473914
    Abstract: A navigation device is provided, which may include an acquiring module and a route creating module. The acquiring module may acquire at least a departing location, a destination location and nautical chart information to be used for creating a traveling route for a ship. When a given navigable area is divided into a first navigable area and a second navigable area based on a given condition, the route creating module may create a route being shorter in total distance and taking priority in passing the first navigable area than the second navigable area, based on the departing location, the destination location, and the nautical chart information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: FURUNO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Yamabayashi, Kenta Ogawa
  • Patent number: 11232655
    Abstract: A vehicle monitoring system, comprising: an interface configured to at least communicate with a controller area network bus; a remote data telecommunication interface; a database; at least one automated processor, configured to: extract information from the controller area network bus; store records in the database representing the extracted information; process the database to determine operating statistics; selectively communicate at least a portion of the database over the remote data telecommunication interface; and determine at least one of an operating parameter for the vehicle and a predicted net fuel cost based on at least the operating statistics and a fuel unit cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: IOCURRENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Bhaskar Bhattacharyya, Cosmo King, Samuel Friedman
  • Patent number: 11073826
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for data collection in an industrial environment having wearable haptic stimulators are disclosed. Data received from a plurality of sensors operationally coupled to a machine of an industrial environment, where the data is representative of a sensed condition, may be used to determine at least one haptic stimulation that corresponds to the received data. In response to the determined haptic stimulation, at least one signal may be sent to at least one wearable haptic stimulator, wherein the wearable haptic stimulator is responsive to the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: Strong Force IoT Portfolio 2016, LLC
    Inventors: Charles Howard Cella, Gerald William Duffy, Jr., Jeffrey P. McGuckin, Mehul Desai
  • Patent number: 10864892
    Abstract: An anti-theft apparatus for an outboard motor that can be mounted on a boat, comprising a comparison unit configured to compare a vibration of the outboard motor with a vibration of a portion of the boat other than the outboard motor, and a notification unit configured to make a predetermined notification based on a comparison result by the comparison unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takashi Hashizume, Manabu Dobashi, Tetsuya Matsuhisa, Ryota Hisada
  • Patent number: 10830868
    Abstract: A cascaded radar sensor arrangement is disclosed. The arrangement includes a first buffer and a second buffer. The first buffer is within a first radar chip and includes a switch and is configured to mitigate a first leakage signal in the disabled mode. The second buffer is within a second radar chip and has a disabled mode. The second radar chip is cascaded with the first radar chip. A control unit is coupled to the first radar chip and the second radar chip and is configured to set the disabled mode for the first buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Hao Li, Herbert Knapp
  • Patent number: 10754020
    Abstract: A radar apparatus with a transmission antenna array that outputs a high aspect ratio frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) transmission beam that illuminates a large field of regard in elevation and may be both electronically and mechanically scanned in azimuth. The weather radar apparatus includes a receive array and receive electronics that may receive the reflected return radar signals and digitally form a plurality of receive beams that may be used to determine characteristics of the area in the field of regard. The receive beams may be used to determine reflectivity of weather systems and provide a coherent weather picture. The weather radar apparatus may simultaneously process the receive signals into monopulse beams that may be used for accurate navigation as well as collision avoidance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Keone J. Holt, David C. Vacanti, Marc M. Pos
  • Patent number: 10755581
    Abstract: Communication network architectures, systems and methods for supporting and/or effectively utilizing a network of mobile and/or static nodes. As a non-limiting example, various aspects of this disclosure provide communication network architectures, systems, and methods for supporting a dynamically configurable communication network comprising a complex array of both static and moving communication nodes (e.g., the Internet of moving things, autonomous vehicle networks, etc.). For example, a communication network, or one or more nodes thereof, implemented in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure provide for efficient operation of distribution centers (e.g., ports, rail hubs, air freight hubs, etc.) that include networks of moving things. For example, in an example implementation, various aspects of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for efficiently controlling the operation of vehicles (e.g., boats, tugboats, ships, trucks, etc.) involved in port operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: VENIAM, INC.
    Inventor: Daniel Cardoso de Moura
  • Patent number: 10457358
    Abstract: When a marine engine is on, automatic daytime running lights shall be illuminated. For example, white lights situated in the bow area of the boat would increase visibility of a boat to others, for safety purposes. The same lights or lights generally in the same area, at dusk and/or at night shall manually or automatically transition to red/green navigation lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Peter Granata Design, LLC
    Inventor: Peter Granata
  • Patent number: 10325152
    Abstract: A method of extracting a warehouse in a port from a hierarchically screened remote sensing image includes the following steps: first, recognizing a texture feature of a remote sensing image and extracting edge lines of a coast of a port; then, selecting a sample of an optional irregular texture region and forming, through a CA transformation, principal component images of different hierarchies by taking a ratio of a between-class difference to an intra-class difference being maximum as an optimization condition; sequentially, extracting a correlation relationship of the warehouse in the port, and forming a feature point set with recognized warehouses to be analyzed; and last, extracting a feature of a visually sensitive image through a scene image to obtain a feedback selection of a real scene image to extract the warehouse in the port accurately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: TRANSPORT PLANNING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT
    Inventors: Yue Qi, Xiangjun Nie, Min Dong, Dachuan Wang, Lu Sun, Jia Tian, Zhuo Fang, Rui Li, Lei Mei, Jing Yang
  • Patent number: 10259545
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to lighting systems employed in outboard motors used as marine propulsion systems, and to marine vessel assemblies employing outboard motors with such lighting systems, and related methods of operation and implementation. In one example embodiment of a lighting system, the lighting system includes a first cowling panel portion including a reflective strip portion, and a second cowling panel portion that, in combination with the first cowling panel portion, at least partly defines an interior region within the cowling. The lighting system also includes a lighting source that is positioned within the interior region and positioned so that, when operating, first light is emitted toward the reflective strip portion and, upon the first light reaching the reflective strip portion, at least some of the first light is directed outward away from the cowling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: SEVEN MARINE, LLC
    Inventors: Eric A. Davis, Richard A. Davis
  • Patent number: 10186120
    Abstract: A remote monitoring system is provided including a sensor, for sensing data associated with a remotely monitored object; a transmitter coupled to the sensor, and for transmitting data of the sensor via satellite; and a notification system coupled to the transmitter, for receiving the sensor data and providing notifications to a user based upon the received sensor data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Station Innovation Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Mike Farrell, Chris Glanville, Harvey Conroy, Kelly Farrell
  • Patent number: 10179633
    Abstract: An electronic navigational system may automatically develop nautical routes, may retrieve previously-developed nautical routes, or may combine previously developed route(s) or route segment(s) with an automatically developed route or route segment(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: Navionics S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Carnevali
  • Patent number: 10134288
    Abstract: A monitoring system for monitoring an offshore construction is presented. The offshore construction to be monitored comprises mutually mechanically coupled marine assets. The monitoring system comprises a data storage unit, an intrusion detection service, an input device, and an update service. The data storage unit stores data specifying a spatial range of at least one warning zone pertaining to the offshore construction. The intrusion detection service is provided to detecting an intrusion of the spatial range and for issuing an alert message upon such detection. The input device receives position information for one or more of the marine assets. The update service updates the spatial range of the at least one warning zone based on the received position information. Additionally a monitoring method and a computer program product are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Fugro N.V.
    Inventors: Michael Joseph Blanchard, Jr., Edwin Martin Howard, John Darius Robideaux, Christopher Ray Stelly
  • Patent number: 10023277
    Abstract: A stern running light is pivotally attached to the mast of a shallow water anchor system thereby avoiding the need for a separate stern running light. The top end of the mast holds both a pivotable cluster of LED lights that emit light in a 360 degree horizontal plane and, below it, a flood light in a clear plastic housing for task lighting within the fishing boat to which the mast is attached. A power cord for the stern runs to the battery for the mast from the stern running light and flood light. The mast of the shallow water anchor is at a height suitable to meet stern running light height requirements and the use of white LEDs meets light visibility requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: T-ZER DESIGNS, LLC
    Inventor: J. Linford Oberholtzer
  • Patent number: 9950778
    Abstract: A marine vessel electronic display system includes a first display station that can include a mode selector for permitting selection of a first mode of operation and a processing system causing displays in the first display station to present information related to the selected first mode of operation. The marine vessel electronic display system may include a second display station that can include a mode selector for permitting a user to select a second mode of operation different from the first mode of operation and a processing system causing a display in the second display station to present information related to the selected second mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Garmin Switzerland GmbH
    Inventors: Darrin W. Kabel, Engelhard B. Sundoro
  • Patent number: 9910133
    Abstract: A cascaded radar sensor arrangement is disclosed. The arrangement includes a first buffer and a second buffer. The first buffer is within a first radar chip and includes a switch and is configured to mitigate a first leakage signal in the disabled mode. The second buffer is within a second radar chip and has a disabled mode. The second radar chip is cascaded with the first radar chip. A control unit is coupled to the first radar chip and the second radar chip and is configured to set the disabled mode for the first buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Hao Li, Herbert Knapp
  • Patent number: 9718530
    Abstract: A marine vessel electronic display system includes a first display station that can include a mode selector for permitting selection of a first mode of operation and a processing system causing displays in the first display station to present information related to the selected first mode of operation. The marine vessel electronic display system may include a second display station that can include a mode selector for permitting a user to select a second mode of operation different from the first mode of operation and a processing system causing a display in the second display station to present information related to the selected second mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Garmin Switzerland GmbH
    Inventors: Darrin W. Kabel, Engelhard B. Sundoro
  • Patent number: 9487277
    Abstract: A computer program for compensating for motion of a boat as it floats on water includes computer code for causing a processor to receive motion measurements of the boat floating on water relative to another element in an area surrounding the boat, and generate driving signals for driving actuators operatively associated between the boat and at least one carrier based on motion of the boat, wherein the actuators hold the at least one carrier substantially stationary relative to the element based on the driving signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Ampelmann Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Jan van der Tempel, David Julio Cerda Salzmann, Jillis Koch, Frederik Gerner, Arie Jan Gobel
  • Patent number: 9473899
    Abstract: Some demonstrative embodiments include devices, systems and/or methods of determining whether a mobile device is located in an indoor location or an outdoor location. For example, an apparatus may include a controller to control a mobile device to transmit a wireless transmission and to listen for one or more received echoes of the wireless transmission received from one or more directions. The controller may determine whether the mobile device is located in an indoor location or an outdoor location, for example, based on the received echoes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: INTEL IP CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ganesh (Gany) Venkatesan, Eldad Perahia, Thomas J. (Tom) Kenney
  • Patent number: 9315147
    Abstract: A brake light control device that generates a braking force, and is used with a brake device which can control the braking force according to a signal from a brake control unit regardless of the operation of a brake operator includes: a brake light switch that is inserted and arranged into an electrical connection path between a power supply and a brake light, and is opened and closed together with the operation of the brake operator; and a switching switch that is opened and closed in response to braking force control. The brake light control device further includes: a blinking switch that is connected in parallel to the switching switch; and a control unit that, when the brake light is required to be blinked, is configured to keep the switching switch in an OFF state, and blinks the brake light by repeatedly switching on and off the blinking switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Katsuaki Kubotera, Kotaro Chiba
  • Patent number: 9285234
    Abstract: An interactive digital map of a geographic area is provided via a user interface of a computing device. A selection of a point on the digital map is received, where the selected point corresponds to a selected location within the geographic area. In response to receiving the selection of the point and without receiving a request for directions from a user via the user interface, an indication of a length of a trip between a current location of the computing device and the selected location is automatically obtained. The indication of the length of the trip along with the interactive digital map are displayed via the user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Graf, Darren Delaye, Rita Chen
  • Patent number: 9246575
    Abstract: The method for detecting AIS messages involves providing digital data representing signals received by a satellite on at least one AIS channel, and identifying a candidate message in the digital data by correlating the digital data with a hypothetical fragmentary message, the hypothetical fragmentary message includes at least one AIS message fragment which is dependent on transmission time and/or transmitter position and which is determined with the assistance of a database of AIS transmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: CENTRE NATIONAL D'ETUDES SPATIALES
    Inventors: Antoine De Latour, Michel Faup
  • Publication number: 20150097707
    Abstract: A system for generating a non-visual notification of a machine condition includes a machine condition sensor configured to sense a machine condition. A notification generation controller is in communication with the machine condition sensor. The notification generation controller generates a notification according to the sensed machine condition. In a feedback configuration the notification generation controller compares an integral of a rate of change of the sensed machine condition with a threshold to trigger the generation of a notification. In a guidance configuration the notification generation controller uses the deviation of the machine condition from a guidance direction determined with a steering algorithm to control the generation of a notification. A non-visual notification generator is in communication with the notification generation controller and generates a non-visual notification based on the notification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Leonard Nelson, JR., David Anthony Fowler, Dale L. Gambill, Daniel R. Weber, Charles D. Parker, James Darrell McCauley
  • Patent number: 8994562
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a plurality of boats has a plurality of boat monitoring elements. Each boat monitoring element is mounted on a respective boat and is coupled to various sensors on the same boat. Further, a system controller is configured to communicate with each of the boat monitoring elements via a wireless mesh network. Data indicative of events sensed by the sensors are transmitted to the system controller via such wireless mesh network. The system controller tracks the sensed events and is configured to perform various predefined actions when certain events occur. A remote user may contact the system controller through a wide area network or otherwise to discover the status of a particular boat or to control conditions on the boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Shane Daniel, Jonathon Daniel
  • Patent number: 8968043
    Abstract: By using the intelligent ski handle capable of communicating with a tow boat, a towed user can control functions such as raising a warning flag, changing the speed and direction of the boat, sounding a horn, etc. thus promoting safety of the rider. When the towed user is separated by a prespecified distance from the ski handle, the handle can sense a fallen rider and wirelessly transmit a control signal to a receiver on the towing boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Murphy
  • Publication number: 20140306837
    Abstract: A method for the determination and qualitative indication of cumulative wear status of a complex system having a plurality of individual components, comprises the following steps: measuring a plurality of parameters corresponding to the usage status of a plurality of individual components in a system; storing the values of the measured parameters; weighting the values of the measured parameters according to a predetermined formula; calculating a single value from the predetermined formula; and displaying a single indicator indicative of the qualitative wear status of the overall system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: WALTER S. HAUCK, III
  • Publication number: 20140292543
    Abstract: A monitoring system, which comprises (a) a set of sensors comprising one or more orientation sensors and at least a state sensor mounted on a body, or in a relation to the body, the motion and state of which are monitored, wherein each of orientation sensor defines orientation and/or coordinates, where each state sensor measures the required state as a function of time for making decision based on a combination of orientation and state parameters; (b) a transmitter coupled to the one or more position sensors; (c) a control system including a timer, a processor for processing the measurement results and making decisions regarding the orientation and state of the body and a memory for storing data and operating software.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: SOSMART RESCUE LTD
    Inventor: Iris Lahyani
  • Publication number: 20140266809
    Abstract: An active automated anti-boarding device for a maritime asset security system includes a housing for mounting the device on a maritime asset. The deterrence device includes visual and sound deterrence emitters within said mount to disperse a directional fan pattern of sight and visual deterrence response outward from the housing to unauthorized boarders. An active automated anti-boarding maritime asset security system includes detection devices configured to mount to maritime asset, the detection devices each including emitters and receivers for generating and detection beams that form a virtual fence to form a detection network on a portion or around an entire maritime asset. Deterrence devices responsive to the interruption of the spaced apart detection beams produce a deterrent response that is non lethal. The deterrence response can be a law enforcement level of deterrence, it can induce discomfort and/or disorientation to deter unauthorized boarders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas B. Rothrauff, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8838985
    Abstract: A method and apparatus which ensures that static data entered into a communications device or apparatus is accurate, or at least consistent with data provided to an authentication service. In some embodiments of the invention, the authentication service may maintain a database of static data associated with each communications apparatus and/or verify the validity of at least a portion of the static data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Vesper Marine Limited
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Robbins
  • Patent number: 8836541
    Abstract: A rotorcraft (1) having on-board lighting equipment for lighting the surrounding environment. The lighting equipment comprises a plurality of headlights (2, 2?, 3, 3?) that are allocated to respective specific lighting functions in landing and in winching. The headlights (2, 2?, 3, 3?) are also operated to perform a searching lighting function. Control means determine which headlights (2, 2?, 3, 3?) are to be operated depending on a lighting function selected by an operator and depending on where the headlights are located on the rotorcraft (1). A search zone (4, 4?) for illuminating is identified by identification means on the basis of a lighting command common to the headlights (2, 2?, 3, 3?). Coordination means cause the headlights (2, 2?, 3, 3?) to converge on the identified search zone (4, 4?), while taking account of their respective locations on the rotorcraft (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Helicopters
    Inventor: Raphaël Fidanza
  • Patent number: 8836570
    Abstract: A system for extending maritime domain awareness of participating vessels. The system includes a domain extension device installed on each of the vessels, the domain extension devices including at least one processor configured to receive own-ship radar track data from a navigational radar indicative of detectable targets located within a detection range of the radar, receive own-ship location values from a positioning device indicative of a geographical location of the vessel when the radar track data is generated, interface with a transceiver to receive other-ship radar track data and associated other-ship location values from one or more other participating vessels within a communication range of other-ship AIS transceivers, generate a common operating picture based upon the own-ship radar track data, own-ship location value, other-ship radar track data and other-ship location values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Canada Limited
    Inventors: Anthony M. Ponsford, Peter Scarlett, Gregory D. Westfall
  • Patent number: 8836544
    Abstract: Multifunctional displays for a marine vessel having a propulsion system can include a sequential indicator, a first portion, a second portion and a transition portion between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion depicts changes in a characteristic of a first component of the propulsion system during a first operational mode of the propulsion system. The second portion depicts changes in a characteristic of a second component of the propulsion system during a second operational mode of the propulsion system. The transition portion depicts a change in operation of propulsion system between the first operational mode and the second operational mode. A marine vessel icon has first and second icons depicting changes in characteristics of the first and second components. The icon changes position when the operational mode of the marine vessel changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel J. Balogh
  • Publication number: 20140240149
    Abstract: There is proposed a marine security system which comprises at least two different monitoring elements (IRC, IRS) and a controller (PC) connected thereto in particular for warding off pirates, said controller triggering an alarm and/or activating alarm devices as a function of the displays or outputs of the different monitoring elements. In addition, at least two separate line or conduit systems (LA, LB) and outlets (DA, DB) connected thereto are provided, from which at least one substance can be discharged. In the event of an alarm, at least one substance is specifically supplied to the outlets (DA, DB), wherein said outlets are installed in different locations or sections (A1-A5, B1-B5) of the hull (S) and can be specifically activated there. The outlets (DA, DB) may also have different designs in order to optimally discharge the respective substance, for example by atomizing, nebulizing, spraying or pouring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: LexGabinia UG
    Inventors: Sven Fürus, Jan-Hendrik Stroher
  • Patent number: 8810436
    Abstract: A process and system for detecting the presence of a person overboard including: setting the perimeter of an area to scan, scanning the area 180 degrees in azimuth utilizing a laser beam for receiving a reflection of the laser beam off the person, detecting the reflection and playing back a video recording of the trajectory of the person, wherein the area above and below the perimeter of an area to scan is continuously video recorded and wherein upon detecting the target, one or more of audio and visual alarms alert that crew, and wherein an alarm with location is sent to PDA system with GPS coordinates time and date. Additionally a launcher deploys a device to track the person overboard, and allows persons on the ship or in a control center to ascertain the location of the person overboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Security Identification Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony Zagami, Joseph Carvalko
  • Publication number: 20140225754
    Abstract: A GPS speedometer comprising: a housing; a circuit board located in the housing; a microprocessor located on the circuit board; a GPS module located on the circuit and in signal communication with the micro-processor; a GPS antenna located on the circuit board and in signal communication with GPS module; and a readable speedometer display located on the housing and in signal communication with the microprocessor, where the readable speedometer display is configured to display the current speed of the vessel or vehicle calculated by the microprocessor based on data from a global positioning system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventors: Keith McCord, Kevin Terry, Frank R. Ahlbin, JR.
  • Patent number: 8803711
    Abstract: An indicator device on a marine vessel is configured to display motion. A controller operates the indicator device according to at least a first mode wherein the indicator device displays motion and a second mode wherein the indicator device does not display motion. The controller operates the indicator device based upon an operational characteristic of the marine vessel to thereby inform a swimmer located proximate to the marine vessel of the operational characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Steven J. Gonring
  • Publication number: 20140218217
    Abstract: Particularly applicable to life jackets and suits, it makes it possible to provide a location and maximum safety of shipwrecked people who have fallen overboard, providing, in the event of a man overboard (MOB) situation, a fast and effective solution, as the alert system continues in its attempt to communicate until a vessel responds with a signal of acknowledgement. The alert system fundamentally stands out due to the location and communication achieved by the DSC calling device and the AIS identification device. For its part, the control process stands out as it allows performing a repetition of search in the localization of the vessels in the immediate vicinity of the own vessel (vessel that the crew member comes from), so that if said own ship does not respond to the emergency call of the shipwrecked person, it communicates with other adjacent vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: AEROMARINE, S.L.
    Inventors: José María Calvar Antón, Fernando Isasi Vicente