Abstract: The invention applies to installing and/or removing a steerable propulsion pod for a ship having two of said steerable propulsion pods, each pod comprising a bulb suspended from the ship by a fin. The device comprises a cradle for receiving the pod to be moved, which cradle is situated between two arms of a buoyant beam, one end of each arm being rigidly secured to said cradle, the other end of a first arm being provided with a coupling hinged about a horizontal pin for coupling it to the fin of the other pod in place on the ship, the other end of the second arm being provided with a coupling hinged about a horizontal pin and about a vertical pin for coupling the second arm to an auxiliary vessel.

Abstract: A thuster control unit which in general comprises a base plate 100, a switch panel 200 mounted on said base plate, and a boat shaped, or navicular, control knob 500 mounted on the base plate such that it is displaceable over the switch panel. The panel is equipped with switches, such as embedded switches, for controlling bow and stem thrusters, and/or any other propulsion unit. The control knob is equipped actuator pegs 425, biased downwards, each thus transmitting a force to the switch panel. In a non-actuated state, the navicular control knob remains in a neutral position in which position no one of the embedded boat manoeuvring control switches are operated. The forward and aft actuator pegs thus activate the forward and aft boat manoeuvring control switches respectively in a manner corresponding with a selective displacement of the navicular control knob. The boat shaped control knob provides a novel, efficient and reliable means for a combined control of any boat propulsion system.

Abstract: A outboard marine electrical generator unit capable of installation on the transom of a marine vessel which provides an electrical generating unit for small and medium sized marine vessels. The invention thus provides an A/C and D/C electrical power source capable of providing electrical power for appliances, air conditioning units and other electrical loads, even while the primary propulsion system is off and the vessel is docked or at anchor.

Abstract: A process for forming an improved anodizing film on the surface of an aluminum alloy material. The film is impregnated with an amorphous substance which fills pores formed in the film during its growth. If the film has a flaw reaching the aluminum alloy material, the amorphous substance and aluminum form a layer of passivity which restrains the corrosion of the aluminum alloy material.

Abstract: A outboard marine electrical generator unit capable of installation on the transom of a marine vessel which provides an electrical generating unit for small and medium sized marine vessels. The invention thus provides an A/C and D/C electrical power source capable of providing electrical power for appliances, air conditioning units and other electrical loads, even while the primary propulsion system is off and the vessel is docked or at anchor.

Abstract: An outboard motor reflector for use on boats being towed. The reflector can be attached to a longitudinal arm that is attached to the boat motor either above or below the propeller hub. The reflector can pivot and be oriented to multiple directions so that the reflector remains visible to drivers behind the towed boat regardless of whether the outboard motor is in a down position or is any raised position. Clamp prongs extend about sides of the motor housing and adjustable straps further lock the reflector to the outboard motor.

Abstract: A transom saver and transom saver buddy for use in connection with water craft provided with an outboard motor or stern drive apparatus including transom saver structure having an elongated member adapted to be secured at one end to a trailer for the craft and at the other end to engage the motor or stern drive shank and provided with bracket structure adapted to be secured to the trailer and receive for temporary storage the elongated member which is bent to form an obtuse angle.

Abstract: A system for marine propulsion includes a metal fuel slurry, a water plasma, and a high alternating magnetic field. The magnetic field acts on the metal fuel to generate explosive momentum via a metal-water reaction. The reaction may also generate the water plasma. The magnetic field then acts on the water plasma using induction magnetohydrodynamic (“MHD”) pumping to generate MHD momentum. The explosive and MHD momenta propel the water through a water channel. The water may be used to propel marine vessels or to pump water.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an integrated onboard hydrogen (H2) production and utilization system for all watercraft, which yields environmentally benign vessel power production without new infrastructure requirements. Water (H2O) is supplied to a vessel, whether ashore, docked or underway, and is systematically converted into hydrogen and oxygen. The energy required for this process may be provided by any renewable or non-renewable source. The H2 produced is either utilized at once or stored. Energy is released from the H2 by one or more power plants.

Abstract: A outboard marine electrical generator unit capable of installation on the transom of a marine vessel which provides an electrical generating unit for small and medium sized marine vessels. The invention thus provides an A/C and D/C electrical power source capable of providing electrical power for appliances, air conditioning units and other electrical loads, even while the primary propulsion system is off and the vessel is docked or at anchor.

Abstract: A data storing method for a marine propulsion system uses two groups of three data logs each in which each data log comprises a plurality of data records. The information on preselected parameters are stored into the data records of the three data logs at different time increments. This allows the three data logs to cover a relatively long period of time at a lesser resolution, a shortest period of time at a highest resolution, and an intermediate period of time at an intermediate resolution. This allows an analyst to carefully review the various parameter magnitudes during the periods of time immediately preceding a catastrophic event, such as an accident or an engine failure, either of which resulting in an engine shut down.

Abstract: A grommet assembly for an outboard motor includes a grommet having a step, a flexible sleeve having a step and a connector configured to engage the step on the grommet and the step on the flexible sleeve. Preferably, the connector is in the form of an annular connector formed of two semicircular members connected to one another. Additionally, the step formed on the sleeve preferably is defined by a helical groove formed on the flexible sleeve. The connector preferably includes a helical wall defining a step that corresponds to the helical step formed on the flexible sleeve. The grommet assembly may also be in the form of a kit including a grommet having a step and a connector configured to engage the step on the grommet and a step formed on an existing flexible sleeve.

Abstract: A transom saver apparatus is adapted to be attached to a boat trailer and includes a pivot assembly adapted to be connected to a first portion of the trailer. An arm assembly is provided having first and second opposed ends wherein one end is connected to the boat trailer connection pivot assembly and the other end terminates in an outboard motor rest or support member. The arm assembly includes a first telescopic arm member, and a second telescopic arm member in telescopic engagement with the first telescopic arm member such that the second telescopic arm member defines the second distal end of the arm assembly and the second distal end comprises the outboard motor rest member. An arm rest bracket assembly is further included attachable to a second portion of the boat trailer for receivingly supporting the pivotal arm assembly in an out-of-the-way orientation when the arm assembly is not pivotally disposed in a use orientation.

Abstract: A flushing accessory for connecting a supply of domestic fresh water to the cooling jacket of a marine outboard engine for the purpose of flushing saline residue therefrom. The accessory includes a conventional “earmuffs” assembly which self-adheres to the lower unit of the outboard engine once installed thereon and a long handle enabling the accessory to be installed from within the boat. The handle is hollow, and conducts water from the domestic supply to the “earmuffs” assembly. A connector rigidly and permanently attaches the “earmuffs” assembly to the handle in an orientation such that the axis of the handle is offset from the “earmuffs” assembly. The connector is configured such that a short connector hose conducting water from the handle to the “earmuffs” assembly is disposed in close proximity to the accessory, and is not obliged to form a severe bend.

Abstract: A outboard marine electrical generator unit capable of installation on the transom of a marine vessel which provides an electrical generating unit for small and medium sized marine vessels. The invention thus provides an A/C and D/C electrical power source capable of providing electrical power for appliances, air conditioning units and other electrical loads, even while the primary propulsion system is off and the vessel is docked or at anchor.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for monitoring engine emissions of a moving craft, such as a ship. The system comprises a communication receiver that is configured to receive positioning data. The system further comprises an emission monitor that is configured to sense the opacity of an engine. The system synchronizes the acquired data, and displays to a user emission and positioning data on a monitor. The system allows storage of the acquired data in a storage medium as a record for later retrieval.

Abstract: A device and method that simplifies marine maintenance for inboard motorboats. The device and method allows an individual to safely flush the engine of a motorboat while the boat is out of the water by simulating the fluid circulation conditions of a boat in the water. More specifically, the device and method eliminates the danger of damaging the boat's engine on account of excessive fluid flow through the engine by utilizing the boat's coolant pump propulsion system to pull precise amounts of fluid through the system at appropriate flow rates and pressure levels.

Abstract: An outboard motor includes a propulsion unit having a power head which includes an internal combustion engine, a lower unit including a drive shaft housing fixed to the engine and a propeller shaft joined by the lower unit driven by the engine and having thereon a propeller. A cowling extends over the engine downwardly to the drive shaft housing defining an enclosed space containing the engine. An opening is provided to the enclosed space proximate the juncture between the cowling and the drive shaft housing. A plurality of electrical cables enter the enclosed space through the opening. A sealed housing is mounted to a side of the engine and contains a plurality of electrical devises for operating the engine. The cables connect to preselected devices by means of water-tight connections on the housing.

Abstract: A drive system includes a drive shaft with first and second shaft sections connected by a diaphragm clutch having a diaphragm assembly. The radially outer end of the diaphragm assembly is connected to a disk having a first toothing arranged on one face of the disk. The first toothing engages in corresponding second toothing on a flange connected to the first shaft section when the diaphragm assembly is subjected to an axial preload. A contact-pressure device that is controllable by remote control in the stationary condition acts against the disk to produce the preload.

Abstract: Cooling apparatus for the stern drive unit of a marine inboard-outboard drive system, the cooling apparatus being of the kind making use of the ram effect and having an intake tube carried on the stern drive unit with its intake end in the water. The tube has an intake port held below the water surface for accepting water by the ram effect while the boat is moving forward. The water is carried by the tube to a system for delivering water from the intake tube to the stern drive unit for cooling it. According to the invention the bottom of the intake tube is closed and the intake port is formed closely adjacent to the bottom of the tube in a selected part of its wall facing forwardly when the boat is in forward motion.

Abstract: A number of embodiments of outboard motor that are comprised of a power head consisting of a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine and a surrounding protective cowling. Each embodiment also includes a drive shaft housing and lower unit, the latter of which contains a propulsion device for propelling an associated watercraft. The engines are mounted within the protective cowling so their crankshafts rotate about vertically extending axes. In each case the crankshaft is coupled to a drive shaft that depends into the drive shaft housing and lower unit for driving the propulsion device. A flywheel is affixed to the upper end of the crankshaft. A first accessory drive is affixed to the crankshaft below the flywheel for driving at least one engine accessory. The engine accessory is mounted at an upper end of the engine and at least in part within the outer peripheral surface of the flywheel in top plan view.

Abstract: A protective propeller cover includes a flexible sleeve into which buoyant material is placed to provide a buoyant enclosure. A flexible propeller cover portion is secured to the flexible sleeve, and the distal end is releasably secured about the propeller. The buoyant enclosure is positioned adjacent to the propeller and is sized to extend above the water line when the propeller is positioned beneath the water line. The buoyant enclosure serves to protect swimmers from direct contact with the propeller when swimming in proximity to the boat. The protective propeller cover apparatus further serves to protect the propeller during transport or storage. The protective propeller cover apparatus further serves as an anchor cover when the boat is underway. The protective propeller cover apparatus further serves as an emergency flotation device.

Abstract: A portable container for fuel is provided which has a sealable opening sufficiently large to permit access to the interior for a swab or cleaning device to wipe or vacuum the interior of the container.

Abstract: Several embodiments of improved security systems for marine propulsion systems that do not have a continuously available source of electrical energy. These systems include an electric key reader that is powered by a manually operated electrical power supply during starting so as to ensure against theft. In one embodiment, if there is a failure in the electrical power supply for the security system, the speed of the propulsion system is limited so that a rightful owner can reach an area where service can be obtained.

Abstract: The present invention is a new and improved outboard motor flushing device system for simplifying the cleaning of small horsepower motors. The system includes a horizontally oriented support plate for an outboard motor. A backing plate with long horizontal upper and lower edges and short vertical front and rear edges is positioned adjacent to the support plate with a space therebetween. The backing plate has clamps adjacent to the front edge and the rear edge with coupling bolts and wing nuts. The backing plate also has a water port therethrough with a pair of spaced apertures on opposite sides of the port. A pad is positioned between the support plate and the backing plate with an enlarged opening overlying the hole.

Abstract: An anti-fouling protective cover prevents marine growth on inboard/outboard or stern drive marine engines. The cover includes first and second side portions, attached to one another along rear, bottom and front portions. The cover is normally urged open by side-stiffening members and transversely-extending members. The cover is conveniently manoeuvred into place onto a stern drive unit with a standard boat hook, and closed by hook and loop fasteners. The cover is constructed of an opaque flexible material such as bonded polyethylene to reduce the amount of light reaching the engine, thereby inhibiting marine growth.

Abstract: Two embodiments of jet-propelled watercraft having an arrangement wherein both the jet propulsion unit and engine of the watercraft can be accessed through access openings formed in the hull to the rear of the passenger's compartment. In addition, a telltale system is provided for discharging the water from the engine cooling jacket in a locale where the operator can readily view it to assure himself that the engine is receiving adequate coolant.

Abstract: Magnetic forces developed from electromagnets, superconductor magnets, or other magnets, serve as the basic elements to move, control, direct and stabilize ships in locks chambers and canals. Basic requirements include, but are not limited to, a power supply, the magnetic devices and a system for operation and control of the magnetic devices. This process of moving ships through canals and locks chambers will eliminate other, more expensive means currently in use. The magnetic system will speed the process of canal transit because of its simplicity of operation. It will require much less hardware and human resources to operate and maintain. The magnets would be installed in the locks chamber floors. In canals and approach lanes, the magnets could be placed on a substructure at the bottom of the channel using different structural elements depending on the channel's shape, size and dredging needs.

Abstract: A modular, gas-driven power distribution system includes a gasoline-operated module delivering power to a connector having a rotatable element enabling a plurality of mechanical devices to be detachably coupled to the connector to receive power through the rotatable element. The plurality of connectable devices includes a powered oar adapted for nautical purposes. The oar preferably comprises a shaft having a proximal end adapted for detachable coupling to the connector forming part of the gasoline-operated module, and a distal end transitioning into a paddle shape terminating in a rotating prop. A rotatable axle is disposed centrally within the shaft, the axle having a proximal end adapted for detachable coupling to the rotatable element to deliver power to the rotating prop.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a fresh water flushing device for a marine engine system in a boat for use whether the boat is in or out of the water. The system comprises a valve enables water to be dispensed to the various locations and various components of a marine engine system to provide for fresh water fluid flow within the engine.

Abstract: A flushing system accessory comprises a one-piece connector and a lubricating-fluid vessel. The connector has a threaded first intake port connected to the lubricating-fluid vessel. The connector also includes a threaded second intake port which is connected to a water supply hose. The connector further includes a threaded outlet port sized for connection to a boat motor flushing aid. The one-piece connector has an end carrier chamber which is divided by a partition wall into a first passageway and a second passageway. The intake and outlet ports are in fluid communication with the interior chamber. Lubricating fluid, supplied by the lubricating-fluid vessel, and water, supplied by a water supply hose, enter through a first and second intake port, respectively. They then pass through the connector outlet port and into an attached boat motor flushing aid.

Abstract: An outboard boat motor support device attachable between the boat transom and outboard motor to help prevent the outboard motor from inflicting damaging torque to the transom mounting point during trailering or water operation is provided comprising a rigid plate fixedly attached to the transom of the boat and a support member capable of being retracted within the plate or extended from the boat to engage the lower casing of the outboard motor in a tilted position, thereby maintaining the outboard motor in the tilted position during trailering.

Abstract: The cover is used for boat drive units, at least portions of which are disposed outside the hull of a boat. At least two housing shells are provided, which can be placed in a form-fitting manner on the part of the boat drive unit which is outside the hull of the boat. The housing shells can be connected to each other. The interior contour is formed by a foamed material, which is supported by the walls of the housing shells.

Abstract: A method of flushing an outboard marine motor using a marine outboard motor flush and run tank wherein the marine outboard motor flush and run tank comprises a flush trough member, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The method of flushing an outboard marine motor flushes from the coolant system of an outboard marine motor salt, silt and other material. An organic detergent is added to fresh water for forming a mixture which is siphoned into the coolant system for breaking down and purging the salt, silt and other material from the coolant system.

Abstract: Devices herein described utilize vehicles that are propelled, braked, and steered by means of a process called Inertial Propulsion Plus. This consists of a "power phase" to extend the weight(s) from the vehicle, alternated with a "null phase" to cancel out the return phase or stroke reactions. This process is made workable by selectively applying a pure external force derived from the pathway and opposing the movement of the weight(s) on the power phase. For non-travel-related applications, the inherent displacement can be harnessed by a treadmill or other ways for a power source to increase available power and reduce pollution.

Abstract: A reversible motor mount that can be attached to the gunnel on either side of a canoe is disclosed. The mount has a movable piece with a bracket to which said motor is clamped. The movable piece is locked in a first position when the motor mount is mounted on one side of the canoe and is locked in a second position when the motor mount is mounted on the other side of the canoe. No matter which side of the canoe said mount is attached to, and the movable piece is moved and locked in the appropriate position, and said motor is clamped to said bracket, the propulsion force from said motor when it is in operation will be downward and rearward.

Abstract: A device is disclosed which allows water-lift mufflers, silencers or suppressors to be fully flushed, while in or out of the water, without running the engines. The device can be mounted between a remote access panel or control panel and a conventional fresh water flush valve. Fresh water flow provides fluid power to a primary section impeller or turbine, where power is then mechanically transmitted to an evacuation or secondary section impeller or turbine through a shaft on which both impellers mount. The inlet section of the secondary section impeller connects by hose to the drain plug universally present on marine engine mufflers, silencers and suppressors. The outlet section of the secondary section impeller connects by hose to an overboard drain. Fresh water, having sufficient flow and pressure, applied to the device drives the primary section impeller, causing the impeller to rotate.

Abstract: Embodiments of restraining grommets for use with protective cowling of marine outboard drives through which various flexible elements such as control cables and hoses extend. The restraining grommet is formed with at least two openings made up of multi-part sections and at least one of which is slitted so as to permit ease of insertion and removal of the flexible element without kinking of them.

Abstract: An improved flushing system for an outboard motor that is comprised of a flexible conduit that is connected to the coolant path for the cooling jacket of the outboard motor between the water inlet and the engine cooling jacket so that plugging of the water inlet and water outlet during flushing is not required. The flexible conduit has a hose-type fitting at its open end for attachment to a hose for flushing purposes, and also for attachment to a closure plus fixed to the tray of the outboard motor protective cowling for closing the flexible conduit when not in use.

Abstract: A powered swimming aid comprising a stabilizing member attached to the users back, and buoyancy device rigidly attached to the stabilizing member, the buoyancy device being located below the user's hips so as to cause the body to rotate to a good swimming position. The rigid structure also has mounted on it a drive mechanism terminating in a propeller located below the user's hips so as to cause the body to rotate to a good swimming position. The rigid structure also has mounted on it a drive mechanism terminating in a propeller located below the user's knees to provide powered motion in the motor. A buoyant board has side handles and a control for controlling the drive mechanism. A buoyant vest is worn on the user's chest.

Abstract: An inboard-motorboat-engine flusher has an inlet enclosure (1) with a means for attachment (5, 6, 11, 16) to a bottom (3) of a boat (4), a conduit (7) in fluid communication between an outside and an inside of the inlet enclosure, and a hose connector (8) on the conduit.

Abstract: A device to discourage theft of stern drives of power boat inboard-outboard propulsion units comprises a locking collar installed about the drive shaft at a location between the engine and the transom of the boat to prevent withdrawal of the drive shaft through the transom passage.

Abstract: A marine spare propeller mounting device used for safely securing a marine spare propeller on board a recreational or work vessel powered by common sterndrive units or large outboard motors. This invention includes a plastic base plate (2) that accepts a stainless steel center axial shaft (3) as well as a stainless steel thrust washer (16) and a retaining knob (4). The stainless steel thrust washer (16) is slipped over the stainless steel center axial shaft (3) and the retaining knob (4) is started on the threaded end of the center axial shaft (18).

Abstract: A marine propulsion unit is disclosed which has an exteriorly accessible clean-out capability. The unit has an impeller housing located outside of the transom of a marine craft in which the unit is installed, which impeller housing has a separable portion that permits access to the main passage including the impeller when separated. The design also permits insertion of a hose connected fitting for backflushing the cooling system of the power head of the unit.

Abstract: A portable flushing device for a marine engine, which comprises a reservoir for temporary water storage and a delivery system to the marine engine. The power source for this system is gravity, which allows it to be portable.

Abstract: An outboard motor flushing apparatus for flushing a marine engine outboard propulsion unit includes a pair of sealing elements for covering the cooling water inlets of a marine engine propulsion unit. A U-shaped sealing element retainer has a pair of arms and has one of the sealing elements attached to each arm. An elongated hollow rigid pipe has a handle on one end and a metal rod on the other end thereof. The metal rod has an attaching clamp for removably attaching the metal rod and hollow rigid pipe to the U-shaped retainer. The hollow rigid pipe has a water coupling on each end thereof and one of the couplings has a flexible tube attached thereto into one of the sealing elements for conveying water from the hollow tube to the sealing element and the cooling water inlets of an outboard motor. The coupling at the other end of the hollow rigid pipe is attached to a water hose.

Abstract: A flushing system for an outboard marine motor includes an engine provided with at least one cylinder surrounded at least partially by a cooling jacket, an access port disposed on the engine and being in fluid communication with the cooling jacket, a flushing assembly being detachably engageable in the access port for permitting inflow of a flushing fluid into the cooling jacket, and a valve member disposed on the flushing assembly for selectively controlling the inflow of flushing fluid into the cooling jacket at the discretion of an operator.

Abstract: A system for use in winterizing/dewinterizing a watercraft marine engine is provided with a closed coolant storage tank having a cooperating pump, with an open coolant recovery tank having a separate cooperating pump, with coolant fluid transfer lines connecting the storage tank pump outlet to the recovery tank and connecting the recovery tank pump outlet to the storage tank, and a control for operating the storage tank pump and the recovery tank pump independently of each other.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for protectively covering an outcropping, such as a motor prop, of a boat. The cover includes an adjustable collar, a flexible, opaque bag, and an adjustable collar draw line. The bag has an open top end attached to the collar. A closed bottom end of the bag is opposed to the top end, and has a weight attached thereto. The adjustable collar draw line of the collar is such that with the bag placed over the outcropping, the open end of the bag may be closed around the outcropping by pulling the adjustable collar draw line. The collar includes a locking slot for locking the adjustable collar draw line in place around the outcropping. A manipulation handle removably attaches to the collar for facilitating the placement and removal of the cover onto and off of the outcropping.

Abstract: The valve is inserted in the conduit that carries ambient water to the engine for cooling it. The valve has the form of a T or a Y. Cooling water enters port A against the urging of a first spring-loaded check valve and flows out through port B on route to the engine. The stiffness of the spring is carefully selected so that the first check valve functions as a flow restricter, whereby at low engine speeds the flow is reduced to prevent overcooling of the engine. When the boat is out of the water, flushing water or an antifreeze can be drawn in through port C which is provided with a second spring-loaded check valve. If the flushing water or antifreeze is supplied under pressure, the pressure must be great enough to overcome the urging of the second spring-loaded check valve.