Abstract:
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for the localized capture, storage and specialized use of power generated from natural sources, such as solar power or hydropower. The apparatus can be used, for example, on a deck or a side of a marine vessel, or on a land-based structure, where there is a requirement for managed power generation and storage.
Abstract:
A combined paddle and pump can be used to propel a small boat. The handle telescopes with a locking nut that may be loosened to allow extension and retraction of the handle. The handle is hollow throughout and a pair of check valves are provided. One check valve opens when the handle is extended and the other opens when the handle is retracted. When one check valve is open, the other is closed. When the distal end of the paddle is placed within a volume of water, extension and retraction of the handle results in a liquid first being sucked into the hollow interior of the handle and then propelled out of the handle.
Abstract:
A robotic jellyfish comprises a torque reaction engine and a jellyfish body, wherein the torque reaction engine cyclically oscillates and causes a wave to propagate across the jellyfish body, accelerating thrust fluid and propelling the robotic jellyfish.
Abstract:
In one embodiment, a general-purpose wireless mobile device having a touch-sensitive screen and executing a remote control application is used to remotely control a vehicle (e.g., a marine vessel). The general-purpose wireless mobile device communicates via a wireless network with an interface (e.g., a server) that is coupled to an electronic control system of the vehicle (e.g., the vessel). In operation, environmental information and/or system status information is collected through the electronic control system, propagated to the interface (e.g., server), and then sent over the wireless network to the wireless mobile device. Similarly, control input is sent over the wireless network to the interface (e.g., server), which passes the information to the electronic control system, which in turn issues appropriate control signals to the vehicle subsystems (e.g., marine subsystems) to control the motion of the vehicle (e.g., the vessel).
Abstract:
A method, system and apparatus for generating thrust. The method, system and apparatus can include a fuel that may be accelerated into one or more openings on a rotating wheel. The rotating wheel, which may be balanced, may then have a temporary increase in mass in one location on the wheel. Additionally, the fuel that is accelerated into one or more openings in the wheel may be decelerated and may exert an outward force on the wheel. This generation of force can be repeated and increased to provide thrust.
Abstract:
In one embodiment, a general-purpose wireless mobile device having a touch-sensitive screen and executing a remote control application is used to remotely control a vehicle (e.g., a marine vessel). The general-purpose wireless mobile device communicates via a wireless network with an interface (e.g., a server) that is coupled to an electronic control system of the vehicle (e.g., the vessel). In operation, environmental information and/or system status information is collected through the electronic control system, propagated to the interface (e.g., server), and then sent over the wireless network to the wireless mobile device. Similarly, control input is sent over the wireless network to the interface (e.g., server), which passes the information to the electronic control system, which in turn issues appropriate control signals to the vehicle subsystems (e.g., marine subsystems) to control the motion of the vehicle (e.g., the vessel).
Abstract:
A traction cell for use in a track drive of an amphibious or all-terrain vehicle includes a rigid section for connection to a track drive and at least one semi-rigid compliant section which is connected to the rigid section. The semi-rigid compliant section has a bottom surface to which a penetration resistant sole is secured on a rear face which is raked relative to the vertical.
Abstract:
An unmanned, autonomous, waterborne vehicle (500) for marine use capable of operating on and below the surface of water, said vehicle (500) including an enclosed hull (501) having a payload bay (506), a hybrid propulsion system having energy collection means (504) in the form of a wing sail (503) covered with photovoltaic cells and energy storage means (511) for utilizing at least solar energy and wind energy, a plurality of sensors (508, 514) for detecting predetermined environmental parameters and a communications system (509, 515) for transmitting data from said sensors (508, 515) to and for receiving command signals from one or more remote stations and/or cooperating vehicles.
Abstract:
A motion generating system for propelling and/or lifting a craft exploiting explosive and implosive processes, whereby a propulsive or lifting force on the craft arises from two sources: generation of a stream of fluids which imparts thrust to the craft; and generation of zones of reduced pressure and density in front of and above the craft allowing the craft to be thrust forward and lifted by ambient pressure on the rear and underside of the craft. Furthermore, reduction of fluid density in front of the craft results in a reduction of frontal drag allowing the attainment of higher speeds. The motion generating system may have other applications; for example, the motion generating system may be used to propel a stream of liquid in the manner of a pump.
Abstract:
The rowing measurement system provides methods and apparatus for improving the performance of a boat by measuring the effect of boat deceleration and providing in-boat feedback to the crew so they can minimize the effect. Specific boat data including speed, distance, stroke rate, acceleration and deceleration can be derived from the deceleration measurements. The data is then processed, displayed, and stored to memory to provide feedback on the boat and crew's performance to the rowers and coaches both in real time and for later analysis. The performance of the boat is measured by an accelerometer and timing device, providing basis for calculating speed, stroke rate, distance, and a deceleration factor without sensors external to the boat. The information on the rowers and the boat is then displayed in real time to the coxswain or head rower to provide immediate feedback on their performance. The data is stored at the CoxDisplay for transmission to the coach or communication to a computer for further display, analysis, communication, and charting a team's improvements.