Abstract:
Reconfigurable vehicles, methods of configuring modular vehicles are provided. Vehicles may have modules that may be coupled to the vehicle at discrete positions and at discrete angles. Configurations for the modular vehicles may be further determined automatically depending on desired vehicle characteristics. Modular vehicles may be configured manually, and a predicted vehicle characteristic may be determined.
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a passive ascent rate monitor that is operable to determine a diver's rate of ascent and generate a signal indicative of the determined ascent rate. In one embodiment, the ascent rate monitor outputs graduated audible signals that correspond to a plurality of ascent rate ranges. In another embodiment, the ascent rate monitor generates private audible ascent rate signals allowing a diver to determine their own ascent rate without necessarily outputting signals that may be heard by and/or interfere with their dive partners.
Abstract:
A variable volume raft containing adjustable ration and amounts of air and or water. The buoyancy and ballast of the raft are routinely adjusted to accommodate additional occupants and changing weather conditions. A manual pump can be the primary or back up source for initial inflation. The torque pump twisted by hand or amplified by a lever arm generates air pressure for maintenance and repairing deflating lacerations at sea. The pumps collector gathers and pressurizes rain water for drinking in one chamber while pressuring sea water as a stabilizing ballast in another chamber. A double hull or full floor chamber allows huge variations in buoyancy or ballast as dictated by changing needs for stability versus mobility. A compressed liquid or two-part foam confers puncture resistance to a portion of the raft. A thrown self-righting manual air horn, worn water-activated air horns and water activated transmitted signals, mark the site for rescuers.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a distress/safety device for a small watercraft (10). Specifically, the present invention relates to a distress signal that is given when a rider (12) is no longer present on the watercraft (10). The distress signal is provided by a light (44), by an audible signal, or by an electronic transmission to a receiver. The distress/safety device is in the form of a circuit which remains open as long as a key (52) is inserted in the alarm trigger slot (46) on the watercraft (10). The key is attached by lanyard or cable to an individual driver or passenger of the watercraft (10). Should the individual be displaced from the watercraft (10), the lanyard pulls the key (52) free from the kill switch (40) or alarm trigger slot (46) closing the circuit and triggering the alarm. Alternatively, the kill switch (40) is activated when the rider is displaced from the watercraft (10), thus activating the alarm system which is integral with the ignition. The types of distress alarms may be combined so that more than one type is given in response to a fallen rider.