Trim position indicator and methods of using same
US5584731A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 1995 |
| Grant date | Dec 17, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01C2009/107
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A trim position indicator for outboard motors or the like for determining the tilt or angularity of the propeller with respect to a parallel position to the water level. The indicator is attached to the motor shroud to give an indication of the angle between the axis of the motor propeller and the water surface. When the motor is tilted, e.g. as the boat comes up to planing speed, the trim position indicator indicates the angular degree of tilt by means of a float therein which no longer is centered between two indicator markings. Consequently, appropriate trimming measures may be taken so that maximum propulsion is restored. The sensing member may be in the form of an air or light gas filled spherical float which, due to the higher specific gravity of the liquid surrounding it, seeks the highest point within the arc shaped level. Methods of mounting the trim position indicator on outboard boat motors both with and without hydrofoil stabilizers are also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.