Apparatus having a buoyant structure that resists rotation
US7862394B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 4, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 16, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B2022/006
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus includes a buoyant structure having a central vertical axis when floating in water and having at least one feature to reduce a rotation of the buoyant structure about the central vertical axis when floating in the water. The apparatus further includes an electronic camera assembly coupled to the buoyant structure. The electronic camera assembly is configured to generate an electronic image signal. The apparatus further includes a tubular structure coupled to the buoyant structure and configured to remain under the surface of the water. The tubular structure includes a watertight compartment and an electronic circuit assembly disposed within the watertight compartment. The electronic circuit assembly is coupled to receive the electronic image signal and is configured to generate an optical image signal representative of the electronic image signal. The apparatus further includes a fiber optic cable configured to carry the optical image signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.