LIFE RING DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

Not Applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The claimed embodiments relate generally to safety of life at sea and more specifically, to life ring deployment systems.

BACKGROUND

Maritime safety, particularly in emergency scenarios like a man-overboard (MOB) incident, is a life-threatening critical concern. The life ring, or life buoy, serves as a fundamental tool in MOB rescue operations, providing immediate flotation assistance to individuals in distress at sea, a visual reference for the vessel operator and rescue crews, a point of reference to determine direction and drift rate to calculate environmental factors. Traditionally, these life rings are stored at accessible locations on ships, ready for manual deployment in emergencies.

The conventional approach, which requires a crew member to physically retrieve and throw the life ring towards the person in the water, has been a standard practice for decades. However, this method presents several limitations and challenges that can critically impact the effectiveness of rescue efforts. Response time is a significant concern, as manually deploying life rings can be time-consuming. In MOB situations, swift action is crucial, and delays in throwing the life ring can lead to grave outcomes. Crew members must first actually be present to witness the person fall over board. Throughout vessels of all sizes, it is common to move about the deck during low light situations or while no one else is present or while other crew members are sleeping. On modern vessels the new technological advancements in vessel navigation, operation, and system monitoring is reducing the staffing and staffing requirements allowing vessels to operate with far less people which further decrease the probability that someone visually witness a crew member falling overboard. Additionally, crew members must not only reach the life ring storage location quickly but also retrieve and accurately throw the life ring, a process that inherently consumes precious time. Physical limitations of the crew members also play a role. The effectiveness of the life ring's deployment heavily relies on the individual's ability to throw it accurately and with enough force, a challenge amplified in rough sea and/or high wind conditions. This dependency on physical prowess can be a hindrance, as not all crew members may possess the required strength or skill, particularly under stressful and urgent circumstances.

The safety of rescuers is another concern. Current manual methods necessitate that crew members approach the ship's side, which can be perilous, especially in adverse weather conditions. This exposes the rescuers to environmental hazards and increases the risk of falling overboard. Accuracy and precision in deploying life rings are also critical. Manually thrown life rings may not reach the person overboard on the first attempt, particularly in challenging conditions with strong winds or high waves. Inaccurate deployment necessitates multiple attempts, further delaying the rescue and endangering the person in the water. Furthermore, rescue operations during nighttime or in poor visibility conditions pose additional challenges. Locating a person overboard and accurately throwing the life ring is substantially more difficult under such conditions, diminishing the chances of a successful rescue.

Given these challenges, there is an evident need for advancements in the methods and equipment used in MOB rescue operations. Improvements that can address these limitations would significantly enhance maritime safety, offering more effective, efficient, and safer means of aiding individuals in distress at sea and save lives. This context underscores the necessity for innovative solutions in the realm of maritime emergency response and life-saving equipment.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of disclosed concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description including the drawings provided. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this Summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter's scope.

The disclosed embodiments are directed to a life ring deployment system comprising a life ring including a light, a geotracking unit and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter for transmitting a current location of the life ring, a deployment device configured for holding the life ring and automatically deploying the life ring when activated, the deployment device comprising a mechanically activated apparatus with an energy-storing release mechanism that stores potential energy and release it to deploy the life ring when activated, and an interface configured for activating the deployment device. In another embodiment, the life ring deployment system includes a computing system comprising a memory, a processor, a display and an RF receiver for receiving RF signals, wherein said computing system is communicatively coupled with the interface

To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, claimed subject matter may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated and described within the scope of the appended claims. The foregoing and other features and advantages of the claimed embodiments will be apparent from the following more particular description of the preferred embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the claimed subject matter and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. The embodiments illustrated herein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the claimed subject matter is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a drawing depicting the life ring deployment system on a ship, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a drawing depicting a man on a ship in a dangerous situation, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a drawing depicting a man that has fallen overboard from the ship, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a holding state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a first detached state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a drawing depicting a rear perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a first detached state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a drawing depicting a rear perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a second detached state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a deployed state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a drawing depicting a man that has fallen overboard from the ship, showing the life ring being automatically deployed into the water, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a drawing depicting a man that has fallen overboard from the ship, showing the man using the life ring deployed into the water, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a drawing depicting a navigation system on the ship that has been integrated with the life ring deployment system, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring in a deployment device in a holding state, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a drawing depicting a life ring deployed into the water, showing a built-in or attached light and geo-tracking system, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram depicting components of the life ring deployment system, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram depicting a computing system, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While disclosed embodiments may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding additional stages or components to the disclosed methods and devices. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosed embodiments. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosed embodiments is defined by the appended claims.

The claimed embodiments represent a significant advancement over existing life-saving equipment and methods used in maritime safety, particularly in man-overboard scenarios. Traditional life ring deployment systems rely heavily on manual processes, which are subject to human error, delayed response times, and limitations imposed by environmental conditions and the physical capabilities of crew members. The claimed embodiments improve upon prior art and advance the state of the art in maritime rescue operations by addressing these limitations. One of the primary issues with conventional life ring deployment is the reliance on manual retrieval and throwing of the life ring by a crew member. This process can be slow and inefficient, especially if the man-overboard incident occurs when crew members are not immediately present or during adverse weather conditions that hinder physical performance. The claimed embodiments address this limitation by introducing an automated deployment device equipped with an energy-storing release mechanism. This mechanism stores potential energy—such as in springs, elastic elements, or compressed gas—and releases it upon activation to deploy the life ring swiftly and accurately into the water. The automation significantly reduces response time, enhancing the chances of a successful rescue.

Traditional systems require a crew member to witness the man-overboard event and initiate the rescue process, which is increasingly impractical due to reduced staffing and automated operations on modern vessels. The claimed embodiments incorporate a personal unit worn by individuals, which includes an RF transmitter and a geotracking unit. When the personal unit is immersed in water or moves beyond a certain distance from the vessel, it automatically transmits a distress signal containing its current location. This signal is received by the computing system on the vessel, which can automatically activate the deployment device without the need for human intervention. This advancement ensures immediate detection of man-overboard incidents, even when no one witnesses the event, and initiates the rescue process promptly.

Prior art lacks efficient means to track the precise location of the person overboard and the deployed life ring, especially under poor visibility conditions. The claimed embodiments overcome this challenge by integrating geotracking units and RF transmitters into both the life ring and the personal unit. These components continuously transmit real-time location data to the vessel's computing system, which displays the information on an electronic chart or map via the navigation system. This capability allows rescuers to accurately locate and monitor the positions of both the individual and the life ring, facilitating quicker and more effective rescue operations.

Manual deployment methods expose crew members to risks, as they must approach the ship's edge to throw the life ring, which is particularly dangerous in rough seas or adverse weather. The automated nature of the claimed deployment device eliminates the need for crew members to perform this hazardous task, thereby enhancing the safety of the rescuers themselves. By minimizing human involvement in the initial deployment, the system reduces the likelihood of additional man-overboard incidents during the rescue attempt.

The claimed embodiments are designed to be versatile and compatible with various vessel types and existing maritime safety protocols. The computing system interfaces with standard navigation systems and can be integrated into the ship's communication and alert systems. This integration ensures that the deployment system complements current safety measures rather than requiring a complete overhaul. Additionally, the system's components are adaptable to different sizes and configurations, making it suitable for a wide range of maritime environments.

In summary, the claimed embodiments provide substantial improvements over prior art by automating the deployment process, enhancing detection capabilities, offering real-time tracking, and ensuring the safety of both individuals overboard and crew members. These advancements contribute to a more effective and reliable maritime rescue system.

The claimed embodiments relate to a life ring deployment system that comprises a life ring with integrated features, a deployment device, a computing system and an interface. The life ring is equipped with a light source, a geotracking unit, and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter. The light source is designed to enhance visibility in low-light conditions or at night, aiding in the location of the life ring once it is deployed. The geotracking unit is responsible for continuously monitoring the life ring's current location, and the RF transmitter is used to transmit this location information to a remote receiver and/or central controller.

A geotracking unit is a device designed to determine and monitor its geographical location in real-time using a global navigation satellite system (GNSS), such as the Global Positioning System (GPS). A geotracking unit typically consists of a GPS receiver that captures signals from satellites to calculate precise coordinates, a processing unit to interpret these signals, and a communication module—such as a radio frequency (RF) transmitter—to transmit the location data to external systems or devices. Additional components may include an antenna for signal reception, a power source like a battery for standalone operation, and sensors for environmental data. The primary function of a geotracking unit is to provide continuous, accurate location information, enabling tracking and monitoring of objects or individuals for applications like navigation, safety, logistics, and rescue operations.

The deployment device is specifically designed to securely hold the life ring and facilitate its deployment into water upon activation. This deployment device comprises a mechanically activated apparatus with an energy-storing release mechanism that stores potential energy and release it to deploy the life ring when activated. The deployment device may be coupled to a vertical post, which further connects to a pair of brackets that hold the life ring in place. When the deployment device is activated, the energy-storing release mechanism releases, causing the pair of brackets to release the life ring. Simultaneously, a pair of push elements within the deployment device pushes the life ring forward into the water, ensuring a swift and controlled deployment. This mechanism provides a reliable and efficient way to deploy the life ring to a person in distress.

An energy-storing release mechanism is a device that accumulates potential energy and releases it rapidly to perform a specific action when activated. It typically consists of components such as springs (coil, torsion, or leaf springs), elastic elements, compressed gas systems, pistons, or elevated weights—all of which store energy when a force is applied to them. The mechanism includes a mechanically activated trigger or release system, like a latch or catch, that holds the stored energy in place until activation. Upon triggering—either manually or automatically—the mechanism releases the stored potential energy, converting it into kinetic energy that propels or moves an attached component, such as deploying a life ring into the water. Additional components may include guides or rails to direct the motion, actuators for triggering, and safety features to prevent accidental release. The primary function of an energy-storing release mechanism is to provide a reliable and swift deployment of energy to perform tasks efficiently, especially in critical situations where speed and effectiveness are essential.

The interface is responsible for initiating the deployment process by mechanically activating the deployment device at the user's direction. The interface may be a user-friendly interface, such as a push-button interface, for convenient activation. Additionally, the interface may be integrated with a computing system that is configured to receive RF signals from the life ring, display the location of a life ring on a map or chart, activate the deployment device and provide a navigation system for the vessel.

In further embodiments, the life ring deployment system can be integrated with a personal unit worn by sailors or individuals at risk of being in water-related emergencies. This personal unit includes an RF transmitter that sends a signal when the wearer is immersed in water. The computing system of the deployment system is configured to activate the deployment device upon receiving a signal from the personal unit. Moreover, the personal unit itself may comprise a geotracking unit, allowing it to transmit a signal that includes its current location when submerged. The computing system of the deployment system is equipped to receive this location information and display it on an electronic chart or map, enabling quick and accurate rescue efforts.

FIG. 1 is a drawing depicting the life ring deployment system 100 on a ship 120, according to one embodiment. FIG. 1 shows the life ring deployment system 100 installed in various different locations on the ship 122, wherein each installation includes a life ring 102. A sailor or passenger 150 is shown at the bow of the ship 120.

FIG. 2 is a drawing depicting a man 150 on a ship in a dangerous situation, according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a sailor or passenger 150 at the bow of the ship 120, wherein the sailor or passenger 150 is wearing a personal unit 200 that includes an RF transmitter that transmits a signal when said unit is immersed in water or detected to be too far from the ship. Said personal unit 200 may also include a geotracking unit and may be configured to transmit a current location of the unit when it is immersed in water.

FIG. 3 is a drawing depicting a man 150 that has fallen overboard from the ship 120, according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 shows that the personal unit 200 has been activated and is transmitting one or more signals to the ship.

FIG. 4 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring 102 in a deployment device or installation 500 in a holding state, according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 shows that the installation 500 includes a first pair of brackets 402 and a second pair of brackets 404 that hold the life ring in place. The installation 500 may be placed at or near a top of a vertical post 550 attached to the ship 120.

FIG. 4 shows the first telescoping arm 502 is in an extended position so as to hold the first pair of brackets 402 in the holding state. In this state, the bracket extends over the life ring 1020 and presses against it to hold the life ring against the post 550. FIG. 4 also shows a second telescoping arm 504 is in an extended position so as to hold the second pair of brackets 404 in the holding state.

FIG. 5 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring 102 in a deployment device or installation 500 in a first detached state, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 shows that the installation 500 includes a first pair of brackets 402 and a second pair of brackets 404 that each have been at least partially opened to allow the life ring 102 to be released. The first telescoping arm 502 holds the first pair of brackets 402 in the holding state in FIG. 4 and in FIG. 5 the first telescoping arm 502 has retracted to release a bracket from the first pair of brackets 402 to allow the life ring 102 to be released. In this state, the bracket has been pulled back so that it no longer extends over the life ring 102 and no longer presses against it. Thus, the first pair of brackets 402 no longer hold the life ring against the post 550.

A second telescoping arm 504 holds the second pair of brackets 404 in the holding state in FIG. 4 and in FIG. 5 the second telescoping arm 504 has retracted to release a bracket from the second pair of brackets 404 to allow the life ring 102 to be released. In this state, the bracket has been pulled back so that it no longer extends over the life ring 102 and no longer presses against it. Thus, the second pair of brackets 404 no longer hold the life ring against the post 550.

In one embodiment, the first and second telescoping arms are hingeably coupled on a first end to a flange attached to the post 550, and on a second end to the respective bracket. The first and second telescoping arms are mechanically coupled to the energy-storing release mechanism such that the energy-storing release mechanism causes the first and second telescoping arms to extend when the energy-storing release mechanism is activated and released. The first and second telescoping arms are retracted when the energy-storing release mechanism is storing potential energy.

FIG. 6 is a drawing depicting a rear perspective view of a life ring 120 in a deployment device or installation 500 in the first detached state, according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the same depiction of FIG. 5 from the rear. FIG. 6 shows that a mechanically activated apparatus 602 with an energy-storing release mechanism holds the first and second telescoping arms 502, 504 in place to keep the system in a holding state (as shown in FIG. 4) and then the device 602 releases the first and second telescoping arms 502, 504 to place the system in a first detached state (as shown in FIGS. 5-6). When mechanically activated, the energy-storing release mechanism causes the first and second telescoping arms 502, 504 to release the life ring.

FIG. 7 is a drawing depicting a rear perspective view of a life ring 102 in a deployment device or installation 500 in a second detached state, according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 shows that the device 602 has fully released the first and second pair of brackets 402, 404 to place the system in a second detached state, which fully releases the life ring 102.

FIG. 8 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring 102 in a deployment device or installation 500 in a deployed state, according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 shows that within the first and second pair of brackets 402, 404 are first and second push elements 602, 604, respectively, which act to push the life ring 102 outwards at a fast rate, so as to throw the life ring into the water. When mechanically activated, the energy-storing release mechanism causes the first and second push elements 602, 604 to push the life ring outwards.

In one embodiment, the first and second push elements 602, 604 are coupled on a first end to the post 550. The first and second push elements 602, 604 are mechanically coupled to the energy-storing release mechanism such that the energy-storing release mechanism causes the first and second push elements 602, 604 to extend when the energy-storing release mechanism is activated and released. The first and second push elements 602, 604 are retracted when the energy-storing release mechanism is storing potential energy.

FIG. 8 also shows a push button interface 802 at the top of the post 550 which activates the system 100 to eject the life ring 102 into the water when the button is pushed. The push button interface 802 is coupled with the energy-storing release mechanism which, when activated, causes the first and second telescoping arms 502, 504 to release the life ring, and causes the first and second push elements 602, 604 to push the life ring outwards. When a user pushes the button of the push button interface 802, the energy-storing release mechanism is activated.

FIG. 9 is a drawing depicting a man 150 that has fallen overboard from the ship 120, showing the life ring 102 deployed into the water, according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 shows that as a result of the actions described in FIGS. 4-8, the life ring 102 has been ejected into the water.

FIG. 10 is a drawing depicting a man 150 that has fallen overboard from the ship 120, showing the man using the life ring 102 deployed into the water, according to one embodiment. The life ring 102 includes a light 1003, a geotracking unit and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter for transmitting the current location of the life ring 102.

FIG. 11 is a drawing depicting a navigation system 1100 on the ship that has been integrated with the life ring deployment system 100, according to one embodiment. A navigation system for a ship is an integrated suite of tools and technologies designed to determine the vessel's position, chart its course, and ensure safe and efficient passage across waterways. Key components include Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers for accurate location tracking, electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) that provide digital nautical charts, radar systems for detecting other vessels and obstacles, gyrocompasses for precise heading information, autopilot systems for automated steering control, depth sounders to measure water depth beneath the hull, and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) for monitoring nearby ships. These components work together to provide real-time data on the ship's position, speed, direction, and surrounding environment, enabling the crew to navigate safely, avoid hazards, comply with maritime regulations, and optimize route planning. FIG. 11 shows that the navigation system 1100 may include a display that displays information such as an electronic chart or a map and the location of the ship.

The navigation system 1100 on the ship may be integrated with the life ring deployment system 100 such that it is configured to activate the deployment of a life ring 102, as described above, by pushing a button interface 1102. The navigation system 1100 may also be configured to alert users when a man overboard situation has begun, by lighting a light 1104 and/or playing a sound. The navigation system 1100 may also be configured to receive and display current location information from the life ring 102 and/or personal unit 200 and display it in an electronic chart or a map.

FIG. 12 is a drawing depicting a front perspective view of a life ring 102 in an alternative deployment device or installation 1200 in a holding state, according to another embodiment. FIG. 12 shows another version of an installation 1200 that can be placed on the side of the ship or on a wall. Much like installation 500, the installation 1200 include a first and second pair of brackets, first and second telescoping arms, and first and second push elements. FIG. 12 also shows a push button interface 1204 at the side of the installation 1200 which activates the system 100 to eject the life ring 102 into the water when the button is pushed.

FIG. 13 is a drawing depicting a life ring 102 deployed into the water, showing a light 1302 and geotracking unit 1304, which may include a battery, according to one embodiment. A global positioning system (GPS) tracking unit, geotracking unit, satellite tracking unit, or simply tracker is a navigation device that uses satellite navigation (which uses a global navigation satellite system (GNSS)) to determine its movement and determine its geographic position (geotracking) to determine its location. A geotracking unit essentially contains a GPS module that receives GPS signals from the GNSS and calculates coordinates. The geotracking unit 1304 may additionally contain a transmitter to transmit this information to a computing device such as the system 1100. Satellite-based GPS tracking units can operate anywhere on the globe using satellite technology.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram depicting components of the life ring deployment system 100, according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 showcases the interconnection between the computing system 1402, the interface 1420, multiple deployment devices 500a, 500b, and 500c, and the life ring 102 or personal unit 200 equipped with a light 1003, a geotracking unit 1403, and an RF transmitter 1413. The computing system 1402 serves as the central processing unit of the system, comprising essential components such as memory, a processor, a display, and an RF receiver. This computing system 1402 is responsible for receiving RF signals 1406 transmitted by the RF transmitter 1413 from the life ring 102 or personal unit 200 and processing geolocation data provided by the geotracking unit 1403.

The interface 1420 is communicatively coupled with the computing system 1402 and provides a user-friendly platform for monitoring and/or controlling the deployment devices. The interface 1420 may include the push button interface 802 at the top of the post 550 which activates the system 100 to eject the life ring 102 into the water when the button is pushed. The interface 1420 may further allow operators to receive alerts, view real-time location data, and manually activate the deployment devices 500a, 500b, and 500c if necessary. Each deployment device, such as 500a, is strategically positioned on the vessel and is configured to hold a life ring 102 securely. The deployment devices incorporate an energy-storing release mechanism that stores potential energy and releases it upon activation to propel the life ring 102 into the water swiftly and efficiently.

The life ring 102 or personal unit 200 is equipped with several integrated features to enhance its effectiveness during rescue operations. The light 1003 is attached to or built into the life ring 102 and serves to increase visibility in low-light conditions or at night, aiding in the quick location of the life ring by both the person in distress and the rescuers. The geotracking unit 1403 within the life ring 102 or personal unit 200 utilizes satellite navigation signals to determine its precise geographical location. This real-time location data is essential for tracking the life ring 102 or personal unit 200.

The RF transmitter 1413 is embedded within the life ring 102 or personal unit 200 and is responsible for transmitting the current location information obtained from the geotracking unit 1403 to the computing system 1402. The RF transmitter 1413 communicates wirelessly with the RF receiver in the computing system 1402 using RF signals 1406. This continuous communication ensures that the computing system 1402 receives up-to-date location data, which is then displayed on the interface 1420 for the crew to monitor.

The deployment devices 500a, 500b, and 500c are all communicatively coupled with the computing system 1402 and the interface 1420. Upon activation—either automatically via signals from a personal unit worn by an individual or manually through the 1420—the computing system 1402 sends commands to the relevant deployment device, such as 500a, to release the life ring 102. The energy-storing release mechanism within the deployment device 500a releases its stored potential energy, causing the life ring 102 to be propelled into the water promptly.

In another embodiment, the life ring deployment system 100 includes a feature that allows a user to remotely activate the system and deploy the life ring 102 using a personal unit 200 worn by the user. The personal unit 200 is equipped with an RF transmitter 210 and may include a geotracking unit 220. In situations where the user, such as a crew member or passenger, identifies an emergency requiring immediate deployment of a life ring, they can manually activate the personal unit 200. This activation sends a signal via the RF transmitter 210 to the computing system 1402 aboard the vessel. Upon receiving the activation signal from the personal unit 200, the computing system 1402 processes the signal and determines the appropriate deployment device to activate—such as deployment devices 500a, 500b, or 500c—based on factors like the user's location or predefined deployment protocols. The computing system 1402 communicates with the interface 1100, which facilitates the transmission of activation commands to the selected deployment device.

The deployment device 500a, upon receiving the activation command, engages its energy-storing release mechanism to release the life ring 102. The stored potential energy within the mechanism is converted into kinetic energy, propelling the life ring 102 into the water rapidly and efficiently. The life ring 102, equipped with a light 1003, geotracking unit 1403, and RF transmitter 1413, begins transmitting its location information back to the computing system 1402 via RF signals. This continuous communication allows the vessel's crew to monitor the position of the life ring 102 in real-time.

This remote activation feature enables users to deploy life-saving equipment promptly without the need to physically access the deployment devices 500a, 500b, or 500c. It is particularly advantageous in scenarios where immediate action is required, and reaching the deployment device may be hindered by obstacles, distance, or hazardous conditions. By simply activating their personal unit 200, users can initiate the deployment process, ensuring that assistance is provided as quickly as possible.

The personal unit 200 may also provide feedback to the user upon successful activation. This feedback could be in the form of visual indicators, such as LED lights, or auditory signals like beeps or voice prompts, confirming that the deployment command has been received and executed by the system. Additionally, if the personal unit 200 includes a geotracking unit 220, it can transmit the user's location to the computing system 1402, further aiding in coordinating rescue efforts.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram depicting a computing system or computing device 1500, according to one embodiment. Consistent with the embodiments described herein, the aforementioned actions performed by 1402 or any processor in a life ring 102 or personal unit 200 may be implemented in a computing device, such as the computing device 1500 of FIG. 15. Any suitable combination of hardware, software, or firmware may be used to implement the computing device 1500. The aforementioned system, device, and processors are examples and other systems, devices, and processors may comprise the aforementioned computing device. Furthermore, computing device 1500 may comprise an operating environment for system 100, as described above.

With reference to FIG. 15, a system consistent with an embodiment may include a plurality of computing devices, such as computing device 1500. In a basic configuration, computing device 1500 may include at least one processing unit 1502 and a system memory 1504. Depending on the configuration and type of computing device, system memory 1504 may comprise, but is not limited to, volatile (e.g. random-access memory (RAM)), non-volatile (e.g. read-only memory (ROM)), flash memory, or any combination or memory. System memory 1504 may include operating system 1505, and one or more programming modules 1506. Operating system 1505, for example, may be suitable for controlling computing device 1500's operation. In one embodiment, programming modules 1506 may include, for example, a program module 1507 for executing the actions of 1402. Furthermore, embodiments may be practiced in conjunction with a graphics library, other operating systems, or any other application program and is not limited to any particular application or system. This basic configuration is illustrated in FIG. 15 by those components within a dashed line 1520.

Computing device 1500 may have additional features or functionality. For example, computing device 1500 may also include additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 15 by a removable storage 1509 and a non-removable storage 1510. Computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. System memory 1504, removable storage 1509, and non-removable storage 1510 are all computer storage media examples (i.e., memory storage.) Computer storage media may include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store information and which can be accessed by computing device 1500. Any such computer storage media may be part of device 1500. Computing device 1500 may also have input device(s) 1512 such as a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, a sound input device, a camera, a touch input device, etc. Output device(s) 1514 such as a display, speakers, a printer, etc. may also be included. Computing device 1500 may also include a vibration device capable of initiating a vibration in the device on command, such as a mechanical vibrator or a vibrating alert motor. The aforementioned devices are only examples, and other devices may be added or substituted.

Computing device 1500 may also contain a network connection device 1515 that may allow device 1500 to communicate with other computing devices 1518, such as over a network in a distributed computing environment, for example, an intranet or the Internet. Device 1515 may be a wired or wireless network interface controller, a network interface card, a network interface device, a network adapter or a LAN adapter. Device 1515 allows for a communication connection 1516 for communicating with other computing devices 1518. Communication connection 1516 is one example of communication media. Communication media may typically be embodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” may describe a signal that has one or more characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. The term computer readable media as used herein may include both computer storage media and communication media.

As stated above, a number of program modules and data files may be stored in system memory 1504, including operating system 1505. While executing on processing unit 1502, programming modules 1506 (e.g., program module 1507) may perform processes including, for example, one or more of the stages of the processes described above. The aforementioned processes are examples, and processing unit 1502 may perform other processes. Other programming modules that may be used in accordance with embodiments herein may include electronic mail and contacts applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, database applications, slide presentation applications, drawing or computer-aided application programs, etc.

Generally, consistent with embodiments herein, program modules may include routines, programs, components, data structures, and other types of structures that may perform particular tasks or that may implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, embodiments herein may be practiced with other computer system configurations, including hand-held devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Embodiments herein may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Furthermore, embodiments herein may be practiced in an electrical circuit comprising discrete electronic elements, packaged or integrated electronic chips containing logic gates, a circuit utilizing a microprocessor, or on a single chip (such as a System on Chip) containing electronic elements or microprocessors. Embodiments herein may also be practiced using other technologies capable of performing logical operations such as, for example, AND, OR, and NOT, including but not limited to mechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies. In addition, embodiments herein may be practiced within a general purpose computer or in any other circuits or systems.

Embodiments herein, for example, are described above with reference to block diagrams and/or operational illustrations of methods, systems, and computer program products according to said embodiments. The functions/acts noted in the blocks may occur out of the order as shown in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.

While certain embodiments have been described, other embodiments may exist. Furthermore, although embodiments herein have been described as being associated with data stored in memory and other storage mediums, data can also be stored on or read from other types of computer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like hard disks, floppy disks, or a CD-ROM, or other forms of RAM or ROM. Further, the disclosed methods' stages may be modified in any manner, including by reordering stages and/or inserting or deleting stages, without departing from the claimed subject matter.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

LIFE RING DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM

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