CA2997440A1

CA2997440A1 - Smart buoy

Info

Publication number: CA2997440A1
Application number: CA2997440A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Donald G Leblanc; Eric J Sharp; Nicole E Leblanc
Original assignee: Rda Atlantic Inc
Current assignee: Rda Atlantic Inc
Priority date: 2018-03-06
Filing date: 2018-03-06
Publication date: 2019-09-06

Abstract

Provided herein are mooring buoys comprising a lower buoy body; a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing a rechargeable battery, a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy, and at least one solar panel; a pressure equalization vent for preventing build-up of pressure in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines. Housings for such mooring buoys, and methods performed by mooring buoys, are also described.

Description

SMART BUOY
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to buoys. More specifically, the present invention relates to smart mooring buoys having an on-board electronics system.
BACKGROUND
Mooring buoys are used by boat owners to securely moor their boat when leaving it for an extended period of time. Traditionally, mooring buoys have served simply as buoyant attachment points to which boats or other pleasure craft can be anchored.
Typically, one or more securing lines, such as chain or rope, are used to connect the mooring buoy to a permanent anchor on the seafloor. The chain or rope can break due to corrosion over time, rope chafing, or over-loading. If the connection to the anchor is broken, the mooring buoy and boat attached to the buoy will drift away. The owner of the boat may have no indication that the boat has been lost until the owner visits the site and realizes that the boat is missing.
Often the mooring buoy is located with many others in a crowded mooring field at, for example, a harbour or dock. This can make it difficult to locate a specific buoy, especially at night or in other low visibility conditions. With traditional mooring technology, there are issues with identifying the proper mooring site, with vessel security, and with tracking local weather conditions on-site, for example.
Boats are typically valuable, and owners may experience significant concern over the well-being of their watercraft during storms and other severe weather events. As well, boat theft is an ongoing concern, as boats are often left unattended in relatively remote locations. Traditional mooring buoys offer little or no reassurance to the owner that their property is safe.
An alternative, additional, and/or improved mooring buoy is desirable.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Mooring buoys described herein may provide intelligent monitoring and/or reporting features to the user, by way of on-board electronics, thereby enhancing user experience over traditional "dumb" mooring buoys functioning simply as buoyant attachment points.
Integrating on-board electronics components into a device intended for operation in bodies of water, fully exposed to the elements and typically located in remote locations which are often salty and corrosive, is a particularly challenging problem. Furthermore, watercraft owners and harbourmasters typically demand mooring buoys which have an appealing outward appearance and are free from structures which could damage the hull of a moored watercraft, further complicating the design of intelligent mooring buoys. Mooring buoys are often used by pleasure craft owners who further demand designs which are relatively simple to install and service. As well, particularly for valuable mooring buoys, buoy theft during the off-season may be a concern. Accordingly, described herein are mooring buoy designs which have now been developed for providing intelligent monitoring and/or reporting features, by way of on-board electronics.
Provided herein are mooring buoys comprising a lower buoy body; a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing a rechargeable battery, a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy, and at least one solar panel; a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.
Housings for such mooring buoys, and methods performed by mooring buoys, are also described.
In certain embodiments, mooring buoys described herein may comprise a signalling light for facilitating navigation and securing of a watercraft to the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the signalling light may be controllable by a remote user. In certain embodiments, mooring buoys described herein may comprise a satellite-based positioning system, such as a GPS unit, for determining location of the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the satellite-based positioning system may allow for a user to remotely obtain positional information detailing the

2 location of the mooring buoy and/or watercraft, for example.
In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for mooring buoys to automatically detect an alert condition, such as a break-away condition, drag condition, or a storm event, and take a notification action such as sending an alert to a user. In certain further embodiments, where an alert condition is detected, it may be desirable for the mooring buoy to increase reporting frequency of at least one parameter, such as mooring buoy location, during the alert condition.
Accordingly, provided herein are methods performed by a mooring buoy, which address such break-away, drag, or storm event alert conditions.
In an embodiment, there is provided herein a mooring buoy comprising:
a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing:
a rechargeable battery;
a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy; and at least one solar panel;
a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.
In another embodiment, the interior chamber may comprise a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, and wherein the rechargeable battery may be secured within the recessed chamber. In a further embodiment, the controller may also be secured within the recessed chamber.
In still another embodiment, the interior chamber may comprise a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, and wherein the controller may be secured within the recessed

3 chamber.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body, wherein the at least one solar panel may be at least partially supported by the support post.
In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber. In another embodiment, the covering plate may comprise a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body, wherein the at least one solar panel may be at least partially supported by the support post.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise a signalling light located at a top section of the support post.
In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, at least one solar panel may be positioned about the support post on a vertical incline, and coupled to the support post at a support ridge extending radially outward from the support post.
In another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the transparent dome may be secured by an upper cap which may be positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post.
In another embodiment, the mooring buoy may further comprise a flexible bird spike mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may .. comprise a flexible bird spike mounted to the upper cap. In still further embodiments, the flexible bird spike may be made from spring steel.
In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise a satellite-based positioning system for determining a location of the mooring buoy.
In another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the controller may be programmed to detect a break-away condition or drag condition, when the mooring buoy location is away from an expected location, and take a notification action. In another embodiment, the notification action

4 may comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting the break-away condition or drag condition. In another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency. In still another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the .. break-away condition or drag condition the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency. In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the controller may be programmed to periodically update the expected location. In still another embodiment, the one or more parameters may comprise one or more of buoy location, break-.. away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof. In still another embodiment, the remote location may comprise a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise at least one motion sensor. In certain embodiments, the at least one motion sensor may be used to detect a storm event. In another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to take a notification action when the storm event is detected. In certain embodiments, the notification action may comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert, or any combination thereof. In yet another embodiment, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy. In still another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting the storm event. In still another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the

5 storm event the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency. In a further embodiment, the one or more parameters may comprise one or more of buoy location, storm event condition, break-away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment, the location may comprise a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user.
In another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the at least one motion sensor may comprise an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or any combination thereof.
In another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise one or more radio frequency (RF) transceivers. In another embodiment, the one or more RF
transceivers may comprise a short range radio, and wherein the controller may be programmed to detect a user device within range of the short range radio and enter a mooring mode. In still another embodiment, the one or more RF transceivers may provide two-way communication between a remote device and the mooring buoy. In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring mode may activate a signalling light of the mooring buoy to facilitate mooring to the mooring buoy. In still another embodiment, the remote device may comprise a remote server to which the mooring buoy periodically reports parameters including one or more of: buoy location, buoy status, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment, the remote device may be a user device, and wherein communication allows user control of the mooring buoy .. including operation of one or more lights of the mooring buoy.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may be substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.

6 In still another embodiment, the mooring buoy may comprise a signalling light which provides ambient lighting in low light conditions. In another embodiment, the signalling light may be controllable by a user to illuminate, or to flash, providing a beacon for the user.
In still another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise one or more of a water temperature sensor; a camera; a microphone; a speaker; a fish finder; a sensor for monitoring charge state of the rechargeable battery; a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the underwater anchor and/or tension thereon; a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the watercraft and/or tension thereon; a radar-detectable reflector; a wind speed and direction sensor; a tidal variance sensor; a depth sounder for monitoring tidal changes; or a water sensor for sensing salinity and/or pH.
In yet another embodiment of the above mooring buoys, the mooring buoy may further comprise:
a lower base portion provided between the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering, the lower base portion sealingly engageable with the transparent dome covering and securable to the lower buoyant body, such that when engaged with the transparent dome covering, the interior chamber is enclosed within the transparent dome covering and the lower base portion.
In another embodiment, the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, interior chamber and contents thereof, may be detachable from the lower buoyant body by detaching the lower base portion from the lower buoyant body.
In still another embodiment, the interior chamber may comprise the recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, the recessed chamber portion defined by a protruding section of the lower base portion which is received by a recessed section of the lower buoyant body.
In another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the .. method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;

7 periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a motion sensor of the mooring buoy a potential storm event; and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.
In another embodiment, the one or more parameters may comprise one or more of a buoy location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.
In another embodiment, the method may further comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential storm event. In still another embodiment, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.
In another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;
periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a satellite-based positioning system of the mooring buoy a potential break-away condition or drag condition when a location of the mooring buoy is away from an expected location; and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.
In another embodiment, the one or more parameters may comprise one or more of a buoy

8 location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.
In another embodiment, the method may further comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential break-away or drag condition. In yet another embodiment, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.
In another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting based on a sensor of the mooring buoy a potential detachment of a watercraft from the mooring buoy; and sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential detachment of the watercraft from the mooring buoy.
In still another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting an approach of an authorized watercraft, or an activation signal sent from an authorized user, via a radio frequency (RF) transceiver of the mooring buoy;
and causing a signalling light of the mooring buoy to illuminate or flash in response to the approach of the watercraft or detection of the activation signal, thereby signalling location of the mooring buoy to the user of the watercraft.
In another embodiment of any of the methods above, the method may further comprise steps of:
capturing energy from sunlight using one or more solar panels of the mooring buoy;
and using the captured energy to charge a rechargeable battery of the mooring buoy which

9 powers the mooring buoy.
In another embodiment of any of the methods above, the mooring buoy may be any of the mooring buoys above.
In another embodiment, there is provided herein a housing for a mooring buoy, the housing comprising:
a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber;
a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.
In another embodiment of the housing, the pressure equalization vent may comprise a gas permeable membrane.
In another embodiment, the pressure equalization vent may be mounted through the transparent dome covering.
In still another embodiment of any of the housings above, the interior chamber may comprise a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body.
In yet another embodiment of the about housings, the housing may further comprise a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body.
.. In still another embodiment of the above housings, the housing may further comprise a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber. In yet another embodiment, the covering plate may comprise a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body.
In still another embodiment, the housing may further comprise a housing for a signalling light located at a top section of the support post.
In yet another embodiment of the housings above, the support post may comprise a support ridge extending radially outward for supporting at least one solar panel on a vertical incline.
In still another embodiment of the above housings, the transparent dome may be secured by an upper cap which is positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post.
In yet another embodiment, the above housings may further comprise a flexible bird spike mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering. In certain embodiments, the flexible bird spike may be mounted to the upper cap. In still another embodiment, the flexible bird spike may be made from spring steel.
In another embodiment of the above housings, the housing may be substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.
In another embodiment of any of the housings above, the housing may further comprise:
a lower base portion provided between the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering, the lower base portion sealingly engageable with the transparent dome covering and securable to the lower buoyant body, such that when engaged with the transparent dome covering, the interior chamber is enclosed within the transparent dome covering and the lower base portion.
In another embodiment, the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, and interior chamber, may be detachable from the lower buoyant body by detaching the lower base portion from the lower buoyant body.
In still another embodiment, the interior chamber may comprise the recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, the recessed chamber portion defined by a protruding section of the lower base portion which is received by a recessed section of the lower buoyant body.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a mooring buoy as described herein;
FIGURE 2 shows a side elevational view of the embodiment of the mooring buoy depicted in Figure 1;
FIGURES 3(A)-(E) provide detailed depictions of a mooring buoy embodiment similar to that depicted in Figure 1, providing further interior detail. (A) provides a side elevational view of the mooring buoy, (B) provides a perspective view of the mooring buoy with the transparent dome covering removed, (C) provides a top view of the buoy, (D) provides a cross-sectional side view of the mooring buoy taken along section D-D in (A), and (E) provides an enlarged view of a portion of the depiction in (D);
FIGURES 4(A)-(G) provide detailed depictions of the lower buoyant body of the mooring buoy .. embodiment depicted in Figure 3, providing further detail for the lower buoyant body. (A) provides a perspective view of the lower buoyant body, (B) provides a perspective view of the lower buoyant body, (C) provides a top view of the lower buoyant body, (D) provides a cross-sectional side view of the lower buoyant body, (E) provides another cross-sectional side view of the lower buoyant body which is rotated 90 from the depiction in (D) as taken along section E-E
of (D), and (F) and (G) show enlarged views of portions F and G of the lower buoyant portion depicted in (E);
FIGURES 5(A)-(E) provide detailed depictions of the support post of the mooring buoy embodiment depicted in Figures 3 and 4, providing further detail for the support post. (A) provides a perspective view of the support post, (B) provides a top view of the support post, (C) provides a cross-sectional side view of the support post, (D) provides another cross-sectional side view of the support post, which is rotated 90 from the depiction in (C) as taken along section D-D of (C), and (E) shows a cross-sectional top view of the support post taken along section E-E of (C);
FIGURES 6(A)-(C) provide detailed depictions of the transparent dome covering of the mooring buoy embodiment depicted in Figures 3-5, providing further detail for the transparent dome covering. (A) provides a perspective view of the transparent dome covering, (B) provides a top view of the transparent dome covering, and (C) provides a cross-sectional side view of the transparent dome covering, as taken along section C-C of (B);
FIGURES 7(A)-(E) provide detailed depictions of a solar panel array of the mooring buoy embodiment depicted in Figures 3-6, providing further detail for the solar panel array. (A) provides a perspective view of the solar panel array, (B) provides a flattened top view of the solar panel array, (C) provides a side view of the solar panel array, (D) provides a cross-sectional side view of the solar panel array, which is taken along section D-D of (C), and (E) shows a top view of the solar panel array;
FIGURES 8(A)-(E) provide detailed depictions of the upper cap and bird spike of the mooring buoy embodiment depicted in Figures 3-7, providing further detail for the upper cap and bird spike (also referred to as a bird deterrent post). (A) provides a perspective view of the upper cap and bird spike, (B) provides a top view of the upper cap and bird spike, (C) provides a side elevational view of the upper cap and bird spike, (D) provides a cross-sectional side view of the upper cap and bird spike as taken along section D-D of (C), and (E) provides an enlarged view of portion E of the upper cap and bird deterrent post depicted in (D);
FIGURE 9 shows a schematic of an embodiment of a multifunctional mooring buoy as described herein including GPS, wind speed/direction monitoring, LED lighting, and a wireless communications system (i.e. radio frequency (RF) transceiver);
FIGURE 10 shows a schematic in which a mooring buoy embodiment as described herein is configured to communicate with a user in proximity to the mooring buoy via a local link such as WiFi or Bluetooth radio, and configured to communicate with a remote user via a wireless cellular link which conveys information to a cloud computing system or remote server farm which can then be accessed by the remote user; and FIGURES 11(A)-(B) depict another embodiment of a mooring buoy as described herein, in which the transparent dome covering and electronics components of the mooring buoy are readily detachable from the lower buoyant body. (A) depicts the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, interior chamber and contents thereof removed from the lower buoyant body for storage. In (B), the lower base portion is re-attached to the lower buoyant body (3).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Described herein are mooring buoys, housings therefor, and methods performed by a mooring buoy. It will be appreciated that embodiments and examples are provided for illustrative purposes intended for those skilled in the art, and are not meant to be limiting in any way.
In certain embodiments, mooring buoys described herein may provide intelligent monitoring and/or reporting features to the user, by way of on-board electronics, thereby enhancing user experience over traditional "dumb" mooring buoys functioning simply as buoyant attachment points.
Integrating on-board electronics components into a mooring buoy intended for operation in bodies of water which are often salty and corrosive, and fully exposed to the elements, is a challenging problem. Watercraft owners, and particularly leisure or pleasure craft owners, typically demand mooring buoys having an appealing appearance and being free from structures which could damage the hull of a moored watercraft. Mooring buoys are acted on by waves, wind, and impacts with watercraft hulls, meaning that designs which secure and stabilize electronics components without impairing functionality and without adding excessive bulk are desirable. As well, mooring buoys are acted on by sunlight, which can cause relatively rapid changes in internal temperature. Such factors further complicate the design of intelligent mooring buoys.
Accordingly, described herein are mooring buoy designs which have now been developed for providing intelligent monitoring and/or reporting features, by way of on-board electronics.
Provided herein are mooring buoys comprising a lower buoy body; a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing a rechargeable battery, a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy, and at least one solar panel; a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines used to secure a watercraft and the buoy, directly or indirectly, to an underwater anchor. Housings for such mooring buoys, and methods performed by mooring buoys, are also described.
In an embodiment, mooring buoys described herein may comprise a signalling light for facilitating navigation and securing of a watercraft to the mooring buoy. In another embodiment, the signalling light may be controllable by a remote user. In yet another embodiment, mooring buoys described herein may comprise a satellite-based positioning system, such as a GPS unit, for determining location of the mooring buoy. In still another embodiment, the satellite-based positioning system may allow for a user to remotely obtain positional information detailing the location of the mooring buoy and/or watercraft, for example.
In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for mooring buoys to automatically detect an alert condition, such as a break-away condition, drag condition, or a storm event, and take a notification action such as sending an alert to a user. In certain further embodiments, where an alert condition is detected, it may be desirable for the mooring buoy to increase reporting frequency of at least one parameter, such as mooring buoy location, during the alert condition.
Accordingly, provided herein are methods performed by a mooring buoy, which address such break-away, drag, or storm event alert conditions.
Mooring buoys described herein may provide intelligent monitoring and reporting features to the user. In certain embodiments, mooring buoys described herein may comprise a signalling light, a wireless communications system (i.e. a radio frequency (RF) transceiver), and a satellite-based positioning system, the signalling light facilitating navigation and securing of the watercraft to the correct mooring buoy, and the satellite-based positioning system allowing the user to remotely obtain positional information detailing the location of the buoy and/or watercraft (and allow for the user to be alerted when positional changes occur). In an embodiment, the signalling light and/or satellite-based positioning system may be under control of and/or may report to the controller. In another embodiment, the wireless communications system may allow for two-way communication between the mooring buoy and a user, allowing the user to access buoy information, to control buoy function, and/or to be notified of a buoy alert condition.
In certain embodiments, by providing a user controllable signalling light, the mooring buoy may .. be made to stand out visually for easier locating. In certain embodiments, a satellite-based positioning system (for example, GPS unit) of the mooring buoy may be used to relay the position of the mooring buoy to the boat owner to be displayed on, for example, a smartphone application map or another such device or interface. A controller and/or satellite-based positioning system of the mooring buoy may be programmed to continually monitor (either constantly, or at set time intervals, or upon being triggered by a particular event) the position of the mooring buoy, and to send an alert or notification to the boat owner if the buoy drifts from its expected location, or moves beyond a predetermined distance from an expected location. The satellite-based positioning system may, for example, regularly monitor buoy position, and buoy position may be periodically relayed to a remote server via a wireless communications system. If the satellite-based positioning system reports that the location of the buoy is outside of a pre-determined allowable expected location or area, an alarm may be sent and reported to the remote server and relayed to the boat owner via, for example, a smartphone application, email, SMS text message, automated phone call, or another such interface. The buoy may then increase the frequency of position reporting while drifting or while outside the allowable expected location or area.
As will be understood, a companion smartphone app, computer program, web-based interface, or other such user interface, may be provided to allow for access to mooring buoy status and other information reported by the mooring buoy, and/or to allow for remote control of the mooring buoy, and/or to allow for the user to receive automated alerts from the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy and the companion smartphone app, computer program, or web-based interface may communicate with one another via a remote server communication, via a local wireless or radio network, or both depending on proximity of the user.
In an embodiment, there is provided herein a mooring buoy comprising:

a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing:
a rechargeable battery;
a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy; and at least one solar panel; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may further comprise a pressure equalization vent for equalizing pressure between the interior chamber and the environment, and/or for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber due to temperature fluctuations, for example. In certain embodiments, the pressure equalization vent may be mounted through the transparent dome, or may be otherwise in communication with the interior chamber and the environment and routed through, for example, the lower buoyant body or an upper cap. As will be understood, the .. pressure equalization vent may comprise a suitable vent which allows for pressure equalization between the interior chamber and the environment, and which does not permit appreciable amounts of water or moisture to enter the interior chamber. In certain embodiments, the pressure equalization vent may comprise a gas permeable membrane. The pressure equalization vent may, for example, prevent buildup of pressure inside the interior chamber as a result of heating when the mooring buoy is exposed to sunlight. Such prevention of pressurization of the interior chamber may, for example, facilitate watertight sealing of the interior chamber and may prevent degradation of watertight sealing over time due to repeated pressurization cycles, for example.
As will be understood, the lower buoyant body may comprise any suitable buoyant structure suitable for providing sufficient buoyancy to the mooring buoy to ensure floatation under .. operating conditions. By way of example, the lower buoyant body may be formed using a rotomolding process which may provide a durable high density polymer outer layer and an inner low density foam layer, for example. The person of skill in the art having regard to the teachings herein will be aware of a variety of materials, manufactures, and options for providing a suitable lower buoyant body.
In yet another embodiment, the interior chamber of the mooring buoy may comprise a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body. In certain embodiments, the lower buoyant body may comprise an upper surface, with the recessed chamber portion formed therein. In certain further embodiments, the upper surface of the lower buoyant portion may be a tiered upper surface comprising a lower tier forming the bottom of the recessed chamber, and an upper tier forming a bottom of the interior chamber. In certain embodiments, the recessed chamber may be for housing heavy (i.e. battery) and/or motion-sensitive electrical components and/or components which function more effectively when bobbing and rocking motions are reduced, closer to or at the center of gravity of the buoy, reducing gyration experienced due to, for example, waves or wind, during use. Such reduction in experienced motion may benefit, for example, a satellite-based positioning system by increasing stability for obtaining an accurate positional reading, or a motion sensor such as an accelerometer by dampening unimportant motion detections. In certain embodiments, the recessed chamber may be at least partially separated and/or thermally isolated from the rest of the interior chamber, thereby providing additional protection of electrical components therein. In certain embodiments, the rechargeable battery, the controller, a satellite-based positioning system, a motion sensor, or any combination thereof, of the mooring buoy may be secured within the recessed chamber. In a further embodiment, the mooring buoy may comprise a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber.
In certain embodiments, the covering plate may at least partially cover the recessed chamber, thereby at least partially separating the recessed chamber from the rest of the interior chamber.
Separating the recessed chamber may allow for particularly sensitive electrical components, or particularly valuable electrical components, to benefit from a second layer of protection from the elements when secured therein, providing protection against failure of the transparent dome covering, for example. As well, in certain embodiments, separating the recessed chamber may at least partially thermally isolate the recessed chamber from the rest of the interior chamber, reducing temperature fluctuations which may arise from exposure to sunlight, for example. In an embodiment, one or more ports may be provided to allow wires and other connections into/out of the recessed chamber, which may be either watertight/sealed, and/or which may be elevated a distance above an upper tier of the upper surface of the lower buoyant body, thereby maintaining openings above a level at which water might pool in the event of a transparent dome covering failure, thereby protecting electrical components in the recessed chamber from water damage. As will be understood, in certain embodiments, the upper surface of the lower buoyant body may be tiered, having an upper tier and a lower tier, whereby the lower tier forms the bottom of the recessed chamber and the upper tier (and a top of the covering plate, where present) forms a .. bottom of the rest of the interior chamber.
For example, in certain embodiments, the battery and/or the controller of the mooring buoy may be secured in the recessed chamber to keep heavy components and components sensitive to gyration near the center of gravity of the buoy, while the solar panel(s) and signalling light (if present) of the mooring buoy may be secured within the interior chamber, thereby allowing .. sunlight to reach the solar panel(s) and light from the signalling light to be visible to the user. In certain embodiments, the recessed chamber may be vented, to prevent pressure build-up therein.
In certain embodiments, the rechargeable battery may comprise any suitable energy source for supplying power to components of the mooring buoy, which can be replenished by the one or more solar panels. In certain embodiments, the rechargeable battery may comprise one battery unit, or more than one discrete battery unit connected to one another, or configured to switch between one another to maintain power to the buoy electronics during charging/depletion cycles.
The skilled person having regard to the teachings herein will be aware of suitable energy sources, and configurations thereof, for use as the rechargeable battery. As will also be understood, the at least one solar panel may comprise any suitable solar panel unit configured to capture energy .. from sunlight and use the captured energy to recharge the rechargeable battery.
In certain embodiments, the solar panel(s) may be arranged substantially equally about a perimeter of the transparent dome covering, thereby receiving sunlight regardless of orientation with respect to the sun, and even while the buoy is rotating relative to the sun due to wind or waves.

As will also be understood, the transparent dome covering may comprise any suitable covering, at least a portion of which is transparent or otherwise permeable to light.
The transparent dome covering is securable to the lower buoyant body, directly or indirectly, to define the interior chamber. The transparent dome covering allows sunlight to reach the at least one solar panel to allow for charging of the battery, and allows the signalling light (if present) to be visible to the user. As will be understood, the transparent dome covering may be substantially clear, or may be tinted or colored, so long as it does not substantially impair energy collection from sunlight and does not substantially impair visibility of the signalling light. The transparent dome covering may be made of a material which also does not substantially impair energy collection from sunlight and does not substantially impair visibility of the signalling light.
The transparent dome covering may typically have a generally rounded shape, however it will be understood that the transparent dome covering may adopt other suitable shapes so long as sunlight can still suitably reach the solar panel(s).
In certain embodiments, the satellite-based positioning system may comprise any suitable positioning system or unit, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS)-enabled unit, suitable for determining a location of the mooring buoy, and may, optionally, include an ability to monitor elevation in addition to longitude and latitude. Elevation may allow for monitoring of tidal changes, for example, where a suitably sensitive GPS is used and/or the mooring buoy is deployed in an area with large tidal variance.
In certain embodiments, when the transparent dome covering is secured to the lower buoyant portion, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body may be sealingly engaged, directly or indirectly, thereby providing a sealed or watertight interior chamber for the electronics of the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the transparent dome covering may be sealingly engaged with the upper surface of the lower buoyant body, with another region of the lower buoyant body (for example, a ridge or rim around the periphery of the upper surface), or a combination thereof In certain embodiments, the sealing engagement may comprise a friction fit or screw fit, and/or may comprise a gasket or other seal. In certain embodiments, the transparent dome covering may be removable from, and re-attachable to, the lower buoyant body so as to allow access for maintenance or another such operation.

In still another embodiment, the mooring buoy may comprise a support post extending substantially vertically away from the lower buoyant body. In certain embodiments, the at least one solar panel of the mooring buoy may be at least partially supported by the support post. In an embodiment, at least one solar panel may be positioned about the support post and secured to the support post and/or an upper surface of the lower buoyant body. In certain embodiments, the support post may be integrated with or connected to a covering plate of the mooring buoy secured over a recessed chamber of the interior chamber of the mooring buoy.
In still another embodiment, the mooring buoy may further comprise a signalling light located at a top section of the support post. In another embodiment, the at least one solar panel of the mooring buoy may be positioned about the support post on a vertical incline, and coupled to the support post at a support ridge extending radially outward from the support post. In yet another embodiment, the transparent dome may be secured by an upper cap which is positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post. In yet another embodiment, the at least one solar panel may be positioned about the support post on a vertical incline, and secured directly or indirectly to the support post at a support ridge extending radially outward from the support post.
As will be understood, the support post may comprise any suitable support member or support structure. In certain embodiments, the support post may comprise a hollow tube-like structure, although several different structures may be used depending on the particular application.
In still another embodiment, a mooring buoy as described herein may further comprise a flexible bird spike, or bird deterrent post, mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering. It has been found that birds (gulls, terns, cormorants, etc...) may occasionally perch atop mooring buoys such as those described herein, and will defecate on the mooring buoy.
For the present buoys, this may present a challenge since accumulation of fecal matter on the transparent dome covering may prevent sunlight from reaching the one or more solar panels, impairing ability of the battery to be recharged. Accordingly, for applications where the local bird population has an affinity for perching on the mooring buoy, it may be desirable for the mooring buoy to include a bird spike, or another bird deterrent. In order to avoid damage to the hull or a moored watercraft, the bird spike may, in certain embodiments, comprise a flexible bird spike made from, for example, spring steel. In certain embodiments, the flexible bird spike may be mounted to an upper cap of the mooring buoy.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may comprise a wireless communications system which may comprise any suitable wireless communications unit, or combination of units, suitable for wirelessly communicating between the buoy and the user, between the buoy and the harbormaster, between the buoy and a device on the watercraft, and/or amongst electrical components of the mooring buoy itself. In certain embodiments, the wireless communications system may include a cellular communications system for communication with a remote user, may include a local wireless communications system (i.e. Zigbee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF, or other .. such local wireless system) for communicating with a user or a watercraft in proximity to the buoy, or both. The skilled person having regard to the teachings herein will be aware of suitable wireless communications systems appropriate for a particular application.
In certain embodiments, the controller may comprise any suitable programmable controller or plurality of controllers suitable for operating electronics of the mooring buoy. By way of example, the controller may comprise an Arduino controller, or other such controller which may be programmed with instructions for operation of the buoy and features thereof.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may further comprise at least one motion sensor, such as an accelerometer or another motion detector, for sensing movement of the mooring buoy. The accelerometer or other such motion detection unit may be a discrete module, or may be integrated with another component such as the controller.
In further embodiments, the satellite-based positioning unit, wireless communications system (i.e. RF transceiver), and controller may include any suitable discrete or integrated components known to the person of skill in the art having regard to the teachings herein.
In certain embodiments, the controller may comprise one or more programmable controller units configured to control operation of the components (i.e. signalling light, GPS, wireless, solar panel, battery, other) included in the multifunctional electronics module, and may be configured to receive sensor and/or status information therefrom (either through wired or wireless connection) and trigger responses there to (i.e. activation of signalling light, sending of drift alert to the user, etc...). As will be understood, the controller may comprise a central control unit for controlling the electronics components, or may comprise more than one discrete controller unit responsible for particular operations which may, or may not, be in communication with one another. As will be understood, a variety of configurations may be possible, and may be selected to suit the particular application and feature set.
In certain embodiments, the one or more attachment points may comprise any suitable attachment point for engaging with one or more securing lines for securely linking the mooring buoy to an underwater anchor; for securely linking the mooring buoy to the watercraft; and/or for engaging the mooring buoy with a securing line which is for securely linking the watercraft to an underwater anchor, with the mooring buoy positioned along the securing line between the watercraft and the mooring anchor, for example. In certain embodiments, one attachment point may be for securing the buoy to the underwater anchor via a first securing line, while another may be used for securing the buoy to the watercraft via a second securing line. In another embodiment, one attachment point may be used for both securing the buoy to the underwater anchor via a first securing line, and for securing the buoy to the watercraft via a second securing line. In another embodiment, a single securing line may be used to secure the watercraft to the underwater anchor, and the mooring buoy may be engaged with the securing line at a position along the securing line such that the mooring buoy maintains a portion of the securing line at the surface of the water to allow easy access for the watercraft user. In certain embodiments, a single securing line may be used to link the underwater anchor, mooring buoy, and watercraft, or more than one securing line may be used. In certain embodiments, an additional floater may be included on an end of a securing line intended for securing to the watercraft, to assist the user with retrieving the securing line for attachment to the watercraft. As will be understood, attachment point(s) may engage with securing line(s) in any suitable manner appropriate for the application, and may include embodiments where the securing line is fixedly attached to the attachment point, where the securing line is slidingly engaged with the attachment point (for example, the securing line passes through an aperture of the securing line), or another such coupling or engagement. Where a securing line is slidingly engaged with an attachment point, a collar or other such stopper may be provided on the securing line to catch at the attachment point to prevent the securing line from sinking. The person of skill in the art having regard to the teachings herein will be aware of a variety of suitable attachment point and securing line arrangements appropriate for a particular application.
In another embodiment, mooring buoys as described herein may comprise a satellite-based positioning system for determining a location of the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the controller may be programmed to detect a break-away condition, a drag condition, or both, when the mooring buoy location is away from an expected location, and take a notification action. The break-away condition may arise when the mooring buoy becomes detached from the underwater mooring or anchor, leaving the mooring buoy (and the watercraft, if attached thereto) untethered and drifting. The drag condition may arise when the underwater anchor is being drug along the sea floor due to, for example, winds or other forces exerted on the watercraft and/or buoy at the surface. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be programmed with an expected location at which the mooring buoy is expected to be located. The expected location may be a specific location or region, and may or may not include drift tolerances to allow for the mooring buoy to drift beyond the expected location for less than a pre-set amount of time or by less than a pre-set distance without triggering the notification action. An expected location may include, for example, a longitude and latitude which has been selected as a desired home location for the mooring buoy, and may include an allowable pre-set or selectable tolerance to accommodate minor deviations therefrom due to waves, wind, changes in water depth, tidal action, current, or other such factors. In certain embodiments, a user may program the mooring buoy with an acceptable expected location at which the buoy may be located, beyond which the alert may be triggered. In certain embodiments, break-away may be detected by the reported GPS position being outside of a pre-described watch circle. In certain embodiments, a watch circle defining an expected location encircling a particular latitude and longitude position, having a radius about the position of the mooring anchor which is determined from the length of the anchor securing line (i.e. anchor chain or anchor rope) and water depth, may be used to define the acceptable expected location based on a maximum radius/diameter about the mooring anchor wherein the mooring buoy would be at the limit of the fully extended securing line (i.e.
rope or chain). In certain embodiments, the radius could be entered manually by a user, or a user may perform a calibration operation by using a boat to pull the buoy outwards in a circle about its full outer limit of range (limited by the length of securing line chain or rope running from the underwater mooring anchor) while the mooring buoy is set to record location at a high frequency, thereby recording the GPS co-ordinates of the outer limit and calibrating the acceptable expected location.
In certain embodiments, the notification action may comprise sending a light, noise, or message-.. based alert, or any combination thereof. Where the mooring buoy includes a signalling light, the signalling light may be illuminated, flashed, or pulsed, to alert the user and/or assist with locating the mooring buoy during break-away or drag. Where the mooring buoy includes a speaker, a noise may be sounded to alert the user and/or assist with locating the mooring buoy during break-away or drag. Where the mooring buoy comprises a wireless communications system, the notification action may include sending a message-based alert. In certain embodiments, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups, depending on whether or not a watercraft has been moored to the mooring buoy. For example, where a watercraft has been moored to the mooring buoy, the recipient(s) of the message-based alert may include the watercraft owner, the harbourmaster, or both, for example. Where a watercraft is not moored to the mooring buoy, the recipient(s) of the message-based alert may include the buoy owner. For example, where the mooring buoy belongs to a harbour master, and no watercraft user has booked or used the mooring buoy, the recipient of the message-based alert may be the harbour master, as it is not necessary for a boat owner to be alerted.
In certain embodiments, the message-based alert may comprise a text message, email, app notification, or other such alert.
In another embodiment, where the mooring buoy comprises a wireless communications system such as a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, the controller of the mooring buoy may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location.
Parameters may include, for example, buoy location, break-away condition status, drag condition status, buoy sensor information (i.e. water temperature, air temperature, etc...), buoy alarm status (i.e. battery failure, storm event, etc...), buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status (i.e. mooring status of a watercraft to the buoy), or any combination thereof.

In still another embodiment, the controller of the mooring buoy may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting a break-away or drag condition. In certain embodiments, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the break-away condition or the drag condition the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater (i.e. more frequent) than the first reporting frequency. In certain embodiments, the one or more parameters comprise buoy location, break-away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof. In certain further embodiments, the remote location may be a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user.
In certain embodiments, the controller may be programmed to periodically update the expected location used for determining break-away and/or drag condition, to accommodate for minor drifting of the mooring buoy throughout a season, for example. In certain embodiments, a running average of mooring buoy position could be maintained over a set period of time, for example a week or weeks, or a season, and if a deviation is detected the user could be notified that re-calibration of the expected location may be of interest. In certain embodiments, depending on prevailing winds/currents, the mooring buoy may inhabit one end/area of its allowable region for an extended period of time. A running average of its position may be calculated, and if there is deviation by a predetermined amount from that running average a warning could be sent. If the buoy continues to drift, an alarm condition may be sent.
In yet another embodiment, the mooring buoy may comprise at least one motion sensor. In yet another embodiment, the at least one motion sensor may be used to detect a storm event. In still another embodiment, the controller may be programmed to take a notification action when the storm event is detected. Where the mooring buoy includes an accelerometer, IMU, or other such motion sensor, a higher than average motion reading (likely due to wind or waves, and determined with reference to a long term running average, for example) for more than a predetermined period of time might be used to detect a storm event. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may receive a local weather forecast from a remote server, signalling a potential storm condition to the buoy (based on, for example, increased wind levels). In certain embodiments, the weather forecast may be used to trigger the mooring buoy to increase monitoring of motion sensors for detecting a local storm event, for example.
In certain embodiments, the notification action may comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert, or any combination thereof. Where the mooring buoy includes a signalling light, the signalling light may be illuminated, flashed, or pulsed, to alert the user and/or assist with locating the mooring buoy during a storm event. Where the mooring buoy includes a speaker, a noise may be sounded to alert the user and/or assist with locating the mooring buoy during a storm event.
Where the mooring buoy comprises a wireless communications system, the notification action may include sending a message-based alert. In certain embodiments, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups, depending on whether or not a watercraft has been moored to the mooring buoy. For example, where a watercraft has been moored to the mooring buoy, the recipient(s) of the message-based alert may include the watercraft owner, the harbourmaster, or both, for example. Where a watercraft is not moored to the mooring buoy, the recipient(s) of the message-based alert may include the buoy owner. For example, where the mooring buoy belongs to a harbour master, and no watercraft user has booked or used the mooring buoy, the recipient of the message-based alert may be the harbour master, as it is not necessary for a boat owner to be alerted.
In another embodiment, where the mooring buoy comprises a wireless communications system such as a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, the controller of the mooring buoy may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location.
Parameters may include, for example, buoy location, storm event condition, break-away condition status, drag condition status, buoy sensor information (i.e. water temperature, air temperature, etc...), buoy alarm status (i.e. battery failure, storm event, etc...), buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status (i.e. mooring status of a watercraft to the buoy), or any combination thereof In still another embodiment, the controller of the mooring buoy may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting a storm event. In certain embodiments, the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the storm event the controller may be programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater (i.e.
more frequent) than the first reporting frequency. In certain embodiments, the one or more parameters comprise buoy location, storm event condition, break-away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.
In certain further embodiments, the remote location may be a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user. In certain embodiments, the motion sensor may comprise one or more of an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or any combination thereof.
In another embodiment, the mooring buoys described herein may comprise one or more radio frequency (RF) transceivers. In certain embodiments, the one or more RF
transceivers may comprise a short range radio, wherein the controller is programmed to detect a user device within range of the short range radio and enter a mooring mode. In certain embodiments, the mooring mode may activate a signalling light of the mooring buoy to facilitate mooring to the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the one or more RF transceivers may provide two-way communication between a remote device and the mooring buoy. In certain further embodiments, the remote device may be a remote server to which the mooring buoy periodically reports parameters including one or more of: buoy location, buoy status, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, break-away condition status, drag condition status, storm event status, or any combination thereof, for example. In another embodiment, the remote device may be a user device, and wherein communication may allow user control of the mooring buoy including operation of one or more lights of the mooring buoy, for example.
In certain embodiments the mooring buoy may be substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may comprise a signalling light which provides ambient lighting in low light conditions. In certain further embodiments, the signalling light may be controllable by a user to illuminate, or to flash, providing a beacon for the user as desired.
In further embodiments, the signalling light may comprise any suitable lighting system able to provide a suitable light source for the buoy. In certain embodiments, a relatively energy efficient lighting system, such as an LED-based lighting system, may be used to reduce energy demands.
In certain embodiments, the signalling light may be capable of providing adjustable intensity or brightness, may be capable of providing light of different color, and/or may be capable of flashing or pulsing with an adjustable frequency or with an adjustable pattern. In certain embodiments, the signalling light may comprise, or may be connected with, an ambient light sensor allowing the signalling light to automatically illuminate in low light conditions. In certain embodiments, the signalling light may be located under the transparent dome covering and therefore protected from the elements. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the signalling light may be positioned atop or outside the transparent dome covering, in which case a waterproof or water resistant signalling light may be selected. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may receive sunrise and sunset times from a remote server, and may operate the signalling light based on these received times to provide suitable lighting.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may further comprise one or more of a water temperature sensor; a sensor for monitoring charge state of the rechargeable battery; a camera; a microphone for audio monitoring; a speaker for playing audio from the buoy; a fish finder; a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the underwater anchor and/or tension thereon; a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the watercraft and/or tension thereon; a radar-detectable reflector; a wind speed and direction sensor; a depth sounder for measuring tidal changes; a tidal variance sensor; or a water sensor for sensing salinity and/or pH.
As will be understood, other sensor(s) may be included as desired to suit a particular application.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be provided with one or more cameras for providing visual confirmation of watercraft attachment, local weather conditions, and/or buoy location. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be programmed to send an image, a video, or both, from the camera to a remote server and/or to a user at a predetermined interval, in response to an event such as detection of a storm event, a break-away condition, a drag condition, or a boat theft condition, or upon receiving a request from a user.
In certain embodiments, the one or more cameras may be used to provide an image feed to the controller and/or to a remote server, which may be programmed to analyze the image feed using an algorithm to verify boat attachment. In such manner, a break-away or theft condition may be identified be analyzing an image feed provided by the one or more cameras, for example.
In certain embodiments, mooring buoys as described herein may comprise a multifunctional electronics module enclosed in the interior chamber, the multifunctional electronics module comprising a rechargeable battery; at least one solar panel for capturing energy from sunlight and charging the battery; a satellite-based positioning system for tracking location of the mooring buoy; a signalling light; a wireless communications system for communicating with a user; and a controller.
In certain embodiments, where it is desirable for the transparent dome covering and electronics components of the mooring buoy to be readily detachable from the lower buoyant body (for example, to service the electronics, to store the electronics during low season or winter, or to avoid theft, without requiring full removal of the mooring buoy and without requiring detachment of the mooring buoy from the underwater anchor), the interior chamber may be designed as a self-contained unit which is separable from the lower buoyant portion. By way of example, the interior chamber may be enclosed within the transparent dome covering and a lower base portion, and in certain embodiments the transparent dome covering may be sealingly engageable with the lower base portion to form the interior chamber for the electronics. An example of such an embodiment is depicted in Figures 11(A) and 11(B), with the lower base portion indicated as (110). Figure 11(A) depicts the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, interior chamber and contents thereof removed from the lower buoyant body for storage.
In Figure 11(B), the lower base portion is re-attached to the lower buoyant body (3). In one such embodiment, the lower base portion may comprise a complementary tiered lower base portion, which is structured to reversibly engage with the upper surface of the lower buoyant body.

Figures 11(A) and 11(B) depict one such embodiment, in which the lower base portion (110) is a tiered lower base portion, with a protruding section (111) formed therein which corresponds to and may be mated with a recessed section (112) of the lower buoyant body (3), whereby the protruding section (111) may be received in the recessed section (112) and may engage with the recessed section (112) via a friction fit or threaded engagement, for example, thereby reversibly securing the lower base portion to the lower buoyant portion (3). The interior chamber may then comprise a recessed chamber portion (17) within the lower buoyant body, the recessed chamber portion (17) being defined by the protruding section (111). The recessed chamber portion may then be used to house electrical components in the manner as already described herein. In certain embodiments, the protruding section may engage with the recessed section via a friction fit, via a threaded bolt-type engagement, via a ridge/groove-type engagement, or another such coupling, thereby securing the lower base portion to the lower buoyant body. The interior chamber and electronics therein (i.e. the transparent dome covering, the lower base portion, and electronics housed in the interior chamber defined therebetween) may then be removed from the lower buoyant body as a self-contained unit by overcoming or undoing the friction fit or other such engagement between the lower base portion and the lower buoyant body. This may be desirable to, for example, service the electronics, prevent theft, interchange the electronics between different lower buoyant bodies, or install the electronics on another buoy. In certain embodiments, the lower base portion may be structured to accommodate and secure to a standard buoy, thereby using the standard buoy as a lower buoyant body.
Examples of a mooring buoy as described herein (as well as housings for such mooring buoys) are depicted in Figures 1-8. In the depicted examples, a mooring buoy (1) is shown, which comprises:
a lower buoyant body (3);
a transparent dome covering (11) securable to the lower buoyant body (3), when secured to the lower buoyant body (3), the transparent dome covering (11) and the lower buoyant body (3) defining an interior chamber (4) enclosing:
a rechargeable battery (6);

a controller (9) configured to control operation of the mooring buoy (1); and at least one solar panel (7);
a pressure equalization vent (29), the pressure equalization vent (29) mounted through the transparent dome covering (11); and one or more attachment points (10) for engaging with one or more securing lines, thereby securing the buoy (1) to an underwater anchor and to a watercraft via one or more securing lines.
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lower buoyant body (3) comprises a polymer-based floatation body, and the transparent dome covering (11) comprises and a polycarbonate dome. A signalling light (8) is further provided, comprising a light emitting diode (LED)-based, or other such energy-efficient or low energy, lighting system which is colour configurable and features intensity modulation and is user controllable via a smartphone application through a wireless communication system of the mooring buoy.
The lower buoyant body (3) provides suitable flotation force to support commonly used mooring chain sizes, and in the depicted non-limiting example is formed using a rotomolding process which may provide a durable high density polymer outer layer and an inner low density foam layer. Other lower buoyant body configurations are also contemplated. A
shackle-type attachment point (10) with a molded-in stainless steel bushing is provided on the bottom of the lower buoyant body (3) of the mooring buoy. A band of reflective material may be provided, encircling the mooring buoy for providing improved visibility in low light conditions. It will be recognized that a variety of different materials and components may be used, and may be selected to suit a particular application. These examples are simply provided for illustrative purposes.
In the depicted example, the lower buoyant body (3) is structured to provide about 120 lbs (about 55kg) of buoyancy. The attachment point (10) is for engaging with a securing line running from an underwater anchor up to the surface, allowing the mooring buoy (10) to provide buoyancy to maintain a portion of the securing line at the surface, so the securing line can be secured to a watercraft by the user, thereby mooring the watercraft. As will be understood a variety of different attachment point/securing line arranges may be used depending on the particular application. The buoy is free of sharp protrusions that could harm a watercraft (while still including a flexible bird spike to deter bird perching). In certain embodiments, the buoy may include a radar reflector proud of the waterline, which may for example comprise a metallic-based radar reflector enclosed inside the buoy. In certain embodiments, the device may act as a SPAR buoy and allow for an ice flow to traverse over it, if necessary. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be configured to keep the electronics in the interior chamber dry, even if the buoy becomes fully submerged.
In the depicted embodiment of Figures 1-8, a satellite-based positioning system (in this example, a GPS unit) and a wireless communications system (in this example, an RF
transceiver) are integrated with the controller (9), along with an accelerometer for motion sensing, however it will be understood one or more of these may alternatively be provided as separate units. In this example, the controller (9) collects sensor data and sends and receives information and instructions from remote computer device(s) through the wireless communications system. As shown in Figure 4(F), the depicted lower buoyant body (3) includes an indented ring (18), on which a reflective stripe may be positioned to prevent the reflective stripe from being scratched or damaged from impact with the boat hull or other floating body (such as a log, etc...) during use.
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the depicted mooring buoy comprises a pressure equalization vent (29) comprising a gas permeable membrane, the pressure equalization vent (29) mounted through the transparent dome covering (11). In Figure 3(A), the mooring buoy is shown with the transparent dome covering (11) secured to the lower buoyant body (3), thereby providing a sealed interior chamber (4) for the buoy electronics. In Figure 3(B), the transparent dome covering (11) has been removed from the mooring buoy, allowing access to the interior chamber (4) for service of the electronics.
In the depicted embodiment, as shown in Figures 3(D) and 3(E), the interior chamber (4) comprises a recessed chamber (17) portion within the lower buoyant body (3), and the rechargeable battery, GPS unit, accelerometer, and the controller of the mooring buoy are secured within a recessed chamber (17). In such manner, heavy components (i.e.
the battery) and components which are sensitive to motion or which function more effectively when bobbing and rocking motions are reduced, are located close to the center of gravity of the mooring buoy, thereby reducing experienced motion due to, for example, rocking and bobbing due to waves.
Such reduced motion may benefit, for example, a GPS unit by increasing stability in order to facilitate suitable communication periods for signal fixing without excessive gyrating, or a motion sensor such as an accelerometer by dampening unimportant motion detections, for example. As shown in Figures 4(A), 4(C), 4(D), and 4(E), the lower buoyant body (3) has the recessed chamber (17) formed therein. Additional views of the depicted lower buoyant body (3) are provided in Figures 4(A)-4(G).
In the depicted embodiment, the recessed chamber (17) is covered by covering plate (20) secured over the recessed chamber (17). As shown in Figures 3(D) and 3(E), the mooring buoy (1) comprises a support post (14) extending substantially vertically away from the lower buoyant body (3), and at least one solar panel (7) (in the depicted example, 5 solar panels (7) are .. provided) is/are positioned about the support post (14) at least partially supported by the support post (14). In the depicted embodiment, the support post (14) is integrated with the covering plate (20) such that the covering plate (20) comprises the support post (14). The recessed chamber (17) is thereby separated from the rest of the interior chamber (4), allowing for sensitive and/or valuable electrical components therein to benefit from a second layer of protection from the elements by providing protection against failure of the transparent dome covering (11). A port formed through the support post (14), with openings (40) raised above an upper tier (41) of the upper surface (13) of the lower buoyant body (3), is provided for running wires into the recessed chamber (17), thereby maintaining openings above a level at which water might pool in the event of transparent dome covering (11) failure.
.. The support post (14) is depicted in further detail in Figures 5(A)-5(E).
In the depicted embodiment, the signalling light (8) is located at a top section of the support post (14), at a light housing (15) formed therein. As well, in the depicted embodiment, the mooring buoy (1) is substantially pear-shaped, with the transparent dome covering (11) and the lower buoyant body (3) each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering (11) is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.
By way of example, Figure 1 depicts an embodiment in which the mooring buoy (1) is substantially pear-shaped, having a circular horizontal cross-section and progressively increasing and then decreasing in diameter moving from bottom (i.e. submerged end) to top of the mooring buoy.
As shown in Figures 1-3, and as shown in further detail in Figures 6(A)-(C), the depicted mooring buoy embodiment comprises a transparent dome covering (11) which, when secured to the lower buoyant body (3), together defines the interior chamber (4). The interior chamber (4) encloses electronics components for the mooring buoy (such as the battery, controller, and solar panels), and seals against the lower buoyant body (3), thereby providing a sealed (water-tight) engagement between the transparent dome covering (11) and the lower buoyant body (3). As shown in Figure 4(G), the upper surface (13) of the lower buoyant body (3) includes a friction fit rim (19) about its outer edge, to which the transparent dome covering (11) can be sealingly engaged. In Figures 1, 2, 4, and 6, the transparent dome covering (11) fits onto, and is sealed to, the top of the polymer-based lower buoyant body (3) with the aid of an overlapping lip as the friction fit.
Figures 5(A)-5(E) depict an embodiment of a support post (14) as described herein, which is used in the mooring buoy depicted in Figures 1-3. The support post (14) is integrated with, or connected to, covering plate (20) which fastens to the upper surface (13) of the lower buoyant body (3), and covers the recessed chamber (17). The support post (14) includes a channel running therethrough for connecting the signalling light (8) positioned at the light housing (15) of the support post (14) to the controller (9) and battery (6), and for providing wired connection(s) to allow the solar panel(s) (7) to charge the battery (6). The channel may also provide venting between the recessed chamber and the rest of the interior chamber. The support post (14) includes a signalling light housing (15) which includes openings therein to allow light transmission. The support post (14) also includes a support ridge (25) extending radially outward from the support post (14), for securing the one or more solar panels (7).
As shown in Figures 3(E) and 7(A)-(E), the at least one solar panel (7) (in the depicted example, 5 solar panels (7) are provided) are positioned about the support post (14) on a vertical incline, and secured indirectly to the support post (14) at the support ridge (25) of the support post (14) extending radially outwardly therefrom. The upper portion of each solar panel (7) is connected to a pentagonally shaped plate (26) (5 sides, each corresponding to one of the solar panels) with a central hole therein sized to accommodate the support post (14) and rest atop and/or affix to the support ridge (25). In certain embodiments, the pentagonally-shaped plate (26) may comprise a plate with five bent flaps to which the solar panels (7) may be mounted, and the 5 solar panels (7) may be mounted at an angle to the horizon. As will be understood, the plate (26) need not be pentagonal, and may for example adopt another shape with a number of sides appropriate for the desired number of solar panels to be installed, for example. In the depicted embodiment, the solar panels (7) are mounted on a vertical incline with an angle to the horizon of about 68 , although this is merely for illustrative purposes as other angles may be used depending on the particular location, angles of light received, and type of solar panel used.
In the depicted embodiment, the support post (14) comprises a tube which is hollow, thereby allowing wires from the solar panels to be fed under the plate (26), through openings (40), and down through the .. tube to the battery and controller with minimal visual disruption, and allowing the controller and battery to be housed in a protected region.
As shown in Figure 5(A), the upper end (22) of the support post (14) includes an engagement member (23) for connection with an upper cap (24). The upper cap (24) is depicted in further detail in Figures 8(A)-8(E). As shown, the upper cap (24) comprises a widened head portion (27) .. structured to seal against the exterior of the transparent dome covering (11), and includes a protruding portion (engagement member, such as a friction fit or threaded member) (28) which extends through a hole in the transparent dome covering (11) and engages with the corresponding engagement member (23) of the support post (14), thereby further securing the transparent dome covering (11). As the transparent dome covering provides a watertight interior .. chamber (4) enclosing electrical components of the buoy, a pressure equalization vent (29) comprising a gas permeable membrane is provided mounted through the transparent dome covering (11) to allow equilibration and to prevent over- and under-pressuring due to changes in temperature or temperature fluctuations within the sealed interior chamber (4).
As shown in Figure 8, a flexible bird spike (30) is provided mounted to and extending from a top of the upper cap (24) to prevent birds from perching on the mooring buoy (1).
In certain embodiments, the flexible bird post (30) may comprise a thin stainless spring steel rod affixed to the top of the transparent dome covering (11) as a means of deterring birds from resting on the top of the buoy (1).
The mooring buoy (1) depicted in Figures 1-3 is substantially pear-shaped, with the transparent dome covering (11) and the lower buoyant body (3) each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering (11) is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body (3).
Mooring buoys as described herein may be of particular interest to pleasure craft owners and marina operators, for example. In certain embodiments, mooring buoys as described herein may provide a relatively low profile buoy, which may aid mariners in the operation and management of their pleasure craft. Features such as on-demand ambient illumination and/or flashing (fog piercing), night-glow, owner ID verification, position monitoring, verification of connection to mooring chain/rope, alarm signaling on location variance, theft alarm signalling, and/or ambient water temperature sensing may be configured with design embodiments described herein. In certain embodiments, features may include position sensing which may be used to provide a position variance signal, proximity sensing with a boat, and the variance signal may be used to monitor linkage between the boat and the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, mooring buoys described herein may be generally non-damaging to boat hulls, may include water temperature sensing, and/or may be detectable by radar.
Also provided herein are housings for mooring buoys. In certain embodiments, there is provided herein a housing for a mooring buoy, the housing comprising:
a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.

In another embodiment, the housing may further comprise a pressure equalization vent for equalizing pressure between the interior chamber and the environment, and/or for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber due to temperature fluctuations, for example. In certain embodiments, the pressure equalization vent may be mounted through the transparent dome, or may be otherwise in communication with the interior chamber and the environment and routed through, for example, the lower buoyant body or an upper cap. In certain embodiments, the pressure equalization vent may comprise a gas permeable membrane, for example.
In another embodiment, the interior chamber may comprise a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body. In yet another embodiment, the housing may further comprise a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber.
In still another embodiment, the housing may further comprise a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body. In another embodiment, the covering plate may comprise the vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body (i.e. the support post may be integrated with, or connected to, the covering plate). In another embodiment, the support post may comprise a housing for a signalling light located at a top section of the support post. In still another embodiment, the support post may comprise a support ridge extending radially outward from the support post for supporting at least one solar panel on a vertical incline. In yet another embodiment, the transparent dome of the housing may be secured by an upper cap which is positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post via, for example, a threaded or friction fit engagement.
In yet another embodiment, the housing may further comprise a flexible bird spike mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering. In certain embodiments, the flexible bird spike may be mounted to an upper cap of the housing. In another embodiment, the flexible bird spike may be made from spring steel or another flexible material which deters birds without causing damage to watercraft hulls.
In another embodiment, the housing may be substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.
In certain embodiments, the housing may include an antifouling coating.
Methods performed by mooring buoys are also provided herein. In an embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;
periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a motion sensor of the mooring buoy a potential storm event; and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.
When no storm event is detected, reporting frequency may be low to conserve battery power.
When a storm event is detected, reporting frequency may be increased to provide frequently updated and/or real-time information to the user.
In certain embodiments, the one or more parameters may comprise a buoy location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.
In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise sending a notification to a user that a potential storm event has been detected. In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential storm event.
In certain embodiments, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy Such methods may be performed in order for the mooring buoy to automatically detect an alert condition, such as a storm event, and take appropriate action to alert the user and/or provide the user with up-to-date information to track and/or locate the mooring buoy in the event of break-away or drag during the storm event.
In another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;
periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a satellite-based positioning system of the mooring buoy a potential break-away or drag condition when a location of the mooring buoy is away from an expected location; and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.
When no break-away or drag condition is detected, reporting frequency may be low to conserve battery power. When a break-away or drag condition is detected, reporting frequency may be increased to provide frequently updated and/or real-time information to the user.
In certain embodiments, the one or more parameters may comprise a buoy location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.
In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise sending a notification to a user that a potential break-away condition or drag condition, or both, has been detected.
In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential break-away or drag condition. In certain embodiments, the message-based alert may be sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy In another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting based on a sensor of the mooring buoy a potential detachment of a watercraft from the mooring buoy; and sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential detachment of the watercraft from the mooring buoy.
In certain embodiments, the sensor for detecting a potential detachment of the watercraft may comprise one or more cameras of the mooring buoy. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be provided with one or more cameras for providing visual confirmation of watercraft attachment, and the mooring buoy may be programmed to provide an image feed to the controller and/or to a remote server, which may be programmed to analyze the image feed using an algorithm to verify boat attachment. In such manner, a potential detachment of the watercraft may be detected by automated analysis of an image feed provided by the one or more cameras, for example.
In certain embodiments, the sensor for detecting a potential detachment of the watercraft may comprise a conductive wire loop attached, provided on, or integrated with a painter, leader, or leash linked between the watercraft and the mooring buoy. A detachment of the watercraft from the mooring buoy may be detected based on a break in conductivity. In certain embodiments, a wire loop of the mooring buoy may be attached to a conductive plug of the watercraft, and detachment from the plug may be identified based on a break in the circuit, for example.
In certain embodiments, the sensor may comprise a Bluetooth-based modem. In certain embodiments, a Bluetooth or other such wireless tag may be positioned on the moored watercraft, and the presence or absence of the moored boat may be detected based on detection of the tag. The mooring buoy may be programmed to periodically check that the wireless tag is still within range. If the moored boat (i.e. the wireless tag) is not detected, an alert may be sent to the boat owner via the wireless communications system, for example. In certain embodiments, a user interface may be accessible by a user, for example via a smartphone app, to allow the user to notify the buoy that they are taking the boat, to avoid unnecessary alarm.

In still another embodiment, there is provided herein a method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting an approach of an authorized watercraft, or an activation signal sent from an authorized user, via a radio frequency (RF) transceiver of the mooring buoy;
and causing a signalling light of the mooring buoy to illuminate or flash in response to the approach of the watercraft or detection of the activation signal, thereby signalling location of the mooring buoy to the user of the watercraft.
As will be understood, in certain embodiments, methods as described herein may further comprise steps of:
capturing energy from sunlight using one or more solar panels of the mooring buoy; and using the captured energy to charge a rechargeable battery of the mooring buoy which powers the mooring buoy.
As will also be understood, in certain embodiments, the mooring buoy of methods described herein may be a mooring buoy as described herein, such as the example depicted in Figures 1-8 and described in detail above.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy as described herein may be configured to provide ambient lighting in low light conditions via a signalling light of the buoy.
The signalling light may, for example, include a light sensor or timer, which may cause the signalling light to glow or dimly light in low-light conditions (such as in the evening or at night). In certain embodiments, activation of the signalling light may be controllable by the user to illuminate, or to flash, providing a beacon for the user. The user may be able to control the signalling light either through a user interface or button on the mooring buoy, or remotely via a wireless device able to communicate with the mooring buoy via the wireless communications system, or both. In certain embodiments, the signalling light may be configured to illuminate, or to flash, when the user or the user's watercraft approaches the mooring buoy as automatically detected by a wireless communications system of the mooring buoy, or when the user or a dock or harbourmaster sends a signalling light activation signal to the mooring buoy.
In certain embodiments, watercrafts utilizing a particular dock site or harbour may be each provided with a Bluetooth or other such wireless beacon, each having a unique identifier. The mooring buoys used at the dock site or harbour may be programmed to receive the unique identifier from the wireless beacon and to check whether the unique identifier is found on an allowed list of identifiers in order to determine whether the approaching or docked watercraft is authorized to use the mooring buoy. A signal may be provided to the watercraft user and/or the harbourmaster to indicate authorization status, for example. In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy may be provided with a camera, the video feed from which may be used to determine .. whether an authorized watercraft is approaching and/or using the mooring buoy.
In certain embodiments, the signalling light may be configured to provide light of different colors, allowing signals to be sent to the user. For example, if the mooring buoy is already occupied, the mooring buoy may illuminate in red, whereas if a mooring buoy is available it may illuminate in green. As another example, where a mooring buoy detects that a non-authorized user or watercraft is approaching or attempting to use the buoy, the buoy may illuminate in red.
Signals may be selected so as to not interfere with navigation signals and other nautical requirements and regulations. For example, blue and white signals could be used instead of red and green where appropriate.
As will be understood, in certain embodiments the mooring buoys described herein may include one or more additional sensors or other functional units providing the mooring buoy with additional features. By way of example, the multifunctional electronics module may additionally comprise or connect with one or more of a water temperature sensor; a camera;
a microphone; a speaker; a fish finder; a sensor for monitoring charge state of the battery; a sensor for monitoring movement of the mooring buoy via an inertial measurement unit (IMU); a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the underwater anchor and/or tension thereon; a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the watercraft and/or tension thereon; a radar-detectable reflector; a wind speed and direction sensor; a tidal variance sensor; a depth sounder for monitoring tidal changes; or a water sensor for sensing water chemical properties such as salinity and/or pH. By way of example, sensor data collected by the mooring buoy and provided to the controller may include: water temperature via a temperature probe attached to or embedded in the shackle bushing of the attachment point for securing the buoy;
signalling light status; the state of charge or condition of the rechargeable battery;
location; movement of the buoy via an inertial measurement unit (IMU); and/or the power being collected by the solar panels, which may be communicated to the user via a wireless communications system, optionally via a server.
As will be understood, in certain embodiments, sensors and other functional units may be stationed at any suitable point about the mooring buoy, and may communicate back to the controller, in certain embodiments. For example, a water temperature sensor may be positioned at the bottom of the outer housing of the buoy to allow reading of water temperature, or an ambient light sensor may be positioned atop the outer housing of the mooring buoy to read daylight levels.
In certain embodiments, a load cell, strain gauge, or other such tension strain device may be provided to detect strain on one or more securing lines connected between the mooring anchor, mooring buoy, and/or watercraft. In certain embodiments, tension on the mooring anchor or boat connection may be monitored via a load cell shackled in line with the securing line chain or rope.
Detection of strong forces along one or more of the securing lines may trigger an alert condition.
Figure 9 shows a schematic of another embodiment of a mooring buoy as described herein which includes GPS (90), wind speed/direction monitoring (91), LED lighting (92), and a wireless communications system (93A and 93B). The buoy further comprises a radar reflector (94), a solar panel (95), a lower buoyant portion (96), and a battery (97).
In the buoy depicted in Figure 9, the GPS unit (90) comprises a uBlox MAX-M8Q
GPS unit.
The controller comprises an internet of things (I0T)-type device, such as a "Particle Electron", and is configured with a wireless communications system (93A and 93B) which connects to the interne (i.e. the cloud) via cellular network. The buoy further comprises an inertial measurement unit (IMU) such as an LIS3DHTR for measurement of sea state. The electronics are powered by one or more rechargeable batteries with an estimated capacity rating of, for example, about 60Wh. The rechargeable batteries may be recharged via the solar panel (95) (estimated 15 watts), for example. Each TOT device may have a unique identifier so that each may be individually addressed. The buoy houses an LED-based signalling light system (92), or other such energy-efficient lighting, which may be within a clear polycarbonate section and may be, for example, above or below a radar reflector (94), to emit a light beacon. The buoy has a logical connection .. to the watercraft, with for example a conductivity sensor, to positively ensure the watercraft is present and secured to the mooring. The buoy further comprises an ultrasonic wind speed and direction monitor (91), such as a KDS-101 by Komoline. In certain embodiments, the buoy may include a wireless communications system having a local area wireless network (93B) via for example Wi-Fi for local signaling of the craft to buoy for remote beacon activation. Central computing and local electronics control may be provided upon an arduino-IDE
capable micro-processor, for example, in certain embodiments. As will be understood, these examples are provided for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to be limiting.
Figure 10 shows a schematic in which a mooring buoy as described herein is configured to communicate with a user (100) in proximity to the mooring buoy via a local link (101) such as WiFi or Bluetooth, and configured to communicate with a remote user (102) via a wireless cellular link (103) which conveys information to a cloud computing system or server farm (104) which can then be accessed by the remote user (102). In certain embodiments, the proximate user (100) and/or the remote user (102) may be provided with a software-based interface for communicating with the mooring buoy, providing the user with a display which may show, for .. example, current GPS location of the mooring buoy, expected GPS location, deviation between current and expected, an alert if deviation is above a specified threshold, a report on connectivity of the craft with the mooring, a report on status of battery, a report on water temp, a report on wind speed and direction, a toggle for controlling the signalling light to turn on/off or to illuminate in a particular manner, and/or status of the signalling light (on/off), for example. If a storm event or a break-away condition or a drag condition is detected, this may be promptly and clearly conveyed to the user.
In certain embodiments, the mooring buoy shown in Figure 9 or 10 may be configured to detect severe weather via an IMU or other motion sensor, and enter a storm mode upon detection of severe weather in which monitoring/data collection and/or reporting frequency is increased, particularly with regard to mooring buoy location. Under conditions where risk of break-away or drag is elevated, rapid reporting may be desirable so the user can be alerted to issues more quickly and may take action to remedy the situation. Under calm, low-risk conditions, monitoring and reporting frequency of the mooring buoy may be reduced to conserve power, while under high-risk conditions monitoring and reporting frequency of the mooring buoy may be increased to increase safety and potentially prevent damage.
One or more illustrative embodiments have been described by way of example. It will be understood to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A mooring buoy comprising:
a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber enclosing:
a rechargeable battery;
a controller configured to control operation of the mooring buoy; and at least one solar panel;
a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.

2. The mooring buoy of claim 1, wherein the interior chamber comprises a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, and wherein the rechargeable battery is secured within the recessed chamber.

3. The mooring buoy of claim 1, wherein the interior chamber comprises a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, and wherein the controller is secured within the recessed chamber.

4. The mooring buoy of claim 2, wherein the controller is secured within the recessed chamber.

5. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 2-4, wherein the mooring buoy further comprises a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber.

6. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body, wherein the at least one solar panel is at least partially supported by the support post.

7. The mooring buoy of claim 5, wherein the covering plate comprises a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body, wherein the at least one solar panel is at least partially supported by the support post.

8. The mooring buoy of claim 6 or 7, further comprising a signalling light located at a top section of the support post.

9. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 6-8, wherein the at least one solar panel is positioned about the support post on a vertical incline, and coupled to the support post at a support ridge extending radially outward from the support post.

10. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 6-9, wherein the transparent dome is secured by an upper cap which is positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post.

11. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a flexible bird spike mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering.

12. The mooring buoy of claim 10, further comprising a flexible bird spike mounted to the upper cap.

13. The mooring buoy of claim 11 or 12, wherein the flexible bird spike is made from spring steel.

14. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-13, further comprising a satellite-based positioning system for determining a location of the mooring buoy.

15. The mooring buoy of claim 14, wherein the controller is programmed to detect a break-away condition or drag condition, when the mooring buoy location is away from an expected location, and take a notification action.

16. The mooring buoy of claim 15, wherein the notification action comprises sending a light, noise, or message-based alert, or any combination thereof.

17. The mooring buoy of claim 16, wherein the message-based alert is sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.

18. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 15-17, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting the break-away condition or drag condition.

19. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency.

20. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 15-17, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the break-away condition or drag condition the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.

21. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 15-18 or 20, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically update the expected location.

22. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 18-21, wherein the one or more parameters comprise buoy location, break-away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.

23. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 18-22, wherein the remote location is a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user.

24. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-23, further comprising at least one motion sensor.

25. The mooring buoy of claim 24, wherein the at least one motion sensor is used to detect a storm event.

26. The mooring buoy of claim 25, wherein the controller is programmed to take a notification action when the storm event is detected.

27. The mooring buoy of claim 26, wherein the notification action comprises sending a light, noise, or message-based alert, or any combination thereof.

28. The mooring buoy of claim 27, wherein the message-based alert is sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.

29. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 25-28, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location upon detecting the storm event.

30. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 25-28, wherein the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency, and wherein upon detecting the storm event the controller is programmed to periodically report one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.

31. The mooring buoy of claim 29 or 30, wherein the one or more parameters comprise buoy location, storm event condition, break-away condition, drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof

32. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 29-31, wherein the location is a remote server which reports to the user and/or which is accessible by the user.

33. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 24-32, wherein the at least one motion sensor comprises an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or any combination thereof

34. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-33, further comprising one or more radio frequency (RF) transceivers.

35. The mooring buoy of claim 34, wherein the one or more RF transceivers comprise a short range radio, and wherein the controller is programmed to detect a user device within range of the short range radio and enter a mooring mode.

36. The mooring buoy of claim 35, wherein the mooring mode activates a signalling light of the mooring buoy to facilitate mooring to the mooring buoy.

37. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 34-36, wherein the one or more RF
transceivers provide two-way communication between a remote device and the mooring buoy.

38. The mooring buoy of claim 37, wherein the remote device is a remote server to which the mooring buoy periodically reports parameters including one or more of: buoy location, buoy status, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof:

39. The mooring buoy of claim 37, wherein the remote device is a user device, and wherein communication allows user control of the mooring buoy including operation of one or more lights of the mooring buoy.

40. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-39, wherein the mooring buoy is substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.

41. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-40, wherein the mooring buoy comprises a signalling light which provides ambient lighting in low light conditions.

42. The mooring buoy of claim 41, wherein the signalling light is controllable by a user to illuminate, or to flash, providing a beacon for the user.

43. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-42, wherein the mooring buoy further comprises one or more of a water temperature sensor; a camera; a microphone; a speaker; a fish finder; a sensor for monitoring charge state of the rechargeable battery;
a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the underwater anchor and/or tension thereon;
a sensor for monitoring attachment of the mooring buoy to the watercraft and/or tension thereon; a radar-detectable reflector; a wind speed and direction sensor; a tidal variance sensor; a depth sounder for monitoring tidal changes; or a water sensor for sensing salinity and/or pH.

44. The mooring buoy of any one of claims 1-43, further comprising:
a lower base portion provided between the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering, the lower base portion sealingly engageable with the transparent dome covering and securable to the lower buoyant body, such that when engaged with the transparent dome covering, the interior chamber is enclosed within the transparent dome covering and the lower base portion.

45. The mooring buoy of claim 44, wherein the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, interior chamber and contents thereof, are detachable from the lower buoyant body by detaching the lower base portion from the lower buoyant body.

46. The mooring buoy of claim 44 or 45, wherein the interior chamber comprises the recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, the recessed chamber portion defined by a protruding section of the lower base portion which is received by a recessed section of the lower buoyant body.

47. A method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;
periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a motion sensor of the mooring buoy a potential storm event;
and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.

48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the one or more parameters comprise a buoy location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.

49. The method of claim 47 or 48, further comprising sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential storm event.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the message-based alert is sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.

51. A method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
monitoring one or more parameters;
periodically communicating the one or more parameters to a remote location at a first reporting frequency;
detecting based on a satellite-based positioning system of the mooring buoy a potential break-away condition or drag condition when a location of the mooring buoy is away from an expected location; and periodically communicating the one or more parameters to the remote location at a second reporting frequency which is greater than the first reporting frequency.

52. The method according to claim 51, wherein the one or more parameters comprise a buoy location, a buoy storm event condition, a buoy break-away condition, a buoy drag condition, buoy sensor information, buoy alarm status, buoy signalling light status, buoy battery status, watercraft location status, watercraft connection status, water temperature, or any combination thereof.

53. The method of claim 51 or 52, further comprising sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential break-away or drag condition.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the message-based alert is sent to different recipients or recipient groups depending on whether or not a watercraft is moored to the mooring buoy.

55. A method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting based on a sensor of the mooring buoy a potential detachment of a watercraft from the mooring buoy; and sending a light, noise, or message-based alert upon detecting the potential detachment of the watercraft from the mooring buoy.

56. A method performed by a mooring buoy, the method comprising:
detecting an approach of an authorized watercraft, or an activation signal sent from an authorized user, via a radio frequency (RF) transceiver of the mooring buoy; and causing a signalling light of the mooring buoy to illuminate or flash in response to the approach of the watercraft or detection of the activation signal, thereby signalling location of the mooring buoy to the user of the watercraft.

57. The method of any one of claims 47-56, further comprising steps of:
capturing energy from sunlight using one or more solar panels of the mooring buoy; and using the captured energy to charge a rechargeable battery of the mooring buoy which powers the mooring buoy.

58. The method of any one of claims 47-57, wherein the mooring buoy is a mooring buoy according to any one of claims 1-46.

59. A housing for a mooring buoy, the housing comprising:
a lower buoyant body;
a transparent dome covering securable to the lower buoyant body, when secured to the lower buoyant body, the transparent dome covering and the lower buoyant body defining an interior chamber;
a pressure equalization vent for preventing pressure build-up in the interior chamber; and one or more attachment points for engaging with one or more securing lines.

60. The housing of claim 59, wherein the pressure equalization vent comprises a gas permeable membrane.

61. The housing of claim 59 or 60, wherein the pressure equalization vent is mounted through the transparent dome covering.

62. The housing of any one of claims 59-61, wherein the interior chamber comprises a recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body.

63. The housing of claim 62, wherein the housing further comprises a covering plate secured over the recessed chamber.

64. The housing of any one of claims 59-63, further comprising a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body.

65. The housing of claim 63, wherein the covering plate comprises a vertical support post extending away from the lower buoyant body.

66. The housing of claim 64 or 65, further comprising a housing for a signalling light located at a top section of the support post.

67. The housing of any one of claims 64-66, wherein the support post comprises a support ridge extending radially outward for supporting at least one solar panel on a vertical incline.

68. The housing of any one of claims 64-67, wherein the transparent dome is secured by an upper cap which is positioned at a top portion of the transparent dome, the upper cap having a protruding portion which extends through the transparent dome and engages with the support post.

69. The housing of any one of claims 59-68, further comprising a flexible bird spike mounted to a top portion of the transparent dome covering.

70. The housing of claim 68, further comprising a flexible bird spike mounted to the upper cap.

71. The housing of claim 69 or 70, wherein the flexible bird spike is made from spring steel.

72. The housing of any one of claims 59-71, wherein the housing is substantially pear-shaped, with the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering each having a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, wherein an average diameter of the transparent dome covering is less than an average diameter of the lower buoyant body.

73. The housing of any one of claims 59-72, further comprising:
a lower base portion provided between the lower buoyant body and the transparent dome covering, the lower base portion sealingly engageable with the transparent dome covering and securable to the lower buoyant body, such that when engaged with the transparent dome covering, the interior chamber is enclosed within the transparent dome covering and the lower base portion.

74. The housing of claim 73, wherein the transparent dome covering, lower base portion, and interior chamber, are detachable from the lower buoyant body by detaching the lower base portion from the lower buoyant body.

75. The housing of claim 73 or 74, wherein the interior chamber comprises the recessed chamber portion within the lower buoyant body, the recessed chamber portion defined by a protruding section of the lower base portion which is received by a recessed section of the lower buoyant body.