Christopher Webster Carver

US Patent:

52688445, Dec 7, 1993

Filed:

May 21, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/525696

Inventors:

Christopher S. Carver - Wayne PA
Christopher Carver - Wayne PA

International Classification:

G06F 1550

US Classification:

364443

Abstract:

An electronic digital plotter for navigators which relieves the rigors of mechanical manual plotting of position on a chart. The plotter utilizes either a flexible or rigid board employing electromagnetic or capacitive resistance technology. It makes use of a fixed X/Y coordinate system to generate latitude and longitude coordinates from a chart overlay. The plotter employs a pencil or pen type stylus with interchangeable cartridge to locate position, derived from electronic position information on the board and hence on the chart. By comparing the location of the stylus to the input data, the plotter directs the user to the input location utilizing a visual, bullseye director display. Given ship's position, on a dead reckoning track or expected destination or waypoint, the plotter gives course, speed distance, and transit time. The plotter can also accept inputs from hand bearing compass or ship's heading compass.