Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for maintaining a floating boat or water vessel in a desired position is provided. The apparatus includes an electric trolling motor disposed to produce a thrust to pull the boat, a steering motor disposed to affect the orientation of the electric trolling motor, a position deviation detection unit, and a control circuit. The position deviation detection unit detects a deviation in the position of the boat from the desired position and transmits signals indicative of a deviation distance (the distance from the boat to the desired position) and a return heading (the direction of the desired position from the boat) to the control circuit. The control circuit causes the steering motor to steer the electric trolling motor in the return heading, and the electric trolling motor to propel the boat in the return heading, to return the boat to the desired position. [Various] A first embodiment[s] of the position deviation detection unit [are disclosed, including an embodiment which] detects a deviation in position based on signals from a satellite-based global positions system[,]. [an] Another embodiment [which] detects a deviation in position based on a signal from an anchored transmitter[,]. [and an] A third embodiment [which] detects a deviation in position based on the forces caused by the surrounding water when the boat drifts.

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First Claim