MAGIC BOX FOR SHIPS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20309, 18 January 1928, Page 4

MAGIC BOX FOR SHIPS.

POSITION OF OTHER VESSELS. A wireless compass and signal beacon which, it is claimed, will largely eliminate the dangers of fog by indicating the bearings of ships for a distance of over 100 miles, has been perfected by Dr F A. Kolster, chief research engineer to the Federal Telegraph Company of California. According to “ The Nautical Magazine,” the instrument is being fitted to ocean liners as well as vessels on the Great Lakes, and may eventually be introduced to this country. The invention is contained in a little box measuring 24in by 15in by 12in. “Once it is switched on when fog settles on the sea,” says the Nautical Magazine, “it automically sends out signals of one second’s duration every half-minute. “ There is no misunderstanding as to the directions from whence the signals emanate, for in connection with the now wireless cOmpass, a streak of coloured light flashing over the compass card on the bridge of a vessel within signalling distance gives the precise bearing, and, according to the brilliancy or dullness of the light received, the navigator will be able to estimate the distance from the approaching or receding ship.” These now illuminated bearing indicators automatically light up on receiving a signal from a vessel within 10 miles. “ The instrument is so accurate in this respect that it is guaranteed to be correct within one degree over a distance of 50 miles, and within two degrees over 100 miles; for the distances over 10 miles headphones arc provided.