Craig M Parker

US Patent:

6809657, Oct 26, 2004

Filed:

Apr 13, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/549118

Inventors:

Craig B. Parker - Olathe KS
Walter Rolston - Overland Park KS

Assignee:

Garmin Corporation

International Classification:

G01C 2100

US Classification:

340945, 340971

Abstract:

A course deviation indicator with a unique display utilizes at least one deviation bar, to indicate when a craft or vessel in which the course deviation indicator is utilized has deviated from a pre-established course. In one embodiment, the course deviation indicator has a lateral deviation bar, for indicating lateral deviation from a pre-established course, and a vertical deviation bar, for indicating vertical deviation from a pre-established course. A first, vertical, flag is associated with the vertical deviation bar, while a second, lateral flag is associated with the lateral deviation bar. When a determination is made that a particular deviation bar is providing inaccurate information, the appropriate flag is displayed, thereby indicating that the associated deviation bar is indeed providing inaccurate information. In one embodiment, the flags are displayed mechanically. In a second embodiment, the display is an LCD display, and flags are displayed by drawing the flags on the LCD display.