GLEN JUSTICE
The IBEX Innovation Award winners for 2009 were announced this morning, honoring advancements in boat building materials, battery technology, systems monitoring and other product categories.
In total, nine awards were presented, including one Environmental Award and three Honorable Mentions. There were 43 entries.
MasterVolt won in the Electrical Systems category for its 24-volt lithium ion battery, which is lighter and lasts longer than traditional batteries. Blue Sea Systems received an honorable mention for its SafetyHub250, a remote battery switch and fuse block for boats 18 to 24 feet.
Taco Metals won in the hardware Fittings category for its Intelli-Hinge, a stainless steel hinge that uses a ball-and-socket approach, making it easier to hinge rounded surfaces or other tough-to-join areas. Armstrong Nautical Products won an Honorable Mention for its folding and detachable RIB ladder, which attaches to inflatables.
Volvo Penta won in the Inboard Engines category for its Ocean X sterndrive, which offers a new anti-corrosion coating and sensors in that deterct water contamination in the oil or water intrusion in the bellows.
Groco won in the Mechanical Systems category for its Raw Water Systems Monitor, which monitors the flow of water in an engine's cooling water intake and in other raw water systems, sounding an alarm if flow is reduced.
Morbern Inc. won the Environmental Award for its Boreal line of vinyl fabrics, which are manufactured to decrease toxins and byproducts that are environmentally harmful.
Structural Composites won in the Boatbuilding Methods & Materials category for its Prisma TA structural foam and mat building blocks, which can be glassed right into the hull for fast and precise repair, restoration or new construction.
Maretron won an Honorable Mention for its N2K Builder software, which boaters can download free to scope a complete NMEA 2000 electronics system.
The awards, which are managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, were judged by seven journalists, all of whom are members of Boating Writers International. Glen Justice, Mad Mariner's editor, was on the panel.
GLEN JUSTICE
The Intelli-Hinge by Taco Metals.
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The 24-volt lithium ion battery by MasterVolt.
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The Ocean X sterndrive by Volvo Penta.
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The Raw Water Monitoring System by Groco.
