What are those things on the windows of the wheelhouse?

Question

Does anybody know what those circular devices attached to the windows of the wheelhouse of most large commercial ships?? Here's a link to a photo of what I'm talking about...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8287421@N06/2615439548/

Answer 1

They are windshield wipers.  Kinda cool ain't they.

Answer 2

Its not a wiper, its actually a spinning window. When it rains or there are heavy waves, this window spins at about 50000 RPM any water that touches it is instantly spun off. That way, its always clear.

Answer 3

50000 RPM? I don't think so! Yes, other than the speed you are correct as to its use and properties.

After 32 years at sea I have to say they beat hands down traditional wipers, which can't handle a storm of any magnitude. Try to get the deck hand to go out and reset the wiper in 70 knot winds.

Answer 4

fan

Answer 5

they look like radar equipment

Answer 6

high speed wiper