Day shapes

A day shape is a prescribed form observed by day. Shapes include balls, cones, cylinders and diamonds; Portuguese RIEAM often uses balões for these forms. They are neither buoyage marks nor manufacturer decoration. Black colour, shape, arrangement and the state referred to belong to the message. The figure compares selected states without installation dimensions, heights, separation or implying that a partial arrangement is sufficient. Recognising one form is a beginning; the complete arrangement and applicable condition determine what it communicates.

Annex I contains technical requirements for shapes, dimensions and separation. A diamond consists of two cones sharing a base, rather than simply a rotated square flag. Vessels under 20 metres have proportionate-size provisions, but these do not authorise omitting a shape required by another rule. Construction and installation relate to the competent authority. This chapter’s drawings are recognition schematics rather than templates or demonstrations that a catalogue shape meets specifications. Size concessions and exemptions from carrying a signal are different questions.