External rescue and recovery devices and methods for underwater vehicles
US8448592B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 28, 2008 |
| Grant date | May 28, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 30, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63C7/26
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods and devices are provided for rescuing and recovering underwater vehicles. In one embodiment, a system is provided that includes a modular rescue device configured to attach to an underwater vehicle, such as with a tow line. The rescue device can include one or more emergency mechanisms that can be automatically and/or manually activated to aid in detecting the location of the underwater vehicle in the event of an emergency. One exemplary emergency mechanism includes a buoyancy mechanism, e.g., an expandable lift bag, configured to be inflated with a fluid to add buoyancy force to the system to pull the underwater vehicle toward a water surface. Another exemplary emergency mechanism includes a signaling mechanism configured to signal the underwater vehicle's location.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.