Rotary capture device with passive engagement and active release
US9051031B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jun 9, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B21/56
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle recovery system is provided which includes a capture device having a body with two arms defining an open ended cavity with a shaft attached to and between each of the arms and extending through the cavity. A tow line is attached to the body opposite the cavity and a buoyant member disposed in the cavity and rotatable around the shaft. A plurality of capture loops disposed within the cavity are rotatable with the buoyant member and define closed loops with the buoyant member. A spring-loaded towing latch is attached to the vehicle to be recovered. The latch includes a hook having a first open position and a second closed position. The hook is moveable from the first position to the second position under action of a biasing spring upon engagement of one of the capture loops over the hook.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.