Hull-mount launch and recovery of watercraft
US9199699B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 8, 2013 |
| Grant date | Dec 1, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 17, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49718
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus is provided for stowing, launching and recovering an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) on a boat bull, such as applicable to a small unit riverine craft (SURC) in water. The apparatus includes a frame for removably attaching to the hull, a lifter, a hinge, and a boom. The frame includes lateral brackets connected together by transverse braces, and attaches to the hull at cushions. The lifter connects to the frame for elevating the USV between upper and lower positions. The hinge connects to the lifter for pivoting the USV between vertical and horizontal orientations. The boom connects to the hinge for docking and releasing the USV. The USV is stowed in the vertical orientation and the upper position. The USV deploys into the water in the horizontal orientation and the lower position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.