Rescue and retrieval apparatus and system and method of using same

摘要

A system is disclosed which incorporates a projectile delivery launcher which may assume numerous forms and perform numerous functions, including launching a water rescue preservation device such as a life jacket, military supplies, survival supplies, fire extinguishing supplies, or the like. The device includes a unique barrel having a low friction chrome plated inner surface which provides maximum range deployment of a safety projectile. In one embodiment a unique clutch-type crank is mounted below the barrel and houses a thin stainless high strength steel ribbon to provide deployment of a projectile, and retrieval of a victim, supplies or the like. A CO2 cartridge system, which incorporates a novel explosive chamber is also used. In another embodiment a compressed gas tank is connected to the launcher for selective release of the gas to deploy the projectile. A method and apparatus for rescuing a victim or for delivering supplies in emergency situations, or even establishing a line contact, is also disclosed.

主权项

1. A rescue and delivery system for deploying an object to a predetermined distal location, and optionally retrieving same, which comprises:
a) a launching device including an elongated member having an inner cylindrical opening having a generally smooth surface, said cylindrical opening dimensioned for reception of the object to be deployed; b) a compressed gas deployment system associated with said launching device and positioned proximal of the object, for selectively providing force to the object sufficient to deploy the object to the distal location, said compressed gas system including a CO2 (i.e., carbon dioxide gas) cartridge having a pierceable membrane seal at one end adapted to be pierced to release compressed CO2 gas; c) a reel device attached to said launching device and having a manually rotatable reel member and attached to said launching device; d) an elongated flexible member extending into said cylindrical opening and having means at the free distal end for releasable attachment to the object, a proximal end of said elongated flexible member being attached to said rotatable reel member and wound therearound, and upon itself; and e) a trigger mechanism having a manually operable trigger device arranged to selectively move a piercing member into engagement with said membrane seal of said CO2 cartridge to activate said cartridge and thereby provide force to said object to deploy said object to said distal location, while being tethered to said reel device, whereby the object is at all times during said deployment, tethered to said launching device, and can optionally be retrieved by manually rotating said rotatable member of said reel device, or alternatively released from said elongated flexible member and left to remain in place at the distal location.