Device for Attaching a Coupling Device to a Free-Floating Object

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device for attaching a coupling mechanism to a free-floating object, such as a person or equipment in water. The device includes a connection point for linking to a lifting device, a coupling mechanism to secure the floating object, a load-bearing connection, and a separate guiding system that can actively move and position the coupling device relative to the lifting device, making the process faster, safer, and more efficient. The system can be equipped with sensors and control units to locate and guide the coupling device toward the floating object automatically or manually.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Rescue operations to recover persons from water using ships or offshore platforms.
• Retrieval of unmanned vehicles, equipment, or cargo floating on water, especially under rough sea conditions.
• Deployment and recovery of scientific instruments or sensors in marine research.
• Salvage operations for containers or goods lost overboard.
• Naval or coast guard missions for rapid and safe retrieval of distress targets.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly increases the safety of personnel by automating or remotely controlling the attachment process, reducing the need for manual intervention in hazardous conditions.
• Adapts to movement of both the ship and the floating object, allowing precise and controlled coupling even during strong waves and relative motion.
• Reduces the risk of damage to equipment or the vessel by allowing for a controlled, accurate, and contact-minimizing approach.
• Compact and lightweight design—since the guiding system does not bear the load, reducing costs and storage requirements.
• Versatile application for a variety of floating objects including people, unmanned vehicles, and cargo.
• Allows retrofitting to existing lifting equipment, enhancing operational capabilities without major overhauls.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

A device is proposed for attaching a coupling device (100) to a free-floating object (101), for example free-floating articles or free-floating persons. The device has: at least one first connection end (102), which can be connected to a load-receiving end (121) of a lifting device (120); a coupling device (100) for attachment to a free-floating object; a load-receiving connection (103) between the first connection end (102) and the coupling device (100); and a guiding device (104), which is separate from the load-receiving connection (103), connects the first connection end (102) to the coupling device (100) and is designed to guide the coupling device (100) relative to the first connection end (102).