Patent ID: 6681676
Filing Date: 2004-01-27
Classification: B63C,F41B,F42B,G02B,H02G

Abstract:
An apparatus for laying a flexible line comprising:a) a portable launcher and a projectile associated with the launcher; the portable launcher including a barrel to guide launching of the projectile via release from a potential energy storage device; b) the flexible line being a tether line contained at least partially in a line store located on the launcher; wherein one end of the tether line is secured to the projectile and the other end of the tether line is contained in the line store; wherein release of the potential energy storage device launches the projectile through the barrel and across an intervening space toward a target; where an object attachable to the projectile or the tether line can be retrieved by retracting the tether line; c) the potential energy storage device including a compressible element attached to a generally U-shaped release element having first and second upstanding limbs and a base portion including a trigger element, wherein a flange on proximal portion of the projectile is engageable and releasable by the release element; d) the barrel including a plurality of longitudinal guide ribs in spaced apart configuration, with each said rib terminating in a rounded end portion, said ribs providing guidance for the projectile when the projectile travels through the barrel, and e) wherein the release element is pivotally mounted on the launcher and is capable of limited pivotal movement in response to actuation of the trigger element.