Patent ID: 7232353
Filing Date: 2007-06-19
Classification: B63G

Abstract:
1. A buoy launch and retrieval system comprising: a launch/retrieval tube capable of attachment to an interior of an underwater platform; means for ejecting a buoy from said launch/retrieval tube, said ejecting means comprising a reel within said launch/retrieval tube for unwinding a length of a tether attached to the buoy and means for introducing a high pressure gas into said tube for ejection of the buoy through a pathway of a hull of the underwater platform; a through hull fitting attachable to the pathway and attached to said launch/retrieval tube with a watertight valve adjacent one end of said through hull fitting; said watertight valve operable to an open position to allow ejection of the buoy; and a quick disconnect clamp for joining said through hull fitting to said launch/retrieval tube.