Abstract:
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 CO 2  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.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
     1. Field of Invention 
     The present invention relates to a rescue and retrieval apparatus and system therefor, in the form of a projectile delivery apparatus, which is operable through the use of a CO 2  cartridge or any other type of compressed gas supply. In the present application, the apparatus and system are sometimes referred to as the “Quick2Save™ Rescue and Retrieval Delivery System”, or “Quick2Save™.” 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Once a person is in danger of drowning or in distress due to a rip current or sudden flood situation, panic sets in and time is of the essence to rescue and retrieve the victim. In a rip current the lifeguard has to maintain eye contact with the victim while swimming to the rescue. This can be extremely challenging, especially when a quick response is needed. Traditional rescue methods would involve a lifeguard jumping down from a lifeguard stand and swimming with a flotation device to retrieve the victim. In a flood situation where the victim is either stranded on a car rooftop, a small land mass or a tree limb, a throw line is often used with repeated attempts to reach the victim. In many cases the victim is too far from the riverbank to reach with traditional rescue methods and helicopters are deployed. These procedures are expensive and create their own set of problems, such as downdraft wash, etc. 
     Rescue authorities need a way to reach victims quickly, accurately and securely. By the time a call comes into the Coast Guard and they arrive on the scene, precious time is lost and valuable manpower used. The rescue and retrieval capability of the apparatus of the present invention is invaluable. It can be kept in the trunk of rescue vehicles in a hard plastic case so that there is quick access for the police, fire department, lifeguards and military branches. 
     Also, in military situations troops may need to exchange supplies from one group to another while avoiding entry into a path of danger. 
     Stranded rock climbers, fireman stranded on rooftops, individuals who fall through the ice of a frozen lake or pond, etc., all need a lifeline or access to a retrieval line to be either pulled to safety or to retrieve life saving equipment and supplies. 
     The present invention relates to a rescue and retrieval apparatus and system and method of using same, which provides quick and easy access to all of the trying situations outlined hereinabove. 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to an apparatus and system for rescue of an individual in danger of drowning in water, as well as transferring lifesaving supplies or other equipment from one location to another without endangering either party. Therefore, this apparatus is a rescue and retrieval delivery system for water and land rescue situations. 
     The rescue and delivery system of the present invention is particularly designed to save lives. The apparatus can reach victims quickly and secure them for safe rescue or retrieval. In a water related rescue and retrieval such as in a lake, beach or river, the apparatus deploys a compacted flotation device inside a canister, and fired from inside a barrel using a blank non-lethal CO 2  (i.e., carbon dioxide) cartridge of a well known type. This canister is uniquely attached to a thin stainless steel strip about ⅜″ in width, and about 0.0007 inch in thickness. The length of the stainless steel strip is virtually unlimited, and can be provided in any desired length or thickness. The steel strip is then unwound from a reel spool toward the victim as it is transported by the flotation device. Once the flotation device makes contact with the water, a sensor inflates the float using another small CO 2  charge and the victim has a secure rescue item to grab. Once the victim has a secure rescue item to grab, he/she can be retrieved using a reel to which the steel strip is attached, and which reel is attached to a housing box of the apparatus. 
     In an alternative embodiment, in situations that require high volume rescue, the apparatus can be connected to a canister containing a compressed gas supply such as CO 2 , nitrogen or air, for rapid successive firings of a plurality of such canisters. 
     Preferably the inner surface of the barrel is coated with a layer of smooth material to produce friction during deployment. Chrome plating is preferred to provide a smooth durable surface. However, a suitable hard and relatively friction-free plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon or the like, can also be used. 
     Components of the Apparatus—The Rescue Embodiment 
     The stainless steel housing case contains a thin stainless steel coiled ribbon—or strap, which is approximately 0.0007 inch in thickness and about ⅜″ wide, spooled on a retrieval reel and then attached to a flotation device that is rolled and placed in a canister, which in turn is loaded into the barrel of the device for deployment to the victim. Steel strips of alternative thicknesses can be used. 
     The housing box—or ribbon spool box—will have a handle below it for comfort and accuracy when in the deployment mode. There is a retrieval reel in the housing box when facing the victim and a crank handle on the housing box for same. The top of the housing box is concave to meet the shape of a barrel, so there is a smooth fit where the barrel rests on the housing case. 
     The stainless steel coil exits the housing case through a mail box-type slot and attaches to a canister containing a folded flotation device provided with an appropriate fastening device for securing the steel strip. 
     The preferred fastening device consists of a bar having three circular attachment rings, or grommets, attached thereto as will be described hereinbelow. For convenience, hereinafter this releasable fastening device will be sometimes be referred to as a vinculum in view of its resemblance to the well known mathematical symbol “vinculum”, defined as a bar drawn over two or more algebraic terms to indicate that they are to be treated as a single term, i.e., “attached”. 
     Once the stainless steel strip is releasably secured to the vinculum on the flotation device it is placed in the barrel from the front for deployment, using a canister placement rod. Once the CO 2  cartridge is fired, the canister and float are deployed, towing with them, the stainless steel coil from inside the housing box toward the victim in distress and functioning as a tether. For the embodiment employing a compressed gas supply, the same sequence is followed. 
     When the float hits the water a small pencil eraser size CO 2  charge with a sensor, inflates the flotation device. This is a small charge, yet just enough to inflate a collar on a life vest (or poncho) or a one meter linear float. The life vest or poncho may also have two puff tubes so the victim can further inflate the vest if necessary. Once the victim reaches the flotation device he/she can be “reeled” in with the aid of the stainless steel tether strip on the housing box. An extension pole can be used by pushing a button for the retrieval position. 
     The retrieving spool is provided with a one-way lock (i.e., clutch mechanism) to prevent the handcrank from spinning out of control when released during a rescue procedure. 
     The Land Rescue and Deployment Embodiment 
     As noted, the flotation device can be in the form of a life vest or poncho, or it may inflate into any form which may be grasped by the victim, such as a small raft or log. 
     For land rescue and retrieval situations (fire dept., military uses) the apparatus can deploy a “dummy” projectile which is simply used to transport the steel strip to the stranded victim. Once the victim receives the dummy projectile, the housing box containing the other end of the steel strip is opened and the needed supply is connected to the deployment end of the steel strip. Thereafter, the needed supply can be retrieved by the receiving party. 
     The present rescue and retrieval apparatus and system is not intended to eliminate current rescue techniques exclusively. However it can greatly enhance the rescue effort and can make the difference between life and death. Saving minutes in a rescue attempt may save lives. 
     A rescue and delivery system is disclosed for deploying an object to a predetermined distal location, and optionally retrieving same, which comprises a launching device including an elongated member having an inner cylindrical opening having a generally smooth surface, the cylindrical opening dimensioned for reception of the object to be deployed, a compressed gas deployment system associated with the launching device and positioned proximal of the object, for selectively providing force to the object sufficient to deploy the object to the distal location, a reel device having a manually rotatable reel member and being associated with the launching device, an elongated flexible member extending into the cylindrical opening and having means at the free distal end for releasable attachment to the object, a proximal end of the flexible member being attached to the rotatable reel member and wound therearound, and upon itself. 
     Means is provided for activating the compressed gas deployment system to launch the object through the cylindrical opening and to the distal location, whereby the object is at all times during the deployment, tethered to the launching device, and can optionally be retrieved by manually rotating the rotatable member of the reel device, or alternatively released from the elongated member and left to remain in place at the distal location. 
     The compressed gas system may include a CO 2  (i.e., carbon dioxide) cartridge having a sealing and pierceable membrane at one end adapted to be pierced to release compressed CO 2 , or a large canister of compressed CO 2 , nitrogen or air. 
     The object to be deployed may be an inflatable life jacket or a container of supplies. 
     The launching device includes a hand grip having a trigger mechanism, the trigger mechanism having a trigger device which is arranged to selectively move a piercing member into engagement with the membrane of the CO 2  cartridge to activate the cartridge and thereby provide force to the object to deploy the object to the distal location. 
     The elongated flexible member is a flat, thin high strength stainless steel ribbon, wrapped upon itself into a spool and positioned in a spool box, the spool box having a winding crank and reel adapted to selectively wind the steel ribbon therearound after deployment. 
     A delivery system is disclosed for establishing a line contact with a predetermined distal location, which comprises a launching device including an elongated member having an inner cylindrical opening having a generally smooth surface, the cylindrical opening dimensioned for an object to be deployed, a compressed gas deployment system associated with the launching device and adapted to selectively release compressed gas proximal of the object, for selectively providing force to the object sufficient to deploy the object to the distal location, a reel device having a rotatable reel member and being associated with the launching device, an elongated flexible member extending into the cylindrical opening and having means at the free distal end for releasable attachment to the object, a proximal end of the flexible member being attached to the rotatable reel device and wound therearound, and upon itself. 
     Means is provided for activating the compressed gas deployment system to launch the object through the cylindrical opening and to the distal location, whereby the object is at all times during the deployment, tethered to the launching device, to thereby establish line contact between said launching device and the distal location. 
     The compressed gas deployment system preferably includes a CO 2  (i.e., carbon dioxide) cartridge having a sealing and pierceable membrane at one end adapted to be pierced to release compressed CO 2  or a canister of compressed CO 2 , nitrogen or air. 
     The rescue and delivery system can preferably be used for deploying a folded and inflatable life preserver to a predetermined distal location, and retrieving same, once it reaches a person in distress by drowning, fire, or otherwise. The life preserver can be any type of life preserver such as an inflatable ring, a life jacket or the like. 
     The rescue and delivery system may also be used for deploying an inflatable life jacket to a predetermined distal location, wherein the inflatable life jacket is folded and contained within a deployment canister. 
     A method for rescue of a person drowning or otherwise in distress is also disclosed. 
     A method for establishing a line contact with a predetermined distal location using a launching device of the invention is also disclosed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, as follows: 
         FIG. 1  is an overall perspective view showing a launcher unit constructed according to the present invention, and having a telescope  18 , a canister placement rod  36 , along with its removable barrel  14 . Preferably the inner surface of barrel  14  is chrome plated to make it smooth and to minimize friction so as to facilitate rapid deployment of a life saving device, fire retardants, military or other supplies, or the like. Also shown is the retrieving ribbon chamber  38 , and the hand trigger grip  16 . 
       The retrieval reel is just above the left hand which will be used to “reel in” the victim once the victim is secured to the flotation device seen inside the barrel. A scope  18  is used for accuracy and distance. The stainless steel ribbon coil  56  is positioned inside the housing box and can be of varying lengths. For example, a 25 yard rescue will require a 25 yard coil, and so forth, up to a maximum potential of about 125 yards. The steel coil will have the same size center; therefore steel coils of various sizes will fit the retrieval spool equally. A CO 2  cartridge is shown and used for the charge to deploy the float. The float contains a sensor that will discharge a small CO 2  cartridge containing a charge of carbon dioxide to inflate the float once it is in the water; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the front portion of the barrel  14 , showing how the canister  50  is inserted into the launcher  10  by using the placement rod  36 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  3 - 3  of  FIG. 1 . In this view the canister  50  is shown in place, along with its retrieving stainless steel ribbon  56 , ribbon spool  62  and ribbon life jacket connector  58 . Retrieving ribbon box  40  is also shown. The hand trigger grip  16  also shows the trigger  24  with counter lever  70  with its piercing head  72 . Also shown in  FIG. 3  is the CO 2  cylinder cartridge  76  and the CO 2  dispersing chamber  78 ; 
       The retrieval reel is seen in  FIG. 3  on the right side of the housing box with the spool inside same. The stainless steel coil is shown on the ribbon spool  94 , with the strip end exiting the slot at the front of the box to then meet the float inside the barrel of the deployment source. Front door  102  is shown in  FIG. 18  to be removable from the housing to permit access to the inside of the ribbon spool box  40  to detach the steel ribbon when required, as described herein; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view illustrating the launcher unit in use. The unit has been adapted with a quick “on-off” butt stock  84 , which stock comes with a soft shoulder butt stock pad  86 . By attaching this butt stock in a known manner, the user will gain greater accuracy in his aim. Canister unit  50  is shown in flight in  FIG. 4 , with stainless steel tether in tow, after leaving barrel  14 . The canister&#39;s life jacket has a water sensitive unit  210 . This unit then will inflate the life jacket upon contacting the water. A small CO 2  cartridge can also be used to inflate the life jacket upon contact with the water. 
       Stainless steel ribbon  56  connects the canister  50  to the launcher  10  as shown. This ribbon  56  is made of a very high tensile strength steel and is capable of pulling heavy individuals or objects. Because of its thinness (i.e., on the order of about 0.0007 inch), this ribbon can be made in very great lengths which can be wound onto a small spool, which takes limited space in the launcher and is light in weight. As a comparison, if a rope were used for retrieval, the rope would not only take up a greater space but would also add greater weight to the canister thereby bringing it down much sooner; 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged cross-sectional view, showing how by pulling on the trigger  24  it contacts the counter lever  70 , which, having a piercing head  72 , opens a seal in the form of a membrane  98  of the pressurized CO 2  cartridge, permitting exit of the CO 2  gases which can then pass into chamber  78 . The CO 2  cartridge is filled with pressurized carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). Such type of cartridge is a well-known type; 
         FIG. 6  is a view taken along lines  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 , looking at the pointed tip of the piercing head  72 , piercing CO 2  cartridge membrane  98 . This view shows that this head is made in the shape of a cross so the escaping CO 2  gases can pass uniformly into chamber  78 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view which shows counter lever  70  and cartridge piercing head  72 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 3 , showing the releasable ribbon life jacket connector  58 . The engaging retrieving spool  106  is shown out of engagement in this view. Furthermore, the ribbon spool  94  is shown freely spinning on shaft  96  while dispensing the tether ribbon  56  in tow, taking with the life jacket canister attached; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 8 , and showing the one way locking cams  114  of ribbon retrieving spool  106 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  10 - 10  of  FIG. 8 , showing the locking cams  116  of retrieving spool  106 , which lock into cams  114  of ribbon spool  94  for retrieval of ribbon  56  along with the victim or supplies attached, as the case may be; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 8 . However, in this view, the ribbon spool box  40  has been mounted onto a tripod stand  132  for better control. When the user starts to turn the hand crank  42 , shaft  96  starts to rotate, turning camming pin  110 . This movement causes camming pin  110  to move along caming slots  108 . This movement in turn, causes engaging retrieving spool  106  to engage return spring  112 , which moves to the left, thereby taking engaging retrieving spool  106  out of contact with ribbon box locking cams  120 . On the inner face  128  of retrieving spool  106 , cams  116  have now come into contact with the cams  114  of ribbon spool  94 , seen in  FIG. 9 . When this contact takes place, ribbon spool  62  can now rotate to bring in the victim, supplies or the like. Should the user let go of hand crank  42 , spring  112  will disengage ribbon spool  94  from engaging retrieval spool  106  without causing spinning of the handle, which could otherwise cause injury to the user; 
         FIG. 12  is a view taken along lines  12 - 12  of  FIG. 11 , showing the outer face one way locking cams  118  of retrieving spool  106 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a view taken along lines  13 - 13  of  FIG. 11 , showing the ribbon box locking cams  120 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a partial enlarged perspective view, showing how the barrel  14  can be quickly removed from the launcher control chamber  12  by the use of key slot rivets  92  and, respective mating key slots  140 ; in addition, the same feature can be used to add optional additional barrels to increase the range of the launcher; 
         FIG. 15  is a view showing how after the launcher  10  has been placed onto the tripod stand  132 , the user then pulls on the release ring  48 , which then disengages the lock pin  64  from the launcher control chamber  12  so it can now be removed from the stand  132 ; 
         FIG. 16  is an overall perspective view of the launcher and the victim  144  who is being pulled to safety when the spool box or retrieving chamber  38  is on its tripod stand  132  and the hand crank  42  is being turned by the user to retrieve ribbon  56  along with the victim; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view, taken along lines  17 - 17  of  FIG. 16 , showing how the retrieving chamber  38  is mounted to the tripod stand  132 . Mounting rod  44  is attached to the bottom of ribbon spool box  40 . Locking groove  46  is provided on mounting rod  44 , into which a lock pin  170  is inserted, as shown. To release pin  170  from groove  46 , the user pulls on release knob  166 . This movement in turn will release ribbon spool box  40 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view showing the spool box  40  mounted to the underside of the launcher control chamber  12 . In this view the spool box front door  102  is shown with its slide lock bolt  104 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  19 - 19  of  FIG. 18 . This view shows how the bolt  104  of the slide lock  105  is provided to lock the door  102  to the ribbon spool box  40 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a bottom perspective view looking up at the ribbon spool box  40 . The two significant features in this view are the relatively orthogonal ribbon slots  146  for lightweight stainless steel ribbon  56 , one vertical, the other horizontal. With slots  146 , bringing the ribbon into its working position is accomplished with ease by initially sliding it upwardly and then sliding it over to the working position. Also shown are two water drain holes  152 . When ribbon  56  is spooled in after being in the water, any excess water can be discharged through water drain holes  152 , as shown; 
         FIG. 21  is a view similar to  FIG. 18 , illustrating ribbon spool box  40 , door  102  open and stainless steel ribbon spool  94  separated to illustrate the ease in which the ribbon spool  94  can be replaced in rapid succession. This view also shows engaging retrieving spool  106  exploded in phantom; 
         FIG. 22  is an exploded view showing how rapidly the life jacket  54  can be released from the steel ribbon  56  by pulling release pin  60  from jacket mount  88  and ribbon mount  90 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a view showing an alternative embodiment in which the overall launcher  10  can be modified by adding an external large compressed gas tank  154  with a pedal unit  174  to achieve a greater distance; 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view, taken along lines  24 - 24  of  FIG. 23 , showing a foot pedal valve  164  that will provide a backup control of gas coming from tank  154  of  FIG. 23 . When pedal valve  164  is depressed down, the gas will flow; 
         FIG. 25  is a cross-sectional view, taken along lines  25 - 25  of  FIG. 24 , showing how the foot pedal valve  164  allows compressed gases to expand, and to selectively flow through gas line  160  from the compressed gas tank  154  to launcher control chamber  12 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view of the foot pedal valve  164  in a closed position, clamping off gas line  160 . This takes place when the user&#39;s foot is removed from pedal  164  and return spring  182  forces pedal  164  upwardly toward the rest position i.e., similar to the well known “dead man&#39;s switch”; 
         FIG. 27  is a cross-sectional view taken along lines  27 - 27  of  FIG. 26 . This view best shows the operation of pedal unit  174 . Gas line  160  is pinched off when outer clamping walls  180  hold gas line  160  and stop it from moving. When inner clamping wall  178  moves upwardly, it pinches the gas line  160  as shown, and prevents the gas from gas tank  154  from reaching launcher control chamber  12 ; 
         FIG. 28  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along lines  28 - 28  of  FIG. 23 . This view shows an alternative adapter which takes the place of the CO 2  cartridge  76  shown in the previous embodiment. By using the gas line adapter  162 , a greater amount of gas can be supplied to the launcher control chamber  12 , and thereby propel the canister unit  50  a much greater distance. In this alternative adaptation, all other parts in the launcher control chamber  12  remain the same. The trigger  24  still hits counter lever  70 . Piercing head  72  is also the same as described previously. However, piercing head  72  now engages release rod  188 , which will unseat rubber seal  192 , allowing compressed gas to flow into dispersing chamber  78  hitting the pressure face of canister  80 , thereby sending it to its target; 
         FIG. 28A  is another enlarged cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 28 , with an alternative adapter which takes the place of the small CO 2  cartridge  76  described previously. In this view, trigger  24  (shown previously in  FIG. 3 ) has been released. When this takes place, counter lever  70  moves back to its start position due to the movement of rubber seal  74  back to its original position. When this takes place, piercing head  72  will disengage release rod  188 . Release rod  188  will move to the right, as shown, due to the force of spring  194  bearing against fixed plate  196  attached to rod  188 . This action of spring  194  also bears against the inside of rubber seal  192  which is fixed to rod  188  and held in place by lock washer  224  of a known type. Rod  188  is guided in place by plate  196  and holder  190 . When rubber seal  192  is moved in this direction by spring  194 , rubber seal  192  will come in contact with the inner face of adapter  162  (also shown in  FIG. 28 ), thereby creating a tight seal  226 , and thereby preventing any further compressed gas from entering dispersing chamber  78 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the hand-held overall launcher  10  of the invention. In this view, an external compressed gas tank  154  is used, with pedal unit  174 . However, the enlarged stainless steel ribbon spool box  200  is shown in this embodiment. The provision of a box  200  which is larger in size than the box in the previous embodiment, results in the ability of the launcher to propel the canister a much greater distance; however, but because of its size, the larger spool box must be used with a tripod stand  132 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view showing a different type of canister. A threaded cup  202  is provided with a bullet-shaped head  204  which is provided with splines  206 . The bullet-shaped canister head  204  helps to provide the canister with a greater range. The splines  206  reduce friction when passing through chrome plated inner surface of barrel  14 ; 
         FIG. 31  is an exploded perspective view of the splined canister head  204 , with the threaded canister cup  202  removed from its splined canister head  204  to expose the internal bundled emergency supplies  208 . It should be noted that the canister can be filled with any number of types of supplies, including food, water, fire repellants, etc.; 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view showing a bullet shaped canister being placed into the removable barrel  14 , using the canister placement rod  36  with its depression  212 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view showing the user sending a canister into a fire  218  to extinguish the fire. The overall launcher  10  has no need for a ribbon spool box  40  described in the previous embodiment. The fire extinguishing canister  214  will not be retrieved once it goes into the fire  218 , as it dispenses a suitable fire retardant. Once the fire is extinguished, the mission is accomplished. In this view, compressed gas line  160  is also shown. This goes to compressed gas tank  154  as in the previous embodiment. Also shown is a supply of heat dispersing canisters on a table  222 . By using the compressed gas tank  154 , the user can dispense one canister after another into the fire  218  in rapid succession; 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view showing a fire extinguisher canister  214  which has a bullet shape to help give it greater range. It also has splines  206  to reduce the contact surface to reduce friction when passing through chrome plated barrel  14 . Cone shaped front portion of canister  214  includes weakened seams  216  which readily separate to dispense fire retardant when it engages the target (i.e., the fire  218 ); and 
         FIG. 35  is a view showing canister  214  engulfed in a fire  218 . When canister  214  hits the fire, the front end portion, which is heat sensitive, will split along its weakened seams  216 , allowing its fire extinguishing substance  220  to disburse over the fire  218 , thereby extinguishing the fire. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       FIG. 1  shows an overall perspective view of the launcher unit of the invention, including chamber  30  which is covered with a buoyant from material for flotation purposes in the event it falls into water. Removable extender barrel is releaseably attached as shown in  FIG. 14 , by rivets  92  and key slots  140 . Additional foam coated extension barrels may be added, depending upon the desired range of fire. 
     The Quick2Save™ device is housed in a stainless steel box and contains a stainless steel coil ⅜ inches wide and 0.005 inches thick. In the preferred embodiment, the stainless steel ribbon  56  has an isoelectric point of 8.8 and is comprised of Fe 203, Fe 304 and Cr 203. It is non-corrosive and has tremendous tensile strength, needed for the retrieval of a drowning victim. One preferred supplier of the steel is Bokers Corp., located in Minnesota (USA). Other specifications are contemplated. 
     Referring now once again to  FIG. 1 , attached to the ribbon spool box  40  is a ribbon spool  62  and grip handle  44 . Hand crank  42  operates the ribbon spool  62 . The stainless steel ribbon  56  exits the ribbon spool box  40  at the top of the box  40  as shown. The steel ribbon  56  connects to the canister cup, which can contain either a one meter linear float or a poncho/vest with inflatable collar. The collar or linear float inflates with a small CO 2  charge roughly the size of a pencil eraser. As noted previously, this connection is made through a vinculum, previously described. DuPont Corp. is one example of a preferred supplier of the Softesse®/Suprel® brand nonwoven material used for the flotation device. The housing box will have a slide lock bolt  104  as shown in  FIG. 20 . 
       FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the opened housing box  40  for the Quick2Save™ delivery system. There is a hinge  148  and latch lock  104  (i.e., slide lock bolt) which allow for easy opening and secure closing of the steel coil which is placed through the center onto a ribbon spool shaft  96 . Mailbox-type slots  146  are provided, through which the stainless steel ribbon  56  passes, to be connected to the flotation device before it is placed in the barrel  14 . 
     The floatation device will be fluorescent yellow or other bright color. It will be labeled for rescue, and once the victim is secured, it will be in the retrieval position. The float has an inflatable collar. It will have puff tubes for a person to blow into if they are able, to further inflate the poncho/vest. The collar will inflate via a CO 2  charge and will secure the victim. The puff tubes (B 1 ) provide additional protection and recommended for use. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates the technology for connecting the float to the stainless steel strip. The preferred technology for connecting the stainless steel strip to the flotation device is via a vinculum. As noted previously, the vinculum contemplated herein is a straight bar above three stainless steel washer-like rings (or grommets) which provide extra strength and ease of attachment and detachment, especially when the victim is being retrieved. The stainless steel ribbon  56  will connect to the ribbon half mount  90 , as shown, to jacket ribbon half mount  88  as shown. 
       FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of the ribbon spool  40  of the invention, illustrating the inner workings of the retrieval system and ribbon coil. This view shows a pawl and the gear-type clutch system used to prevent the hand crank from unwinding when in the rescue mode, the hand crank being removable for purpose of releasing the steel ribbon when in the retrieval mode, prior to attaching supplies, etc. to the inner end of the steel ribbon. Dupont Corporation&#39;s material fabrics may be used for the flotation device. Softess® or Suprel® is the product being considered. Other similar thin, strong waterproof materials may also be used. 
     It is significant to note that the article to be deployed can be a life jacket or any article. Once the contact has been made between the launcher and the distal location, any article such as supplies, medical needs, or the like can be conveniently placed on the stainless steel ribbon and transported by sliding or otherwise to the distal location, or in the opposite direction, i.e., to the launcher. 
     Quick2Save™ is a unique rescue delivery system that is non-lethal and can be utilized by most shotguns, air cannons and flare guns. Quick2Save™ deploys a tightly coiled non-corrosive ⅜″ wide stainless steel ribbon discharged by a CO 2  cartridge and connected to a float via a vinculum, or other suitable releaseable fastener. A collared or linear float inflates on impact using a CO 2  charge with any type of well known sensor. There are three companies that can manufacture the steel coil; i.e., Boker&#39;s, Inc. of Minnesota; Iscar of Israel; and Arcelor Mittal of the Netherlands. 
     With regard to the inflation device, DuPont can manufacture the material and the float. Puff tubes can enhance the inflation of a collared float/poncho or other life preserver. The stainless steel coil remains connected to the spool inside a housing case to retrieve the victim. A blank charge fires a stainless steel coil strip that once deployed, can also be used as a line to attach such items as life jackets, vests etc. Quick2Save™ can also be used with a compressed gas supply where compressed gas deploys the steel coil along with a flotation device. The invention affords the luxury of a wider barrel (3¼ inches) thus enabling a larger float to be inserted. The float can either be a collar-type float like one that falls down from an aircraft cabin in the event of a loss of cabin pressure, or a one meter linear float. The steel coil will fit on a retrieval spool for easy retrieval of a victim after the victim is secured. 
     A fluorescent die pack can also be attached for night rescue. The inventive device can fire other first aid items without the steel strip to get items to the victim immediately. Various floats can be deployed using the present invention. All flotation devices will have a CO 2  charge with a sensor that inflates the float when it hits the water. Some floats are radar detectable for night rescue. 
     Quick2Save™ has worldwide application for rescue in oceans, lakes, rivers even frozen lakes and ponds when a victim falls through the ice. The rescue operator can deploy the steel ribbon coil rather than walk on the ice risking additional life. The steel ribbon coil is extremely durable, non-corrosive and can be used to pull a victim from the water or ice. 
     Once deployed, the Quick2Save™ device can reel in the victim using the attached reel and left hand grip. There can also be an extension pole for support against the retriever&#39;s waist or ground to assist in the retrieval of the victim. Rescue items can also be deployed without the stainless steel coil if retrieval is not the immediate concern. 
     Current rescue methods require the rescuer to throw a ring attached to a rope. However, the rope is not very accurate and can only be thrown a short distance. The stainless steel coil is accurate and has a range of 25-125 yards offering an assortment of coil sizes to conform to any rescue situation. In the case of the Coast Guard or any marine rescue agency, it is advisable to have coil sizes with various distances to handle any emergency that arises. The device offers the greatest distance in the effort to save a life and should have a scope attached. The float will inflate on impact via a CO 2  charge to approximately one meter in length and it will preferably be linear in shape. A collared float with a poncho/inflatable vest can be used and it can be radar detectable. 
     Potential users of Quick2Save™ would be the US Coast Guard, Navy, Merchant Marine, Army, any marine patrol, local police (first responders), fire departments, and lifeguards, etc. 
     Quick2Save.com, Quick2Save.net and Quick2Save.org have been secured by domaines.com. 
     Using the same Quick2Save™ concept, a first aid kit can be deployed up to 900 yards or greater, without a retrieval line however, still getting life saving equipment to victims of disasters quickly. Sep. 11, 2001 (9/11) is only one example of such disasters. 
     Quick2Save™ is not only applicable to water rescue or ice rescue. It is as valuable as retrieval or exchange line as it is in water attached to a flotation device (see examples of Quick2Save™ usage in the summary section, supra). Training and certification may be required by any users of Quick2Save™. The training can be done at a local Coast Guard station where a certification number registers each user. Lifeguards may have this as part of their certification training as well. “A first responder is a trained responder.” 
     Quick2Save™ is a rescue and retrieval delivery system designed to save lives. It is intended to reach victims quickly and secure them for safe rescue. Currently if a person is in a rip current and in trouble 75 yards offshore, a lifeguard has to swim to the rescue. This is difficult, with a strong current, especially trying to see the victim while the lifeguard is swimming. Quick2Save™ offers a quick solution. The launcher deploys a compressed flotation device which, once fired, unwinds the stainless steel coil from the reel spool inside a housing box. Once the flotation device hits the water it inflates using a CO 2  charge and secures the victim for retrieval. 
     This method is not intended to replace current rescue methods. However, it can clearly enhance the rescue effort and can make the difference between life and death. Saving seconds in a rescue situation saves lives. The Quick2Save™ method can be used for any water rescue, ice rescue and any land retrieval emergency. Quick2Save™ is not just a retrieval device for water or ice rescue. It is a lifeline for exchanging or delivering life saving equipment by attaching the items to the inner end of the stainless steel ribbon for retrieval by the victim. Once the stainless steel ribbon is deployed, the inner end is removed from the barrel of the launcher and the equipment is attached to it so that the receiving party can retrieve it. Even if the steel coil ribbon isn&#39;t used at all, this rescue and delivery apparatus can reach victims instantly with life saving equipment in many different emergency situations. The stainless steel strip is the retrieval lifeline that will bring the victim to safety or transfer needed supplies from place to place. It is therefore a very valuable tool for these reasons. 
     Examples of the Quick2Save™ Application 
     
         
         
           
             1) Water rescue—a flood victim stranded in a river on a car roof or island can now be reached. The steel coil can be used to exchange life saving equipment in an emergency. For example, an individual is on a car roof in flood waters 50 yards off the bank of the river. Quick2Save™ can deliver a flotation device or a just a dummy weight just to reach the individual. Once the individual has the floatation device or dummy weight he/she can hold onto it while at the other end, the rescue person detaches the stainless steel coil from the spool and clips a life vest to the end of the coil. The stranded individual then tows the stainless steel strip toward him/her and retrieves the life vest. Once the life vest is on, another steel strip is deployed to rescue the individual. All of this can be accomplished from the bank of the raging river. The Quick2Save™ Rescue and Retrieval Delivery System could be standard equipment for every emergency service agency; e.g., police, fire dept., EMS, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and Navy. 
             2) Fire rescue—a fireman is 6 stories high on a rooftop and can&#39;t be reached due to flames shooting out of the windows of the burning structure. Quick2Save™ can shoot a dummy weight up to the rooftop. Once received, the firefighter can retrieve any necessary equipment. The rescue operator of the launcher simply opens the latch on the housing box containing the steel coil, and attaches the needed equipment to be towed to the rooftop by the firefighter. Even the nozzle of a fire hose can be pulled to a rooftop while being connected to the truck at the other end, giving the firefighter a useful water hose. This would be impossible at the present time as most truck ladders have a maximum reach of six stories. 
           
         
       
    
     Fires can be extinguished by deploying a suitable fire retardant in a canister, such as a double-walled cylinder. Materials contemplated for such fire extinguishing tasks include sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium phosphate, monoammonium phosphate or ammonium sulphate. Also contemplated is a chemical known as bromochlorodifluoromethane, which is marketed under the trade names Halon 1211, or BCF, or Halon 1211 BCF, or Freon 12B1. This chemical is a halo alkane with chemical formula CF 2 CLBr.
         3) Ice rescue—a child falls through the ice and is in immediate danger. A police officer goes into his trunk to utilize Quick2Save™. He/She deploys a float to the victim and because of the tensile strength of the stainless steel, the victim can be reeled or pulled to safety without jeopardizing any additional lives. Pulling the stainless strip by hand will not cause cuts since the edges of the steel are rounded. Protective gloves may be helpful if pulling the steel strap by hand. There are eight states bordering the Great Lakes and Canadian provinces. Quick2Save™ will be particularly useful in these locales, as well as Canada and worldwide.   4) Rock climber stranded—a dummy projectile can be deployed to reach the victim and a zip line can be attached to the steel strip and can be towed to the stranded victim and he/she can be rescued safely.   5) Military—two soldiers are 50 yards apart behind a structure. A first soldier runs low on ammunition. The second soldier fires a dummy projectile carrying the stainless steel coil strip line to the distressed soldier. The inner end of this steel strip is disconnected from the hand crank and removed from the launcher. Then the necessary ammunition is clipped to the inner end of the steel strip and retrieved by the first soldier who is in need.       

     CONCLUSION 
     The Quick2Save™ Rescue and Retrieval Delivery System has vast application for rescue in water or land situations and will save lives. Time is critical in a rescue situation; Quick2Save™ offers a delivery and retrieval system that can be the difference between life and death. All users of the Quick2Save™ Rescue and Retrieval Delivery System will be trained by either the US Coast Guard or similar agency to ensure that “a first responder is a trained responder”. 
     Reference is made to the following List in which the elements of the present invention are identified by the numerals which appear in the description hereinabove. 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 10 
                 Overall Launcher 
               
               
                 12 
                 Launcher Control Chamber 
               
               
                 14 
                 Removable Barrel 
               
               
                 16 
                 Hand Trigger Grip 
               
               
                 18 
                 Telescope 
               
               
                 20 
                 Telescope Mount 
               
               
                 22 
                 Screw in CO 2  Stop 
               
               
                 24 
                 Trigger 
               
               
                 26 
                 Buoyant Barrel Foam 
               
               
                 28 
                 Buoyant Chamber Foam 
               
               
                 30 
                 Spring Chamber 
               
               
                 31 
                 Release Pin 
               
               
                 32 
                 Butt Stock Mounting Slots 
               
               
                 34 
                 Placement Rod Mount 
               
               
                 36 
                 Canister Placement Rod 
               
               
                 38 
                 Retrieving Chamber 
               
               
                 40 
                 Ribbon Spool Box 
               
               
                 42 
                 Hand Crank 
               
               
                 44 
                 Mounting Rod 
               
               
                 46 
                 Locking Groove 
               
               
                 48 
                 Release Ring 
               
               
                 50 
                 Canister Unit with UFE Jacket 
               
               
                 52 
                 Canister Cup 
               
               
                 54 
                 Life Jacket 
               
               
                 56 
                 Steel Ribbon 
               
               
                 58 
                 Ribbon Life Jacket Connector 
               
               
                 60 
                 Release Pin 
               
               
                 62 
                 Ribbon Spool 
               
               
                 64 
                 Lock Pin 
               
               
                 66 
                 Spring 
               
               
                 68 
                 Trigger Return Spring 
               
               
                 70 
                 Counter Lever 
               
               
                 72 
                 Piercing Head 
               
               
                 74 
                 Rubber Seal 
               
               
                 76 
                 CO 2  Cartridge 
               
               
                 78 
                 CO 2  Dispersing Chamber 
               
               
                 80 
                 Pressure Face of Canister 
               
               
                 82 
                 Inner Coated Barrel 
               
               
                 84 
                 Butt Stock 
               
               
                 86 
                 Butt Stock Pad 
               
               
                 88 
                 Jacket Ribbon Half Mount 
               
               
                 90 
                 Ribbon Half Mount 
               
               
                 92 
                 Key Slots Rivets 
               
               
                 94 
                 Ribbon Spool 
               
               
                 96 
                 Ribbon Spool Shaft 
               
               
                 98 
                 CO 2  Cartridge Membrane 
               
               
                 100 
                 Trigger Finger 
               
               
                 102 
                 Door 
               
               
                 104 
                 Slide Lock Bolt 
               
               
                 105 
                 Slide Lock 
               
               
                 106 
                 Retrieving Spool 
               
               
                 108 
                 Camming Slots 
               
               
                 110 
                 Camming Pin 
               
               
                 112 
                 Return Spring 
               
               
                 114 
                 Ribbon Spool One Way Locking Cams 
               
               
                 116 
                 Retrieving Spool Locking Cams 
               
               
                 118 
                 Retrieving Spool One Way Locking Cams 
               
               
                 120 
                 Ribbon Box Locking Cams 
               
               
                 122 
                 Ribbon Spool Locking Tab 
               
               
                 124 
                 Shaft Support Mount 
               
               
                 126 
                 Ribbon Box Mount 
               
               
                 128 
                 Retrieving Spool Inner Face 
               
               
                 130 
                 Retrieving Spool Outer Face 
               
               
                 132 
                 Tripod Stand 
               
               
                 134 
                 Spring Stop 
               
               
                 136 
                 Ribbon Box Mount Groove 
               
               
                 138 
                 Ribbon Channel 
               
               
                 140 
                 Key Slots 
               
               
                 142 
                 Lock Pin Hole 
               
               
                 144 
                 Victim 
               
               
                 146 
                 Mailbox-Type Ribbon Slots 
               
               
                 148 
                 Door Hinge 
               
               
                 150 
                 Hinge Pin 
               
               
                 152 
                 Water Drain Holes 
               
               
                 154 
                 Compressed Gas Tank 
               
               
                 156 
                 Release Valve 
               
               
                 158 
                 Pressure Gauge 
               
               
                 160 
                 Gas Line 
               
               
                 162 
                 Gas Line Adapter 
               
               
                 164 
                 Foot Pedal Gas Line On-Off Valve 
               
               
                 166 
                 Release Knob 
               
               
                 168 
                 Return Spring 
               
               
                 170 
                 Lock Pin 
               
               
                 172 
                 Spring Stop 
               
               
                 174 
                 Pedal Unit 
               
               
                 178 
                 Inner Clamping Wall 
               
               
                 180 
                 Outer Clamping Walls 
               
               
                 182 
                 Return Spring 
               
               
                 184 
                 Base 
               
               
                 186 
                 O-Ring 
               
               
                 188 
                 Release Rod 
               
               
                 190 
                 Rod Guide and Holder 
               
               
                 192 
                 Rubber Seal 
               
               
                 194 
                 Return Spring 
               
               
                 196 
                 Fixed Plate 
               
               
                 198 
                 Rod Head 
               
               
                 200 
                 Enlarged Ribbon Spool Box 
               
               
                 202 
                 Threaded Canister Cup 
               
               
                 204 
                 Splined Canister Head 
               
               
                 206 
                 Splines 
               
               
                 208 
                 Internal Bundled Emergency Supplies 
               
               
                 210 
                 Water Sensitive Unit 
               
               
                 212 
                 Depression for Pointed Canister Shell 
               
               
                 214 
                 Fire Extinguisher Canister 
               
               
                 216 
                 Weakened Seams 
               
               
                 218 
                 Fire 
               
               
                 220 
                 Fire Extinguishing Substance 
               
               
                 222 
                 Table 
               
               
                 224 
                 Lock Washer 
               
               
                 226 
                 Tight Seal