Lift sling emplacement device

Abstract

An apparatus is disclosed which is employable by a remotely controlled unwater work system to emplace a lift sling beneath an object resting on mud, sand or the like. The apparatus includes a hollow tube and a guide having rollers through which the tube may be passed. The rearward end of the tube is attached to a hose through which water under pressure is directed into the tube. The forward end of the tube is provided with a nozzle so that jets of water issue from it with selected strength and in a selected configuration. A sling or strap is connected at one end to the nozzle end of the tube and at its other end to the guide. A rope or cord is also attached to the guide portion of the apparatus. A mechanical grabber or other mechanism holds the guide in a fixed position with respect to the object to be retrieved while a manipulator arm of the system pushes the tube through the guide and beneath the object to be salvaged. The water jetting from the nozzle of the tube clears a path for the tube as it passes beneath the object and pulls the sling or strap under the object. When the tube reaches the far side of the object, the end of the lifting sling is accessible. The rope is transported across the top of the object and is pulled through the far end of the lifting sling to cinch the lifting sling around the object. A latch hook is attached to the end of the rope and may then be hooked onto a lifting device to recover the object.