The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Sep. 16, 2008
Filed:
Jul. 15, 2004
Vito Suppa, Roquefort les Pins, FR;
Christophe Borel, Brest, FR;
Vito Suppa, Roquefort les Pins, FR;
Christophe Borel, Brest, FR;
Thales, , FR;
Abstract
The present invention relates to a device for the automatic hauling of very long elongate objects. This device in particular allows very long tubular objects of relatively flexible and delicate structure such as, in particular, underwater cables, pipes or alternatively linear sonar antennas of the 'streamer' type to be handled. The device chiefly comprises traction means consisting of at least two running strips with rough surfaces which are pressed on each side of the object and drag it along in a traction movement and gripping means which constantly keep the running strips pressed against the object in order to ensure good adhesion. Another subject of the invention is means for actuating the traction means and the gripping means in a coordinated manner so that the object that is to be hauled experiences continuous traction throughout the hauling operation. The device according to the invention has the advantage of being mounted on a stationary chassis and therefore of not requiring an operating area. It is thus particularly intended for vessels where the available space is restricted, such as submarines.