CN114307034B - Recovery device for retrieving a rope using mechanical engagement, receiving device and method of using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an embodiment, a retrieval device for retrieving a rope having one end portion connected to a receiving device is provided. According to a further embodiment, there is also provided a receiving device for receiving the recycling device. The recovery device is guided by a magnetic connection to mechanically engage with the receiving device, upon which the recovery device magnetically separates from the receiving device. A method of retrieving a rope is also described.

Description

Recovery device for retrieving a rope using mechanical engagement, receiving device and method of using the same

Technical Field

Various embodiments relate to: a retrieving means for retrieving a rope, the rope having one end portion connected to the receiving means; receiving means for receiving the retrieving means for retrieving the rope; and a method of retracting a rope.

Background

In many sports-related activities, particularly in the venture sports industry, ropes or ropes may be used. It is an important aspect to carry out the retraction of the rope in a safe and efficient manner.

One particular venture exercise of interest is a bungee jump, which may also be referred to as a high-altitude jump.

In bungee jumping, a person jumps down a tall structure (e.g., bridge, building, etc.) to which the person (jumping person) is connected by large, resilient ropes. The rope may be referred to as a bungee rope or bungee cord. When a person (a jumping person) jumps, the rope extends downward toward the ground. Due to the elasticity of the rope, the rope stretches to its maximum value, after which the jump can fly upwards when the rope bounces back and continue to oscillate (bounce up and down) until the kinetic energy in the rope is substantially dissipated. Commercial operation of bungee jumping has been in existence for nearly 30 years.

Bungee jumping can be considered complete when the jumping person (still connected to the bungee cord) stops oscillating (bouncing up and down) more than a few meters.

Once the bungee jumping is complete, the bungee jumping recovery system can be activated to retract the cords. This process may be referred to as "bungee jump recovery" or "high altitude jump recovery".

Bungee jumping recovery may also mean recovery of a jumping person by the bungee after completion of the bungee jumping. There may be two ways to retrieve the skipper, either by lifting to the original skip position, or by lowering to the area below the original skip position.

The raised bungee jump recovery system may involve the use of a rope attached to a winch (winch) to raise the jumper back to the original jump position. The simplest way would be to lower the rope to the jump attaching the rope to itself and then pull the rope up by a winch, thereby raising the rope back to the original jump position.

Typically, an indication of the recovery of the bungee can be communicated to the jumper prior to the beginning of the bungee jump. Hand signals and communication of language may also be used during and/or after a jump. However, in the presence of stress (e.g., after a bungee jump), the jumping person sometimes forgets the earlier given indication. In some extreme cases, the skipper may be immobile due to fear created during the skips. There may also be situations where a jumping person may be injured, or may lose consciousness and be unable to perform an instruction.

Thus, there is a need for an apparatus for retrieving or retrieving a rope that eliminates or at least minimizes reliance on a jumper to properly and safely connect the retrieving or retrieving device or the retrieving rope to the jumper when the bungee jump is complete. Further, the amount of time required to retrieve the rope and the skips may be reduced, thereby increasing profitability, especially on busy days where the number of skips increases.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment, a retrieval device for retrieving a rope having one end portion connected to a receiving device is provided. The retrieval device may include a connection assembly having an opening configured to receive a portion of the cord for movement of the connection assembly along the cord. The connection assembly includes at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body, each having a shank and a curved member extending therefrom. The shank includes a ferromagnetic shank portion. A gap is provided between the shank portion and the flexure. The handle portion is configured to magnetically connect with a guide of the receiving device, the magnetic connection configured to move a ring of the receiving device to an engageable configuration, wherein the guide is connected to the ring. The flexure is configured to mechanically engage with the ring to bring the ring from an engageable configuration to an engaged configuration configured to magnetically separate the guide from the handle portion. The connection assembly includes a retraction member, and the retraction member is configured to facilitate movement of the connection assembly in a direction toward an opposite end portion of the cord.

According to one embodiment, a receiving device for receiving a retrieving device for retrieving a rope is provided. The recovery device comprises at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body, each hook body having at least one shank and a curved member extending therefrom, the shank having a ferromagnetic shank portion, wherein a gap is provided between the shank portion and the curved member. The receiving device comprises: a central member having at least one loop and a guide connected to each loop, wherein the guide is configured to magnetically connect to the handle portion to move the at least one loop to an engageable configuration, and further configured to magnetically separate from the handle portion when the at least one loop is brought from the engageable configuration to an engaged configuration in which the at least one loop is mechanically engaged with the flexure, and wherein the receiving device is connectable towards one end portion of the cord.

According to one embodiment, an apparatus for retrieving a rope is provided. The apparatus may comprise recovery means and receiving means.

According to one embodiment, a method of retrieving a rope having one end portion and an opposite end portion is provided. The method may include: movably connecting a retrieval device to the opposite end portion of the cord; moving the retrieving means to receiving means at said one end portion of the rope; magnetically connecting the recovery device with the receiving device; mechanically engaging the recovery device with the receiving device, the mechanical engagement causing the recovery device to magnetically separate from the receiving device; and applying a pulling force on a retrieval string connected to the retrieval device to retrieve the retrieval device and the receiving device together towards the opposite end portion of the string.

Drawings

In the drawings, like reference numerals generally refer to like parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the following description, various embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Fig. 1A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a retrieval device for retrieving a rope according to various embodiments.

Fig. 1B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a receiving device for receiving a retrieval device for retrieving a rope according to various embodiments.

Fig. 1C shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for retrieving a rope according to various embodiments.

Fig. 1D shows a flow chart illustrating a method of retrieving a rope according to various embodiments.

Fig. 2A shows a schematic diagram illustrating a snapshot example of a process of bungee jumping in accordance with various embodiments.

Fig. 2B and 2C show diagrams illustrating examples of snapshots of a subsequent rope retraction process according to one embodiment.

Fig. 3A illustrates a top view of an exemplary recovery device according to one embodiment.

Fig. 3B illustrates a bottom view of the example recovery device of fig. 3A.

Figure 3C shows a ring body comprising two pairs of semi-circles that overlap and fit together.

Fig. 3D shows a hook body.

Fig. 4A shows a perspective view of an exemplary receiving device.

Fig. 4B illustrates another perspective view of an exemplary receiving device (with the pad component removed) according to one embodiment.

Fig. 5A shows the recovery device in an open configuration.

Fig. 5B shows the recovery device connected to the bungee cord and moving along the cord toward the receiving device.

Fig. 5C shows the recovery device lowered until the recovery device is lowered onto the receiving device.

Fig. 5D shows a recovery device magnetically coupled to a receiving device.

Detailed Description

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings that show, by way of illustration, specific details and embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The various embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments may be combined with one or more embodiments to form new embodiments.

The embodiments described in the context of one of the methods or apparatuses are approximately valid for the other method or apparatus. Similarly, embodiments described in the context of methods are approximately valid for an apparatus and vice versa.

Features described in the context of embodiments may be correspondingly applicable to the same or similar features in other embodiments. Features described in the context of embodiments may be correspondingly applicable to other embodiments even if not explicitly described in these other embodiments. Further, the additions and/or combinations and/or substitutions described for features in the context of an embodiment may be correspondingly applicable to the same or similar features in other embodiments.

In the context of various embodiments, the articles "a," "an," and "the" as used with respect to a feature or element include references to one or more features or elements.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "substantially" may include "exactly" as well as reasonable variations.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" as applied to a numerical value encompasses both exact values and reasonable variations.

As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

As used herein, the phrase form of "at least one of a or B" may include a, or B, or both a and B. Accordingly, "at least one of a or B or C", or phrase forms including further listed items, may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrases "configured to," "adapted to," and "suitable" may be used interchangeably.

Various embodiments may provide a bungee jumping recovery unit or bungee jumping recovery system. For example, a bungee jumping recovery unit or bungee jumping recovery system may recover a jumper by being raised to an original jumping position.

Various embodiments may provide a bungee jumping recovery unit that may provide a quick, consistent, and secure connection to a bungee jumping person upon completion of a bungee jumping, by using magnets to guide the bungee jumping recovery unit into mechanical engagement with a receiving device connected to the jumping person, the magnets being separated upon mechanical engagement, all without intervention by the jumping person. The unit may connect a winch rope to the skipper so that the skipper may be raised to the original jump position.

Fig. 1A illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a retrieval device 100 for retrieving a tether 110, the tether 110 having one end portion connected to a receiving device 120, according to various embodiments. For example, the retrieval device 100 may be used to retrieve the cord 110 together with the receiving device 120 attached toward one end portion of the cord 110. The recovery device 100 includes a connection assembly 102 having an opening 104 configured to receive a portion of a tether 110 for moving the connection assembly 102 (or effectively the recovery device 100) along the tether 110, as indicated by dashed line 112. At least a portion of the connection assembly 102 is adapted to mechanically connect to at least a portion of the receiving device 120, as indicated by dashed lines 112 through 114. The connection assembly 102 includes a retraction member 106 configured to facilitate movement of the connection assembly 102 in a direction toward an opposite end portion of the cable 110. As indicated by line 108, the opening 104 may be disposed adjacent to the retraction member. The connection assembly 102 further includes at least one hook component or body 105 configured to mechanically connect with the receiving device 120. The coupling assembly 102 includes at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body. Each hook body includes a shank and a curved member extending therefrom. The shank includes a ferromagnetic shank portion. A gap is provided between the shank portion and the flexure. The handle portion is configured to magnetically connect with the guide of the receiving device 120. Because the guide is connected to the ring of the receiving device 120, the magnetic connection is configured to move the ring into an engageable configuration. The flexure is configured to mechanically engage with the ring to bring the ring from the engageable configuration to the engaged configuration. The aforementioned mechanical engagement is configured to magnetically separate the guide from the handle portion.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "retrieving" may also refer to retrieving, pulling with a winch, or lifting.

The term "connected" also means coupled, in contact with … …, attached, or fixed to.

The term "opening" may refer to a hole, aperture, hole, or gap.

The phrase "receiving a portion of a cord" may refer to wrapping or enclosing a portion of cord 110 within opening 104. For example, the opening 104 may include a through hole along an axial center of the connection assembly 102, and the received portion of the cord 110 may be free from contact with at least a portion of a wall of the through hole. The cable 110 may be extended in a direction generally parallel to the axial center of the connection assembly 102. In this way, the connection assembly 102 may move along the cable 110 with zero or minimal resistance to each other, thereby preserving the integrity of the cable 110.

For example, movement of the connection assembly 102 along the cable 110 may refer to the connection assembly 102 sliding along the cable 110.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "one end portion of the cord" may refer to a distal end portion of the cord 110. An end portion of the tether 110 may mean an end (or tip) of the tether 110 or any portion immediately adjacent to an end of the tether 110.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "non-ferromagnetic" may refer to the absence of magnetic permeability or the presence of low magnetic permeability, while the term "ferromagnetic" may refer to high magnetic permeability. The phrase "hook" may refer to a frame structure that is constructed and arranged to mechanically engage another structure or element. The term "flexure" may refer to an end portion and/or proximal end portion of a hook body that is shaped to mechanically engage another structure or element. The term "handle" may refer to a portion of the hook body other than the curved member. The phrase "handle portion" may refer to a portion of a handle. The phrase "extending from" may mean that the stem is integrally formed with the flexure, or that the stem is directly or indirectly connected to the flexure. The term "gap" may refer to an opening, a space, or a separation.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "magnetically coupled" may refer to magnetically coupled or connected or magnetically attached or magnetically fixed. For example, "magnetically coupled" may mean that a magnetic force may be between a permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic element, or between a permanent magnet and another permanent magnet. The phrase "magnetically separated" may refer to magnetic decoupling or magnetic breaking or magnetic separation. For example, "magnetically separated" may mean that there may be a lack of or insufficient magnetic force between a permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic element, or between a permanent magnet and another permanent magnet, so that there is no attachment or maintenance of contact between the two.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "loop" may refer to a generally circular, oval, or tear-drop shape, the loop being a portion of or formed entirely of or by the support strap. The phrase "guide" may refer to any element configured to drive or move a ring into an engageable configuration.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "mechanically engaged" may refer to an attachment or securement by physical connection or mating of two or more structures or elements. The phrase "engageable configuration" may refer to an arrangement of loops in which the loops have not yet received the flexure therein but are sufficiently extended to receive the flexure therein. The phrase "engaged configuration" may refer to an arrangement of loops in which loops have received and contacted a flexure therein, and may also refer to an arrangement of loops in which loops physically interlock with a received flexure such that the interlock is sufficiently secured to allow the receiving means to be raised.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "opposite end portions of the cord" may refer to end portions of the cord 110 that extend away from a distal end portion of the cord 110, or may be end portions of the cord 110 that are furthest relative to the distal end portion of the cord 110. The opposite end portion of the tether 110 may mean the opposite end (or tip) of the tether 110 or any portion immediately adjacent the opposite end of the tether 110. For example, if the opposite end portion of the rope 110 is maintained at a height away from the ground and the rope 110 is allowed to freely extend in a downward or vertical direction toward the ground, the distal end portion of the rope 110 may refer to the bottom end portion of the rope 110, and the opposite end portion of the rope 110 may refer to the top end portion of the rope 110.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "towards an end portion of the rope" may mean "substantially close to an end point of the rope". The term "toward the opposite end portion of the cord" may mean substantially near an end of the cord 110 extending away from the distal end portion of the cord 110, or substantially near an end of the cord 110 that may be furthest relative to the distal end portion of the cord 110.

In the context of various embodiments, the phrase "facilitating movement of the connection assembly in a direction toward the opposite end portion of the cable" may refer to a position that causes or allows movement of the connection assembly 102 to substantially the same plane located at the opposite end portion of the cable 110. For example, if the opposite end portions of the cable 110 are maintained at a height away from the ground and the cable 110 is allowed to extend freely in a downward or vertical direction toward the ground, the plane of the opposite end portions of the cable 110 may be substantially parallel to the ground. In this case, the phrase "facilitating movement of the connection assembly in a direction toward the opposite end portion of the rope" may refer to movement of the connection assembly 102 up away from the ground to a position substantially at or near the height of the opposite end portion of the rope 110, which position is also referred to as an original (jump) position or starting position. The home (jump) position or starting position may also be a recovery position, which may be a home (jump) position or starting position in close proximity to a height substantially at or near the opposite end portion of the rope 110.

In other words, various embodiments may relate to a retrieval device 100 for retrieving a rope 110, such as a bungee rope or bungee rope. The receiving means 120 may be attached to one end portion of the rope 110. For example, after the cord 110 has been extended from the opposite end portion of the cord 110, the recovery device 100 may be positioned around the portion of the cord 110 at the opposite end portion of the cord 110. The recovery device 100 may be moved or may be lowered to the receiving device 120 and may be guided by the magnetic connection to mechanically connect to the receiving device 120, thereby releasing the magnetic connection. When the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 are mechanically connected to each other, the recovery component 106 can be used to move or raise the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 together back to a position at or substantially near the opposite end portion of the cord 110, which is the recovery position. The elevation of the recovery device 100 includes the mechanical connection of the receiving device and does not include the magnetic connection therebetween. By doing so, the rope retraction process can be automatically implemented without the need for intervention of a jumper. In addition, since the magnetic connection is used only for the alignment of loops and is not used during the jump-up of the jump, the material (in particular the ferromagnetic element) used for the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 can be much smaller and lighter than the device used for the magnetic connection employed during the jump-up of the jump. This reduces the weight of the jumper's ends, thus improving the overall safety of the bungee jumping and rope retrieval.

In various embodiments, the connection assembly 102 may further include a first member and a second member connectable to the first member, wherein the first member and the second member are configured to move relative to each other between a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein in the closed configuration the first member and the second member are configured to move toward each other to form an opening 104 to receive a portion of the cord 110; wherein in the open configuration the first member and the second member are arranged to move away from each other to receive or release a portion of the cord 110. The first member and/or the second member may be connected to at least one hook.

In other words, in the closed configuration, the opening 104 may form a closed loop, while in the open configuration, the opening 104 may form an open loop, wherein the first and second members may be disposed to move away from each other to provide an inlet/outlet to receive or release a portion of the cord 110.

In one embodiment, the first member may be stationary and the second member may be movable relative to the first member.

In another embodiment, the second member may be stationary while the first member may be movable relative to the second member.

In another embodiment, both the first member and the second member may be movable relative to each other.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "housing" may mean surrounding or enclosing.

In various embodiments, the first member and/or the second member may be passed through at least one hook, e.g., through an opening of the hook.

In one embodiment, the first member and/or the second member are welded to the at least one hook body.

In various embodiments, the first member and/or the second member are integrally formed with at least one hook body.

In various embodiments, a first member may be provided to pivot relative to a second member.

In other words, the first member may be moved relative to the second member by the pivot point. For example, the pivot point may be a hinge. In this embodiment, the connection assembly 102 may function like a clamp, while the first and second members may function like arms of a clamp.

In various embodiments, the connection assembly 102 may function like an open-ended enclosure (open-ended enclosure) with overlapping swings (overlapping flaps) or snap-back swings (snap-back flaps), where the first member may be a swing and the second member may be an open-ended enclosure. For example, the first member and the second member may be differently sized, and the connection assembly 102 may function similar to a shackle (carabiner).

In another embodiment, the connection assembly 102 may function like an open-ended enclosure with a removable cover or door, where the first member may be the removable cover or door and the second member may be the open-ended enclosure.

It may be useful to have the first member and the second member arranged to move relative to each other, for example during a bungee jumping process. This may be due to the manner in which the bungee cords (e.g., 110) are manipulated and the manner in which the topology of the bungee platforms is provided. In these cases, there may be only insufficient space around where the bungee cord 110 may be attached to the platform (in the original jump position) to allow attachment prior to the bungee. In other words, there may be no way to allow the recovery device 100 to wrap around the bungee cord 110 after the skipper has jumped off the platform, other than to allow the first and second members of the recovery device 100 to be opened.

In other embodiments, the recovery device 100 may include a third member or more members to form a closed loop in the closed configuration. While it is possible to divide the circle into more than two parts (first and second members), such a design may require more complex parts.

In various embodiments, the first member and the second member may be further configured to be releasably secured to one another.

In various embodiments, the connection assembly 102 may further include a locking mechanism to releasably secure the first member and the second member in the closed configuration. For example, the locking mechanism may comprise a locking pin.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "lock" may be interchangeably referred to as a fix, bolt (bolt), or latch.

In various embodiments, the combination of the shank portion and the shank may be configured to provide a taper toward the flexure.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "taper" may refer to a narrowing, thinning, or reduction in cross-sectional area. The phrase "taper toward the tip" may refer to a narrower, thinner, or reduced cross-sectional area near the tip as compared to a portion distal from the tip.

For example, the cross-section of the shank portion near the flexure is smaller than the cross-section of the shank portion far from the flexure.

In various embodiments, the combination of the handle portion and the handle may be substantially uniform or taper-free.

In various embodiments, the handle portion and/or the guide comprise a permanent magnet.

For example, the stem portion comprises a permanent magnet, while the guide comprises a ferromagnetic element, and vice versa.

For example, the handle portion and the guide each comprise a permanent magnet.

For example, the permanent magnet may comprise a neodymium magnet.

In various embodiments, the first member and/or the second member may comprise a metal body.

Other suitable materials may be used for the purpose of which is to allow the integrity of the rope 110 (e.g., the rubber of the bungee cord) to be protected and preserved from rubbing against any portion of the connection assembly 102 that may damage the rope 110. Each metal body may comprise a lightweight and structurally strong material such that the weight of the receiving end 120 may be minimized. This in turn may minimize the negative impact on a jump's collision at the receiving end 120.

The first and second members in the closed configuration may form a circular or annular shape, or other shape, in different embodiments.

In various embodiments, a retraction member 106 may be attached to each hook.

For example, the retraction member 106 may be indirectly connected to each hook, such as by a connector, strap, or cord.

In various embodiments, the retraction member 106 may be integrally formed with each hook or directly connected to each hook.

In various embodiments, the retrieval component 106 may include an eyelet (eyelet) configured to receive a retrieval string.

For example, the retrieval string may be attached or connected or tied to the eyelet. The retrieval line may be referred to as a retrieval line or winch line.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "eyelet" may be interchangeably referred to as an eyebolt (eyebolt) or a ring, which may be circular, oval, or a conventional polygon (e.g., triangle, square, rectangle), or other non-conventional shape.

In various embodiments, the recovery device comprises a plurality of hooks, each hook being disposed at a substantially equal distance from an adjacent or neighboring one of the hooks.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "distance" may refer to a circumferential distance formed by the first member and the second member.

Fig. 1B illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a receiving device 120 for receiving a retrieval device 100 for retrieving a line 110, according to various embodiments. The receiving apparatus 120 includes: a central member 122; and an optional pad component 124 surrounding at least a portion of the central component 122, as indicated by line 126. At least a portion of the central member 122 is adapted to be mechanically coupled to at least a portion of the recovery device 100, as indicated by dashed lines 114 through 112. The central member 122 comprises at least one ring and a guide connected to each ring, wherein the guide is configured to magnetically connect to the handle portion to move the at least one ring to an engageable configuration, and further configured to magnetically separate from the handle portion when the at least one ring is brought from the engageable configuration to an engaged configuration in which the at least one ring is mechanically engaged with the flexure. As indicated by the dashed line 114, the receiving means 120 can be connected towards one end portion of the rope 110.

In the context of various embodiments, the term "surrounding" may refer to covering, enclosing, packaging, or surrounding.

The terms "retracting", "handle portion", "handle", "bend", "gap", "loop", "guide", "magnetically connected", "magnetically disconnected", "mechanically engaged", "engageable configuration", "engaged configuration", "one end portion of the cord", "one end portion towards the cord" may be described in a similar context as described above.

In various embodiments, the central member 122 includes a cushion member surrounding at least a portion of the central member and at least a portion of the cord 110. The pad component is optional but may be advantageous in that it provides a covering or covering for protecting the skipper from injury due to impact with the receiving means 120 and protecting the central component from wear.

For example, the pad component 124 may include first, second, and third pad sections. The first pad section may be provided as a top sleeve. The diameter of the opening 104 of the first pad section may be suitably sized to allow passage of the cord 110. The diameter of the first liner portion may be sized to be received within the opening of the recovery device 100. The diameter of the second pad section may be suitably sized to allow the hooks to fall thereon and/or prevent further movement of the hooks toward a jump when the first pad section is received within the opening 104 of the recovery device 102. The height of the second pad section may be configured to bring the handle section into proximity with the guide when the hook body is landed on or in contact with the second pad section. The third pad may receive a portion of the central member and provide at least one opening for receiving at least one support strap therethrough, the support strap configured to be connected to a jumping person.

In an embodiment, the first, second and third pad sections may be integrally formed.

In various embodiments, the first, second and third pad sections may be provided as separate sections that are connected together.

In an embodiment, the cushion portion may be made of a foam material, such as standard polyethylene foam.

In various embodiments, central member 122 includes a spool that supports a support band configured to be connected to a jumping person and/or another support band that includes loops and is configured to be connected to a jumping person.

In an embodiment, the spool may be provided in a cylindrical configuration.

In various embodiments, the spool may be configured in a non-cylindrical configuration.

In various embodiments, the central member 122 may comprise an annular support disposed about the cord 110. The annular support and the pad member are arranged to interpose at least one ring therebetween and to allow the at least one ring to protrude from the central member 122.

In various embodiments, the guide may be movably connected to the ring.

For example, the guide may be connected to the ring by a wire connection or an elastic wire, which may be sewn to the ring.

In various embodiments, the guide may be rigidly connected to the ring.

In various embodiments, the guide may include a rotatable element, such as a wheel, configured to engage in rotatable contact with the handle portion.

In various embodiments, the guide may be a non-rotatable element.

In various embodiments, the guide comprises a permanent magnet, such as a neodymium magnet.

In some embodiments, the guide and the handle portion may comprise the same material, such as a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, the guide and the handle portion may comprise different materials, such as permanent magnets and non-permanent magnets, respectively, and vice versa.

In various embodiments, the receiving device 120 may be used to receive the recovery device 100 moving from an opposite end portion of the tether 110 toward the receiving device 120 at one end portion of the tether 110.

The phrase "opposite end portions of the rope" may be described in a similar context as described above.

Fig. 1C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view of an apparatus 140 for retrieving a rope (e.g., 110) according to various embodiments. The apparatus 140 may include the recycling apparatus 100 according to various embodiments and the receiving apparatus 120 according to various embodiments. As indicated by line 142, the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be mechanically connectable to each other to cooperate with each other.

Fig. 1D shows a flow chart 160 illustrating a method for retrieving a rope (e.g., 110) having one end portion and an opposite end portion, according to various embodiments. In other words, a method for retrieving a rope having one end portion and an opposite end portion may be provided. In fig. 1D, at 162, a recovery device (e.g., 100) is movably connected to an opposite end portion of the tether 110. At 164, the recovery device 100 is moved to a receiving device (e.g., 120) at one end portion of the cord 110, and the recovery device 100 is magnetically coupled to the receiving device 120. At 166, the recovery device mechanically engages the receiving device. The mechanical engagement results in a magnetic separation of the recovery device from the receiving device. At 168, a pulling force is applied to a retrieval string connected to the retrieval device 100 to retrieve the retrieval device 100 and the retrieval device 120 together toward opposite end portions of the string 110.

The recycling apparatus 100 and the receiving apparatus 120 may include or may relate to the same or similar elements or components as the recycling apparatus 100 and the receiving apparatus 120 of fig. 1A and 1B, respectively, and thus, the same numerals are assigned, and similar elements may be described in the context of the recycling apparatus 100 and the receiving apparatus 120 of fig. 1A and 1B, respectively, and thus, corresponding descriptions may be omitted herein.

In the context of various embodiments, the terms "retrieving" and the phrases "magnetically coupling", "magnetically separating", "mechanically engaging", "one end portion of the cord", "the opposite end portion of the cord" may be described in a similar context as described above.

The term "movably connected" may mean attached to (or attachable to) and may move along. In other words, for example, the retrieval device 100 with retrieval string may be placed on opposite end portions of the string 110 and be (or be) movable along the string 110.

The term "moving" with respect to the recovery device 100 may also mean being lowered.

The phrase "magnetically coupling the recovery device to the receiving device" may also mean that the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be magnetically coupled, fixed, or attached to each other. The phrase "mechanically engaging the recovery device with the receiving device" may also mean that the corresponding elements of the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be connected or secured to each other. The phrase "mechanically engaging to magnetically separate the recovery device from the receiving device" may also mean that the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be magnetically separated, unsecured, or disengaged from each other during the process of causing and/or being in mechanical engagement.

The phrase "applying a pulling force on the retrieval string" may also mean applying a pulling force on the retrieval string, or raising the retrieval string.

In various embodiments, at 164, magnetically coupling the recovery device 100 to the receiving device 120 includes: the handle is magnetically coupled to the guide, the magnetic coupling moving the ring into the engageable configuration.

In various embodiments, at 166, mechanically engaging the recovery device 100 with the receiving device 120 (the mechanical engagement causing magnetic separation of the recovery device 100 from the receiving device 120) comprises: the flexure is mechanically engaged with the ring, the mechanical engagement changing the ring from an engageable configuration to an engaged configuration that pulls the guide away from the handle portion to magnetically separate the guide and the handle portion.

In various embodiments, the retrieval string may be connected to the retrieval component 106 of the retrieval device 100 prior to removably connecting the retrieval device 100 to the opposite end portion of the cord 110.

In various embodiments, removably attaching the recovery device 100 to the opposite end portion of the cord 110 may include receiving a portion of the cord 110 within the opening 104 of the connection assembly 102 of the recovery device 100.

In various embodiments, the method 160 may further include guiding the movement of the connection assembly 102 along the cable 110.

While the above-described method is illustrated and described as a series of steps or events, it will be appreciated that any ordering of such steps or events may not be interpreted in a limiting sense. For example, some steps may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other steps or events apart from those illustrated and/or described herein. Furthermore, not all illustrated steps may be required to implement one or more aspects or embodiments of the present invention. Also, one or more of the steps described herein may be implemented in one or more separate acts and/or phases.

Examples of the method of retracting the rope (e.g., 110) (e.g., bungee rope) according to various embodiments are described below.

Fig. 2A shows a schematic diagram 200 illustrating a snapshot example of a process of bungee jumping, while fig. 2B and 2C show schematic diagrams 220, 240 illustrating a subsequent snapshot example of a rope retraction process according to various embodiments.

The recycling device and the receiving device may include or may relate to the same or similar elements or components as the recycling device 100 and the receiving device 120 of fig. 1A and 1B, respectively, and thus, the same numerals are assigned, and similar elements may be described in the context of the recycling device 100 and the receiving device 120 of fig. 1A and 1B, respectively, and thus, the corresponding descriptions may be omitted herein.

During a bungee jumping process, the receiving device 120 may first be connected or attached to the jumping person 202 at one end 204 (or one end portion) of the rope 110. Receiving device 120 may be positioned on the foot of jumping person 202. Jumping person 202 may be placed at platform 206 of the starting position (or may also be referred to as the original (jumping) position). The opposite end 208 (opposite end portion) of the tether 110 may be secured to a lower surface of the platform 206 relative to an upper surface of the platform 206 on which the skips 202 may be placed in a starting position, or secured to other suitable portions of the platform 206.

As shown in the schematic diagram 200 of fig. 2A, the receiving device 120 may be referred to as a "jumpers side". The "jumper end" can be secured to the end (e.g., 204) of the bungee cord 110.

In example (i), the jumper 202 may jump or move away from the platform 206 to perform a bungee jump. In example (ii), the tether 110 may extend away from the platform 206 and toward the ground. The ground may be land or water. In example (iii), a bungee jump may be considered complete when the line 110 is fully extended and substantially in equilibrium (where the jumping person 202 has stopped jumping and is ready to be recovered, or where the line 110 has swung only a few meters (e.g., about 1 m or less in an up-and-down motion)).

One end 210 of a retrieval string 212 (e.g., a winch string) may be connected to the retrieval component 106 of the retrieval device 100. The other (opposite) end 214 of retraction cord 212 may be attached to winch 216 or a pulley system to facilitate cord retraction.

Fig. 2B shows a schematic diagram 220 illustrating an example snapshot of the retrieval line 212 being sent to or lowered to the skipper 202. As shown in example (iv), when the bungee jumping is complete, the recovery apparatus 100 can be placed on the opposite end 208 (or opposite end portion) of the cord 110 such that a portion of the cord 110 is received within the opening 104 of the connection assembly 102 of the recovery apparatus 100, such as by the bungee operator 222. The recovery device 100 may also be referred to as a "recovery end". In example (iv), the "recovery end" can be opened and then secured around the bungee cord 110.

Recovery device 100 may be lowered toward receiving device 120, which is connected to one end 204 (or one end portion) of cord 110 at the foot of jumping person 202. In other words, in example (v), the "recovery end" can be lowered by the winch rope 212 the entire length of the bungee cord 110.

Upon reaching one end 204 (or one end portion) of the cord 110, the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be guided through a magnetic connection, thereby being secured to each other by a mechanical connection, upon which the magnetic connection is released. That is, the "recovery side" may be connected to the "jumpers side" as in example (vi).

Fig. 2C shows a schematic diagram 240 illustrating an example snapshot of retraction cord 212 with jump 202. The retrieval string 212 may then be pulled or raised upward toward a retrieval position, which may be near or at the beginning of the platform 206. In examples (vii) and (viii), winch 216 may pull jump 202 up to the original (jump) position/location by winch rope 212. At the recovery location (example (ix)), the recovery device 100 can be removed from the rope 110 and the jumper 202 can be released from the receiving device 120 and the rope 110, for example with the assistance of the bungee operator 222; allowing the line 110 to be retracted and attached to the next hop at the starting location.

It should be appreciated that when the recovery device 100 is mechanically connected to the receiving device 120 having the rope 110 extending towards the ground, the lifting force between the recovery device 100 and the receiving device 120 may be effective in a direction along the pull-up direction in which the rope 110 extends.

In the recovery position (e.g., example (ix)), recovery device 100 may be removed from receiving device 120 by mechanically disengaging at least one hook from at least one loop (i.e., thereby releasing the loop from the engaged configuration); releasing or separating the first member from the second member, both forming an opening of the connection assembly; and separates the recovery device 100 from the rope 110. This may allow easy removal of the recovery device 100 from the receiving device 120.

In general, the "jumper end" or receiving device 120 can be attached to the same end 204 (or the same end portion) of the bungee cord 110 as the bungee jumper 202 prior to starting the bungee jumping. After the bungee jumping is complete, the "recovery end" can be attached to the bungee cord 110. Using winch 216, the "recovery end" can be lowered the full length of rope 110 to be secured to the "jump end". Once secured or attached, the bungee jumping person 202 can be lifted back to the original jumping position or other post-retrieval position adjacent the original jumping position by the winch 216.

Examples of recovery devices (e.g., 100) for recovering a rope (e.g., 110) (e.g., bungee rope) at a "recovery end" according to various embodiments are described below.

According to one embodiment, fig. 3A illustrates a top view 300 of an exemplary recovery device (e.g., 100), while fig. 3B illustrates a bottom view 301 of an exemplary recovery device.

The recovery device 302 may include or may relate to the same or similar elements or components as the recovery device 100 of fig. 1A, and thus, similar elements may be described in the context of the recovery device 100 of fig. 1A, and thus, the corresponding description may be omitted herein.

As shown in fig. 3A and 3B, the retrieval device (or "retrieval end") 302 may be comprised of a ring 340 for providing the opening 104, a plurality of hooks 360 (e.g., 4), a plurality of connectors 322 (e.g., 4), and an eyelet 324.

The ring body 340 may include or consist of two pairs of half rings 342 (see fig. 3C) that overlap and fit together to form a complete ring. The half ring 342 may be hinged (via hinge 308) on one side to allow opening and closing of the ring 340. The opposite side may be provided with a locking pin 310 to prevent accidental opening. After the bungee jumping is completed, the ring 340 can be opened, slid over the bungee cord (e.g., 110) and lowered along the cord 110 to the jumping person (e.g., 202). Each pair of half rings 342 can include two overlapping and/or staggered portions. Half ring 342 may comprise a non-ferromagnetic metallic material such as an aluminum alloy, a magnesium-infused aluminum alloy.

Once the recovery of the bungee jumping person is complete, the locking pin 310 may be unlocked and the "recovery end" 302 may be removed from the bungee cord. The ring 340 can provide a framework to anchor other components and can protect the bungee cord 110 from damage.

Each hook 360 (see fig. 3D) may include a curved member 362, a handle 364, and a plurality of openings 366, 368. The curved member 362 forms an end portion of the hook body 360 and is configured to mechanically engage with a loop of a receiving device. A stem 364 extends from the flexure 362 and is disposed or oriented relative to the flexure 362 such that a gap 363 is provided between a portion of the stem (alternatively referred to as a stem portion 365) and the flexure 362. The gap 363 is configured to receive the ring during mechanical engagement. The shank portion 365 includes a ferromagnetic element, such as a high performance magnet, while the remainder of the hook body 360 and the flexure 362 include a non-ferromagnetic metallic material, such as an aluminum alloy, a magnesium-infused aluminum alloy. The ferromagnetic element may be disposed partially along the length and/or width of the handle portion. The ferromagnetic element may be disposed parallel to a portion of the end portion. The stem 364 (including stem portion 365) may be configured to taper toward the flexure. In other words, the cross-section of the stem 364 closer to the flexure 362 may be smaller than the cross-section of the stem 364 further from the flexure 362. In other words, at least a portion of the shank portion 365 may be disposed within the tapered portion. The openings may include a first opening 366 configured to receive a portion of the ring body 340 (e.g., half ring 342) therethrough. The hook 360 may be rigidly attached (e.g., welded) to the ring 340. The plurality of hooks 360 may be disposed at substantially equal distances from adjacent hooks.

The openings can include a second opening 368 configured to receive a connector 322 that connects the hook 360 to the eyelet 324 from which a winch rope for lifting the bungee jumping person back to the original (jumping) position can be secured.

In various embodiments, ring body 340 may include or consist of a pair of half rings 342.

In various embodiments, the recovery device 302 may provide other numbers of hooks, such as two, three, or more. Similarly, in other embodiments, the number of connectors may vary.

Examples of receiving means (e.g., 120) for retrieving a rope (e.g., 110) (e.g., bungee rope) at a "jumper end" according to various embodiments will be described below.

Fig. 4A illustrates a perspective view 400 of an exemplary receiving device (e.g., 120), and fig. 4B illustrates another perspective view 401 of an exemplary receiving device, according to one embodiment.

The receiving device 402 may include or may relate to the same or similar elements or components as the receiving device 120 of fig. 1B, and thus, similar elements may be described in the context of the receiving device 120 of fig. 1B, and thus, the corresponding description may be omitted herein.

As shown in fig. 4A and 4B, the receiving device (or "jumper end") 402 includes a central section 420 and a pad section 440.

The central member 420 may include a ring 422 disposed about or around the cord 110. The loop 422 may be connected to the cable 110.

The central member 420 may include a plurality of rings 424, e.g., 4, connected to the ring 422. The rings 424 may be disposed at substantially equal distances from adjacent rings. Each loop 424 may be formed from a portion of a support band 423 (e.g., a strap) and at least another portion of the support band is connected to a spool 428, which will be described later.

The central member 420 may include a plurality of guides 426, e.g., 4, each movably connected to the ring 424. Each guide 426 may be attached to the ring 424, for example, by being sewn thereto. Each guide 424 may include a rotatable element configured to engage in rotatable contact with the handle 364 and/or the handle portion 365 of the recovery device 302 when magnetically coupling the recovery device 302 with the receiving device 402. With the rotatable element, friction between the guide 426 and the handle 364 and/or the handle portion 365 may be reduced. This reduces wear on the assembly and extends its useful life.

The central member 420 may include a spool 428 or a bobbin. A portion of each support band 423 of the loop 424 that provides engagement for the hook 360 may be connected to (e.g., at least partially encircling) the spool 428 and provide another loop to which a jumper may be attached. Another support band 425 (e.g., a band) that does not provide loops for engagement of the hook body 360 may be received through the opening of the spool 428 and may provide at least one loop to which a jumper may be attached. The terminal end (or ends) of the cord 110 may be connected to (e.g., at least partially looped around) a spool 428.

The spacer member 440 may include a first spacer portion integrally formed as a top sleeve 442, a second spacer portion as a foam or cushion body 444, and a third spacer portion as a bottom or spool cover 446. The top sleeve 442, foam or cushion body 444, and bottom or spool cover 446 may comprise standard or high density polyethylene foam.

More specifically, the top sleeve 442 may be disposed below the annulus 424. The top sleeve 442 and ring 422 are configured to insert the annulus 424 therebetween. The insert at least partially supports the ring 424 and protrudes the ring 424 from the central member 420.

The second pad section 444 may be larger in diameter than the first pad section and may be configured to allow hooks to fall thereon and/or to prevent the recovery device 302 from further lowering and possibly striking a jump. The second pad section may have a height configured to bring the handle portion into proximity with the guide when the hook body is landed on or in contact with the second pad section.

The third pad section 446 may have at least one opening for allowing at least one strap 423, 425 to pass through, the strap being configured to be connected to a jumping person.

Fig. 5A to 5D show schematic diagrams illustrating a process of retracting the telescope 110.

As shown in fig. 5A, the retrieval device 302 is released to receive the tether 110 therein. In particular, the first and second members 342, 342 are released or moved away from each other to an open configuration in which an access is provided to receive a portion of the cord 110. The retrieval device 302 is supported by a retrieval string (not shown) connected to an eyelet 324 of the retrieval device 302.

As shown in fig. 5B, the recovery device 302 is connected to the rope 110. In particular, the first and second members 342, 342 are moved toward each other to a closed configuration in which a portion of the cord 110 is contained within the retrieval device 302. The first member 342 and the second member 342 are secured in the closed configuration by the locking pin 310. The recovery device 302 moves or descends along the line 110 toward the receiving device 402. The ropes 110 extend from the original (jump) location/position towards the jump.

As shown in fig. 5C, the recovery device 302 is lowered until the recovery device 302 falls onto the receiving device 402. In particular, the first liner portion or top sleeve 442 of the receiving device 402 is received into or through an opening (formed by the first and second members 342) of the retrieval device 302. The hook 360 is in contact with, e.g., supported by, a second pad portion or pad 444 of the receiving device 402. The second pad section prevents the recovery device 302 and its hooks from further lowering and possibly striking a jumper.

As shown in fig. 5D, the recovery device 302 is magnetically connected to the receiving device. In particular, the recovery device 302 may be slightly raised toward the ring 424 during which the guide 426 may be in rotatable contact with the handle 364 of the hook 360. Because the stem 364, except for the stem portion 365, is non-ferromagnetic, no magnetic connection is made before the guide 426 contacts the stem portion 365. As the retrieval device 302 is further raised, the combination of the tapered handle portion 365 and the magnetic connection between the guide 426 and the handle portion 365 pulls the ring 424 to expand its opening and/or move into an engageable configuration, wherein the ring 424 extends sufficiently to receive the flexure 362. As the recovery device 302 is further raised, the loop 424 enters the gap 363 of the hook 360. As the recovery device 302 is further raised, the flexure 362 is received in and mechanically engaged with the annulus 424. In the mechanical engagement, the recovery device 302 is magnetically separated from the receiving device. In particular, the lack of a handle portion 365 (i.e., a ferromagnetic element) at the bend 362 and the interlocking of the bend 362 with the ring 424 pulls the guide 426 away from the handle portion 365, thereby separating the guide 426 from the handle portion 365. When the flexure 362 interlocks with the ring 424, there is no magnetic interaction or connection between them due to the gap spacing 363. The loop 424 is thus disposed in an engaged configuration in which the recovery device 302 is ready to be raised back to the original (jump) position with the receiving device 402 and the jump. In this way, the lifting of the receiving device 402 and the skipper does not involve a magnetic connection, and the recovery device 302 can be mechanically decoupled from the receiving device 402 after lifting the skipper back to the original (skipper) position. Such mechanical separation may be easier and faster than separating magnetically connected recovery and receiving devices.

Fig. 2A-2C and fig. 5A-5D illustrate the most suitable manner of using the recovery device 100, 302 and the receiving device 120, 402 for recovery of a bungee jumper after completion of the bungee jumper.

While the invention has been shown and described with reference to a particular embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the invention is therefore indicated by the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

Claims (22)

1. A retrieval device for retrieving a rope having one end portion connected to a receiving device, the retrieval device comprising:

a connection assembly having an opening configured to receive a portion of the cord for movement of the connection assembly along the cord,

wherein the connection assembly comprises at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body, each hook body having a shank and a curved member extending therefrom, the shank having a ferromagnetic shank portion, wherein a gap is provided between the shank portion and the curved member,

Wherein the handle portion is configured to magnetically connect with a guide of the receiving device, the magnetic connection being configured to move a ring of the receiving device to an engageable configuration, wherein the guide is connected to the ring,

wherein the flexure is configured to mechanically engage with the loop to bring the loop from the engageable configuration to an engaged configuration, the engaged configuration configured to magnetically separate the guide from the handle portion,

wherein the connection assembly includes a retraction member and the retraction member is configured to facilitate movement of the connection assembly in a direction toward an opposite end portion of the cord.

2. The recycling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection assembly further comprises:

a first member; and

a second member connectable to the first member,

wherein the first member and the second member are arranged to move relative to each other between a closed configuration and an open configuration,

wherein in a closed configuration, the first member and the second member are arranged to move towards each other to form the opening to receive a portion of the cord;

Wherein in an open configuration, the first member and the second member are configured to move away from each other to receive or release a portion of the cord,

wherein at least one of the first member or the second member is connected to at least one hook.

3. The retrieval device of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first member or the second member passes through the at least one hook.

4. The retrieval device of claim 3, wherein the first member is configured to pivot relative to the second member, and wherein the connection assembly further comprises a locking mechanism to releasably secure the first member and the second member in the closed configuration.

5. The retrieval device of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first member or the second member is welded to the at least one hook.

6. The retrieval device of claim 1, wherein the combination of the handle portion and the handle is configured to taper toward the curved member.

7. The retrieval device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the handle portion or the guide comprises a permanent magnet.

8. The retrieval device of claim 1, wherein the retrieval member is connected to the at least one hook.

9. The recycling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the recycling device comprises four hooks disposed at substantially equal distances from an adjacent one of the four hooks.

10. A receiving device for receiving a retrieval device for retrieving a rope, wherein the retrieval device comprises at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body, each hook body having at least one shank and a curved member extending therefrom, the shank having a ferromagnetic shank portion, wherein a gap is provided between the shank portion and the curved member, the receiving device comprising:

a central member having at least one ring and a guide connected to each ring,

wherein the guide is configured to magnetically connect to the handle portion to move the at least one loop to an engageable configuration, and further configured to magnetically separate from the handle portion when the at least one loop is brought from the engageable configuration to an engaged configuration in which the at least one loop is mechanically engaged with the flexure, and wherein the receiving means is connectable toward one end portion of the cord.

11. The receiving device of claim 10, further comprising a cushion member surrounding at least a portion of the central member, wherein the cushion member comprises:

a first gasket portion configured to be received within an opening of the recovery device;

a second gasket portion having a larger diameter than the first gasket portion and configured to prevent movement of the at least one hook toward the one end portion of the cord when the first gasket portion is received within the opening of the recovery device; and

a third pad section having at least one opening for receiving at least one support strap therethrough, the support strap configured to be connected to a jumping person.

12. The receiving device of claim 11, wherein the central component comprises a spool configured to connect to at least one of the support bands or another support band configured to connect to a jumping person, the other support band comprising the at least one loop and configured to connect to a jumping person.

13. The receiving device of claim 11, wherein the central member comprises an annular support disposed about the cord, wherein the annular support and the pad member are disposed to interpose the at least one ring therebetween and to allow the at least one ring to protrude from the central member.

14. The receiving device of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the guide is movably connected to each ring.

15. The receiving device of claim 14, wherein the guide comprises a rotatable element configured to engage in rotatable contact with the handle and the handle portion.

16. The receiving device of claim 10, wherein the guide comprises a permanent magnet.

17. An apparatus for retrieving a rope, the apparatus comprising a retrieving device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and a receiving device according to any one of claims 10 to 16.

18. A method of retrieving a rope having one end portion and an opposite end portion, the method comprising:

movably connecting a retrieval device to the opposite end portion of the cord, wherein the retrieval device comprises at least one non-ferromagnetic hook body, each hook body having a shank and a flexure extending therefrom, the shank including a ferromagnetic shank portion, wherein a gap is provided between the shank portion and the flexure;

moving the retrieving means to receiving means at the one end portion of the rope, wherein the receiving means comprises a central part having at least one loop and a guide connected to each loop;

Magnetically coupling the recycling device to the receiving device, comprising: magnetically coupling the handle portion with the guide, the magnetic coupling moving the ring to an engageable configuration;

mechanically engaging the recovery device with the receiving device, the mechanical engagement magnetically separating the recovery device from the receiving device, comprising: mechanically engaging the flexure with the ring, the mechanical engagement bringing the ring from the engageable configuration to an engaged configuration that pulls the guide away from the handle portion to magnetically separate the guide and the handle portion; and

a pulling force is exerted on a retrieval string connected to the retrieval device to retrieve the retrieval device and the receiving device together towards the opposite end portion of the string.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the receiving means comprises a cushion member surrounding at least a portion of the central member, wherein the cushion member comprises:

a first pad section; and a second pad section having a diameter greater than the diameter of the first pad section,

Wherein "magnetically coupling the recovery device to the receiving device" comprises: the first pad section is received in the opening of the recovery device and movement of the at least one hook toward the one end portion of the cord is prevented by the second pad section.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the recovery device comprises a connection assembly comprising:

a first member; and

a second member connectable to the first member,

wherein the first member and the second member are arranged to move relative to each other between a closed configuration and an open configuration,

wherein in a closed configuration, the first member and the second member are arranged to move towards each other to form an opening to receive a portion of the cord;

wherein in an open configuration the first member and the second member are arranged to move away from each other to receive or release a portion of the cord,

wherein at least one of the first member or the second member is connected to the at least one hook.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the combination of the shank portion and the shank is configured to taper toward the curved member.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein at least one of the handle portion or the guide comprises a permanent magnet.

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