EP0223231A3 - A boat or the like raising and lowering system - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for retrieval and launching of lifeboats, buoys or the like includes a lifeboat provided at a point centrally above the hull, with a rigid, inverted V-shaped suspension member adapted to be engaged by a suspension hook the structure of which allows that it can be engaged with the lift­ ing member or eye without assistance from the lifeboat it­ self. The hook is also provided with means for preventing inadvertent release thereof, including a downwardly direct­ ed nose portion. The engagement of the hook with the sus­ pension member without assistance from the lifeboat is made possible by rolling bars which cause the hook to turn into engagement with the rigid lifting eye of the boat as the hook is lowered into contact therewith. When launching life­ boats or the like, a loosely suspended secondary hook, held by the main hook, holds the boat. The secondary hook is provided with a tag line which, when pulled, results in swinging the secondary hook relative to the main hook thus moving the hook away from the lifting eye of the lifeboat. In another embodiment of the hook, a scissors arrangement is provided which facilitates the release of the hook on launch­ ing the boat, while providing, in the second mode, a rigid crane hook structure. The system presents a simple struc­ ture of the components but it enables the operation of a life­ boat retrieval and launching system without the need of any assistance at the end of the floating boat.