NZ612831B2 - Line Delivery Apparatus with Enclosed Line - Google Patents
Line Delivery Apparatus with Enclosed Line Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ612831B2 NZ612831B2 NZ612831A NZ61283113A NZ612831B2 NZ 612831 B2 NZ612831 B2 NZ 612831B2 NZ 612831 A NZ612831 A NZ 612831A NZ 61283113 A NZ61283113 A NZ 61283113A NZ 612831 B2 NZ612831 B2 NZ 612831B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- line
- delivery apparatus
- barrel
- chamber
- projectile
- Prior art date
Links
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- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000011068 load Methods 0.000 abstract description 8
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 abstract description 4
- 238000010304 firing Methods 0.000 description 25
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 11
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- 210000001331 Nose Anatomy 0.000 description 2
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- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- 239000003562 lightweight material Substances 0.000 description 1
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Abstract
611461 A projectile is delivered by compressed gas being delivered from a source such as a canister received in a loading and piercing chamber 23. A trigger 21 actuates a valve to allow flow of gas into barrel 13 so as to expel the projectile 17. Typically the apparatus is hand held and is used for delivering a line for life saving in water from a boat. delivering a line for life saving in water from a boat.
Description
LINE DELIVERY APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a line delivery apparatus, and in particular, but not exclusively to a
line delivery apparatus for use in rescue applications.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
During rescue operations, particularly at sea, it is often useful to throw a line to a person to
assist in rescuing the person. While it is possible to simply throw a line to someone who is
close, it can be a problem to throw a line to someone who is more than about 15 metres
away. In sea rescue situations it is common to not be able to get any closer than about 20 to
40 metres to a person in difficulty.
For this reason a number of line launchers have been produced. These are devices that
have been designed to launch a projectile which will drag out a line behind it. Some
devices use self propelled projectiles.
However the presently available line launchers are often quite complex and/or expensive to
use. Some use pyrotechnic devices and can require special licensing to own and use. The
initial cost, the complexity, the specialised training requirements, the specialised storage
requirements, the maintenance requirements, and/or the cost of use, has meant that these
devices are often not carried on rescue vehicles.
205353NZD_CAP_SpecificationJlDec2014.DOC
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a line delivery apparatus which
will at least go some way towards overcoming the above mentioned problems, or at least
provide the public with a useful choice.
STATEMENTS OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, in a first aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a line delivery
apparatus having a pre-charge chamber and a barrel configured to receive and to expel a
projectile, the barrel having an open end and a closed end, the pre-charge chamber having
one or more inlet ports which communicate with a charging means, and the pre-charge
chamber having one or more outlet ports which communicate with the closed end of the
barrel, and the apparatus is configured in such a manner that the flow of fluid through the
or each outlet port is controlled by a triggering mechanism.
In another aspect the invention provides a line delivery apparatus having a barrel
configured to receive and to expel a projectile by use of the expansion of a compressed gas,
the barrel having an open end and a closed end, wherein the apparatus incudes a pre-charge
chamber having one or more inlet ports which communicate with a source of compressed
gas, and the pre-charge chamber having one or more outlet ports which communicate with
the closed end of the barrel, and the apparatus is configured in such a manner that the flow
of fluid through the or each outlet port is controlled by a triggering mechanism.
Preferably the source of compressed gas used to charge the pre-charge chamber is a small
single use pressurised fluid cylinder which can be attached to and form part of the
apparatus. Such a small cylinder is typically known as a "sparklet bulb" and is used to
supply carbon dioxide gas to soda siphons. Being small it is readily portable and be easily
attached to the line launcher without requiring an external pipes or hoses and is light
enough not to interfere with the portability or aiming of the lien launcher.
Preferably the line delivery apparatus also includes a line which is connectable at one end
to the interior of the barrel and at an opposite end to the projectile.
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
Preferably the line delivery apparatus also includes the projectile.
Preferably the triggering mechanism includes a manually operated trigger.
Preferably the triggering mechanism includes a valve member which is movable between a
first position in which the valve member prevents flow through the or each outlet port, and
a second position in which the valve member does not prevent flow through the or each
outlet port.
Preferably the valve member is moved from the first position to the second position by the
pressure of the fluid within the pre-charge chamber when the valve member is allowed to
do so by the triggering mechanism.
Preferably the valve member is held at the first position by pressurised fluid held within a
trigger mechanism chamber.
Preferably some or all of the pressurised fluid held within the trigger mechanism chamber
is released when the manually operated trigger is moved.
Preferably the trigger mechanism chamber is charged with pressurised fluid by the same
source used to charge the pre-charge chamber.
Preferably the source used to charge the pre-charge chamber is a pressurised fluid cylinder.
Preferably the line delivery apparatus includes a piercing device configured to pierce a cap
of the pressurised fluid cylinder.
Preferably the line delivery apparatus includes a one way valve between the trigger
mechanism chamber and the pre-charge chamber.
In a second aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a line delivery apparatus,
comprising a barrel adapted to receive and to expel a projectile, and a pre-charge chamber
capable of containing a pressurised gas which can be vented into the interior of the barrel
via a valve, wherein a tethering means is provided within the barrel, to which one end of a
line, which can be delivered by the projectile, can be tethered.
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
The inventive step is the provision of a pre-charge container so that the gas from a
pressurised gas cartridge can be released into this chamber without the cartridge freezing as
might occur if the gas was discharged directly from the cartridge into the barrel to directly
propel the projectile.
This pre-charge chamber can be the interior of a hollow handle or some other chamber
connected to the valve, or can be a chamber within part of the barrel.
Preferably the apparatus further includes aprojectile.
Preferably the projectile is adapted to receive a quantity of line and is able to allow the line
to depart from the projectile while in flight.
The line can be received by the projectile in a number of ways, for example by winding the
line about the body of the projectile; however, preferably the projectile is adapted to receive
the line within its body.
Preferably the valve is adapted to use the pressure exerted by the pressurised gas to assist
the opening of the valve after an initial triggering of the valve.
In a further aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist a line delivery apparatus,
comprising a barrel adapted to receive and expel a projectile, and inner and outer chambers
capable of containing pressurised gas, a tethering means is provided within the barrel, to
which one end of a line, which can be delivered by the projectile can be tethered, wherein,
the projectile is released from the barrel as the result of pressure differential between said
inner and outer chambers.
In a further aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a line launcher kit
comprising at least one line delivery apparatus substantially as specified herein and at least
one projectile adapted for use with the apparatus.
Preferably the kit further includes a quantity of line suitable for use with the apparatus.
Preferably the kit further includes at least one pressurised gas cartridge.
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
In a further aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a method of delivering a
line including the steps of;
securing one end of the line to aprojectile,
securing the other end of the line to a line delivery apparatus substantially as
specified herein,
filling a pre-charge chamber or the inner and outer chambers of the apparatus with
compressed gas,
inserting the projectile into the barrel of the line delivery apparatus,
releasing the gas from the pre-charge chamber or outer chamber into the barrel to
expel the projectile from the barrel, and
allowing the line to be extracted from the projectile as it travels away from the line
delivery apparatus.
Preferably the method further includes a step of storing the line within or about the
projectile prior to expelling the projectile from the barrel.
DESCMPTION
The invention may also broadly be said to consist in the parts, elements and features
referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively,
and any or all combinations of any two or more of the parts, elements or features, and
where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents, such
equivalents are incorporated herein as if they were individually set forth.
Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following
description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which:
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
FIGURE 1 is a cross sectional view of a line delivery apparatus of the first preferred
embodiment of the invention,
FIGURE 2 is cutaway perspective view of the barrel and of the line delivery apparatus
of figure 1,
FIGURE 3 is a cross sectional perspective view showing a triggering mechanism for the
line delivery apparatus of figure 1,
FIGURE 4 is a cross sectional view of the triggering mechanism for the line delivery
apparatus of figure 1,
FIGURE 5 is a cross sectional view of a pressurised cartridge piercing mechanism for
the line delivery apparatus of figure 1,
FIGURE 6 is a cross sectional view of a component of the cartridge piercing
mechanism for the line delivery apparatus of figure 1,
FIGURE 7 is a cross sectional view of a projectile suitable for use with the apparatus of
figure 1,
FIGURE 8 is a cross sectional view of a line delivery apparatus of the second preferred
embodiment of the invention,
FIGURE 9 is cutaway perspective view of the barrel and of the line delivery apparatus
of figure 8,
FIGURE 10 is a cross sectional perspective view showing a firing mechanism for the line
delivery apparatus of figure 8,
FIGURE 11 is a cross sectional view of the firing mechanism for the line delivery
apparatus of figure 8,
FIGURE 12 is a cross sectional view of a pressurised cartridge piercing mechanism for
the line delivery apparatus of figure 8,
205353NZD_CAP_SpecificationJ 1 Dec2014.DOC
FIGURE 13 is a cross sectional view of a component of the cartridge piercing
mechanism for the line delivery apparatus of figure 8,
FIGURE 14 is a cross sectional view of a projectile suitable for use with the apparatus of
figure 8, and
FIGURE 15(a) - (e) are the cross sectional views of the pressure firing system under
operation for the line delivery apparatus of figure 8.
EXAMPLE 1
With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a line delivery apparatus (10) in accordance with the
first preferred embodiment of the invention is shown comprising a main housing (11)
which in turn comprises a barrel (13) and a pre-charge chamber (15). A projectile (17)is
shown fitted within the barrel (13) approximately in the location it would be prior to
launching the projectile (17) from the barrel (13). The projectile (17) is explained in
further detail with reference to figure 7 below.
The apparatus (10) further comprises a triggering mechanism (19) which in this example
can be operated manually by a lever style trigger (21). This triggering mechanism is
explained in further detail with reference to figures 3 and 4 below.
Also included in the apparatus (10) is a cartridge loading and piercing device (23) which is
explained in further detail with reference to figures 5 and 6 below. This device (23) is
adapted to receive a pressurised and/or liquefied gas cartridge, for example, a miniature
C02 cartridge commonly referred to as a "sparldet". Clearly a range of alternative
compressed gas supplies could be used.
In the example shown, a primary line (25) which is made of a suitable light rope or cord is
stored within the body of the projectile (17). The primary line (25) can be made from a
range of light ropes or cords. The inventors have trialled the device using a lightweight but
very strong cord known as "spectra" which is about 2 millimetres (mm) in diameter and is
capable of supporting a 250 kilogram (kg) load. This primary line (25) is connected at one
end to a first fitting (27) which forms part of the projectile (17) and can be connected by a
knot or connecting device (29) to a tethered section of line (31). The tethered section of
205353NZD_CAP_SpeciflcationJlDec2014.DOC
line (31) is secured at its other end to a hole or second fitting (33) which in this example is
attached to part of the structure of the triggering mechanism (19).
It can be seen in figure 2 that the main housing (11) comprises a barrel (13) and a pre-
charge chamber (15) and one end of the pre-charge chamber (15) is open to a first end (35)
of the barrel (13). The triggering mechanism (19) is located within the first end (35) of the
barrel (13) and can control the flow of a compressed gas from the pre-charge chamber (15)
into the barrel (13). The projectile (17) is able to exit out of a second end (37) of the barrel.
The triggering mechanism is held within the main housing (11) using machine screws (39)
which are fitted through holes (41) in the main housing (11).
In the example shown the barrel (13) is approximately 70 mm in diameter and
approximately 600 mm in length, and the pre-charge chamber (15) is made from a tube of
approximately 25 mm in diameter and has a length slightly less than the barrel. Preferably
the main housing (11) is made from an aluminium alloy as this has a suitable strength to
weight ratio, however a range of metals, or alloys or plastics materials could be used for the
construction of the housing (11).
With reference to Figures 3 and 4, the triggering mechanism (19) is described in farther
detail. The triggering mechanism (19) comprises a plug (51) which is able to reciprocate
within a main bore (53) of a valve body (55). In the configuration shown, the plug (51)
prevents the transfer of gas through a series of radial ports (57) which are situated in a
tubular section (59) of the valve body (55). The plug (51) can move along the main bore
(53) in a direction shown by arrow (69) to open the radial ports (57) and allow a transfer of
gas from the pre-charge chamber (15) and into the barrel (13).
The plug (51) is held in the location shown by a spindle (61), and by the action of a
compression spring (63). When the lever style trigger (21) is moved in the direction
shown by the arrow (65) the trigger (21) pivots about the shoulder (67) of the valve body
(55) and pushes the spindle (61) in the direction shown by arrow (69). This causes the plug
(51) to move along the main bore (53) against the action of the spring (63) and allows the
ports (57) to begin to open. As the ports (57) begin to open pressure from the pre-charge
chamber can pass into the barrel (13). The rise in pressure in the barrel (13) produces an
additional force on the plug (51) which causes it to move rapidly in the direction shown by
205353NZD_CAP_SpecificationJlDec2014.DOC
the arrow (69). When this happens, the movement of the plug (51) can be so fast that an 0
ring (71) is required to cushion the plug (51) as it is stops when it reaches the closed end of
the bore (53).
When the plug (51) is completely clear of the ports (57) gas is able to transfer rapidly into
the barrel (13). In this example the ports are each about 13 millimetres in diameter and
there are six of them equally spaced about the circumference of the tubular section (59) of
the valve body (55). The shape of the valve body (55), that is, the waisted section in the
region of the tubular section (59) allows gas to flow from the pre-charge chamber (15) and
to each of the ports (57) with minimal restriction.
The fitting (33) referred to with reference to figure 1 above is fitted to the valve body (55)
but is not shown in figures 3 and 4.
Also shown in figure 3 is a rear bulkhead or plug (87), which forms part of the projectile
(17), and is explained farther with reference to figure 7 below.
With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the cartridge loading and piercing device (23) is
described in further detail. Not shown in these figures is the end of the pre-charge chamber
(15) to which the device is fitted and which forms part of the device - refer to figure 1
above to see how the items of the cartridge loading and piercing device (23) are fitted
within and/or about the pre-charge chamber (15).
The cartridge loading and piercing device (23) shown is adapted for use with "sparldet"
style C02 cartridges which have a pierce-able closure at a neck end of the cartridge. The
neck end of such a cartridge (72) can initially be inserted part way into a bore (73) of a
socket member (75).
A cap (77) which has an internal thread, and which is adapted to mate with a corresponding
external thread on the free end of the pre-charge chamber (15), is configured such that it
will push the cartridge (72) further into the bore (73) as the cap (77) is screwed onto the
pre-charge chamber (15). Continued screwing of the cap (77) onto the pre-charge chamber
(15) causes the neck end of the cartridge (77) to initially contact an 0-ring (79) and then a
piercing device (81). Further screwing of the cap (77) causes the piercing device (81) to
205353NZD_CAP_Specifieation_llDec2014.DOC
pierce the cartridge (72) allowing the contents of the cartridge (72) to be discharged into the
pre-charge chamber (15) through a passage (83).
The socket member (75) can be held in place in the tubular pre-charge chamber (15) with a
grub screw or similar device, and is provided with an external 0-ring (85) to ensure that a
positive seal is made with the internal diameter of the pre-charge chamber (15).
It is envisaged that many alternative cartridge loading and piercing devices could be
employed, for example a cap (77) which mates with the pre-charge chamber (15) using a
bayonet type fitting in place of the screw thread mentioned above.
With reference to Figure 7, the projectile (17) is described in further detail. The projectile
(17) includes a rear bulkhead or plug (87), a hollow tubular body (89) and a nose fitting
(91), The nose fitting (91) is aerodynamic in shape and is preferably made from a
rubberised material in the interests of safety when the apparatus (10) is used. The hollow
tubular body (89) is designed to house the primary line (25) and the first fitting (27), to
which the line (25) can be tethered, is located in the forward end of the body (89).
The body (89) and/or the plug (87) have an outside diameter that is close to the internal
diameter of the barrel (13).
The basic operation of the apparatus (10) will now be explained.
As noted above, the pre-charge chamber (15) can be charged with a pressurised gas from
the compressed gas cartridge (72). Trials show that by using a single "sparklet" style
cartridge the pre-charge chamber (15) can be charged to approximately 20 Bar. The gas is
cold when it initially exits the gas cartridge (72) but the gas quickly warms up as it absorbs
heat from the walls of the pre-charge chamber (15) and this helps to improve the pressure
available.
If the apparatus (10) is assembled as shown in figure 1, and the pre-charge chamber is
charged, the projectile (17) can be ejected from the barrel (13) by simply operating the
trigger (21). As noted with reference to figures 3 and 4 above, when the trigger is moved,
the plug (51) moves rapidly away from the ports (57) allowing the compressed gas from the
pre-charge chamber (15) to rapidly enter the barrel (13).
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
The rapidly entering gas propels the projectile (17) out of the barrel at a relatively high
velocity. The tethered section of line (31) is typically only about a metre long and will
soon become taut. This will cause the plug (87) to be pulled out of the body (89) of the
projectile (17) as the projectile continues to move through the air. Now the primary line
(25) is able to freely exit out of the body (89) during the remainder of the flight of the
projectile (17).
Initial testing of the apparatus indicates that the projectile (17) can be propelled
approximately 35 to 50 metres. The primary line (25) is simply laid out as the projectile
(17) flies through its trajectory meaning that the line produces little interference to the
flight of the projectile (17).
Initial testing has also shown that when assembling the projectile in preparation for use, it
may be advantageous to simply stuff the primary line (25) into the body (89) of the
projectile, beginning of course with the end of the line that is tethered to the first fitting
(27). It would appear that by simply stuffing the line in, rather than carefully winding it
into a coil, there is a reduced chance that the line will tangle as it is laid out by the
projectile (17) while in flight. This is perhaps because the line (25) is not twisted as it is
simply stuffed into the body (89).
EXAMPLE^
With reference to Figures 8 and 9, a line delivery apparatus (110) of the second preferred
embodiment is shown which has been developed for simpler manufacture.
The apparatus (110) comprises a barrel (113) and handle (115) having a front section
(115a) and back section (115b). The ban'el (113) is of a hollow tubular shape. The barrel
(113) is preferably made out of anodised marine grade aluminium and the handle (115) is
preferably made out of a plastics material, for example a glass reinforced polypropylene
plastic which is aesthetically pleasing and which is relatively tough. Use of such materials
minimises corrosion/msting which is advantageous since the apparatus (11) is commonly
used in a salt water environment. Such materials also have a suitable strength to weight
ratio. However, other suitable materials, for example other alloys or plastics materials could
be used to make the handle and/or barrel.
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
In this preferred embodiment, a first annular sleeve (115c) and a second annular sleeve
(115 d) are used to connect the barrel with the handle (115). The first and second annular
sleeves (115c and 115d) have an inside diameter that is substantially equal to the outside
diameter of the barrel (113) and are open at both ends. The first annular sleeve (115c) is
integrally formed with the centre part of the handle (115) and the second annular sleeve
(115d) is integrally formed at the back section (115b) of the handle (115). The barrel (113)
is snugly fitted inside the first and second sleeves (115c and 115d) as shown in Figure 9.
The barrel (113) includes two fastener holes (112), and a barrel protector (190) that is
preferably made out of a resilient material, for e.g. mbber. The barrel protector (190) is
located at the front end or open end of the barrel (113) for protecting any accidental
damage of the barrel (113) upon any impact.
The triggering mechanism or firing mechanism (119), which is housed substantially
towards the end of the barrel (113), will now be explained in detail with reference to
Figures 10-13.
The firing mechanism (119) includes a bobbin shaped member which comprises a first disc
(120) having a first orifice or outlet port (120a) at a forward end of the firing mechanism
(119), and a second disc (122) having a second orifice (122a) at an aft end. A hollow tube
(128) having an outside diameter that is substantially the same as the diameter of the
orifices (120a and 122a) of the first and second discs (120 and 122) extends between the
first disc (120) and the second disc (122),
The outer diameter of both the first disc (120) and the second disc (122) is substantially
equal to the inside diameter of the barrel (113) and hence, the first and second discs (120
and 122) fit snugly within the interior of the barrel (113). The firing mechanism (119) is
held within the barrel (113) using machine screws which are fitted through the fastener
holes (112) in the barrel (113).
As shown in Figure 10, the second disc (122) includes a hole (152) that extends radially
from the outer circumference of the second disc (122) to the second orifice (122a).
205353NZD_CAP_SpecificationJlDec2014.DOC
A lever style manually operated trigger (121) is pivotally connected to a firing pin (118),
and the firing pin (118) is supported within the hole (152). Movement of the trigger (121)
causes the firing pin (118) to move longitudinally within the hole (152).
A charging means of the apparatus includes a tubular insert (148) which is situated within
the tube (128). The outside diameter of the insert (148) is slightly smaller than the inside
diameter of the tube (128) so that the insert (148) is slidably received inside the tube (128).
In fact, only about half of the total length of the insert (148) is slidably fitted inside the tube
(128). The protruding part of the insert (148) has an external thread (144) that is adapted to
engage with the internal thread of a knob or cap (177) (refer to figure 15(b)). The insert
(148) includes a recess or hole (150) that is configured to engage with the firing pin (118).
The insert (148) of the charging means houses a miniature C02 cylinder, or "sparklet" as
they are known, which holds C02 in a pressurised liquid form. When the firing pin (118)is
engaged with the hole (150) the tube (128) is held securely, and when the firing pin (118) is
removed from the hole (150) the tube (128), i.e. when the trigger (121) is moved, the tube
(128) is able to move.
A substantially tubular shaped collar (126) having outside diameter that is substantially the
same as the inside diameter of the tube (128) is snugly fitted inside the tube (128) of the
firing mechanism. As can be seen in Figures 10-13, the length of the collar (126) is shorter
than the length of the tube (128). Since the collar (126) is of substantially tubular shape, the
collar (126) has a first outlet orifice (126a) at a forward end and a second and larger outlet
orifice at an aft end.
The charging means also includes a second shuttle (124) which has an outer diameter that is
substantially same as the inside diameter of the tubular shaped collar (126) is slidably fitted
inside the collar (126). The first end of the second shuttle (124) has a reduced outside
diameter than the outside diameter of the body of the second shuttle (124) and acts as a
plug to the first outlet orifice (126a) which is defined by the collar (126). As shown in the
accompanying figures, the length of the second shuttle (124) is shorter than the length of
the collar (126) and the inside diameter of the collar (126) is such that it tapers towards its
forwards end.
205353NZD_CAP_SpecificationJlDec2014.DOC
A cartridge piercing device (123) is situated within the second shuttle (124). The cartridge
piercing device (123) pierces the cap of the pressurised gas cartridge (172), when the
cartridge is loaded into the tubular insert (148) and the cap (177) is screwed onto the
tubular insert (148).
A first shuttle or valve member (134) is slidably fitted inside the forward end of the tube
(128) as shown in the accompanying figures. The outside diameter of the main body of the
first shuttle (134) is substantially same as the inner diameter of the tube (128). A forward
end of the first shuttle (134) has a reduced outside diameter compared to the main body
section of the first shuttle (134) and forms a plug section which is configured to block the
first orifice or outlet port (120a) of the firing mechanism (119). A first shoulder (134a)
marks a transition between the plug section and an intermediate section of the first shuttle
(134). The intermediate section has a diameter which is between that of the plug section
and the main body of the first shuttle (134). A second shoulder (134b) marks the transition
between the intermediate and the main body section of the first shuttle (134). The plug
section is preferably surrounded by an o-ring (153) as shown in Figure 14. This first
shuttle (134) is preferably made out of a light weight material such as nylon or other
plastics material.
An inner pressure chamber or trigger mechanism chamber (130) is defined inside the tube
(128) and between the forward end of the collar (126) and the aft end of the first shuttle
(134). The inner pressure chamber (130) has a cylindrical shape.
An outer pressure chamber or pre-charge chamber (140) is the space that is defined
between the outer surface of the tube (128), the inner surface of the barrel (113), the aft
surface of the first disc (120) and the forward surface of the second disc (122). Thus, the
outer pressure chamber or pre-charge chamber (140) is of an annular hollow cylindrical
shape.
The tube (128) has at least one inlet hole or port (136) and at least one transfer port (156)
along its length. A covering sleeve (132) of resilient material such as rubber covers the part
of the exterior surface of the tube (128) that contains the inlet holes (136). The rubber
sleeve (132) acts as a one way valve which allows gas to flow from the inner pressure
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_l 1 Dec2014.DOC
chamber (130) and into the outer pressure chamber (140) via the inlet holes (136), but not
to flow back the opposite way.
The first and second discs (120 and 122) are connected to each other using long connecting
bolts (175) as shown in the accompanying drawings.
With reference to Figures 8 and 14, the projectile (117) is described in further detail. The
projectile (117) includes a rear bulkhead or plug (187) and a hollow tubular body (189).
The forward end of the projectile (117) is aerodynamic in shape and is preferably made
from a resilient material such as a rubber in the interests of safety when the apparatus (110)
is used. The hollow tubular body (189) is designed to house a primary line (125), and the
first fitting (127), to which the line (125) can be tethered, is located in the forward end of
the body (189). The forward end preferably comprises a glow stick insertion hole (162) to
facilitate the insertion of glow stick or similar object so that the projectile (117) is visible
when used during night time or in darkness. Alternatively, the forward end of the projectile
(117) can have a thermo-luminescent head that is built into the projectile (117).
The body (1 89) and/or the plug (1 87) have an outside diameter that is less than but close to
the internal diameter of the barrel (113).
In the example shown, the primary line (125) which is made of a suitable light rope or cord
is stored within the body of the projectile (117). The primary line (125) can be made from
a range of light ropes or cords. The inventors have trialled the device using a lightweight
but very strong cord known as "spectra" which is about 2 millimetres (mm) in diameter and
is capable of supporting a 250 kilogram (kg) load. This primary line (125) is connected at
one end to a first fitting (127) which forms part of the projectile (117) and can be connected
by a knot such as projectile cap line release knot (129) to a tethered section of line (131)
such as lanyard line. The tethered section of line (131) is secured at its other end to a hole
or second fitting (133) which in this example is attached to part of the structure of the firing
mechanism (119).
The projectile is adapted to fit adjacent the firing mechanism (119) of the apparatus (110).
The basic operation of the apparatus (110) will now be explained with reference to Figures
(a)-(e).
205353NZD_CAP_Speciflcation_HDec2014.DOC
Firstly, a projectile (117) is prepared and the primary line (125) is connected to the tethered
section of line (131), and the projectile is inserted into the barrel (113).
Then, to charge the apparatus (110) ready for operation, a new cartridge such as a C02
sparldet cartridge (172) having a pierce-able closure at the neck end, is inserted inside the
apparatus (110) through the second orifice (122a) of the apparatus (110) as shown in
Figure 15 (a).
As shown in Figure 15 (b), the screw knob (177) having internal thread is screwed on so
that it engages with the external thread (144) of the insert. Further screwing of the knob
pushes the cartridge (172) into contact with the piercing end of the cartridge piercing
device (123). A pierce-able closure is punctured at the neck end of the cartridge (172)
thereby allowing the cartridge (172) to expel its fluid contents into the inner pressure
chamber (130).
The build up of pressure in the inner pressure chamber (130) forces the first shuttle (134) to
move forward as shown in Figure 15 (c), so that the plug section of the first shuttle (134)
closes off the first orifice (120a), thereby sealing the outer pressure chamber (122). The
position of the first shuttle (134) as shown in this figure is referred to herein as the first
position of the first shuttle (134). As can be seen in the figure, when the first shuttle (134)
is in the first position the inlet holes (136) are uncovered which allows gases to transfer
from the inner pressure chamber (130) and into the outer pressure chamber (140) via the
one way valve. This allows the outer pressure chamber (140) to become pressurized. As
noted earlier, the mbber sleeve (132) prevents the gases transferring from the outer pressure
chamber (140) and back into the inner pressure chamber (130).
The line delivery apparatus (110) is now charged and ready to be used. When the line
delivery apparatus (110) is to be used to deliver a line, for example during a rescue
operation, the lever style trigger (121) is pressed. Movement of the trigger (121) levers the
firing pin (118) upwards as shown in Figure 15 (d), thus allowing the second shuttle (124),
the insert (148) and the cartridge (172), to be forced backwards by the pressure in the inner
pressure chamber (130). When the second shuttle (124) moves aft, the first outlet orifice
(126a) of the collar (126) becomes open. Gases within the inner pressure chamber (130)
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
can now escape through the first outlet orifice (126a) and through a series of longitudinal
holes (124a) (see figure 15c) in the second shuttle (124).
This allows the pressure in the inner pressure chamber (130) to drop as the gases escape out
of it. The insert (148) and second shuttle (124) are only allowed to travel a few millimetres
upon firing. Their travel is limited by the use of retaining rings (126b) and (148a).
The pressure in the outer pressure chamber (140) is maintained by the covering sleeve
(132) which acts a one way valve by preventing the pressure to enter the inner chamber
(130) via the inlet holes (136).
The pressure in the outer pressure chamber (140) is now much greater than the pressure in
the inner pressure chamber (130). The pressure in the outer pressure chamber (140)
communicates with the second shoulder (134b) on the first shuttle (134) via the outlet holes
(156). The force acting on the second shoulder (134b) now exceeds the opposing force
acting on the aft face of the first shuttle (134), and therefore the first shuttle (134) is moved
in an aft direction. When the first shuttle (134) is moved fully aft as shown in Figure 15
(e), the plug section and the o-ring (153) at the first end of the first shuttle (134) no longer
closes the first orifice (120a). The position of the first shuttle (134) as shown in this figure
is referred to herein as the second position of the first shuttle (134).
When the first shuttle (134) is moved to the second position as shown in Figure 15 (e), the
high pressure gases in the outer pressure chamber (140) can exit rapidly though the transfer
ports (156) and the first orifice or outlet port (120a) and into the closed end of the barrel
(113). This rapid release of high pressure gases into the barrel (113) propels the projectile
(117) out of the barrel (113) at a relatively high velocity.
Soon after the projectile (117) leaves the barrel (113), the tethered section of line (131)
becomes taut. This causes the plug (187) to be pulled out of the body (189) of the
projectile (117) as the projectile continues to move through the air. Now the primary line
(125) is able to freely exit out of the body (189) during the remainder of the flight of the
projectile (117).
The primary line (125) is simply laid out as the projectile (117) flies through its trajectory
meaning that the line produces little interference to the flight of the projectile (117).
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
Hence, the projectile (117) can be ejected from the barrel (113) by simply operating the
lever style trigger (121).
Initial testing has also shown that when assembling the projectile (177) in preparation for
use, it may be advantageous to simply stuff the primary line (125) into the body (189) of
the projectile, beginning of course with the end of the line that is tethered to the first fitting
(127). It would appear that by simply stuffing the line in, rather than carefully winding it
into a coil, there is a reduced chance that the line will tangle as it is laid out by the
projectile (117) while in flight. This is perhaps because the line (125) is not twisted as it is
simply stuffed into the body (189).
Even though the primary line (125) is shown installed within the projectile (117), however
the line (125) could be carried externally, for example by winding the line (125) about the
body (189) of the projectile (117), or by placing it in a separate storage bag or container,
external to the barrel (113) of the launcher apparatus (110).
The apparatus (110) includes a number of safety features. A safety pin can be inserted into
a hole in the handle (115) to prevent inadvertent movement of the trigger lever (121).
The apparatus (110) also has a safety locking pin system (195) located in the second disc
(122). The safety locking pin system (195) includes a spring loaded locking pin (193) as
shown in Figure 12. When the apparatus (110) is pressurised, the pressure within the outer
pressure chamber (140) moves the locking pin (193) against the force of the spring, so that
the pin extends aft of the aft face of the second disc (122). The extended pin (193) prevents
rotation of knob (177), and thereby prevents inadvertent removal of the C02 cartridge
(172) while the firing mechanism is pressurised. This helps to prevent accidental firing
when the apparatus (110) is loaded by removal of the cartridge (172).
A relief valve (197) is provided for use when it is necessary to depressurise the apparatus
(110) once armed. The relief valve (197) is in communication with the outer pressure
chamber (140), as shown in Figure 13, and can be used to vent the pressurised gases to
atmosphere. Depressing the pin of the relief valve (197) allows the gases to escape.
An alignment pin can be used to make sure the insert (148) does not turn and that hole for
receiving the firing pin (118) always lines up with the firing pin (118).
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_l 1 Dec2014.DOC
As explained above, firing of the apparatus is achieved by removing the firing pin (118)
from the hole in the insert (148), allowing the forces to open the second shuttle (124) and
dump the centre chamber's (120) pressure.
VARIATIONS
The apparatus (10 or 110) described herein uses gas from canister to fill the pre-charge
chamber (15) or the inner and outer pressure chambers (130, 140), but clearly this could be
achieved by a number of different methods, for example by using a battery operated
compressor. Similarly larger cartridges, or multiple cartridges, could be used to increase
the capacity of the apparatus, for example if additional projectile range, or additional
projectile payload, was required.
While in many applications the apparatus (10 or 110) could be used to deliver a light line
which could then be used to pull out a larger line or rope, but in some applications just the
light line could be used, for example, during a water rescue. For such pmposes, it is also
envisaged that the primary line (25 or 125) could be provided with hand-holds, for example
loops of fabric tape, to assist a person who is being rescued using the line (25 or 125).
Similarly, the projectile (17 or 117) could be configured to carry additional equipment, for
example, an inflatable flotation device, to assist with rescue operations.
The projectile (17 or 117) can include a floatation chamber or a floatation device, for
example a floatation chamber or device that is deployed when the line becomes taut when
the projectile has reached the extent of its travel.
The projectile described in Figures 7 and 14 are interchangeable. Several other projectiles
with similar features and is compatible to the apparatus (10 or 110) can be used.
The primary line (25 or 125) is shown installed within the projectile (17); however the line
(25) could be carried externally, for example by winding the line (25 or 125) about the
body (89 or 189) of the projectile (17 or 117).
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_l 1 Dec2014.DOC
In an alternative configuration the collar (126) and the tube (128) can be formed as a single
part for simplified assembly.
Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should
be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing
from the scope thereof.
DEFINITIONS
Throughout this specification the word "comprise" and variations of that word, such as
"comprises" and "comprising", are not intended to exclude other additives, components,
integers or steps.
ADVANTAGES
Thus it can be seen that at least the preferred form of the invention provides a line delivery
apparatus which does not require the use of any pyrotechnic devices, and which could be
relatively inexpensive to produce, to use, and to maintain.
205353NZD_CAP_Specification_l 1 Dec2014.DOC
Claims (9)
1. A line delivery apparatus (110) having a barrel (113) configured to receive and to expel a projectile (117) by use of the expansion of a compressed gas, the barrel having an open end and a closed end; the apparatus includes a pre-charge chamber 5 (140) having one or more inlet ports (136) which communicate with a source of compressed gas (172), and the pre-charge chamber having one or more outlet ports (156) which communicate with the closed end of the barrel, and the apparatus is configured in such a manner that the flow of fluid through the or each outlet port is controlled by a triggering mechanism; the triggering mechanism having a valve 10 member (134) that is movable between a first position in which the valve member prevents flow through the or each outlet port, and a second position in which the valve member does not prevent flow through the or each outlet port, and the valve member is held at the first position by pressurized gas from the compressed gas source that is held within a trigger mechanism chamber (130); and when a manually 15 operated trigger (121) is moved, a second shuttle (124) moves and some or all of the pressurised fluid held within the trigger mechanism chamber is released, and the valve member is then moved from the first position to the second position by the pressure of the fluid within the pre-charge chamber allowing high pressure gases in the pre-charge chamber to exit through the outlet ports and into the closed end of 20 the barrel.
2. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the source of compressed gas used to charge the pre-charge chamber is a small single use pressurised fluid cylinder which can be attached to and form part of the apparatus.
3. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the line delivery 25 apparatus also includes a line (131) which is connectable at one end to the interior of the barrel and at an opposite end to the projectile.
4. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the line delivery apparatus also includes the projectile. 205353NZD_CAP_Specification_llDec2014.DOC
5. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the line delivery apparatus includes a piercing device (123) configured to pierce a cap of the pressurised fluid cylinder.
6. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the line 5 delivery apparatus includes a one way valve (132) between the trigger mechanism chamber and the pre-charge chamber.
7. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the piercing device is situated within the second shuttle.
8. A line delivery apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the 10 apparatus includes a one way valve between the trigger mechanism chamber and the pre-charge chamber.
9. A method of operating a line delivery apparatus, the method including the following steps; pressurizing a pre-charge chamber and a trigger mechanism chamber using a 15 source of compressed gas or fluid, releasing a mechanical latch to allow a shuttle to be moved to an open position under the force applied by the pressure within the trigger mechanism chamber, thereby allowing pressure within the trigger mechanism chamber to be released, and 20 then using the pressure within the pre-charge chamber to move a main valve member to an open position in which the pressure within the pre-charge chamber is able to escape to a barrel of the line delivery apparatus.
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ612831B2 true NZ612831B2 (en) | 2015-05-01 |
Family
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