Lifting collar, automatic deployment means and lifting system

Abstract

A lifting collar 300 has a yoke 302 with a shackle 304 and a jaw 306 pivotally attached to the yoke by a pivot 308. The jaw and yoke surround an automatic deployment device 400 that , when deployed, connects to an item (500 fig.6B), possibly using a nail (414 fig.5) fired from a nail gun. The automatic deployment device may be attached to an ROV for underwater use or to a UAV. Upon deployment the ROV may disengage, and a tether (510 fig. 6D) used to retrieve the item 500. Lift bags and pressurised gas cannisters may also be used and operated remotely using an acoustic receiver or automatically operated using a timer.

Description

Field The present invention relates to a lifting collar and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a lifting collar and deployment device for example for attaching a tether to an item to be recovered, for example from a body of water. Background Various types of automatic deployment devices and systems are available for attaching lines or tethers to sunken objects to be salvaged or items to be recovered, such as crashed vehicles which have rolled off a road or down an embankment. In some existing automatic deployment devices, it was difficult or dangerous to attach tethers to the device either before or after deployment of an attachment means. Prior Art In our granted United Kingdom patent GB 2 483 861 we disclose an impact initiated attachment device. The device comprises a housing which abuts a target and is operative to deploy one or more fasteners using a drive mechanism. The device is used in recovering submerged objects, such as unexploded ordnance, and in demolition when several devices are attached to a target for disposal. Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a lifting collar comprising a yoke with a shackle connected thereto and a jaw which is pivotally connected to the yoke and opens on at least one pivot provided in the yoke, when deployed the yoke and jaw together define a closed envelope which in use surrounds an automatic deployment means that connects an attachment device to an item. The invention enables attachment of suitable connections or a tether, using an automatic deployment means which is able to rotate and does not snag. This is particularly important when recovering submerged items, such as sunken cars from lakes or reservoirs where other submerged debris, such as trees or roots may interfere with a recovery line or tether. The fact that a lifting collar is dimensioned and shaped to an automatic deployment means which is operable to embed the attachment device in a body of an item to be recovered, allows for quick or ‘snap’ fitting of the lifting collar. Furthermore, as the shackle rotates on a boss this assists in improved connection to a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), so that when used underwater, the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is able to select and attach individual lifting collars in readiness for deployment of the attachment device. In some embodiments the shackle includes a lifting eye and preferably two pivots are provided in the yoke. Preferably the two pivots are provided symmetrically about a rotational axis of the shackle. In some embodiments the at least one pivot includes a threaded retaining bolt which engages with a thread formed in an aperture passing through the yoke. In some embodiments a retaining means retains the at least one threaded retaining bolt. In some embodiments the retaining means is a split pin that passes through a hole formed in an end of the at least one threaded retaining bolt. This prevents the shackle from being vibrated loose or inadvertent detachment of the shackle from the automatic deployment means. In some embodiments inner surfaces of the yoke and jaw that define the closed together are curved to form a circular collar. In some embodiments a location means is shaped and dimensioned to receive and locate with a recess and / or protuberance on the automatic deployment means. In some embodiments the location means is a collar that is dimensioned to be received in rebate formed on the automatic deployment means. In some embodiments a limiter is provided for limiting rotation of the collar about a portion of the automatic deployment means. In some embodiments apertures are provided for receiving feelers that assist in location and positioning of the lifting collar, for example when the collar is supported on a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), and where vision systems do not always provide a clear image to an operator. In some embodiments the shackle is connected to an automatic deployment means which is operable to embed the attachment device in a body of the item. In some embodiments the automatic deployment means includes a nail gun, and the attachment device is a nail. In some embodiments the lifting collar includes the automatic deployment means which includes at least one radial slot and / or at least one dimple to assist in location and automatic connection to a remote-control positioning system, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone or an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) or robot, when the lifting collar includes the automatic deployment means are stowed and retrieved from a storage box or container. In some embodiments at least one recovery apparatus which when deployed is operable to recover the automatic deployment means after attachment of the attachment means to the item. In some embodiments the lifting collar and attachment device are adapted for use in a body of water, wherein the at least one recovery apparatus includes at least one lift bag and a pressurised gas cannister which is operable to inflate the at least one lift bag. Optionally the system for lifting an item includes the pressurised gas cannister is remotely operable and receives a signal from a remote operator, for example via an acoustic receiver, to inflate the at least one lift bag. In some embodiments the pressurised gas cannister is automatically operable and receives a signal from an on-board control device, such as a timer, to inflate the at least one lift bag. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of recovering an item using the aforementioned system and including the steps of: attaching a tether to the lifting eye: locating the system in proximity with an item to be recovered; deploying the automatic deployment means to attach the attachment device to the item; and recovering the system with the item connected thereto by retrieving the tether. The invention will now be described with reference to the following Figures in which: Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 shows an overall view of a lifting device attached to a remote operated vehicle; Figure 2 shows an overall view of one embodiment of the invention from one side and surrounding an automatic attachment device; Figure 3 shows an overall view of one embodiment of the invention, from the opposite side shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 is a diagrammatical sectional representation of a firing device in the automatic attachment device, when the firing device is cocked; Figure 5 shows the firing device in Figure 4 after it has been deployed; Figures 6A to 6D show steps in stages of operation and use of one embodiment of the invention with the automatic deployment device; Figure 6A shows the automatic deployment device on an ROV as the ROV is approaches an item to be engaged; Figure 6B shows the automatic deployment device being placed close to the item to be engaged, in readiness for deployment; Figure 6C shows the automatic deployment device having been deployed, an attachment device attached to the item, and the ROV being withdrawn; Figure 6D shows a lifting line attached to a shackle in preparation for recovery of the item; Figure 7, shows an example of an overall view of a preferred embodiment of the lifting collar with a yoke and shackle connected thereto; Figure 8 shows an overall view of a modified body received in the lifting collar; Figure 9 shows and attachment device for attaching the colour onto an ROV (not shown) by way of a manual handle; Figure 10A shows an overall view of an automatic deployment device connected to the lifting collar and showing a safety clip in place; Figure 10B shows the same arrangement in Figure 10B from the opposite side shown in Figure 10B with the safety clip removed; and Figure 10C shows the automatic deployment device, corresponding to the view in Figure 10B in an armed condition. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Invention Referring to the Figures, Figure 1 shows an overall view of a lifting device 100 attached to a remote operated vehicle (ROV) 200. Figure 2 shows an overall view of a lifting collar 300 comprising a yoke 302 with a shackle 304 connected thereto. A jaw 306 is pivotally connected to the yoke 302 and opens on pivots 308A and 308B provided in the yoke 302. When deployed the yoke 302 and jaw 306 together define a closed envelope which in use surrounds an automatic deployment means 400 that connects an attachment device (see Figure 5) to an item. The collar 300 is dimensioned to be received in rebate 301 formed on the automatic deployment means 400. Figure 3 shows an overall view from the opposite side shown in Figure 2 and shows an automatic deployment means 400 and firing device 410. Referring to Figure 4, which is a sectional view, showing the automatic deployment means 400 and firing device 410 when the firing device 412 is cocked. Figure 5 shows the firing device shown in Figure 4, with safety pin 416 removed and attachment nail 414 having been deployed. Figures 6A to 6D show steps in stages of operation and use of one embodiment of the invention with the automatic deployment device. Figure 6A shows the automatic deployment device 100 on an ROV 200 as the ROV is approaches an item 500 to be engaged and recovered. Figure 6B shows the automatic deployment device 100 being placed close to the item 500 to be engaged, in readiness for deployment (tether not shown for ease of reference). Figure 6C shows the automatic deployment device 100 having been deployed and attached to the item 500. ROV 200 is shown as withdrawn. Figure 6D shows a lifting line 510 attached to shackle 304 of the device 100 in preparation for recovery of the item 500. The lifting collar 300 includes a lifting device 100 that is capable of use on land or in water and so is not limited to subsea salvage / lifting. The lifting collar 300 is attached to the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) 200 by way of a modular interface 600. The lifting collar 300 preferably deploys a nail 414 from the automatic deployment means 400 to attach and lift to the target / item 500 to be salvaged. The system comprises an automatic deployment means and a breech. Figure 3 shows the breech when cocked. A primer (not shown) is placed inside the automatic deployment means and the two parts 400 and 410 screwed together. A custom remotely operated vehicle (ROV) interface or an ergonomic handle 522 (Figure 9) for direct use by a diver (not shown) or adapted to an automatic release as shown in Figure 1 is placed within the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) 200 manipulator and is launched. Alternatively, the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) 200 picks up the lifting collar from a racking system in the water. When the item to be recovered or target 500 is found, and the lifting collar is attached by depressing a forward facing tigger as per the automatic deployment means. The lifting strop is either attached to the lifting collar prior to attachment, or a lifting strop is attached to the lifting eye after attachment. The item is lifted by a ships davit, crane or winch (not shown). Item 500 could also be lifted with a lift bag as part of a system as described below. The lifting collar can freely rotate to reduce stresses during lifting but could have rotation restricted by introducing, for example a suitable radial slot and pin or other similar arrestment means. Has a commercial ‘off-the-shelf’ (COTS) swivelling and pivoting lifting eye for connection to lift bag or shackle and sling. This allows for lifting in different directions and reducing stresses on both the lifting collar and the item being salvaged. The lifting point could be fixed or of different geometry depending on what was to be lifted. Lifting collar is modular and is in two parts to allow for attachment to the modified automatic deployment means body. The collar sits within a groove in the automatic deployment means body to allow rotation, but limit sliding along the major axis, therefore allowing lifting in multiple directions. The collar is locked in place using two bolts with cross holes for retaining pins, reducing the chance of shaking free. The collar is easily removed to allow for multiple use. Aflat base can be incorporated on the lower edge to allow the lifting collar to stand freely, without toppling whilst preparing for use. Two holes 307 are incorporated on a lower part of jaw 306 to allow for attachment of items or feeler (not shown) to allow depth perception. Cable ties can be used in the holes 307 and deflection in them, when they strike the item 500, can be seen in the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) camera (not shown). Rotation of the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) interface collar 300 is achieved by the modular interface 600 which gives the option for different interfaces. One shown incorporates two options depending on the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) manipulator attached; a rectangular section for use with flat manipulator or an added T-bar to allow for use with the pronged manipulator. The interface could be an ergonomic handle 600 for a diver. Figure 7 shows an example of an overall view of the lifting collar with a yoke and shackle connected thereto and Figure 8 shows an overall view of a modified body received in the lifting collar. Figure 9 shows and attachment device for attaching the colour onto an ROV (not shown) by way of a manual handle which may be used, for example by a diver in close proximity with the item to be recovered. Figure 10A shows an overall view of an automatic deployment device connected to the lifting collar and showing a safety clip in place. Figure 10B shows the same arrangement in Figure 10B from the opposite side shown in Figure 10B with the safety clip removed. Figure 10C shows the automatic deployment device, corresponding to the view in Figure 10B in an armed condition. The collar screws onto the breech body and rests in the undercut of the thread to allow the collar to freely spin. A thumb screw is placed on the underside so the orientation can be adjusted and fixed by the end user. One safety clip is placed on the front of the forward-facing trigger which stops the trigger depressing. This is removed prior to entering the water. Another safety clip is rotated to interfere with the back end of the firing pin, stopping it from accelerating forward. This is rotated out of the way prior to entering the water. A pull pin locks the clip in either the ‘safe’ or ‘armed’ position. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim wherein use an obverse face faces the item and the bolts are removable from a reverse face. Although not depicted the system for lifting item 500 may have one or more pressurised gas cannisters which are remotely operable, for example on receipt of an acoustic signal from a remote operator. On receipt of the acoustic signal an acoustic receiver causes at least one lift bag to inflate and so improves the overall buoyancy of the system and causes the item 500 to be raised form the water. Alternatively, the pressurised gas cannister(s) is / are automatically operable and receives a signal from an on-board control device, such as a timer, to inflate the at least one lift bag. A method of recovering an item using locating the system includes the steps of: attaching a tether to the lifting eye: locating the system in proximity with an item to be recovered; deploying the automatic deployment means to attach the attachment device to the item; and recovering the system with the item connected thereto by retrieving the tether. The invention has been described by way of example only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the aforementioned embodiments without departing form the scope of protection as defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A lifting collar comprises a yoke with a shackle connected thereto and a jaw which is pivotally connected to the yoke and opens on at least one pivot provided in the yoke, when deployed the yoke and jaw together define a closed envelope which in use surrounds an automatic deployment means that connects an attachment device to an item.

2. A lifting collar according to claim 1 wherein the shackle rotates on a boss whose rotational axis bisects the yoke.

3. A lifting collar according to claim 1 wherein the shackle includes a lifting eye.

4. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim wherein two pivots areprovided in the yoke.

5. A lifting collar according to claim 4, when dependent on claim 2, wherein the two pivots are provided symmetrically about the rotational axis.

6. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one pivot includes a threaded retaining bolt which engages with a thread formed in an aperture passing through the yoke.

7. A lifting collar according to claim 6 includes a retaining means that retains the at least one threaded retaining bolt.

8. A lifting collar according to claim 7 wherein the retaining means is a split pin that passes through a hole formed in an end of the at least one threaded retaining bolt.

9. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim wherein inner surfaces of the yoke and jaw that define the closed together are curved to form a circular collar.

10. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim wherein a location means is shaped and dimensioned to receive and locate with a recess and / or protuberance on the automatic deployment means.

11. A lifting collar according to claim 10, when dependent on claim 9, wherein the location means is a collar that is dimensioned to be received in rebate formed on the automatic deployment means.

12. A lifting collar according to claim 11 includes a limiter that limits rotation of the collar about a portion of the automatic deployment means.

13. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim includes apertures for receiving feelers that assist in location and positioning of the lifting collar.

14. A lifting collar according to any preceding claim is connected to an automatic deployment means which is operable to embed the attachment device in a body of the item.

15. A lifting collar according to claim 14 wherein the automatic deployment means includes a nail gun, and the attachment device is a nail.

16. A lifting collar according to either claim 14 or 15 wherein the automatic deployment means includes at least one radial slot and / or at least one dimple for connection to a remote-control positioning system, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone or an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) or robot.

17. A system for lifting an item includes the lifting collar according to any of claim 14 to 16 and at least one recovery apparatus which when deployed is operable to recover the automatic deployment means after attachment of the attachment means to the item.

18. A system for lifting an item according to claim 17, for use in a body of water, wherein the at least one recovery apparatus includes at least one lift bag and a pressurised gas cannister which is operable to inflate the at least one lift bag.

19. A system for lifting an item according to claim 18 wherein the pressurised gas cannister is remotely operable and receives a signal from a remote operator, for example via an acoustic receiver, to inflate the at least one lift bag.

20. A system for lifting an item according to claim 18 or 19 wherein the pressurised gas cannister is automatically operable and receives a signal from an on-board control device, such as a timer, to inflate the at least one lift bag.

21. A method of recovering an item using locating the system according to any of claims 17 to 20, when dependent on claim 3, includes the steps of: attaching a tether to the lifting eye: locating the system in proximity with an item to be recovered; deploying the automatic deployment means to attach the attachment device to theitem; and recovering the system with the item connected thereto by retrieving the tether.12

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