Cable stripper for a towing assembly

Abstract

A towing assembly is used in towing operations to avoid damage to injury or persons when a soft tow apparatus fails during vehicle recovery operations. The assembly includes a recovery strap that can be connected to a towing vehicle and a vehicle to be towed; a diffuser strap that can be connected to a towing vehicle and a vehicle to be towed, and that captures and dissipates the kinetic and potential energy that is released when the recovery strap breaks; two or more non- overlapping sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap; and a cable stripper disposed on the recovery strap and that prevents the diffuser strap, sleeves, and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle.

Description

[0001] CABLE STRIPPER FOR A TOWING ASSEMBLY

[0002] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0003] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 598,617 filed November 14, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] Field of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to a cable stripper for use in wire line applications, particularly towing operations where a towing assembly is disposed between a towing vehicle and a vehicle in need of being towed. The cable stripper is able to prevent components of the towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle.

[0006] Background of the Invention

[0007] While operating a vehicle, it may be necessary to tow the vehicle for various reasons. In such situations, it is desirable to have a means of simply and safely dislodging and towing the vehicle to a desired location. There is always a danger, particularly where the vehicle being towed or to be towed is heavy or firmly stuck, that the soft tow apparatus (such as a tow strap, tow rope, or cable) can snap or break at any points, when it experiences a shock load, or if the vehicle being towed is simply too heavy to move.

[0008] United States Patent No. 9,849,740 to Sparkes (owned by applicant) describes a towing assembly that is used in towing operations to avoid damage to injury or persons when a soft tow apparatus fails during vehicle recovery operations. The towing assembly is disposed between a towing vehicle and a vehicle in need of being towed. The towing assembly comprises a recovery strap that can be connected to a towing vehicle and a vehicle to be towed; a diffuser strap that can be connected to a towing vehicle and a vehicle to be towed and sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap. The diffuser strap captures and dissipates the kinetic and potential energy that is released when the recovery strap breaks, and restrains the recovery strap, in the event of its failure during a towing operation.

[0009] While the towing assembly may be connected to different types of towing vehicles, issues were encountered by applicant with this towing assembly when connected to a tow truck equipped with a tow winch. A tow winch typically includes a recovery strap (for example, ropes, chains, cables, belts, and the like) wrapped around a rotatable drum or spool which keeps the recovery strap neatly wrapped as it is wound out or in. A hydraulic or electric motor powers the drum. A gear casing and gear train transforms the power from the motor into pulling power. The tow winch winds the recovery strap around the drum, while maintaining steady tension to haul or hoist the vehicle in need of being towed.

[0010] However, components (for example, the diffuser strap and sleeves) of the towing assembly can be easily dragged or pulled into the drum as the recovery strap is being wound in, thereby obstructing the drum’s rotation. Further, towing operations are often needed to dislodge and tow vehicles stuck in rough terrain including mud, snow, sand, soil, and stones. The recovery strap, diffuser strap and sleeves of the towing assembly can become coated or caked with such debris which can be carried into the drum as the recovery strap is being wound in, thereby obstructing the drum’s rotation and / or damaging the drum. In both situations, the operator must completely shut down the tow winch to untangle and free the diffuser strap and sleeves from the drum, to remove any debris, and / or to repair or replace a damaged drum, thereby delaying the towing operation. Towing services may charge hourly rates, increasing costs for the unlucky owner of the stuck vehicle. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved towing assembly which mitigates the above problems.

[0011] Summary of the Invention

[0012] Described herein is use of a cable stripper in wire line applications, particularly towing operations where a towing assembly is disposed between a towing vehicle and a vehicle in need of being towed. The cable stripper is able to prevent components of the towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle. Also described herein are an improved towing assembly and system which include the cable stripper.

[0013] In one aspect, the invention is a towing assembly comprising: a) a recovery strap with a first end and a second end, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of a towing vehicle or a vehicle to be towed, and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to a connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, and elongatable to a maximum length at failure; b) a diffuser strap with a first end and a second end, a left side and a right side, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, wherein the diffuser strap in its resting state is longer than the maximum length, or wherein the diffuser strap is elongatable beyond the maximum length; c) two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap and sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough, the sleeves being slidable on the recovery strap; and d) a cable stripper comprising a body sized to be larger than the one or more sleeves, and a central aperture sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough.

[0014] In another aspect, the invention is a system for towing comprising: a) a towing assembly comprising: i) a recovery strap with a first end and a second end, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of a towing vehicle or a vehicle to be towed, and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to a connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, and elongatable to a maximum length at failure; ii) a diffuser strap with a first end and a second end, a left side and a right side, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, wherein the diffuser strap in its resting state is longer than the maximum length, or wherein the diffuser strap is elongatable beyond the maximum length; and iii) two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap and sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough, the sleeves being slidable on the recovery strap; and b) a cable stripper comprising a body sized to be larger than the one or more sleeves, and a central aperture sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough. In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of towing a vehicle in need of being towed using a tow truck, the tow truck comprising a tow winch having a drum configured to receive a recovery strap, the method comprising: a) providing a towing assembly as described above, or the system as described above; b) inserting the recovery strap through the two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed along the length of the diffuser strap; c) attaching the cable stripper to the recovery strap by inserting the recovery strap through the central aperture or the slot; d) attaching the fastening element of the first end of the recovery strap to a connecting element of one of the vehicle or the tow truck; e) attaching the fastening element of the second end of the recovery strap to a connecting element of the other of the vehicle or the tow truck; f) attaching the fastening element of the first end of the diffuser strap to the connecting element of the vehicle or the tow truck; g) attaching the fastening element of the second end of the diffuser strap to the connecting element of the other of the vehicle or the tow truck; h) activating the tow winch to wind the recovering strap onto the drum and tow the vehicle, wherein the cable stripper strips debris from the recovery strap and prevents the two or more non-overlapping sleeves and the diffuser strap from advancing into the drum.

[0015] The invention will now be described by way of an exemplary embodiment with reference to the accompanying simplified, diagrammatic, not-to-scale drawings. In the drawings:

[0016] FIG. 1 (PRIOR ART) is a perspective view of one embodiment of the towing assembly.

[0017] FIG. 2 (PRIOR ART) is a perspective view of the embodiment of the towing assembly of FIG. 1 disposed between the towing vehicle and vehicle to be towed.

[0018] FIG. 3 (PRIOR ART) is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the towing assembly, in which the sleeves are disposed on alternating sides of the diffuser strap. FIG. 4 (PRIOR ART) is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the towing assembly in which the sleeves are attached to the diffuser strap and are opened and closed using VELCRO®.

[0019] FIG. 5 (PRIOR ART) is an exploded perspective view of a boom head assembly, showing all components in detail.

[0020] FIGS. 6A-H are schematic diagrams of various embodiments of cable strippers having circular (FIGS. 6A-B, I-K), square (FIGS. 6C-D), rectangular (FIGS. 6E-F), gear or cog (FIGS. 6G-H) shapes either with or without slots. FIG. 61 shows a cable stripper (shown in phantom) encased in metal. FIG. 6J shows a cable stripper having a second aperture adjacent to the edge. FIG. 6K shows a cable stripper with a pair of insertable pegs. FIG. 6L shows the detail of the peg-

[0021] FIG. 7A is a perspective top view of one embodiment of a cable stripper, when installed for use. FIG. 7B is a perspective bottom view of the cable stripper of FIG. 7 A.

[0022] FIGS. 8A-C are perspective side views of the boom head assembly of FIG. 5 and cable stripper of FIGS. 6B and 7A-B in use with the towing assembly of FIG. 3, showing the recovery strap (i.e., cable) being wound onto the drum of the boom head assembly in time sequence.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of the boom head assembly of FIG. 5 and cable stripper of FIGS. 6B and 7A-B in use with the towing assembly of FIG. 3, showing the recovery strap (i.e., cable) almost fully wound onto the drum of the boom head assembly.

[0024] Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0025] The present invention relates to use of a cable stripper in wire line applications, particularly towing operations where a towing assembly is disposed between a towing vehicle and a vehicle in need of being towed. The cable stripper is able to prevent components of the towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle. The invention also relates to an improved towing assembly and system which include the cable stripper.

[0026] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 1-4, which show various embodiments of a towing assembly such as that described in United States Patent No. 9,849,740 to Sparkes (owned by applicant), which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The towing assembly is useful for towing a vehicle with a second vehicle while minimizing the ability of the recovery strap to cause damage to property or persons should it fail. With reference to FIGS. 5-9, the invention relates to use of a cable stripper to prevent components of this towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle, particularly a tow truck. The invention also relates to an improved towing assembly and system which include the cable stripper for use to prevent components of the towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle, particularly a tow truck.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 1 (PRIOR ART), the towing assembly 1 comprises a recovery strap 2 and a diffuser strap 4, both of which at their ends include fastening elements 10, 12 which allow connection of the straps 2, 4 to the connecting elements 18 of each vehicle 14, 16. Separate fastening of the recovery strap 2 and the diffuser strap 4 to the connecting elements 18 ensures that the diffuser strap 4 will remain securely fastened between the towing vehicle 14 and the vehicle being towed 16 when the recovery strap 2 fails. The diffuser strap 4 may be longer than the recovery strap 2, and further may comprise at least two sleeves 6 disposed along its length. In some embodiments, the diffuser strap 4 may be the same or approximately the same length as the recovery strap 2. During the towing operation, the diffuser strap 4 is subject to no, or minimal (compared to the towing forces on the recovery strap), towing forces and remains intact when the recovery strap 2 fails. Each sleeve 6 along the length of the diffuser strap 4 absorbs energy that is released when the recovery strap 2 fails. These sleeves 6 collectively, with the diffuser strap 4, absorb and diffuse the kinetic and potential energy released from the failure of the recovery strap 2. By slowing down the high velocity recovery strap 2 and restraining its movement, the diffuser strap 4 prevents adjacent property from being damaged or persons from being injured.

[0028] FIG. 1 (PRIOR ART) shows one embodiment of the towing assembly. The towing assembly 1 includes a recovery strap 2 which includes a fastening element 10 at each of its respective ends. The fastening element 10 may comprise loops, hooks, shackles, or any other fastening means. The fastening elements 10 allow connection of the recovery strap 2 to the connecting elements 18 of the towing vehicle 14 and the vehicle to be towed 16. Well known connecting elements 18 of vehicles include hitch assemblies in receivers, frame-fastened tow hooks, steel loops on trailer, hitches, bumpers, or other secure attachment points on vehicles.

[0029] Recovery strap 2 may be made of flexible materials including, but not limited to, synthetic and natural polymeric materials for example, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, KEVLAR® and thermoplastics. Additionally belts and ropes using these plastics could be used in combination and incorporate metal, plastic or carbon fibres for additional energy absorption. Recovery straps typically include ropes, chains, cables and belts. Belts and ropes are preferred for use in the towing assembly.

[0030] The towing assembly 1 further includes a diffuser strap 4 with sleeves 6 disposed along its length and fastening elements 12 at each of its ends. The fastening elements 12 may comprise loops which allow a connection of the diffuser strap 4 to the connecting elements 18 of the towing vehicle 14 and the vehicle to be towed 16.

[0031] Diffuser strap 4 is sized so that, during the towing operation, it is subjected to minimal, or no, towing forces. In some embodiments, diffuser strap 4 in a resting or nonelongated state, is longer than the recovery strap 2 in a resting or nonelongated state, and it is longer in a resting or nonelongated state than the maximum length to which the recovery strap 2 can elongate, before it fails. In this embodiment the diffuser strap 4 is sufficiently long so that, before the recovery strap 2 fails, the diffuser strap 4 connected thereto is not subjected to any towing forces.

[0032] In some embodiments, diffuser strap 4 in a resting or nonelongated state is longer, the same length as, or even shorter than, recovery strap 2 in a resting or nonelongated state. However, in this embodiment the diffuser strap 4 is capable of greater elongation than the recovery strap 2. For example, nylon elongates by about 8% and polyester about 2%. If these materials are used to make the recovery strap 2, the diffuser strap 4 may be made of a rope or other material that could elongate by about 30% or more (e.g., Master Pull Super Yanker™ Kinetic Recovery Rope to which sleeves 6 are attached). Since the diffuser strap 4 is therefore capable of greater elongation than the recovery strap 2, the diffuser strap 4 does not break before the recovery strap 2 fails, and can elongate to a length that is longer than the maximum length to which the recovery strap 2 can elongate, before it fails.

[0033] In some embodiments, the diffuser strap 4 will be subjected to minimal towing forces, in comparison to the towing forces experienced by the recovery strap 2. In some embodiments, the diffuser strap 4 will not be subjected to any towing forces. The diffuser strap 4 may therefore be longer than the recovery strap 2 when both are in their resting state and longer than, or elongatable beyond, the length of the recovery strap 2 at failure; or the diffuser strap 4 is the same length or shorter than the recovery strap 2 when both are in their resting state and it is elongatable beyond the length of the recovery strap 2 at failure. The function of the diffuser strap 4 is to restrain the recovery strap 2 and to absorb and diffuse the kinetic and potential energy of the broken recovery strap 2. In some embodiments, this can be achieved even if the diffuser strap 4 is subjected to minimal towing forces. Energy absorption by the diffuser strap 4 occurs due to elastic elongation (an area under the loadelongation response of the diffuser strap 4), plastic elongation including up to fracture, and friction. Friction occurs due to the movement of the broken recovery strap 2 through the sleeves 6 and the controlled whipping action of the recovery strap 2 with the air. The elongation of the diffuser strap 4 would result in some energy absorption. The use of an elastomeric material and of metal fibers woven into the rope or belt (such as aluminum) would increase the amount of energy that is absorbed by elongation.

[0034] Diffuser strap 4 may be made of any flexible materials including, but not limited to, synthetic and natural polymeric materials for example, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, KEVLAR®, and elastomeric materials in addition to thermoplastics. Diffuser straps 4 typically include ropes, chains, cables and belts. Belts and ropes are preferred for use in the towing assembly.

[0035] Sleeves 6 are disposed on and along the length of the diffuser strap 4, and are sized so that the recovery strap 2 can be inserted through the sleeves 6 and slide within them. The sleeves 6 are movable along the length of the diffuser strap 4. The sleeves 6 should not restrict longitudinal movement of the recovery strap 2, and accordingly are large enough so that when the recovery strap 2 fails, it can slide within and between the multiple sleeves 6.

[0036] In some embodiments, the sleeves 6 are affixed to the diffuser strap 4. In some embodiments, the sleeves 6 are formed by affixing a rectangular piece of polymeric woven material made for example from nylon or polyester, to the top of the diffuser strap 4 and then wrapping the material around and affixing it to the bottom of the diffuser strap 4. The sleeves 6 may be affixed by stitching 8 the material to the top and bottom of the diffuser strap 4. The openings of said sleeves 6 are wide enough so that the recovery strap 2 can be inserted easily through each sleeve. Sleeves 6 may be affixed to the diffuser strap 4 using any means, including glue, VELCRO, snaps, or buckles. While sleeves made of polymeric woven material are preferred for use in the towing assembly, sleeves made of other materials may be used. For example, leather, rubber, metal or polymeric (plastic) sleeves or rings that are large enough to accept the recovery strap may be affixed to or around the diffuser strap along its length. The number and spacing of sleeves 6 will depend on the length of the diffuser strap 4. The sleeves 6 are sized and positioned along the length of the diffuser strap 4 to ensure that they will restrain the recovery strap 2, and assist in the capture and dissipation of the energy that is released, wherever along its length the recovery strap 2 breaks. The more sleeves 6 that are used, the greater is the probability that a sleeve 6 will be positioned near the point where the recovery strap 2 breaks. In general, the greater the number of sleeves 6 on the diffuser strap 4, the smaller each individual sleeve 6 may be. Most preferably the sleeves 6 cover, in their totality, less than 5%, or less than 10%, of the length of the recovery strap 2. However, in some embodiments the sleeves 6 may cover up to 25%, or up to 50% or even up to 75% of the length of the recovery strap 2, depending upon the number and size of the sleeves 6 used and the length of the recovery strap 2.

[0037] At least one sleeve 6 is disposed on the diffuser strap 4. In some embodiments, two or more non-overlapping sleeves 6 are spaced along the length of the diffuser strap 4. In some embodiments, more than three non-overlapping sleeves 6 are used, and even more preferably four, six, or more non-overlapping sleeves 6 are used. Generally, the sleeves 6 are spaced one to six, two to five, three to four, or four to five, feet apart along the length of the diffuser strap 4. The sleeves 6 on any one diffuser strap 4 need not be the same width. For example, the sleeves 6 that are closer to the ends of the diffuser strap 4 may be wider than those in the centre of the straps (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, the sleeves are 8 inches wide, formed from a nylon strap that has been cut into pieces and stitched onto the diffuser strap. In a preferred embodiment, the towing assembly, including the recovery strap 2, the diffuser strap 4, the sleeves 6, and stitching, are made of nylon.

[0038] FIG. 2 (PRIOR ART) shows a recovery strap assembly 1 connected to the connecting elements 18 of the towing vehicle 14 and vehicle to be towed 16. Before connecting the straps to the vehicles, recovery strap 2 may be threaded through each sleeve 6. The recovery strap 2 and diffuser strap 4 may then be connected by their respective fastening elements to the vehicles 14, 16. To ensure that the diffuser strap 4 is not subjected to any towing forces throughout the towing operation, the recovery strap loop may be cradled inside the loop of the diffuser strap 4 when connecting said loops to the connecting elements 18 of the towing vehicle 14 and vehicle to be towed 16, so that the loop of the recovery strap 2 is positioned over the loop of the diffuser strap 4 when in the connecting element 18. In this manner, the loop of the diffuser strap 4 is not damaged by the forces to which the recovery strap 2 is subjected. In some embodiments, the loop of recovery strap 2 may be positioned beside the loop of diffuser strap 4, in connecting element 18.

[0039] FIG. 3 (PRIOR ART) shows another embodiment of the towing assembly 1. Sleeves 6 are disposed along the length of the diffuser strap 4, and are affixed to the diffuser strap so that they extend from alternate sides of the diffuser strap 4. For example, the first sleeve 6 extends from the left side of the diffuser strap 4 (left being the bottom of the strap shown in FIG. 3) then the next sleeve extends from the right side of the diffuser strap (right being the top of the strap shown in FIG. 3). The sleeves 6 alternate in such a manner along the length of the diffuser strap 4. The recovery strap 2 is inserted through the first sleeve 6, and then extends across the diffuser strap 4 to be inserted through the second sleeve 6; it then extends back across the diffuser strap 4 and is inserted through the third sleeve 6, and so on. Once the recovery strap 2 is fed through all the sleeves 6 in a similar manner, the recovery strap 2 and diffuser strap 4 may be connected to the connecting elements 18 of the towing vehicle 14 and vehicle to be towed 16. In some embodiments, the recovery strap 2 is inserted through the first sleeve 6 and then wrapped entirely around the diffuser strap 4, before insertion through the second sleeve 6, and so forth. In this manner, the contact area between the recovery strap 2 and the diffuser strap 4 is increased, thereby resulting in the generation of more friction between the two straps, should the recovery strap 2 fail. This increased friction will increase the rate of absorption of energy from the recovery strap 2 when it breaks. In an alternative embodiment, the recovery strap 2 can be wrapped entirely around the diffuser strap 4, before it is inserted into the next sleeve 6, and this can be done when the sleeves 6 are on the same side of the diffuser strap 4.

[0040] FIG. 4 (PRIOR ART) shows another embodiment of the towing assembly 1. Sleeves 6 can be opened and closed to enable placement on the sleeves 6. The sleeves 6 are then wrapped around the recovery strap 2 and their free edges secured together. FIG. 4 shows 3 sleeves, two in their open configuration, to show the stitching 8 used to secure the sleeves to the diffuser strap 4. VELCRO™ strap 20, which is used to secure the free edges together, is secured around the outside of the sleeve. Recovery strap 2 is laid on top of the sleeves 6 and the sleeves 6 are folded up along arrow A to surround the recovery strap 2, and then secured around the recovery strap 2 using the VELCRO. Other means of securing the free edges of the sleeve 6 together, for example, zippers or buckles, may be used. Towing assembly 1 may additionally comprise devices that are disposed on the recovery strap 2. With reference to FIGS. 5-9, the invention relates to use of a cable stripper to prevent components of this towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle, particularly a tow truck. The invention also relates to an improved towing assembly and system which include the cable stripper for use to prevent components of the towing assembly and unwanted debris from impeding the proper operation of the towing vehicle, particularly a tow truck.

[0041] As used herein, the term “towing vehicle” broadly refers to a tow truck (also commonly referred to as a wrecker, breakdown truck, recovery vehicle, or breakdown lorry). The term is meant to include different types including “hook and chain” tow trucks and “boom” tow trucks. The tow truck is typically equipped with a tow winch. The tow winch is positioned on either the front or rear bumper of the tow truck, or behind the cab, and comprises a recovery strap (for example, ropes, chains, cables, belts, and the like) wrapped around a rotatable drum or spool which keeps the recovery strap neatly wrapped as it is wound out or in. A hydraulic or electric motor powers the drum. A gear casing and gear train transforms the power from the motor into pulling power. The tow winch winds the recovery strap around the drum, while maintaining steady tension to haul or hoist the vehicle in need of being towed.

[0042] In a boom tow truck as partially shown in FIGS. 8A-9, the tow truck further comprises a boom 26 which extends from the rear of the cab to the rear of the truck, and is formed of high- strength metal for hoisting the vehicle to be towed 16. As shown in FIG. 5, the boom head assembly 28 (also commonly referred to as the boom end assembly) comprises a body 32; a guide 34 defining a passageway 36 to guide the recovery strap 2 to pass therethrough to be wound onto a rotatable drum 38; the drum 38 defining a central aperture 40 for receiving a pin 42 therethrough, and a grooved rim 44 for retaining the recovery strap 2; attachment means 46 (for example, snap rings); and bushings 48 for preventing wear.

[0043] Although the invention is described in the context of use with a tow winch of a tow truck, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may also be suitable for use with other types of vehicles having winches for different applications including, but not limited to, a tugger winch which powers a tugger line for moving light loads around a rig floor; a light or heavy duty pick-up truck including a front-mounted winch; an all-terrain vehicle (ATV, quad or four wheeler) including a winch; and a utility task vehicle (UTV, SXS, or side-by-side) including a winch.

[0044] In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 6 A, 6C, 6E, and 6G, the cable stripper 22 comprises a body 50 and a central aperture 52. The body 50 comprises a first surface 54 which faces the drum 38 when in use, a second surface 56 which faces the diffuser strap 4 and sleeves 6 when in use, and one or more edges 58 positioned between the first surface 54 and the second surface 56. The body 50 is sufficiently sized to serve as a barrier separating the boom head assembly 28 (particularly, the drum 38 of the boom head assembly 28) from the diffuser strap 4 and sleeves 6, when in use. In some embodiments, the body 50 is sized to be sufficiently larger than the diameter of the sleeves 6.

[0045] In some embodiments, the central aperture 52 is sufficiently sized to allow the recovery strap 2 to be inserted and slide therethrough, and to contact the recovery strap 2 to remove any debris, without restricting the longitudinal movement of the recovery strap 2 as it is being wound onto the drum 38. In some embodiments, the central aperture 52 is sized to be sufficiently larger than the diameter of the recovery strap 2. In some embodiments, the central aperture 52 can have a diameter of any desired size to accommodate a recovery strap 2 (for example, a cable) of any size. In some embodiments, the central aperture 52 may have a diameter of about % inch, 3 / 8 inch, / i inch, 5 / 8 inch,3 / 4 inch, or 1 inch, etc. During installation, the recovery strap 2 is inserted through the central aperture 52 of the cable stripper 22 which is then positioned with the first surface 54 facing the drum 38 and the second surface 56 facing the diffuser strap 4 and sleeves 6. For example, for a tow truck having a “hook and chain” system, the hook 60 (shown in FIG. 9) can be removed from the end of the recovery strap 2 (in this example, a chain). The cable stripper 22 can be slid over the chain through the central aperture 52, and the hook 60 can be replaced back onto the end of the chain and attached to the connecting elements 18 of the vehicle to be towed 16 before beginning the towing operation.

[0046] In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 6B, 6D, 6F, 6H, and 7A-B, the body 50 further comprises a slot 62 which extends from the central aperture 52 to one edge 58 to facilitate installation of the cable stripper 22 directly onto the recovery strap 2, rather than having to remove the hook 60 (if any) and to insert and slide the recovery strap 2 through the central aperture 52. The slot 62 allows the cable stripper 22 to be flexed or bent and slid directly onto the recovery strap 2 in order to place the recovery strap 2 within the central aperture 52. The cable stripper 22 then “snaps back” into shape, thereby securing the cable stripper 22 on the recovery strap 2 with its first surface 54 facing the drum 38 and its second surface 56 facing the diffuser strap 4 and sleeves 6.

[0047] Although the cable stripper 22 is shown in FIGS. 6A-B and 7A-9 as a disk or circular, the particular shape is not a limitation of the invention. The cable stripper 22 can be any shape including, but not limited to, circular (FIGS. 6A-B), square (FIGS. 6C-D), rectangular (FIGS. 6E-F), gear or cog (FIGS. 6G-H) shapes either with (FIGS. 6B, 6D, 6F, 6H) or without (FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6E, 6G) slots.

[0048] It will be appreciated that the cable stripper 22 is simple but rugged in construction that it can be made at low cost. The cable stripper 22 may be formed of various flexible materials. As used herein, the term “flexible” means capable of bending without breaking. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, synthetic and natural polymeric materials for example, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, KEVLAR®, and elastomeric materials in addition to thermoplastics; alloys for example, aluminum or steel; or leather. These materials render the cable stripper 22 lightweight and portable for easy handling by the user.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cable stripper 22 may be formed of a combination of various materials. In some embodiments, the cable stripper 22 is formed of a first material for the body 50 and is encased by a second material fully or partially. For example, the first material may comprise a polymeric material, and the second material may comprise a metal such as steel. FIG. 61 shows an example where the cable stripper 22 is formed of a polymeric material and is encased by metal 64.

[0050] In some embodiments, the cable stripper 22 further comprises a second aperture 66 positioned adjacent to the edge 58 (FIG. 6 J). The second aperture 66 is sized to insert attachment means (including, but not limited to, a chain, cable, and the like) therethrough to allow the cable stripper 22 to be secured to for example, the mast of the tow truck to ensure that the cable stripper 22 stays in the proper position when the recovery strap 2 (for example, a cable) is being wound out of the drum 38.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cable stripper 22 further comprises a pair of pegs 68a, 68b which are insertable on the first and second surfaces 54, 56 respectively of the cable stripper 22 (FIG. 6K). Each peg 68 comprises a head 70 and a shank 72 (FIG. 6L). The head 70 is sized larger than the shank 72 to rest against the surface 54, 56 of the cable stripper 22, and defines a hole 74 having a size corresponding to the size of the central aperture 52 to allow insertion of the recovery strap 2 therethrough. The shank 72 is positioned at the center of the head 70 and is sized to be insertable into the central aperture 52 by press-fit or threads 76. The shank 72 is hollow to allow insertion of the recovery strap 2 therethrough. When inserted through the central aperture 52 of the cable stripper 22, the pegs 68a, 68b tightly secure the recovery strap 2 (for example, a cable) and protect the inner diameter of the central aperture 52 from wear and tear. The pegs 68a, 68b may be formed of any suitable materials including, but not limited to, synthetic and natural polymeric materials for example, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, KEVLAR®, and elastomeric materials in addition to thermoplastics; and alloys for example, aluminum or steel.

[0052] The dimensions of the cable stripper 22 are not essential to the invention and are dictated by the various sizes, dimensions, and shapes of the recovery straps. The dimensions of the cable stripper 22 may be increased or decreased as may be required to satisfy any particular design objectives.

[0053] The cable stripper 22 may be easily fabricated using extrusion molding, compression molding, injection molding, casting, and computer numerical control machining processes. The central aperture 52 may be easily made using any hole-making operations known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to drilling, reaming, tapping, boring, and the like. The slot 62 may be formed using any suitable cutting tools. In general, the cable stripper 22 is amenable to rapid assembly and minimizes expense in manufacturing.

[0054] Following installation on the recovery strap 2, the cable stripper 22 is shown in use with the towing assembly 1 during a towing operation in FIGS. 8A-C in time sequence. In this embodiment, the sleeves 6 are disposed along the length of the diffuser strap 4, and are affixed to the diffuser strap 4 so that they extend from alternate sides of the diffuser strap 4 (as described for FIG. 3). The sleeves 6 are secured around the recovery strap 2 using VELCRO (as described for FIG. 4), and are movable or slidable along the recovery strap 2.

[0055] The recovery strap 2 is shown in the form of a cable. The tow winch of the tow truck winds the cable around the drum 38 of the boom head assembly 28, while maintaining steady tension to haul or hoist the vehicle in need of being towed 16. As the cable is being wound onto the drum 38, it passes through the central aperture 52 of the cable stripper 22. Contact between the exterior surface of the cable with the central aperture 52 enables debris to be cleaned off the exterior surface of the cable as it is being wound onto the drum 38, thereby preventing debris from being carried into the drum 38. The absence of debris ensures that the rotation of the drum 38 is not obstructed and the drum 38 itself is not damaged by mud, snow, sand, soil, and stones, thereby allowing the towing operation to proceed without interruption. Any debris stripped off the cable by the cable stripper 22 accumulates on the second surface 56 which faces away from the drum 38.

[0056] The cable stripper 22 also serves as a barrier to the diffuser strap 4 and sleeves 6. As the cable is being wound onto the drum 38, the movable or slidable sleeves 6 and diffuser strap 4 are simultaneously pulled along the length of the cable towards the drum 38, but their advancement towards the drum 38 is prevented by the cable stripper 22. For example, the first sleeve 6 abuts against the second surface 56 of the cable stripper 22, but cannot pass through the cable stripper 22 into the drum 38. The next second sleeve 6 abuts against the first sleeve 6, the next third sleeve 6 abuts against the second sleeve 6, the next fourth sleeve 6 abuts against the third sleeve 6, and the next fifth sleeve 6 abuts against the fourth sleeve 6 (FIGS. 8A-C). Since the sleeves 6 become bundled at the cable stripper 22, the diffuser strap 4 becomes gathered in multiple loops beneath the sleeves 6. This “looping” of the diffuser strap 4 beneath the sleeves 6 ensures that the diffuser strap 4 is kept away from the drum 38 and does not interfere with any other components of the towing operation.

[0057] Similarly, FIG. 9 shows a towing operation where the hook 60 at the end of the cable is shown attached to the connection elements 18 of the vehicle to be towed 16. For example, the cable is shown to have been almost fully wound onto the drum 38. Eleven movable or slidable sleeves 6 have become bundled at the cable stripper 22, and the diffuser strap 4 has gathered in multiple loops beneath the sleeves 6. The loops are positioned well away from the drum 38 and do not interfere with any other components of the towing operation.

[0058] Towing assembly 1 may be packaged as a kit comprising all parts of the apparatus, the recovery strap, the diffuser strap, the sleeves, and the cable stripper. In this kit the cable stripper may be inserted through the recovery strap, or it may not be inserted, and may later be assembled with the recovery strap at the towing site. Alternatively, a kit that is designed to retrofit an existing recovery strap, said kit comprising only the cable stripper, diffuser strap, and sleeves, may be packaged. This cable stripper, diffuser strap, and sleeves are then assembled with the existing recovery strap, to form the towing assembly described herein. Alternatively again, each of the cable stripper and sleeves may be packaged separately alone, and sized to fit over an existing recovery strap and diffuser strap. All kits would include instructions regarding the assembly and use of the cable stripper, sleeves, diffuser strap, and recovery strap when assembled into the towing assembly 1 described herein. It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a nonexclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Accordingly, various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments and uses without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims that follow.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A towing assembly comprising: a) a recovery strap with a first end and a second end, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of a towing vehicle or a vehicle to be towed, and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to a connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, and elongatable to a maximum length at failure; b) a diffuser strap with a first end and a second end, a left side and a right side, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, wherein the diffuser strap in its resting state is longer than the maximum length, or wherein the diffuser strap is elongatable beyond the maximum length; c) two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap and sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough, the sleeves being slidable on the recovery strap; and d) a cable stripper comprising a body sized to be larger than the one or more sleeves, and a central aperture sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough.

2. The towing assembly of claim 1, wherein the cable stripper further comprises a slot extending from the central aperture to an edge.

3. The towing assembly of claim 2, wherein the cable stripper is formed of a flexible material to allow insertion of the recovery strap through the slot and into the central aperture.

4. A system for towing comprising: a) a towing assembly comprising: i) a recovery strap with a first end and a second end, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of a towing vehicle or a vehicle to be towed, and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to aconnecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, and elongatable to a maximum length at failure; ii) a diffuser strap with a first end and a second end, a left side and a right side, the first end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed and the second end comprising a fastening element for connection to the connecting element of the other of the towing vehicle or the vehicle to be towed, wherein the diffuser strap in its resting state is longer than the maximum length, or wherein the diffuser strap is elongatable beyond the maximum length; and iii) two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed on the diffuser strap and sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough, the sleeves being slidable on the recovery strap; and b) a cable stripper comprising a body sized to be larger than the one or more sleeves, and a central aperture sized to accept insertion of the recovery strap therethrough.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the cable stripper further comprises a slot extending from the central aperture to an edge.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the cable stripper is formed of a flexible material to allow insertion of the recovery strap through the slot and into the central aperture.

7. A method of towing a vehicle in need of being towed using a tow truck, the tow truck comprising a tow winch having a drum configured to receive a recovery strap, the method comprising: a) providing a towing assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, or the system as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6; b) inserting the recovery strap through the two or more non-overlapping sleeves disposed along the length of the diffuser strap; c) attaching the cable stripper to the recovery strap by inserting the recovery strap through the central aperture or the slot; d) attaching the fastening element of the first end of the recovery strap to a connecting element of one of the vehicle or the tow truck;e) attaching the fastening element of the second end of the recovery strap to a connecting element of the other of the vehicle or the tow truck; f) attaching the fastening element of the first end of the diffuser strap to the connecting element of the vehicle or the tow truck; g) attaching the fastening element of the second end of the diffuser strap to the connecting element of the other of the vehicle or the tow truck; and h) activating the tow winch to wind the recovering strap onto the drum and tow the vehicle; wherein the cable stripper strips debris from the recovery strap and prevents the two or more sleeves and the diffuser strap from advancing into the drum.

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