Abstract: A retriever is configured to engage a sunken object by a marine mammal. Ar the object has been engaged by a U-shaped retriever having a pair of spring biased fingers, a retrieval line allows the raising of the sunken object to the surface. Only a relatively light pushing force need be exerted by the mammal to override the resistance of the spring biased fingers as they slide about and finally retain the object. High reliability is ensured by the uncomplicated design of the retriever and heavy loads in the neighborhood of several thousand pounds may be raised by a retriever weighing less than five pounds.

Abstract: A recovery system for attaching a line to an underwater object includes a cially worn tool holder adapted to be carried by an underwater mammal which supports a surface engaging tool at the forward end thereof. A signalling mechanism is also included to be actuated on attachment of a tool to an underwater object.

Abstract: This device assures the underwater recovery of heavy objects by marine mals. A trigger mechanism releases sections of spring biased tubing which converged about the object. After the tubing sections interconnect, the marine mammal pulls free and the object is retrieved by a hoisting line. If the object is partially buried in marine sediment, a pair of pressurized gas cartridges are ruptured to jet a pathway for the converging tubular sections. Because the tubing sections are inherently strong, the hoisting line optionally is connected directly to them or to a suitably arranged bridle. The lightweight concentrically arranged tubing sections are capable of lifting heavy loads and are designed to assure reliable trouble free operation.

Abstract: A suction cup is configured to assure a permanent attachment of an instrutation package to a surface. A dish shaped body member is provided with an annular lip which resiliently engages this surface. A radially outwardly disposed ring shaped recess contains a highly resilient material, such as gum rubber or adhesive liquid. This material is extruded out of the recess as the annular lip is pressed against the surface to ensure a long term, permanent attachment.

Abstract: An improved electrical contact is configured to provide more accurate eleical potential readings. Electrocardiograms and electroencephlograms, for example, require that a monitoring electrode be firmly held on a creature's body to give valid readouts. To that end, a suction cup is cast integrally from a resilient compound to create a sufficient suction when it is pressed against a surface. An annular shoulder portion molded in the suction cup engages a projection from the electrode and holds the electrode firmly on the surface. The suction cup's relatively wide lip ensures the continued creation of the vacuum while the biasing force of the annular shoulder on the extension ensures responsive operation over a prolonged period of time.

Abstract: This apparatus securely interconnects a line or an instrumentation package to a rigid surface underwater. A suction cup member has a lip which pliably accommodates the surface and allows a trigger mechanism to be brought in contact with the surface. The trigger mechanism releases a coiled helical biasing spring which distends an essentially cylindrically shaped bellows to create a multiplied suction or a vacuum inside the suction cup. The multiplied suction holds the apparatus and instrumentation package or line securely on the surface. Because of its straightforward design and uncomplicated mode of operation, it is fully capable of being deployed by marine mammals. Having the suction cup and bellows integrally molded reduces the possibility of leaking and enhances reliability.