Abstract: A release mechanism is provided for a structural member, such as a cylindal object recovery device, wherein the structural member has top and bottom sides. The release mechanism includes a block which is attachable to the structural member so as to extend thereabove. A piston is mounted in the block and is moveable vertically between up and down positions. At least one rod is connected to the piston and extends vertically downwardly beyond the bottom side of the structural member so as to be capable of moving the piston to the upward position when forcibly engaged by the object. A U-shaped holder is fitted over the block with each leg of the holder having a recess. A pair of pistons is laterally mounted in the U-shaped block in an opposing relationship, and each piston is moveable between inward and outward positions.

Abstract: A grabber type cylindrical object recovery apparatus is provided wherein grabber has a U-shaped frame which is curved substantially 180.degree.. A pair of curved pads are provided wherein each pad is pivoted to a lower extremity of a respective leg of the U-shaped frame. The inside of the curves of the pads face inwardly with respect to the U-shaped frame for movement between grabbing and releasing positions with respect to the cylindrical object. In the releasing position a top portion of each pad extends slightly into an open area within the frame so as to be located for forcible engagement with a top portion of the cylindrical object and then pivotal movement for the grabbing position when the object is encompassed by the U-shaped frame. In the grabbing position the bottom portion of each pad extends the curve of the respective leg beyond the 180.degree. of the frame so as to engage a bottom portion of the cylindrical object for retention purposes.

Abstract: A method of recovering an underwater object wherein a beluga whale wears a ackpack harness, beaches into a boat with beaching capabilities and is transported to an area of work. The beluga whale is trained to then follow small boats, carry attachment hardware using a bite plate connected to the hardware, carry tow lines and buoyancy modules from the surface, dive and then locate and deploy the attachment hardware onto the non-pingered target.