Abstract: A cable and reel handling system for reducing the size of deep towing deck handling equipment is provided. A single drum is used to receive the entire length of a flat tow cable, the drum having a width which is substantially limited to the width of the cable. The drum may be disposed horizontally, vertically or at intermediate angles for either over-the-stern or over-the-side deploying and reeling in. For over-the-stern deploying, the cable is passed through guide rollers and over a traction wheel.

Abstract: A hydrodynamically streamlined, towable sonar apparatus is described charerized by a housing, including a central frame having a circular planar web portion from which extend a plurality of annular coaxial ribs which cooperate with similar ribs extending inwardly from top and bottom concavo-convex cover members to define annular chambers and to provide compressive load bearing support. Transducers are arrayed on the periphery of the frame and enclosed in a curved plastic fairing thereabout. Electronics are accommodated in the annular chambers.

Abstract: A cable traction sheave is described comprising a metal sheave body fixed a rotatable hydraulic motor housing and having a novel cable groove liner. The liner is formed of a solid elastomeric and has a band of pressure release material that permits deformation of the liner so as to increase lateral pressure on the cable to preserve the round shape thereof and increase gripping of the cable by the liner. An alternative embodiment comprises spring elements embedded in an elastomeric liner and configured to cause the liner to grip the cable in response to cable pressure.