Positioning Mechanism For Hoisting

Mechanism positions large, heavy objects in container for lifting out by hoist, crane, or winch. Handles objects gently and ensures they are lifted cleanly away in vertical direction without bumping container. Developed for lifting offset pieces of solid-propellant core out of rocket motor through its propellant port. Similar specialized mechanisms can be developed to lift other specially shaped, specially contained heavy objects. Track in base of mechanism guides each trunnion and piece to which attached to middle as hydraulic rods extend. When mechanism lifted, tilted pieces swing inward and come to rest on energy-absorbing paddle.