DRUM MINESWEEPER

Abstract

A self-contained, freely floating, freely operating minesweeper is disclo which facilitates the neutralization of marine mines in rivers, streams, and other water courses. Said minesweeper includes a barrel with a permanent magnet array mounted on the bottom thereof. An internal combustion engine, having a drive shaft and an exhaust output, in mounted within said barrel in such manner that the drive shaft extends through the side wall thereof. A partially fender shrouded paddle wheel is mounted on the end of said drive shaft for rotation therewith, and an exhaust pipe is connected to the exhaust output of said internal combustion engine, with the effluent end thereof located outside said barrel and radially therefrom in such manner as to cause the exhaust gases emanating therefrom to effect rotation thereof. A float collar is partially mounted around the outer periphery of the aforesaid barrel, so as to facilitate the attitude stabilization thereof.

Source: Google Patents

35 USC §181 Secrecy Order

Inventor

• 1CURTIS G. BANE