Recovery cable connector for diver-swimmer

Claim 1

A cable connector assembly comprising: an elongated male part attachable to hoisting means having an enlarged head portion, a reduced shaft portion, a base portion, and a central passage extending substantially through said male part; a female part attachable to a load having an internal passage with a bell-mouthed entrance portion; a plurality of latches pivotally attached to and normally lying flush with the outer diameter of said female part; an annular groove extending about the periphery of said female part; an annular spring positioned in said groove and embracing said plurality of latches to hold them in the flush position; and a flexible line interconnecting said male and female parts, said line being secured to said male part and extending through said central passage and out of said enlarged head portion, threaded into said entrance portion and passing through said internal passage of said female part, and out the side of said female part, whereby pulling of the loose end of said line causes said male part to enter and be engaged by said female part.