Importance

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Abstract

The invention relates to a grapple assembly in which a single actuator is used to operate the arms of the grapple but each arm is able to at least partly open and/or close independently of the other arms. A grapple assembly comprises an elongate core comprising a linear actuator; means for connecting the first end of the elongate core to a grapple hoist; a plurality of grapple arms connected to the second end of the elongate core by a pivotal connection oriented substantially perpendicularly to the elongate core; a plurality of elastically deformable connectors, each connector having coupled directly or indirectly to a connection region of the elongate core and coupled to one of the grapple arms at a point on the respective grapple arm spaced apart from the pivotal connection of the respective grapple arm to the elongate core, wherein the linear actuator is able to be actuated to move the connection region of the elongate core relative to the second end of the elongate core to open and/or close the plurality of grapple arms, and wherein the elastically deformable connectors permit each grapple arm to at least partly open and/or close independently of the other grapple arms upon exertion of an external force on the respective grapple arm.

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First Claim