Robert.... your no fun! . I never did or planned on researching it.
I found this a few mins ago though
Title: Retractable sailboat mast
Document Type and Number:United States Patent 4016823
Link to this page:
http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4016823.html
Abstract:This disclosure pertains to a telescoping mast hingeably and removably affixed at the base portion thereof to the deck of a sailboat. A series of inwardly spring biased spheres engage recesses in adjacent telescoping elements of the mast thereby releasably maintaining the mast in an extended position. Each telescoping section of the mast is provided with a longitudinal slot, used to engage a plurality of outwardly radially extending mainsail securing tabs. Circular or elliptical mast cross-sections may be employed, utilizing a flexible
line running over the mast top to raise and lower the mainsail.
the things you can find on the net with a few mouse clicks
