US3938461A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Flexible connection for articulating vessels
Assignee: American Metal Bearing Co
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Filing: 1974-04-29
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Granted: 1976-02-17
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Expires: 1994-04-29
Abstract
Abstract A coupling apparatus interposed between two vessels to connect such vessels in an articulated manner. The vessels may be components of a barge train. The coupling apparatus permits the barges to be individually removed from such train. The apparatus includes one or more resilient posts removably interposed between the vessels. The resiliency of the posts permits the posts to flex and bend for accommodating simultaneous relative movement in roll, pitch, yaw, surge and heave between the vessels resulting from wave action.
Inventors
- 👤 John E. Marriner
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-05 23:45
CPC Classifications
B; B63; B63B; B63B35/00; B63B35/66; B63B35/70
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 7
Claim 1
Independent Claim
133 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus interposed between two closely adjoining vessels, comprising: post means having a generally elongated body formed of resilient material, said post means normally extending horizontally and longitudinally in a cantilever fashion relative to said vessels; horizontally and longitudinally extending attachment means on the facing bow and stern portions of said vessels that receive the ends of said post means, the body of resilient material bridging the gap between said vessels; means operatively associated with said attachment means securing said post means therewithin; with said resilient material being free to undergo bending, compression and tension in transferring compressive and tensive forces between said vessels; and means operatively associated with one of said attachment means to adjust the vertical position thereof relative to its respective vessel thereby affording draft compensation between said vessels.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
133 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus interposed between two closely adjoining vessels, comprising: post means having a generally elongated body formed of resilient material, said post means normally extending horizontally and longitudinally in a cantilever fashion relative to said vessels; horizontally and longitudinally extending attachment means on the facing bow and stern portions of said vessels that receive the ends of said post means, the body of resilient material bridging the gap between said vessels; means operatively associated with said attachment means securing said post means therewithin; with said resilient material being free to undergo bending, compression and tension in transferring compressive and tensive forces between said vessels; and means operatively associated with one of said attachment means to adjust the vertical position thereof relative to its respective vessel thereby affording draft compensation between said vessels.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
25 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said last-mentioned means includes a housing that is vertically slidably supported by said respective vessel.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
32 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said apparatus further includes lock means operatively associated with said attachment means and selectively engagable with the ends of said post means.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
27 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said attachment means include a flared entry socket that telescopically receives the ends of said post means.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
27 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said attachment means include a flared entry socket that telescopically receives the ends of said post means.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
27 words
Force-transfer coupling apparatus as set forth in claim 3 wherein said attachment means include a flared entry socket that telescopically receives the ends of said post means.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1979-02-16 | 1979-08-18 | 1980-02-17 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1983-02-16 | 1983-08-18 | 1984-02-17 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1987-02-16 | 1987-08-18 | 1988-02-17 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |