Deep draft-shallow draft cargo vessel

US5967072A · kind A · utility

Inventor

• John Leary · Yorba Linda, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 2, 1997
• Grant date: Oct 19, 1999
• Expiry date: Dec 2, 2017

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B63B2001/145
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A vessel which can convert from a deep draft configuration to a shallow draft configuration. The vessel would include a principal hull portion having an outer wall extending the length of the hull portion and defining an internal cargo holding space therein; vertical members, defining together a center wall, extending the length of the hull and dividing the hull into a pair of cargo bays along its entire length; a plurality of transverse bulkheads spaced apart along the lengths of the hull for further dividing the cargo bays into a plurality of cargo holds or tanks on either side of the center line wall; a hinge member positioned at the lower point of the central members which would allow each member to move from a first vertical position, defining the deep draft vessel hull configuration, down to a second position defining the shallow draft hull position, each of the halves of the hull further including an upper deck for maintaining any cargo within the cargo space defined by the hull walls; cargo hatches with opening covers along the upper deck for allowing the loading and unloading of cargo therefrom; and a pump for allowing water or the like fluid to be injected into the hull w…