Dynamic ramp interface system
US6192541A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 30, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 27, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 30, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE01D15/24
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A dynamic ramp interface system to allow a roll-on/roll-off (RORO) ship to unload and load onto a pier, floating storage facility, or other ship during high sea states. The dynamic ramp interface system includes a motion compensation damping system attached to a first platform, a first ramp also attached to the first platform leading up to the motion compensation damping system, and second ramp that is hingedly connected to a second platform and also leading to the motion compensation damping system. The motion compensation damping system includes a top plate, a bottom plate, a series of interconnected hollow bladders, and a pivot support structure. Through this arrangement, the top plate is allowed to pivot relative to the bottom plate, with the bladder system providing a damping effect. The first ramp is slideably in communication with the top plate by means of a set of articulated fingers. The second ramp is also slideably in communication with the top plate. When used for unloading a roll-on/roll-off ship, the first platform would likely be a pier or floating storage facility, the second platform would be the roll-on/roll-off ship, and the second ramp would be the roll-on/roll-…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.