Transportable flotation system
US7481176B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 1, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jan 27, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02A10/11
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A transportable modular flotation system with sections incorporating a decked supporting structure that is buoyed by heavy duty flotation tubes. The sections are coupled together with pre-tensioned ropes, straps or cables of High Modulus Fiber. The system is suitable for off-loading items from cargo ships in small harbors and onto remote beaches. One embodiment is a heavy-duty lightweight modular causeway system (LMCS™) that is rapidly deployable and recoverable from a Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV). Other embodiments of the present invention may be deployable floating piers or docks; modular commercial causeways, and expedient means to cross environmentally sensitive areas such as marshes or wetlands without employing major earthmoving equipment. Embodiments may also be used for wet-gap crossings, such as currently served by modular bridges, such as the Army Dry Support Bridge (DSB).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.