Floating platform with detachable support modules
US8567194B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Oct 29, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49826
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A floating support that can be joined with a floating platform while the floating platform is at a deployment location is disclosed. The support provides functionality to the floating platform in order to change, augment, upgrade, or diversify the platform's overall capability. In some embodiments, the present invention eases the serviceability of the platform by enabling a first support that has diminished capability to be readily replaced by a second support having superior capability—without removing the floating platform from its deployment location. In some embodiments, the present invention enables platform operation that is analogous to “plug and play” electronics systems. Further, in some embodiments, hydrodynamic performance of the floating platform can be changed with the addition or removal of one or more floating supports.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.