US 2012/0073485 A1 · MARINE LIFTING APPARATUS

Abstract

A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Claims26

Dependent claims

A method of salvaging an underwater object comprising the steps of:

a) providing first and second vessels at a locale that is next to an underwater object to be salvaged;
b) mounting a first frame on the vessels that spans between the vessels;
c) mounting a second frame on the vessels that spans between the vessels;
d) connecting the frames to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart;
e) connecting the first frame to the first barge with a universal joint and to the second barge with a hinged connection that is not a universal joint;
f) connecting the second frame to the second barge with a universal joint, and to the first barge with a hinged connection that is not a universal joint;
g) providing a space under the frame and in between the vessels, enabling a third marine vessel to be positioned in between the vessels and under the frames;
and
h) lifting the object with cabling that extends downwardly from the frames.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Marine lifting apparatus

Life of this patent

Marine lifting apparatus

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims26