Marine lifting apparatus

摘要

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 and a second frame each 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 provides a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a package to be lifted and/or a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames. An object that has been salvaged can be placed upon the vessel.

主权项

1. A method of lifting a package in a marine environment, comprising the steps of:
a) providing first and second vessels; b) spanning a first frame between the vessels; c) spanning a second frame between the vessels; d) spacing the frames apart and connecting the frames to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart; e) connecting the first frame to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection that is not a universal joint, said hinged connection only enabling rotation of said first frame relative to said second vessel about a single axis; f) connecting the second frame to the second vessel with a universal joint, and to the first vessel with a hinged connection that is not a universal joint, said hinged connection only enabling rotation of said second frame relative to said first vessel about a single axis; g) extending each frame upwardly to an elevation above the vessels; h) providing a space under each frame and in between the vessels, enabling a marine vessel to be positioned in between the vessels and under the frames; and i) rigging each frame with a winch and a winch line for enabling the combination of vessels and frames to lift objects from a position generally under the frames and in between the vessels.