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 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.

主权项

1. 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, the first frame having an upper end portion and first and second, spaced apart lower end portions and a first winch mounted thereon; c) mounting a second frame on the vessels that spans between the vessels, the second frame having an upper end portion and first and second, spaced apart lower end portions and a second winch mounted thereon; d) wherein in step “b” the first frame has an upper end portion and two spaced apart lower end portions; e) wherein in step “c” the second frame has an upper end portion and two spaced apart lower end portions; f) connecting the frames to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart; g) connecting the first lower end portion of the first frame to the first vessel with a universal joint and connecting the second lower end portion of the first frame to the second vessel with a pinned connection, wherein the first winch is mounted to one of said first frame lower end portions; h) connecting the second lower end portion of the second frame to the second vessel with a universal joint, and connecting the first end portion of the second frame to the first vessel with a pinned connection, wherein the second winch is mounted to one of said second frame lower end portions; i) spacing the lower end portions apart from each other in steps “g” and “h”; j) wherein in steps “d” through “h” the upper end portions of the frames are not connected; k) providing a space under the frames and in between the vessels, enabling a third marine vessel to be positioned in between the vessels and under the frames; and l) lifting the object with cabling that extends downwardly from the frames.