| 摘要 |
<p>An improved barge and tug connection apparatus comprises a barge having a V-notched portion for receiving a tug into the V-notch. A tug for pushing the barge is disposed during operation within the notch allowing the tug to pitch and heave in the notch relative to the barge responsive to wave action. An articulated bow fender attached normally to the bow of the tug and disposed during operation between the bow of the tug and a portion of the notch of the barge longitudinally spaces the barge from the bow of the tug. The articulated bow fender maintains a substantially constant horizontal spacing of the barge with respect to the tug in a longitudinal. direction while allowing both the tug along its entire length to pitch and heave with respect to the barge responsive to wave action. A plurality of side fenders affixed to the tug hull bear outwardly to abut the barge inside the V-notch, the side fenders are positioned to bear and slide against the barge on a provided bearing surface responsive to lateral and vertical relative movement between the tug and barge. The side fenders feature hydraulic pads which are inflatable to a desired pressure and normally absorb lateral forces between the tug and barge. The inflatability of the pads affords lateral movement to the side fender wear surfaces. Thus, the pads can be deflated, providing a clearance between the tug and barge during placement/removal of the tug with respect to the notch. When the tug is fully in the notch, the hydraulic pads are inflated to a desired predetermined pressure and the clearance between tug and barge bearing surfaces is cancelled. Absent pressurization, the pads collapse responsive to urging by provided return springs. The pads are preferably of a steel reinforced rubber construction.</p> |
