Abstract: A boat dock structure includes an upper deck, sides extending downward from the upper deck, and a wheel bumper having a substantially round shape. The wheel bumper has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being positioned under the upper deck, the second portion extending outward from the open or cutout portion of at least one of the sides to protect the boat dock and a boat from damage when the boat is docking at the boat dock adjacent to the wheel bumper. At least one of the sides may have an open or cutout portion.

Abstract: A system includes a hole-through-middle (HTM) fender, a threaded rod passing through the fender such that the fender is configured to rotate with respect to the rod about an axis, a protective sheath surrounding the rod, and first and second mounting brackets into which the rod is threaded.

Abstract: A fender mounting assembly includes a backing plate and a branch. The backing plate is configured to attach to a slip wall to mount the fender mounting assembly to the slip wall. The branch is configured to hold a fender a predetermined distance away from the slip wall. The branch extends from the backing plate and includes a first section and a second section. The first section has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the backing plate. The second section has a third end and a fourth end. The third end is attached to the second end of the first section. When the fender mounting assembly is attached to the slip wall in an upright position via the backing plate, the second section of the branch extends downwardly from the first section of the branch.

Abstract: A boat dock structure includes an upper deck, sides extending downward from the upper deck, and a wheel bumper having a substantially round shape. The wheel bumper has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being positioned under the upper deck, the second portion extending outward from the cutout portion of at least one of the sides to protect the boat dock and a boat from damage when the boat is docking at the boat dock adjacent to the wheel bumper. At least one of the sides may have a cutout portion.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the invention generally relate to a dampening and impact absorption device including a first component, a second component, and at least one elastomeric element operatively coupled between the first component and the second component. Other example embodiments of the invention generally relate to a dampening and impact absorption system including one or more such dampening and impact absorption devices. In example applications, the dampening and impact absorption device is utilized to dampen and reduce impacts, forces and noise between the platform and anchor pilings of a floating dock system, for example resulting from wave action or other dynamic effects.

Abstract: A dock bumper is provided. The dock bumper includes a housing holding a plurality of rollers arranged in an array. The plurality of rollers are arranged to absorb impact from a reversing vehicle. Upon impact, outer surfaces of the rollers are arranged to rotate relative to the frame. Consequently, scrubbing between the vehicle and dock bumper is reduced as are excess forces acting on fixings between the frame and wall. Also, a surface area at each contact location is increased as a cushioning effect is provided by rotation of the roller, thereby prolonging the operation life of the rollers. Furthermore, in one form, the dock bumper is modularized so that only worn or damaged rollers need be replaced at one time.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for attaching a first watercraft to another structure such as another watercraft or a fixed structure. The apparatus comprises a spacing member and attachment members. The spacing member has two ends and outer edges that define a width of the spacing member. An attachment member is connected to each end of the spacing member at the outer edges. The attachment members are releasably attachable to the watercraft and the attachment members are freely rotatable about each end of the spacing member. Another example of the apparatus provides two spacing members, first and second attaching loops and a tension system. The first attaching loop extends from a first end of the two spacing members. The second attaching loop extends from a second end of the spacing members. The attaching loops are releasably attachable to the watercraft and it is freely rotatable about the ends of each of the spacing members.

Abstract: A floating installation for temporarily accommodating objects that are being transported from a first position to a second position located on a marine installation, characterized by the floating installation including at least one marine docking station adapted for the call of a seagoing transport vessel, the at least one docking station being integrated in the installation, at least one helipad and living quarters, and a method of transporting personnel and equipment.

Abstract: A self-leveling boat bumper system attached to a nautical structure can include a floating bumper arrangement having a float element, a float extension, and a boat bumper; and a receiver, fixed to the nautical structure and moveably engaged with the arrangement, or fixed to the arrangement and moveably engaged with a guide fixed to the nautical structure. When floating within a body of water, the float element can provide a buoyancy force that maintains the boat bumper in a static position between, and including, first and second positions, and as the level of the water changes.

Abstract: A tire assembly for use in reclaiming land from a marine environment. An anchor having at least one cable connected thereto acts as a base to which tires are connected by threading them down the cable to form a cylindrical tower of tires which can be filled with concrete or filler if desired. A plurality of the tire assemblies can be positioned adjacent to one another and further interconnected for stability purposes and can form the basis for further structural elements.

Abstract: A concealable fender assembly comprising a fender; a cover having an external surface form compatible with the lateral surface form of the boat hull in closed position; mechanism for actuating the cover for closing and opening thereof with respect to the boat hull lateral surface; wherein the cover is associated with the fender such that when the cover is in open position, the fender outwardly extends from boat hull lateral surface.

Abstract: A concealable fender assembly comprising a fender; a cover having an external surface form compatible with the lateral surface form of the boat hull in closed position; mechanism for actuating the cover for closing and opening thereof with respect to the boat hull lateral surface; wherein the cover is associated with the fender such that when the cover is in open position, the fender outwardly extends from boat hull lateral surface.

Abstract: A portable water level-responsive mooring device has a mooring strap with a ring capable of engaging the mooring device around a dock piling. The mooring strap has a suitable length of cord having a clip or ring on each end capable of releasably attaching to a fender, spacing tubes, and rollers. The spacing tubes and rollers have an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the spacing tubes and an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the cord. The cord is positioned within an arrangement of the spacing tubes and rollers, the length of cord being sufficient to wrap around a dock piling.

Abstract: A method for beaching a boat that includes four steps. The first step is to attach one end of a boat fender to one end of another boat fender to form a roller assembly. The second step is to position the roller assembly near and parallel to a shoreline of a body of water. The third step is to position a boat in the water and perpendicular to the shoreline with the center of the bow of the boat centered at the center of the roller assembly. The fourth step is to move the boat toward and onto land, the boat rolling on the roller assembly. In addition, an article of manufacture and an apparatus for joining boat fenders together to form such a roller assembly. The boat can be stowed on the roller assemblies and can be launched back into the water by reversing the method.

Abstract: There is provided a dock having a pair of primary frame members and a pair of secondary frame members. A plurality of cross members extends between the pair of primary frame members. The dock includes a plurality of cross member connectors for connecting the cross members to the primary frame members. Each cross member connector includes a frame contact portion and a cross member engagement portion extending from the frame contact portion. The frame contact portion is connected to a respective one of the plurality of primary frame members. The cross member engagement portion defines a channel sized and configured to receive the alignment plate of a respective one of the plurality of cross members. A roller assembly may also be included for stabilizing the dock relative to an adjacent piling.

Abstract: A deployable and inflatable/deflatable fendering apparatus capable of providing protection for watercrafts and docks. The apparatus has an inflatable cylindrical body, an outer collar body, and a water reservoir with an inflating and deflating means. The collar body circumferentially surrounds the cylindrical body, and is made of abrasion resistant materials and protects the cylindrical body from punctures, tearing and abuse. The collar body may be inflatable or filled with foam-like material. The reservoir comprises a one-way valve, a series of ballasts and is attached to the cylindrical body and is expandable to provide stabilization of the fendering apparatus. The fendering apparatus can be deflated for storage.

Abstract: A method for adjustably positioning a boat fender on the side of a boat utilizes a flexible strap having a plurality of openings therein having a boat fender rope threaded therethrough. The boat fender rope can be quickly moved through the openings in the strap to raise or lower the boat fender to lock the boat fender in place on the side of the boat.

Abstract: A bumper apparatus includes a roller rack and rack fasteners for mounting the roller rack vertically along a dock structure; a bumper assembly having a buoyant structure having sufficient buoyancy to cause the bumper assembly to rise and fall with the water surface and thus with the tide and with any adjacent water vessel; and a rack engaging structure slidably interconnecting the roller rack and the bumper assembly so that the bumper assembly is slidable vertically relative to the roller rack. The roller rack preferably includes a spaced apart upright pair of opposing first and second mounting rails; and a longitudinal series of substantially horizontal cylindrical rollers mounted on individual roller axles extending between and connected to the first and second mounting rails so that the rollers protrude forwardly from the mounting rails.

Abstract: A portable water level-responsive mooring device has a mooring strap with a ring capable of engaging the mooring device around a dock piling. The mooring strap has a suitable length of cord having a clip or ring on each end capable of releasably attaching to a fender, spacing tubes, and rollers. The spacing tubes and rollers have an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the spacing tubes and an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the cord. The cord is positioned within an arrangement of the spacing tubes and rollers, the length of cord being sufficient to wrap around a dock piling.

Abstract: A swingable spacing dock is configured to berth a ship spaced from the shoreline and includes a support positioned on shore, a swingable dock arm pivotally mounted on the support, and a powered drive. The dock arm is driven by the powered drive to swing between a ship docking position where the dock arm extends outwardly beyond the shoreline to engage the berthed ship and a storage position where the dock arm is positioned substantially entirely over the shore.

Abstract: There is provided a dock having a pair of primary frame members and a pair of secondary frame members. A plurality of cross members extends between the pair of primary frame members. The dock includes a plurality of cross member connectors for connecting the cross members to the primary frame members. Each cross member connector includes a frame contact portion and a cross member engagement portion extending from the frame contact portion. The frame contact portion is connected to a respective one of the plurality of primary frame members. The cross member engagement portion defines a channel sized and configured to receive the alignment plate of a respective one of the plurality of cross members. A roller assembly may also be included for stabilizing the dock relative to an adjacent piling.

Abstract: Improved boat bumper assemblies are provided which include upright, rotatable, synthetic resin rollers rotatably mounted on stationary uprights located adjacent the sides of a boat slip. In one form, the bumper assemblies are mounted either as original equipment or as retrofits directly onto roof-supporting stanchions of a boat mooring structure; alternately, standoff bumper assemblies may be used, having rollers rotatable on uprights and supported by spring-biased, resilient connection structures.

Abstract: A buoyant bumper system for attachment to a docking facility and cushioning a boat. The buoyant bumper system includes an elongated travel shaft for engaging the docking facility, a travel sleeve slidably carried by the travel shaft, a system float carried by the travel sleeve and a resilient bumper carried by the travel sleeve in spaced-apart relationship to the system float. Throughout tidal rise and fall of a water body, the system float maintains the bumper at a fixed level with respect to the boat. Therefore, the buoyant bumper system is capable of cushioning and preventing damage to the boat throughout a full range of tidal movement as the boat is docked to a docking facility.

Abstract: Vessel protection device protects a floating vessel from rubbing against pilings or a stationary dock and eliminates the need for hanging or fixed vessel fenders. A fixed attachment may secure the protection device to a dock, for example, and be configured for supporting spring-loaded solid or air-filled rollers. It may be permanent and spaced in a manner so as to stand off a floating vessel while tied to a stationary dock or pilings, thus allowing for vessel movement associated with vertical tidal action, current, and light wave or wave motion. The arm and roller section may also be rotatable from a vertical to a horizontal position, thus allowing for an untied vessel to move freely along the rollers oriented in their horizontal position while the vessel is either departing or docking, and oriented vertically, such as when the vessel is docked.

Abstract: A watercraft docking system for use with watercraft facilitates unassisted docking of the watercraft by preventing the watercraft from engaging the dock at either approach or departure. A simple reconfiguration of the watercraft docking system allows the watercraft to remain affixed to the dock while still reacting to external forces, such as wind, waves, and other phenomena. Accordingly, an individual can fully operate a recreational watercraft without the aid of another individual while reducing or eliminating the risk of potential damage resulting from contact between the watercraft and the dock.

Abstract: Boat fender covers for use with a fender of essentially any shape and size adapted to substantially cover a fender and being so configured to receive, and remain in position around, the fender. The cover, when in place and covering the fender, does not interfere with the proper operation of the fender. Apertures are provided in the cover to allow a rope to be used, as intended, in conjunction with the fender for tying to a boat. In addition, the shape of the cover allows for good accommodation of the fender. The structure and composition of the cover provide good durability, ease of use including simple removal for washing, and characteristics which reduce abrasion to the outer side surface of a boat, including gel coatings thereon.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing “smart” bumper system features a variably controllable valve which is responsive to impact conditions. The initially closed valve opens upon maximization of the pressure reading upon the bumper, and maintains the same open setting (in other words, the same valve area) during such period of pressure maximization. During the succeeding period of pressure declination from maximum, the valve undergoes ongoing adjustment of its open setting (in other words, ongoing adjustment of its valve area) so that the reaction force of the bumper remains constant. The valve closes (in other words, the valve area becomes zero) when the pressure falls abruptly toward zero (an occurrence which correlates with a similar plummet in reaction force, as well as with near or approximate motionlessness of the impacting body), thereby avoiding or curtailing an unwanted rebound effect.

Abstract: A bridge pillar debris deflection apparatus (10), which attaches to a pillar supporting a structure located on a water way, such as a river or ocean. The apparatus (10) deflects debris to maintain the pillar clear from any unwanted build-up of rubbish. The apparatus utilizes at least one finned cylinder (30) that is rotatably held in place in front of a pillar (50) with an upper attachment bracket (26) and a lower attachment bracket (28). The cylinder is rotated by the force of the water impinging on a multiplicity of fins (44) extending from the outer surface of the cylinder to deflect the debris and prevent any accumulation. An axle (38) is positioned between the brackets and extends through the cylinder in the preferred embodiment. Any number of cylinders may be used in tandem, according to the need and environmental conditions.

Abstract: A marine fender system including an L-shaped member having a spindle on which is rotatably mounted a fender, and an arm portion which is releasably connected to a locking assembly flush-mounted at an edge of a platform proximate to water.

Abstract: A boat fender system and a method for deploying a cylindrical fender. The system includes a U-shaped member having a spindle on which is rotatably mounted a fender, and a lateral arm portion which is detachably connected to a locking assembly attached to a boat. The method includes mounting the fender to be freely rotatable about its longitudinal axis, and maintaining the fender in a vertical orientation and in a fixed position relative to the boat so that the fender comes into rolling contact with both the boat and a mooring structure.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing bumper system features a variably controllable valve which is responsive to impact conditions. The initially closed valve opens upon maximization of the pressure reading upon the bumper, and maintains the same open setting (in other words, the same valve area) during such period of pressure maximization. During the succeeding period of pressure declination from maximum, the valve undergoes ongoing adjustment of its open setting (in other words, ongoing adjustment of its valve area) so that the reaction force of the bumper remains constant. The valve closes (in other words, the valve area becomes zero) when the pressure falls abruptly toward zero (an occurrence which correlates with a similar plummet in reaction force, as well as with near or approximate motionlessness of the impacting body), thereby avoiding or curtailing an unwanted rebound effect.

Abstract: The invention concerns a fender for absorbing shocks and preventing wear of a first object in relative movement with respect to a second object, comprising a main protective element with axial symmetry and circular cross-section rotating freely about a geometrical axis fixed relative to a support secured to one or the other of the first and second objects and having a hardness index less than that of said first object, and two secondary protective cone-shaped elements with axial symmetry and circular cross-section arranged at each end of the main protective element, independent thereof, and also freely rotating about the same geometrical axis.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel fender, which has a sufficient shock absorbing action with respect to a ship and is capable of dispersing a compressive force given at the time when the ship comes alongside at the pier and reducing a friction force at the time given when the ship is moored at the pier. A fender of the present invention comprises a fender body 10, and a surface layer 12 with which at least an impact receiving surface of this fender body 10 is coated, wherein the surface layer 12 is made of a blended polymer of a crystalline polyolefin resin and a diene rubber and the proportion of the crystalline polyolefin resin in the blended polymer exceeds 50% by weight and not more than 85% by weight.

Abstract: A watercraft docking system for receiving watercraft along side of a dock. The watercraft docking system having a first and a second support member which are coupled to an elongated roller to allow the elongated roller to rotate on the longitudinal axis. The watercraft docking system is mounted on a dock, where the dock has a support structure and a dock platform having a walking surface. The first and second support members are secured to the support structure to hold the elongated roller at a predetermined distance from the dock.

Abstract: The impact absorption system uniquely features arrangement of composite structures which include fiber-reinforced high strain-to-failure viscoelastic matrix material. According to many embodiments, a gravitationally or buoyantly suspended hollow fiber-reinforced urethane reaction bumper is closely and anteriorly situated with respect to fiber-reinforced urethane tension tubes which are secured at the ends and disposed in an approximately vertical plane. In operation, an incoming marine vessel impacts the bumper which in turn impacts the tubes. The invention takes advantage of the great deformability, high energy absorbency and other beneficial properties of fiber-reinforced high strain-to-failure viscoelastic matrix material. Moreover, applicability/adaptability of individual bumper systems to varieties of marine vessels is made possible through analysis and arrangement/rearrangement/exchange/interchange of structural components.

Abstract: A boat guide for use in guiding a boat into or out of a boat slip has an elongated upright tubular member with upper and lower end caps, each end cap having a central opening therethrough. An axle is received coaxially within the tubular member and extends through the openings in the end caps, the axle being of external diameter less than the interior diameter of the tubular member providing an annular space between the axle and the tubular member so that the tubular member can deflect relative to the axle to absorb the shock of a boat impact. An upper attachment above the upper end cap and a lower attachment below the lower end cap provide vertical support for the axle, the tubular member and end caps being rotatable relative to the upper and lower attachments.

Abstract: A generally cylindrical simulated boat fender or bumper is provided that has an approximate width to length ratio of 1:3 to allow the device to be used in combination with an existing fender holder or holders mounted on a marine vessel. The device is preferably constructed from a molded polyethylene and has a removable lid. In the preferred embodiment-the lid attachment is of the bayonet type and has a pair of recessed apertures to receive the fingers of the user, but other types of attachment and handle means are discussed. To aid in simulating the appearance of a standard fender or bumper, the device includes a plurality of longitudinally disposed protruding ribs along its outer body, has a smooth rounded base distal the lid and opening, and may include a deep recess or recesses proximate the central longitudinal axis of the apparatus to counterfeit the rope holes on the authentic item.

Abstract: Protective mat assemblies are formed from lightweight beads which are secured together in a generally rectangular array. The beads have unobstructed longitudinal central openings to receive a rope. Certain of the beads have permanent rope members including an eyelet at each end of the rope member. The beads are secured by a forming rope which passes alternately through plain beads and through eyelets of second beads. Fastening elements are provided along one side of the resulting rectangular mat.

Abstract: The instant invention provides a docking device for a boat, which may include a pair of docking elements. Each docking element includes a vessel contacting element or wheel that may be retained between an upper wheel holder and a lower wheel holder. A spring element may be made any suitable material that is resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, waterproof and salt-resistant. The spring element includes a first leg, which may be fastened to a sidewall of the dock and a second leg. The spring element may be straight or may include an angled portion. A wheel may be rotatably attached to the spring element by an upper wheel holder and a lower wheel holder. A first edge of the spring element may be received within a slot in the upper wheel holder, and second edge of the spring element may be received within a slot in the lower wheel holder. An angled spring element may be used, when the width of the boat does not closely match the width of the dock area.

Abstract: A marine fender is disclosed which protects a vessel and a dock from damage caused by an impact. The fender is in the form of a tube with a substantial thickness, is comprised of polyurethane and has a uniform arrangement of cavities or openings in its outer surface. The cavities are formed by a web of walls and have substantial depth but do not penetrate through the thickness of the tube to the interior. The fender may also be comprised of four layers. The first layer is comprised of a Shore A hardness of between 80 and 90 and is approximately 25 mm thick. The second layer is comprised of a Shore A hardness of between 75-80 and is approximately 50 mm thick. The third layer is comprised of a Shore A hardness of between 55-75 and is approximately 50 mm thick. The fourth layer is comprised of a Shore A hardness of between 80 and 90 and is approximately 25 mm thick.

Abstract: An acoustic buffer has a pair of inflatable cylinders that float in the water against the hull along the waterline around the bow of a boat to dampen noise of the water lapping against the hull when the boat is anchored. The cylinders are joined together by Velcro strips at the forward ends adjacent to the bow, and each cylinder extends toward the stern along the hull. The aft ends of the cylinders are tied to boat cleats in order to hold the cylinders snug against the hull. Each cylinder has a second inflatable internal cylinder. The inner cylinder is filled with water and the outer cylinder is filled with air by means of valves in the aft ends of the cylinders. The flotation levels of the cylinders may be adjusted by varying the amount of water in the internal cylinders. The buffer may be thereby adjusted to optimally dampen the noise from water lapping against the hull for various different hull designs and shapes.

Abstract: A boat fender provided with a reel about which the line, or rope, from which the boat fender is normally suspended when in use, is wound for containment and storage when such line, or rope, is not in use. The storage reel provides a means for the quick, facile storage of the line used to suspend the fender, and for release of the line as required.

Abstract: A barge connecting system for connecting a first vessel to a second vessel omprising three spaced parallel rectangular shaped plates, the first plate of which is attached to the stern of a lead vessel, and the third plate of which abuts or may be attached to the bow of a following vessel. Bracing for the second and third plates is provided by plurality of diagonal wire cables each of which has one end connected to a corner of the first rectangular shaped plate and the opposite end connected to either a corner of the second rectangular shaped plate or a corner of the third rectnagular shaped plate. Positioned vertically between the first and second plates are a first pair of pneumatic fenders which are rotatably mounted on the first plate by wire cables. There is positioned horizontally between the second and third plates a second pair of pneumatic fenders which are mounted on third plate by wire cables.

Abstract: A replaceable inflation valve for a marine fender wherein, in one embodiment, the valve is slidably received in a valve seat formed in the fender, and wherein a bored collar is threadably received in the valve seat to hold a flexible member of the valve in place in the fender. The upper portion of the flexible member of the valve is received within the bore formed in the collar to provide access to the flexible member of the valve when the collar is in place. The flexible member of the valve comprises an elongated tubular member with one open end and one normally closed end. The normally closed end is openable by insertion of a needle valve through a slit therein. Upon removal of the needle valve, the slit closes on itself by reason of the inherent resiliency of the flexible member.

Abstract: A floating impact absorbing device for use in docking two adjacent vessels wherein at least two laterally spaced supports journal the ends of a pair of shafts for movement in a common plane. Torsion springs are journaled on the shafts and each torsion spring has oppositely extending levers that resist their rotation. Impact pads located on opposite sides of the common plane are connected to adjacent levers to provide a reactive force on vessels acting on such impact pads.

Abstract: A bumper assembly to protect a marine or related dock from vessels or vehicles composed of a bumper strip of ultra-high molecular weight preferably 3.5 to 6 million molecular weight polyethylene covering a mass of rubber attached to the dock wall.

Abstract: A boat fender is provided with circumferential rings to prevent the fender from popping up from between the side of a boat and a corresponding dock or other structure to which the boat is tied off, with the circumferential exteriorally projecting rings providing for a rolling and tracking motion of the fender over the side of the boat to limit fender swing which maintains the fender in place and in a generally vertical orientation. This tracking prevents the non-tethered end of the fender from popping up and therefore provides security not available from other fenders, whether plain or having longitudinal ribs.

Abstract: In a shock absorbing system for an offshore platform one or more shock absorbing cells receive the initial impact of a floating vessel. When such a cell becomes disfunctional or damaged, it is temporarily immobilized by positioning a stabilizer thereon. The latter is provisionally installed on the shock cell to substantially avoid relative movement between coacting parts.

Abstract: A bumper for attachment to a leg of an offshore platform comprising an upright, bumper holding element which carries resilient bumper members. A first arm projects outwardly from the upright element above the water line for fixed attachment to the leg of the platform above the water line. A second, submerged arm projects outwardly from the upright element and is pivotally connected below the water line to the leg. This structure allows the bumper to be quickly and efficiently replaced with a minimum amount of diver time required. The bumper is easily positioned in a vertical orientation regardless of the slope of the platform leg, and all welding is performed above the surface of the water.

Abstract: A fender adapted to be mounted on a shore, for cushioning impacts applied by a ship to the shore installation, comprises first buffer elements 3, each of which has a circumferential surface for receiving impacts and an axial bore 3d, a horizontal shaft 2 rotatably passing through the axial bores, locking means 5 provided at the ends of the shaft for preventing the releasing movement of the first buffer elements 3 from the shaft, support members 8 adapted to be spacedly secured to the shore installation, and means 7 for suspending the shaft from the support members.