Abstract: A load orienting device and method of operating the load orienting device are disclosed. The load orienting device includes a frame, first and second posts disposed on the frame, and first and second propellers disposed on the first and second posts, respectively. The first and second posts are movable to adjust a distance between the first and second propellers and a controller operates the first and second propellers to adjust an orientation of the load orienting device relative to a vertical axis of the load orienting device.

Abstract: A stack of crane mats can be lifted by a sling which engages two or more lifting portions mounted to recessed walls. The lifting portions are configured such that a sling can lift a stack of mats. Each lifting portion includes an arm having a proximal end attached to a recessed wall of the mat and a distal end attached to a plate. A protrusion is mounted on each arm such that when the mats are stacked, the protrusions over lower mats are nested within recessed cutouts of upper mats. After a stack is landed, the sling may retain one or more upper crane mats and lift them away from a lower crane mat.

Abstract: A crane mat system includes a top surface and a bottom surface constructed of steel plates. The top surface and the bottom surface are joined by one or more sides and an internal support structure. Two or more lifting portions are mounted to recessed walls. Each lifting portion includes an arm having a proximal end attached to a recessed wall of the mat and a distal end attached to a plate. Each arm is mounted above the midline of the height of the mat. A protrusion is mounted on each arm such that when the mats are stacked, the protrusions over lower mats are nested within recessed cutouts of upper mats. The lifting portions are configured such that a sling can lift a stack of mats.

Abstract: A barge lid lifter system having a horizontal frame, a plurality of vertical beams, a plurality of cross bracing beams, and a plurality of load engagement mechanisms is provided. Each load engagement mechanism may include a frame, wherein each load engagement mechanism frame may have a first side plate, a second side plate, a top plate, a dagger plate, a horizontal pivot pin, and a horizontal pivot pin sleeve. The load engagement mechanism includes a linear actuator, a rotation plate, a rotation elbow, an arm, and a dagger point. The linear actuator is connected to the first side plate and the rotation elbow, and the rotation plate is connected to the rotation elbow and the arm. The arm is configured to close over the dagger point and retain a lifting eye of a barge lid lifting assembly.