Abstract: A method for buffer crane operation for supplementing a quay crane operation and formed to operate thereunder with a landing deck for supporting a multiple of cargo containers in buffer operation above dockside cargo transport operations and for moving cargo containers therebetween by means of a dedicated crane engaged with said landing deck.

Abstract: An inflatable lifesaving belt for use in water rescues which includes a central portion and enlarged outer end portions which are joined using opposing fastening elements. One or more handles are provided along the central portion of the belt for engagement by a rescuer and, when inflated, the end portions of the belt create a greater degree of buoyancy than the central portion in order to promote face-up floatation of an individual being assisted.

Abstract: An elongated vehicle body has a forward bow portion, a stern, and a lower portion with the floor and sides runners defining a longitudinal rearwardly opening air channel in the underside thereof. The bow portion has a duct with a driven impeller therein communicating with a plenum chamber in turn communicating with the air channel. Valves are provided at the outlet for directing air flow from the plenum chamber selectively downwardly, rearwardly and forwardly and also for developing a vacuum under a forward portion of the vehicle to pull down a bow wave that may develop under forward movement of the vehicle. The runners have lateral openings adjacent the rear portion of the vehicle and actuator controlled rudders are disposed at these openings for movement inwardly to steer the vehicle and outwardly beyond the outer side of the runners for establishing a reverse thrust of the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus wherein a buoyant float body includes a top and bottom plate mounted to the relative top and bottom walls of the float body, wherein the top plate includes a battery support positioned adjacent a mounting bracket and an associated electric drive motor, and further including a support arrangement for mounting air tanks and the like for use in a diving procedure. Optionally, bag members are mounted to side walls of the float body for storage and subsequent access of components therewithin.

Abstract: A sailboat having a vertical mast supporting vertical sails thereon that extend vertically lengthwise of the mast, and a keel and a rudder. At the upper end of the mast a wing is connected, the wing comprising an arm fixed at one end to the framework of the wing and interconnected for universal movement about three orthogonal axes to the upper end of the mast, these three orthogonal axes passing through the upper end of the mast. The position of the wing can be controlled relative to the mast. The wing has on its underside a fin terminating rearwardly in a rudder adjustable relative to the fin, and on its trailing edge two flaps of adjustable inclination.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a novel floating storage facility for fluid-like materials which can be used to store products in a water related environment. The floating storage facility module includes a waterproof pressure compensating diaphragm which is suitable for retaining a fluid-like product within the diaphragm, and (b) a flotation collar associated with the diaphragm to enable the diaphragm to be immersed in a designated manner in the body of water.

Abstract: An air deflector for a power boat has an airfoil mounted along the top frame of the windshield with brackets so as to form a gap between the airfoil and the windshield. Forward motion of the boat produces a downward flow of air into the cockpit area. A clamp bar is mounted on the top surface of the airfoil and includes snap fasteners for attaching the forward edge of a canvas top.

Abstract: A float mattress having a center of gravity low relative to its center of buoyancy is disclosed. The mattress comprises a bag formed of meshed fabric and granular, buoyant material contained within the bag. In a body of water, the mattress is stabilized by water passing freely through the bag to displace air within. The meshed fabric has openings smaller in size than the size of the granules of the material to contain the granules while allowing the water and air to pass therethrough. The mattress may also include a storage pouch accessibly mounted therein and a removable pillow of similar construction to the mattress.