Abstract: A non-permanent system for the unloading and loading of ocean-going cargo vessels is described using a cargo transfer system which is supported by dirigibles or airships. The cargo transfer system is comprised of a moving transfer cable, a cargo lifting device and a cargo staging device. The system is used to transfer cargo between at least one sea terminus and at least one land terminus. Cargo is moved along the transfer cable from one terminus to another by means of dirigibles or airships. The sea-terminus of the system may be a floating temporary dock or a large ocean vessel such as an aircraft carrier. The system can be developed so that it is fully transportable and can be assembled and launched from a large ship, as well as recovered for movement to another location. The system may also be used at inland ports. The system can be sized to the port requirements using one transfer system or multiple systems.

Abstract: A non-permanent system for the unloading and loading of ocean-going cargo vessels is described using a cargo transfer system which is supported by dirigibles or airships. The cargo transfer system is comprised of a moving transfer cable, a cargo lifting device and a cargo staging device. The system is used to transfer cargo between at least one sea terminus and at least one land terminus. Cargo is moved along the transfer cable from one terminus to another by means of dirigibles or airships. The sea-terminus of the system may be a floating temporary dock or a large ocean vessel such as an aircraft carrier. The system can be developed so that it is fully transportable and can be assembled and launched from a large ship, as well as recovered for movement to another location. The system may also be used at inland ports. The system can be sized to the port requirements using one transfer system or multiple systems.