Abstract: A support structure, especially for under-water work, comprises a hollow pillar, which downwardly merges into a reversed funnel structure, having a base area selected with respect to the expected load and to local ground conditions and macadam, or other material with internal friction, filling the funnel structure and at least part of the pillar, the base angle of the funnel structure being slightly greater than the natural angle of repose of the fraction of friction material used. After a possible vibration of the macadam the funnel structure will be completely filled, whereby the load on the pillar will be transferred to the cone of macadam and be distributed over the bottom surface, below the funnel structure, which may along its lower edge be provided with a dented skirt suited to enter into a soft bottom surface.

Abstract: A cargo vessel suited for cargo handling in a horizontal plane has a deck and a submersible pontoon, subdivided into cells, and connected to the pontoon by a number of pillars. The pontoon can be trimmed to provide an excess of buoyant force but anchors will, during transfer of cargo, maintain the deck stable and level with an embankment. A side plating having openings, and hatches for temporarily closing the same, encloses a space between the pontoon and the deck to provide stability during a voyage.