Abstract: A liftboat with an improved hybrid hull which increases the speed and efficiency of the vessel and reduces the changes of damage should an accidental grounding occur with box beam construction, starboard and port catamaran hulls, a center barge hull, multiple legs, a jacking system for moving each upward and downward, and a retractable local bearing pad for each leg that engaged the seabed when in use. In addition, it proves a more streamlined housing for the retracted pads and a stronger integrated structure for the leg towers which guide and support the legs.

Abstract: An improved jacking system for a liftboat with a high speed manifold system with high speed motors and high speed planetary gear drives, a heavy lift manifold system with heavy lift motors and heavy lift planetary gear drives, and bypass valves for diverting hydraulic pressure between the high speed manifold system and the heavy lift manifold system. The improved jacking system makes the boat easier to position precisely and expands the weather and sea condition envelope the liftboat can operate in by reducing its exposure to multiple impact stresses while jacking up in rough sea conditions. The improved jacking system also serves as a safety device which can quickly “tag” the bottom to stop and stabilize the liftboat's motion in a close situation.

Abstract: A shock absorbing device and system for the jacking system of a liftboat with air or cylinder chambers and manual and pressure activated control valves connecting the shock absorbing system to the hydraulic manifold of the jacking system allowing isolation or activation of the shock absorbing system. The shock absorbing system can be retrofitted to an existing jacking system. The shock absorbing device and system cushions the vessels impact with the seabed while jacking in rough seas, reducing structural fatigue and damage to the hull and jacking system. In addition, the shock absorbing device and system can broaden the liftboat's operational envelope and allow it to operate in rougher conditions without damage to the vessel.

Abstract: A composite material having a core between the layers of reinforcing material that is formed from a plurality of separate and independent cells that are not physically linked to each other as is common with honeycomb structures or cores. Each cell is hollow and is preferably hexagonal in shape. The composite material is formed by placing one or more layers of the first side of the reinforcing material on the mold surface. Said core is then placed on the reinforcing and one or more layers of the second side of the reinforcing material is then placed on top of the core. An inner mold or vacuum bag, depending upon the application and type of reinforcing material, is placed upon the second side of the reinforcing material. Resin or bonding material is then distributed directly into the area of the cells between the two sides of reinforcing material.