Abstract: Some preferred embodiments of the present invention includes an apparatus and method employed for cutting a rotating log of rolled product into rolls, the apparatus and method utilized for preventing collapse of a longitudinally extending aperture in the log during the cutting process. The present invention includes a mandrel received within the aperture of the log to at least partially support the log and to preferably maintain the integrity of the aperture while the log is being cut by a saw blade. Preferably, the mandrel has at least one recess within which a saw blade can be received during cutting operations upon the log.

Abstract: A material shaping machine has a frame, a work-piece holder and a tool holder, for rotatably holding a tool. A computer performs real-time tool path calculations based upon stored mathematical representations of a desired work-piece surface and stored mathematical representations of an actual tool geometry, by calculating a desired position of a tool cutting edge relative a measured position of the tool cutting edge and a measured position of the work-piece, and adjusting a distance between the desired tool cutting edge and the measured position of the tool cutting edge in a first direction, so that the tool cutting edge reaches the desired position. Manipulation means provide a relative movement of the work-piece and the tool cutting surface in a second direction and a third direction. The manipulation means are operated outside the computer control. Sensors determine the position of the work-piece relative the cutting surface of the tool and send the position data to the computer.

Abstract: A rotary die cutter for cutting a series of irregular-shaped blanks from a continuous web. The rotary die cutter includes a male die cylinder that has a series of die cavities formed along its outer circumference. Each of the die cavities includes a surrounding cutting edge that defines the shape of the blank to be cut. The male die cylinder is pressed into engagement with either an anvil cylinder or a female die cylinder to form either crush-cutting or shear-cutting nips therebetween. The continuous web is fed into the cutting nip such that the cutting edges of the die cavities contact the web to cut the blanks from the web. A plurality of vacuum ports positioned in the die cavities along the outer circumference of the male die cylinder are connected to a source of vacuum contained in the male die cylinder to remove the die-cut blanks from the web. The die-cut blanks are vacuum-transferred to a stacking unit, while the scrap web is continuously discarded by air-conveying removal.

Abstract: A converting press for paper or cardboard sheets including a waste stripping station and/or a blanking station with a pull-out chase (1, 2, 3, 4). A pair of horizontal transverse rails (5, 11) supports an upper stripping tool for a waste stripping operation, or a blanking tool for a blanking operation. The first rail (5) is fixed relative to the chase and the second rail is movable in a longitudinal direction. The profile of the rails allows receiving and maintaining in an operational waste stripping position, a pull-out chase of an upper tool or an upper stripping board, and/or blanking board for blanking operation.

Abstract: A compliant workholder for use with woodworking, metalworking, or other machinery which pushes against a workpiece with substantially constant pressure while moving in and out to accommodate variation in the size of the workpiece. Preferably, the workholder uses a feather board mounted on one or more sliding guide rods. Rollers, a low friction shoe, or other elements may also be used to contact the workpiece. A pneumatic cylinder is the preferred mechanism for applying outward pressure to the feather board. The workholder will retract on activation of a momentary switch by the user and will remain retracted for an adjustable time period to allow positioning of the workpiece.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention includes a method of forming integrated circuit packages. A base having a plurality of pins extending upwardly therefrom is provided. A support is provided over the base. The support has an upper surface and a plurality of holes extending therethrough. The pins extend through the holes and upwardly beyond the upper surface of the support. An actuator is provided beneath the support. A board having a plurality of integrated circuits bonded thereto is provided. The integrated circuits form a repeating pattern of integrated circuit packages across the board, and the board has a plurality of holes extending through it. The board is placed over the support upper surface with the pins extending into the holes in the board. While the board is over the support upper surface, it is cut to separate the integrated circuit packages from one another. After the cutting, the support is vertically displaced by the actuator to lift the support off the pins.

Abstract: A three hole punch system for use in an image capturing device. The three hole punch system uses elastomer rollers that punch holes in the edge of a document as is passes between the two rollers. If desired the rollers can act as a transport for the document without punching holes in the document. After the holes are punched the slugs are pushed back into the holes and the document is retrieved by the operator.

Abstract: A method for forming a plurality of slits in a tube includes first, forming a plurality of grooves in the pipe by operating a grooving punch along the length of each of the slits to be made. Then, each slit is formed in the pipe by operating a hole-making punch. The punch has ends at an acute angle and the punch is recessed from the ends toward the center thereof. In view of the fact that each groove is formed beforehand in the surface of the pipe and that the corresponding slit is made while moving the hole-making punch slowly from the ends, a large load is not exerted on the pipe and therefore the pipe is not crushed, burrs are not generated and the cutting chip is removed.

Abstract: A momentum trap ballistic armor system comprises an accelerating layer and a plug layer adjacent to the a accelerating layer. The plug layer includes an opening and at least one plug maintained within the opening. When a projectile impacts the accelerating layer, the plug is accelerated to the velocity of the projectile before the projectile perforates the plug, forming a projectile-plug combination. Typically, the accelerating layer and plug layer are joined with an energy absorbing layer, which is used to capture a projectile-plug combination. The accelerating layer is typically ceramic, the plug layer is typically metal, and the energy absorbing layer is typically ballistic cloth material.

Abstract: External armament apparatus, including a machine gun, an associated ammunition box for supplying belted ammunition to the gun, a flare dispenser, a missile launcher or other external stores apparatus, and a forward looking infrared sensor (FLIR), is exteriorly supported on a landing gear sponson tow plate of a helicopter, adjacent a cabin area gunner's window. The external mounting of the gun and other armament apparatus frees up cabin space, permits the gunner's window to be closed with the gun in a ready position, and permits a 0.50 caliber machine gun to be used an alternative to either a 7.62 mm mini-gun or a single barrel 7.62 mm machine gun adjacent the gunner's window.

Abstract: In a control valve of the vacuum booster, a valve portion is fitted with a valve cylinder to be slidably contacted with an inner wall of the valve cylinder, to form within said valve cylinder, a front annular chamber closed by a front face of the valve portion when the valve portion is seated on a vacuum introduction valve seat, and a read annular chamber, to which the rear of the valve portion is faced. The front annular chamber communicates with a first port, and the rear annular chamber communicates with a second port. An input rod is moved forward to separate the valve portion from an atmosphere introduction valve seat and to seat it on the vacuum introduction valve seat. Then, the valve portion is urged in accordance with the set load of a valve spring and the pressure difference between the front and rear annular chambers.

Abstract: In a closed compressor provided with a ball joint, there was needed a structure easy to assemble and capable of sufficiently supplying the lubricating oil to a ball joint section in order to ensure smooth sliding between a ball and a ball seat. The closed compressor is provided with a ball joint section. In the ball joint section, flat cut portions are formed in the outside diameter of the ball of the connecting rod, parallel with the end face of a ring. Also a groove is formed for insertion of the ball into the ball seat from the end of the crankshaft side which is an open end of the piston. The groove has the same width as the width between the flat cut portions of the ball.

Abstract: The present invention (10) discloses a grill platform (14) having brackets (22) having apertures (24) therein for inserting fasteners (32) for attachment to a structure such as an outdoor deck (12) with the platform (14) being supported by the brackets (22). The brackets (22) are selectively placed providing means to mount the grill platform (14) at a variable height on the deck (12) structure so that the grilling surface is at an optimal height. A planar rectangular-shaped platform (14) is mounted upon the brackets (22) and provides a planar surface for the placement of a grill (16). The tray (14) can be mounted flush to a vertical upright of the angle bracket, or offset to suit the deck structural elements. The platform (14) also provides a hole (30) for drainage of water and other outdoor contaminating elements. Hook and loop straps (20) are selectively positioned and affixed to the legs (18) of the grill (16) and deck structure (12) to prevent undesired movement of the grill (16) from the platform (14).

Abstract: Disposable electric cooking grill liners for protecting an electric cooking grill having a heated grilling surface of each of the pivotally connected moveable and stationary grilling members. Each grilling surface is heated and has raised cooking ribs wherein both sides of food placed between the closed grilling surfaces are simultaneously heated. Each grill liner is formed of an unperforated sheet of semi-rigid or heavy aluminum foil preformed for fitting directly against and substantially conforming to and covering the corresponding grilling surface whereby cooking heat provided to each grilling surface is substantially transferred through the grilling liner without food and juices flowing therefrom coming in contact with the grilling surfaces. Each grill liner also has a rigidized outturned margin formed of multiple layers of foil folded over on itself for maintaining the preformed shape during installation, use and removal of each said grill liner after use.

Abstract: A combined centrifugal force (X+Y) is produced in a container (8) when the container on a distal end of an arm (3) circles around a main rotary shaft (2) of the arm and simultaneously rotates on its own rotary shaft (6) in harmony with the circling motion thereof. The starting ingredients for a food/beverage product are received in the container and subjected to the combined centrifugal force, so that the ingredients are processed into the food/beverage product. Various types of elements such as a sieve-like capsule member (10) detachably mounted in the container (8), a small concave-convex portion provided in an appropriate inner surface of the container (8), and/or a raised floor member (15) provided with a pair of a radial blade (12) and its corresponding radial slot (14) detachably mounted in the container are used to enhance the processing operation.

Abstract: A peeling device supports a fresh commodity in a first position in a nonspecific orientation. The commodity is impelled using a thruster toward a scoring structure for scoring the peel to a predetermined depth into two sectors. Peel grippers hold the peel between the scores and release the peeled commodity, such that the peel is retained on the gripping means. The thruster is positioned and adapted to force the commodity along a path to engage the cutting and peel-gripping elements, the thruster bottom surface changeable from a first, generally concave orientation for conforming to a shape of the commodity to a second, generally convex orientation for releasing the commodity from the peel.

Abstract: In the method for threading a tail (7) of a paper or board web through a paper or board machine or a section thereof, or through an aftertreatment machine for paper or board or a section thereof, the tail (7) is prevented from wandering onto the same line with a tail carrier means (8, 9), such as threading ropes, upstream of the draw point of the tail. The tail (7) is guided towards the centre line of the machine by subjecting the tail to an effect of force which tends to move the tail towards the centre line of the machine.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with a hand held hydraulic pressing apparatus (1) with a hydraulic cylinder (8), in which a hydraulically actuated piston can be displaced to carry out a pressing or cutting operation. The apparatus has a piston head (5) and a piston shank (16), the piston shank (16) being connected to a tool carrier (10). The tool carrier (10) is part of an inter-changeable apparatus head (9). In order to simplify to change the apparatus head, the invention proposes, that an interchangeable apparatus head (9) has in each case a piston shank (16) with a return spring (22).

Abstract: A method of providing printing and embossing data includes transmitting print image data defining an image to be printed and emboss image data defining an image to be embossed, where the data is transmitted over a single data path to a common recipient processor.

Abstract: A printer with a duplex printing capability of the present invention includes a printing section. In a duplex print mode, the printing section prints either one of a first and a second image formed in a master side by side on the front side of a first sheet. A path selector steers the first sheet coming out of the printing section toward an auxiliary tray. The printing section prints either one of the first and second images on the front side of a second sheet while refeeding means again feeds the first sheet to the printing section to thereby form either one of the first and second images on the reverse side of the first sheet. The path selector steers the first and second sheets toward a sheet discharging section and the auxiliary tray, respectively.

Abstract: A proof press for the mounting of flexographic printing plates, comprising a printing cylinder, which is covered by a blanket for the mounting of at least one printing plate with double adhesive tape interposed, the printing cylinder being movable at right angles to its own axis in order to be placed in contact, along a generatrix, with a respective impression roller for performing proof prints, an optical system for collimating points of the impression roller with respective points of the printing plate by direct viewing, and a compression device for producing the forced adhesion of the printing plate to the double-adhesive tape and to the blanket.

Abstract: A very low percentage dot screen is formed on a flexographic plate which prevents the severe compression normally found adjacent to zero percent areas of the flexographic plate. The dot screen reduces dot gain by distributing the compressive force of the flexographic printing plate on the printing surface. The total area of the dot screen is kept to a very low percentage of the total surface area being printed so that it will not alter perceived color.

Abstract: An apparatus for extracting and conveying a printing plate. The apparatus includes separation plates disposed at corners of a cassette accommodating at least printing plates. Air enters between an uppermost printing plate that is extracted and an underlying printing plate or an interleaf sheet, thereby separating the uppermost printing plate from the underlying printing plate or the interleaf sheet. Guide rails disposed above the cassette are parallel to a bottom of the cassette. Movable/rotatable bodies are disposed on the guide rails so as to be movable along the guide rails and be rotated about 180° within moving ranges, such that the uppermost printing plate is sent into an exposure section with an emulsion surface of the printing plate facing up.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus in a roller printing unit for locking the rollers in associated bearing housings in connection with the movement of the rollers from the open position to the working position. The movement of the rollers (2, 3) in relation to the frame of the printing unit is utilised in order, during the movement operation, to mechanically manoeuvre locking devices (14) at the bearing housings (5) of the rollers between open and closed position.

Abstract: A press with a capability to adjust for multiple roll diameters, comprising: a frame; a mounting assembly with at least one adjusting arm for mounting a roll therein, the adjusting arm being moveable to change position relative to the frame in correspondence to a change in diameter of the roll; a guard assembly that provides a guard across a pinch point between a roll and another element, the guard assembly being moveably attached to the at least one adjusting arm and to a portion of the frame to automatically adjust a position of the guard when the at least one adjusting arm is moved in order to maintain a spacing between the guard and the roll within a predetermined range.

Abstract: An approach is provided for identifying black and white pages in a color document stream. This approach may be utilized in digital printing systems. This approach examines a small portion of the color data for a page to identify whether the color data is indicative of the page being a black and white page or a full color page. This approach also examines the relative sizes of compressed color separations for the pages. Pages that are determined to be black and white pages may be printed in a black and white mode, whereas full color pages may be printed in a full color page mode.

Abstract: Determining and correcting registration errors, which are caused by the rotational speed of a print cylinder changing because of a sheet passing between the print cylinder and a sheet transport conveyor belt. At least one first registration mark is applied onto the conveyor belt prior to a sheet being transported thereby, and at least one second registration mark is applied onto the conveyor belt after the transported sheet. By the detection of the first registration mark and the second registration mark, a calculation of a timing number between the detection of the first registration mark and the second registration mark can be made. The calculated timing number is compared to a target value to determine any error due to change in angular velocity of the print cylinder due to engagement with the sheet.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for image formation, that can yield thermally transferred images which are excellent in various fastness properties even under severe service conditions, and an intermediate transfer recording medium for use in the method for image formation. The method for image formation comprises the steps of: providing an intermediate transfer recording medium comprising a substrate film and a transfer portion provided separably on the substrate film; forming an image on the intermediate transfer recording medium in its transfer portion; transferring the transfer portion onto an object; and, thereafter, again transferring the intermediate transfer recording medium in its next transfer portion once or more onto the object with the image formed thereon. In this case, in the intermediate transfer recording medium, a hologram image is set every at least second image plane, and an image can be formed on the transfer portion having the hologram image.

Abstract: An ordnance control and initiation system is provided. The system includes a plurality of ordnance devices which may be segregated into a plurality of sets. Each set of the ordnance devices has at least one ordnance device and further includes an ordnance device interface, which preferably includes an optical-to-electrical converter. A controller issues state commands to a master ignition control module operatively coupled to the controller, which retransmits the state commands to a plurality of slave ignition control modules. Each of the slave ignition control modules associated with one of the sets of the ordnance devices and preferably is optically coupled to each of the ordnance devices within that set. The slave ignition control modules re-transmit the state commands optically to the ordnance devices of the associated the ordnance device set of that slave ignition control module.

Abstract: A sparkler for use as a fireworks display is provided. The sparkler has an extended spark display time, burning and emitting sparks in one direction initially followed by the spark progression reversing direction and then burning while emitting sparks in the reverse direction. The sparkler construction provides inner and outer sheaths of a flammable spark composition separated by an insulating layer of a fire resistant material. The inner and outer layers are in contact with one another at one end of the sheath, to permit ignition of the inner flammable composition by the progressing spark. Especially preferred is a construction of the aforesaid sparkler which emits sparks of one color upon the initial burn and sparks of a different color upon the reverse burn. Also provided is a process for the manufacture of these novel sparklers.

Abstract: A neutralization device for a payload carried by a vector, such as a rocket. This device incorporates at least one explosively-formed charge, where such charge is made integral with the vector by a positioning device ensuring the orientation of its direction of action towards the payload.

Abstract: The invention provides an initiator assembly that can be easily manufactured without increasing cost, and can be easily and securely connected to a connector when it is used. The initiator assembly includes a priming for being used in a motor vehicle, an initiator used for igniting the priming and having at least one conductive pin and a metal collar for fixing the initiator assembly on an inflator that are integrally formed by an insulating material injection-molded therebetween. The insulating material is a resin made of a plastic material that surrounds a metal eyelet of the initiator.

Abstract: An enclosed track system comprising an enclosed track having at least one curved portion and a trolley including a rolling section having first and second roller portions located within the track and spaced from each other and an externally located drive section. The second roller portion comprises a drive wheel arranged to roll on an inner surface of the track. The drive section has an articulated joint coupling the first and second roller portions to each other. The drive section includes a motor to cause the drive wheel to rotate, whereupon the trolley rolls along the track, with the articulated joint enabling the first and second roller portions to pivot longitudinally with respect to each other so that the trolley can negotiate curves in the track.

Abstract: A ramp car rail vehicle can have a contoured deck portion to reduce the height above the rails of the deck at the ramp end of the car such that a smaller, shorter ramp can be utilized for loading freight, such as semi-trailers, onto the ramp car and any other rail cars which may be connected to the ramp car. The contoured end of the ramp car can further be provided with a movable draft arm and coupler arrangement such that the coupler can be lowered to provide clearance for loading the ramp car, and thereafter returned to a standard height for coupling with conventional couplers.

Abstract: A divider for use in a stacking system for shipping of products in multiple layers in association with a pallet. The dividers are stackable and nestable with one another and with the pallet, and include a retaining wall to prevent movement of products off of an upper supporting surface thereof. The divider may be molded of a high-density, polymeric material to form a strong, rigid and durable divider which may be reused. As the dividers are nestable within one another and a pallet with which they are used, reshipping of multiple dividers for reuse is simplified.

Abstract: Articles constructed of a plurality of scuffed sheets have improved sheet-to-sheet bond strength and surfaces with high coefficients of friction. Articles constructed out of three scuffed sheets include exterior intumescent polymeric surfaces resisting the spread of combustion flames and insulating the interior surfaces from the high temperature of fire. Articles include electronic apparatus sending an emergency 911 call to a remote monitoring station. Articles are advantageously reinforced with optional rigidifying structures without article modification. Members are joined with snap together features providing an assembled article. Articles include handles for ergonomic manipulation by workers. Articles include elements amenably receiving unitization accessories. The article improvements are demonstrated in the form of industrial platforms, particularly material handling pallets.

Abstract: A multi-fuel boiler having multiple, independent draft or combustion air sources and controls. A conventional oil/gas burner and nozzle assembly is fitted to an injector tube and isolated from a thermal transfer medium. A butterfly valve is supported in the injector tube and a motorized linkage directs valve operation. When the burner is non-operational, the valve prevents secondary combustion air from passing through the oil/gas burner to effect combustion in the firebox.

Abstract: An underwater seeding apparatus which comprises a first longitudinal member, a second longitudinal member and a cross member. The first longitudinal member is positioned in a parallel relationship to the second longitudinal member and the cross member is attached to the first and second longitudinal members to define a substantially U-shaped frame. At least one thine is attached to the cross-member. The tine opens a furrow in an underwater sediment flow when the apparatus travels along the floor. Means for distributing a seed matrix in the furrow and means for closing the furrow are attached to the apparatus.

Abstract: A seed planter having a plurality of vacuum operated seed metering units includes a valve assembly connected between the metering units and the vacuum manifold permitting discrete control of the operation of each metering unit.

Abstract: A disc for a rotating disc seed meter improves singulation by reducing blanks and by reducing multiples. The disc contains a circular array of openings against which the seeds are held on one side by means of a pressure differential as they are carried from a seed chamber to a seed discharge. The disc also contains a plurality of tabs on the seed-holding face of the disc. Each tab is positioned radially adjacent the trailing edge of its associated opening.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus for controlling a position of an embroidery frame, which is capable of performing an accurate embroidering operation by feed backing a position error due to mutual operations of interlocking devices for driving the embroidery frame using a displacement sensor for sensing a displacement of the embroidery frame, and a method thereof. The apparatus comprises an X-axis driver, a Y-axis driver, a sensor and a controller. The X-axis driver moves the embroidery frame along an X-axis direction. The Y-axis driver moves the embroidery frame along a Y-axis direction. The sensor senses a displacement of the embroidery frame to the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and outputs electric signals corresponding to the sensed displacement. The controller generates X-axis and Y-axis drive control signals based on the electric signal from the sensor in order to control the X-axis and Y-axis drivers, respectively.

Abstract: A device for the automatic tufting of upholstery units using tufts (22) comprising a retaining link (12) with a tuft element (14a, 14b) at either end and associated with further tufts (24, 26) is provided. The device comprises engagement device (30, 34) for a tuft (22); device (20) for separating the engaged tuft (22) from the associated tufts (24); device for driving one tuft element (14a) and the retaining link of the engaged tuft (22) through an upholstery unit (40) and withdrawing the engagement device once the tuft is released; and device for automatically reloading the device with a further tuft. A method of automatically tufting upholstery units using such a device is also provided.

Abstract: A method for securing a raised appliqué to a substrate and the articles resulting therefrom. The preferred method includes various steps of digitizing an ornamental pattern into a computer format, then using that format to stitch, cut, and embroider an appliqué and wadding material onto a substrate, such that the appliqué is three dimensionally raised in portions by the wadding material, and the resulting combination of substrate, wadding material and appliqué material may then be sculpted out to form an attractive raised appliqué design suitable for use on any substrate, but especially garments, headwear and similar articles.

Abstract: A flexible fluid containment vessel or vessels for transporting and containing a large volume of fluid, particularly fresh water which is fabricated out of a fabric made out of a plurality of separately formed layers which are bound together.

Abstract: A rideable wave propelled watersport board having an embodiment in the form of a surfboard and another embodiment in the form of a body board. Each board has an elongated body member having a front end, a left side edge, a right side edge and a rear end. The bottom surface of the boards has a plurality of longitudinally spaced steps formed in the bottom surface of the rear sixty percent of the length of the body member. The steps each have a front edge, a rear edge, a front wall and a longitudinal length. One or more fins extend downwardly from the bottom surface of the body member for the surfboard embodiment. Elongated strake members extend downwardly from the bottom surface of the step members. Usually there is a pair of laterally spaced strakes on each step and these strakes are positioned adjacent the respective left and right edges of the body member.

Abstract: A resilient, shock absorption assembly that mounts between available sail rigging lines and a boat hull. In one assembly, a piston is resiliently biased relative to a housing and contained spring to permit reciprocating movement. Couplers at distal ends of the piston and housing attach to suitable rigging lines and/or the boat. In other assemblies, resilient elastomer cores bias movement of a piston or cable. In another assembly fitted within a main sail boom, a cable biases the boom rigging lines. In still another construction, an “A-shape”, mast replacement framework is secured to pivot from a boat's deck. Resiliently biased cables act as a mast and support a sail boom. One or more separate resilient assemblies can be coupled to the sail. The cable mast and rigging lines are thus made resilient to counterbalance the boat against heeling with the presence of rough water and gusty winds.

Abstract: A method of connecting two or more elongate connection members (105) between the seabed and a floating vessel (106) carrying a connector (102) which is suspended from the vessel by at least two spaced apart suspension members for relative displacement of the connector with respect to the vessel, at least one suspension member being connected to tensioning elements (109, 109′) for exerting an upward force on the connector. The method comprises the steps of: a) attaching one or more connection members to the connector, b) increasing the tensioning force of the tensioning elements, or vice versa, and c) repeating steps a and b until the connection members are installed between the vessel and the seabed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing bulk materials in a marine environment is provided. The apparatus includes a flexible pod configured for fluid communication to a host vessel. The pod stores materials under water.

Abstract: Deploying an offshore oil and gas production platform comprises placing a buoyant equipment deck on a buoyant pontoon so that elongated legs on the pontoon, each comprising a buoyant float, extend movably through respective openings in the deck. Chains extending from winches on the deck are reeved through fairleads on the pontoon and connected back to the deck. The chains are tightened to secure the deck to the pontoon for conjoint movement to an offshore location. The chains are loosened and the pontoon and leg floats ballasted so that the pontoon and leg floats sink below the floating deck. The chains are then re-tightened until pawls on the leg floats engage the deck. The buoyancy of at least one of the pontoon and leg floats is increased so that the deck is thereby raised above the surface of the water. The chains are connected to mooring lines around an offshore well site, and the raised deck and submerged pontoon are maintained in a selected position over the site with the winches.

Abstract: A walkway for extending between a pair of adjacent platforms on offshore marine structures including a pair of slidable sections having floors or decks which overlap each other. Interfitting support members which extend along opposed sides of the sliding sections support the slidable sections for sliding movement.