Abstract: An underwater docking system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: an underwater vehicle that sails in water; and an underwater station with which the underwater vehicle docks. One of the underwater vehicle and the underwater station includes: a reference point; and a first fitting located around the reference point as a center. The other of the underwater vehicle and the underwater station includes: a detector that detects the reference point; and a second fitting located around the detector as a center and fitted to the first fitting. One of the first fitting and the second fitting is an annular groove. The other of the first fitting and the second fitting includes at least two protrusions that are inserted into the annular groove.

Abstract: A method of lowering a discrete load from a pipelay vessel comprises holding a rigid rod on an upright launch axis where the rod extends through a hold-back system; coupling a lower end of the rod to the load; connecting a wire to the load either directly or indirectly via the rod; operating the hold-back system to advance the rod downwardly, hence submerging the load, while the weight of the load is suspended from the hold-back system via the rod; when the load is under mater and beneath the splash zone, transferring the weight of the load directly or indirectly from the hold-back system to the wire; and continuing to lower the load in the water, suspended directly or indirectly from the wire. The method may be reversed to recover a load from a subsea location, such as when lifting a wellhead or blowout preventer from the seabed.

Abstract: A torpedo recovery system is provided with a hull and a float conformable on a host vehicle and lifting wire coiled on a spool attached by an extension spring as well as with an anchor to the float. An oval hole penetrates the recovery system hull at positions lined with a watertight sleeve. The spool can accommodate a locking pin. The extension spring allows compliance for take-up of the spool by having the locking pin mate with an aperture and adds a wire pre-tension. Upon vehicle shutdown; the locking pin is retracted to free the spool from a rotational constraint. The float buoyancy translates into pulling the wire from the spool with the float and extension spring continuing to the water surface. Once the float reaches the surface; the float provides a visual location for the host vehicle. The float is retrieved and a winch can recover the lightweight torpedo.

Abstract: A drilling system configured to install a tap assembly into a ship skin is disclosed. The drilling system comprises a remotely-operated underwater vehicle and a drilling assembly configured to be operated by the remotely-operated underwater vehicle. The drilling assembly comprises a frame comprising an attachment element configured to hold the drilling assembly to a surface of the ship skin. The drilling assembly further comprises a drill actuation system comprising a linear actuator attached to the frame and a rotary actuator, wherein an actuation of the linear actuator is configured to move the rotary actuator relative to the frame to install the tap assembly into the ship skin by driving the tap assembly with the rotary actuator and the linear actuator.

Abstract: A system for power and data transmission in a body of water to unmanned underwater vehicles comprises a floating surface station for generating electric energy and receiving and transmitting data; an underwater station connectable to at least one unmanned underwater vehicle; at least one submerged depth buoy; and an umbilical, which comprises a power transmission line and a data transmission line, is mechanically and electrically connected to the surface station and to the underwater station, and is mechanically coupled to the depth buoy so that the umbilical comprises a first umbilical section that is stretched between the underwater station and the depth buoy and a second umbilical section that extends loose between the depth buoy and the surface station.

Abstract: A drilling system configured to install a tap assembly into a ship skin is disclosed. The drilling system comprises a remotely-operated underwater vehicle and a drilling assembly configured to be operated by the remotely-operated underwater vehicle. The drilling assembly comprises a frame comprising an attachment element configured to hold the drilling assembly to a surface of the ship skin. The drilling assembly further comprises a drill actuation system comprising a linear actuator attached to the frame and a rotary actuator, wherein an actuation of the linear actuator is configured to move the rotary actuator relative to the frame to install the tap assembly into the ship skin by driving the tap assembly with the rotary actuator and the linear actuator.

Abstract: A recovery device for an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) includes a first recovery component arranged on an unmanned ship and a second recovery component arranged on the UUV. Two magnets are provided on an end of the first recovery component and an end of the second recovery component which are opposite to each other, respectively. A first cable of the unmanned ship is provided on an end of the first recovery component away from the magnet, and a second cable is provided on an end of the second recovery component away from the magnet. A thruster is provided on a side of the first recovery component. The UUV is recovered using the unmanned ship through the recovery components connected to the cables, which allows the locating and navigation errors to a large extent.

Abstract: An attachment for monitoring a nut of a screw connection for crack formation, deformation, and/or breakage includes a socket portion which is attached to the outer circumference of the nut and has a conductor which is interrupted in the case of a deformation, crack, or breakage of the nut. The conductor is embedded in at least one material. The attachment is produced by injection molding with the conductor embedded within the socket portion. The monitoring attachment is particularly useful for operating a shutoff device for a wind generator in the event of failure of a nut which secures a turbine blade to the generator hub.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A clasp device for securing relatively small personal items. The clasp is moveable between a default closed position and an open position, for respectively securing and releasing at least a portion of the personal item.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the water-based transfer of heavy loads. The invention is a lightweight apparatus is reconfigurable, and it includes a gantry arrangement mounted on beams or a platform and the apparatus is used to transfer heavy load items. The apparatus reconfigurable and may be used in a water-based loading environments in performing a variety of loading functions in situations involving one or more watercrafts and/or a pier or the like.

Abstract: A winch drum device includes a first winch drum with an outer surface adapted to accommodate axially displaced turns of wire rope and further includes a wire rope storage means, such as a recess, extending at least partially radially in from said outer surface. The wire rope storage means is adapted to accommodate one or more layers of the wire rope. The winch drum device may be incorporated into a winch.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A portable exothermic welding ignition controller includes a housing configured to receive a portion of a portable power tool battery. A circuit board is positioned within the housing and configured for electrical coupling to the portable power tool battery. An actuator is operatively engageable with the circuit board for selectively discharging power from the portable power tool battery to a connection terminal electrically coupled to the circuit board.

Abstract: This method for discharging liquid from a tank of a stricken ship that is partially out of the water and has at least one technical access includes the following steps: opening the technical access, introducing a rigid pipe into the interior of the tank through the technical access, and placing a lift pump or a suction pump inside the rigid pipe. The lift pump or suction pump can be without a delivery hose.

Abstract: It enables to use very limited energy and an easily transportable device. Comprises: a) a consumable ignition element with a resistive wire to be heated as the electric current passes through it and cause a remote ignition; b) a reusable intermediate element, provided with fitting means to be electrically connected with the ignition element; c) a portable case to house a portable power source and, d) an ignition switch that is housed in the case, with a push button to activate the power source, as well as a first indicator adapted to turn on if the power source is available and a second indicator adapted to turn on if the contact between the first tracks and the second tracks is correct.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames provides a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a package to be lifted and/or a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames. In this fashion, an object that has been salvaged from the seabed can be placed upon the marine vessel that is positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. First and second frames span between the vessels. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges. An object that has been salvaged from the seabed can be placed upon the marine vessel.

Abstract: A vessel has a hull, a contact area at the hull near keel level for attaching to a structure, a lifting device and a lifting cable attached thereto and extending along a heave compensating member. The lifting cable extends along a substantially vertical lifting trajectory to a connect position below keel level. The heave compensating member includes a guide element for guiding the lifting cable and which is connected to a displacement device. The heave compensating member includes a compensator arm with a pivot end pivotally connected to a pivot point on the vessel at a predetermined transverse distance from the lifting trajectory, the cable guide element being attached to a free end of the compensator arm at or near the lifting trajectory, guiding the lifting cable in the direction of the pivot point, the arm being at or near the free end connected to the displacement device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems for launching and retrieving underwater craft from a ship. It consists mainly of a handling cradle for launching and retrieving an underwater vehicle, comprising a frame forming a dorsal ridge and providing an interface between lifting means, a crane for example, and the underwater vehicle. This frame comprises: means for adjusting the overall buoyancy; means for automatically aligning the vehicle with the dorsal ridge formed by the frame; means for grasping the vehicle from the surface after the frame has been aligned with the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the cradle comprises an onboard video camera enabling the operator onboard the ship to ensure that the vehicle attachment and release operations are carried out correctly. The invention advantageously allows the vehicle to be launched and retrieved automatically when the vehicle is under the surface in an area where it is not subject to the effects of the swell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a transfer system for providing wireless data transfer, electrical power transfer and navigation between a mobile subsea vehicle and a deployed subsea station that uses acoustic and electromagnetic carrier signals for wireless communication and navigation. An inductive connector is provided for power transfer between mobile subsea vehicle and a deployed subsea station without conductive contact.

Abstract: A catamaran type vessel for use in a wastewater facility for servicing submerged air diffusers is disclosed. The vessel has spaced apart pontoon having an A-frame spanning between the upper decks of the pontoon and connecting the pontoons. A hook connected to a winch is secured to a cross header above the space between the pontoons. The hook is lowered into water and lifts an air header, to which the air diffusers are connected. An air diffuser is then pulled on the pontoons and serviced. The vessel is then propelled to a position to service other air diffusers in the pontoon.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing debris from an ocean floor or seabed employs a subsea debris basket. The basket eliminates the absolute necessity of a cargo barge or any other supporting vessel that might be required to remain in a field until the objects on the ocean floor can be lifted. The present invention provides a non-weather sensitive solution. The present invention affords the safe operation in that all lifting and lowering is performed in a subsea environment next to the ocean floor or seabed. The present invention enables operation to be completed with the use of an ROV or remotely operated vehicle. The present invention provides improved offshore efficiency, less time being required to recover debris from the seabed to the underwater salvage basket or debris basket. The present invention enables the possibility of use of an A-frame or simple crane to lower debris into a subsea basket. The basket can be reused or redeployed in the field if desired.

Abstract: The present invention is a shackle apparatus used for the lifting of subsea objects. The shackle apparatus includes a shackle body having a first leg and a second leg in which each of the legs has an eyelet formed therein. A pin is mounted through the eyelets of the legs of the shackle body. At least one latch extends radially outwardly of the pin and resides adjacent the first leg of the shackle body. A stop surface extends from the pin and is positioned adjacent the second leg of the shackle body. The pin has a generally pointed end so that a remotely operated vehicle can suitably guide the pin through the eyelets of the shackle body. A gripping member extends outwardly from an end of the pin so as to provide a surface whereby an ROV can grip the pin for installation into the shackle body.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a subsea salvage operation using a lifting magnet. In one embodiment, a method of salvaging a submerged production platform includes deploying a salvage vessel to a wreckage site of the submerged production platform; lowering a lifting magnet from the salvage vessel to the submerged production platform; and activating the lifting magnet, thereby capturing at least a portion of the submerged production platform.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second spaced apart barges. First and second frames span between the barges. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the barges in a configuration that spaces the barges apart. The first frame connects to the first barge with a universal joint and to the second barge with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second barge with a universal joint and to the first barge with a hinged connection. The hull arrangement provides flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the universal joint and hinge placement between the frames and the hulls. Each frame extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A vessel (2) for handling subsea equipment comprising a subsea equipment hoist system including a winch and a hoist cable (3) for lowering and retrieving subsea equipment (5) in a hoist area of the vessel, a subsea equipment motion restraining and guidance system for restraining subsea equipment motion relative to the vessel in the hoist area. The subsea equipment motion restraining and guidance system includes a main trolley (7), an auxiliary trolley (8) and a vertical trolley guide structure (9) mounted on the hull of the vessel that allows for vertical travel of the trolleys and further a top end engagement member (10), which is movably supported by said main trolley and which is adapted to engage on a top end of the subsea equipment, and one or more rail engaging members (3a) mounted on said auxiliary trolley, each adapted to engage on a vertical rail (11) mounted on said subsea equipment as said subsea equipment passes vertically by said auxiliary trolley.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing debris from an ocean floor or seabed employs a subsea debris basket. The basket eliminates the absolute necessity of a cargo barge or any other supporting vessel that might be required to remain in a field until the objects on the ocean floor can be lifted. The present invention provides a non-weather sensitive solution. The present invention affords the safe operation in that all lifting and lowering is performed in a subsea environment next to the ocean floor or seabed. The present invention enables operation to be completed with the use of an ROV or remotely operated vehicle. The present invention provides improved offshore efficiency, less time being required to recover debris from the seabed to the underwater salvage basket or debris basket. The present invention enables the possibility of use of an A-frame or simple crane to lower debris into a subsea basket. The basket can be reused or redeployed in the field if desired.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a subsea salvage operation using a lifting magnet. In one embodiment, a method of salvaging a submerged production platform includes deploying a salvage vessel to a wreckage site of the submerged production platform; lowering a lifting magnet from the salvage vessel to the submerged production platform; and activating the lifting magnet, thereby capturing at least a portion of the submerged production platform.

Abstract: A catamaran lifting apparatus is disclosed for lifting objects in a marine environment. The apparatus includes first and second vessels that are spaced apart during use. A first frame spans between the vessels. A second frame spans between the vessels. The frames are spaced apart and connected to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart. The first frame connects to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection. The second frame connects to the second vessel with a universal joint and to the first vessel with a hinged or pinned connection. The catamaran hull arrangement provides longitudinal flexibility in a quartering sea state due to the unique universal joint and hinge placement between the frames or trusses and the hulls or barges. Each of the frames extends upwardly in an inverted u-shape, providing a space under the frame and in between the barges that enables a marine vessel to be positioned in between the barges and under the frames.

Abstract: A combined boat and jet ski towing trailer includes a jet ski support ramp on the arm that connects a trailer body to the towing vehicle. The jet ski supporting ramp is inclined and oriented at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the trailer body to facilitate loading and unloading.

Abstract: A control pendant for raising and lowering an object in water by hoist machinery allows control by a diver viewing the submerged object. The pendant has an elongate sheath defining an elongate interior extending between bitter and distal ends. The bitter end is coupled to the hoist machinery and the sheath has a length to extend below to the object. Control lines extend within the length of the elongate sheath and a first end of each control line is connected to the hoist machinery. The remainder of the sheath is filled with filler material. A watertight control housing is connected to the sheath at the distal end and contains a pair of switches that are each connected to a separate one of second ends of the lines. Sealed control buttons extend from the switches for selectively raising and lowering of said object by a percipient diver.

Abstract: The invention relates to a floating lowering and lifting device having a floating structure and a lifting unit lowerable from the floating structure towards the sea bed, the lifting unit having a chamber with at least one gas-inlet opening in its wall and an equalization opening in its wall, a gas supply mechanism being connected to the gas inlet opening, the device having a controller connected to the gas supply mechanism for controlling a gas supply rate to the chamber. The chamber has a releasable coupling member for releasably attaching to a load and is connected via a lifting cable to a take up device on the floating structure for lengthening and shortening the lifting cable.

Abstract: An unmanned system performs inspection, identification and/or neutralization of underwater objects. An unmanned vehicle that operates at a water's surface stows underwater crawling and/or swimming vehicles that can operate underneath a water's surface. A winch associated with each robotic vehicle is mounted on the unmanned vehicle. An electro-mechanical tether electrically and mechanically couples a corresponding robotic vehicle to the unmanned vehicle, and is mechanically coupled to a corresponding winch for control of the paying out and reeling in thereof.

Abstract: In a load handling device for use with a load having a lifting attachment, the lifting attachment being so attached to the load that, when the load is suspended by the lifting attachment, the load is free to pivot relative to the lifting attachment about at least one axis. The load handling device engages the lifting attachment raises the load; so that it is suspended by the lifting attachment, and lowers it. The load handling device includes a stabiliser movable between a retracted position in which it is substantially clear of the load and an extended position in which it contacts the load on either side of the said axis to limit or control pivoting movement of the load about that axis. The stabiliser may be moveable by a plurality of hydraulic rams connected in a closed loop system. Restriction of the flow of the hydraulic fluid between the rams acts to damp movement of the load.

Abstract: A submersible vehicle launch and recovery system comprises a grab comprising at least two arms capable of moving relative to each other, the arms being rotatable between an open position and a closed position, in which closed position the jaws of the arms are able to grip a handling feature on a submersible vehicle. The arms comprise attachment means so arranged that the arms tend to close when the system is suspended by the said attachment means, at least one arm comprising buoyancy means so distributed as to tend to open the said arm when the system is submerged.

Abstract: A docking station for an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) includes a tether control system to minimize movement of the docking station when the UUV is docking therein. The docking station is a submerged station that is tethered to a floating structure via a tether line. The tether control system selectively loosens and tightens the tether line during UUV docking, to thereby minimize movement of the docking station during UUV docking operations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for accessing a cable or pipe (9) buried underwater in a layer of material (10). The method comprises urging a tool (1) through the layer of material (10) by fluidising the material adjacent the tool (1) such that the tool may be positioned at or adjacent the position of the buried cable or pipe.

Abstract: A device secured to a submersible portion of a boat lift to stabilize the submersible portion of the boat lift from unwanted lateral movement. Elongated pipe-like devices are attached to a submersible portion of a boat lift in proximity to a piling. The device is mounted to the submersible portion of a boat lift so that movement caused by wind, wave, or current action that would force the submersible boat lift into lateral motion will be stopped by the pipe-like device, which comes into contact with the piling before the lateral motion becomes so large as to be undesirable.

Abstract: A device and method for raising sunken objects such as crates, small boats, vessels and ships including a platform equipped with winches to lower down a basket net and a frame supporting a cryogenic apparatus to the vicinity of the object. The cryogenic apparatus is adapted to pump surrounding water through a freezing unit to reduce its temperature to below freezing and then form a stream of overcooled water directed over the sunken object to form a layer of ice about it. The basket net contains provisions to allow its closure under the object once it is lifted off the sea floor. Once enough ice is formed, the object is lifted to the surface. On average, the capacity of the cryogenic apparatus is such that a 1 ton object can be lifted in about 3 hours. Remote monitoring and control means are provided for the operator to observe and direct the operation of the device. The device is especially advantageous in dealing with explosive objects such as old and unwanted sea mines, torpedoes and alike.