Abstract: A docking system may include a first device and a second device moveable relative to the first device. The first device may include a docking station, a first optical transceiver, and a first controller configured to operate the first optical transceiver to receive an optical beacon signal, and generate and transmit an optical guidance data signal based on the optical beacon signal. The second device may also include a propulsion system, and a second optical transceiver configured to transmit the optical beacon signal toward the first optical transceiver and receive the optical guidance data signal from the first optical transceiver. The second device may also include a second controller configured to operate the propulsion system based upon the optical guidance data signal to dock the second device to the docking station of the first device.

Abstract: A stray voltage detection system for detecting a stray voltage in pool water within a pool The system comprises a pair of elongate conductive elements, with one of the elongate conductive elements having a detector electrode end and a terminal end, and with the other elongate conductive element having a reference electrode end and a terminal end. The detector electrode end is positioned adjacent to an electrical fixture within the pool and the reference electrode end is positioned opposite from the detector electrode end. The terminal ends are connected to a microprocessor for measuring a voltage between the detector electrode end and reference electrode end. A voltage detection system for a pier, with the system having a pair of elongate conductive elements attached to a pair of corresponding pier pilings on opposite sides of a pier deck, and with the pair of conductive elements for measuring a voltage between the conductive elements.

Abstract: An energy dissipater comprising a plurality of periodic hyperbolic surfaces, forming a continuous surface-structure, and enveloping contiguous tunnels there through.

Abstract: A dock and dock kit suitable for shipping from a manufacturing site to an erection site where a dock can be erected having elongated dock beams with a length that is greater than the length of any of the beams in the dock kit and the mateable beams have surfaces that are mateable and securable to each other through fasteners to form elongated dock beams with each of the mateable beams having supports thereon for receiving and holding a plurality of dock planks thereon.

Abstract: An integrated deepwater offshore port includes at least one constructed platform, having a pier deck upper portion and an breakwater lower portion. The port sits in deep water as a structure independent of dry land or any structure thereon. The breakwater lower portion includes a plurality of prefabricated perforated modular marine structure units capable of interconnection. The prefabricated perforated modular marine structure units are anchored to a seabed by means of piles partially buried into the seabed and mechanically secured to the prefabricated perforated modular marine structure units.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assembly for assisting in the construction of a pier. The assembly includes a base, an extension pole, and a collar. The base is adapted to rest on the lake floor. The extension pole is connected to the base and is of a sufficient length to extend above the water surface. The collar is mounted to the extension pole and supports a portion of the pier while an additional pier section is secured to support beams. The assembly is capable of being maneuvered without assistance, because the assembly provides structural support during construction of a pier, without requiring a user to actively support parts of the pier while in the water.

Abstract: A dock connector for the connection of dock members with receiving sockets, includes a pair of end members configured to be received in respective receiving sockets of the dock member. Each end member has a pliable expansion member at a bottom thereof adapted for movement between a contracted/relaxed position and an expanded position. The end members are connected by a brace. A wedge is operatively mounted to the end member for axial translational motion relative to the end member. The wedge operates as an actuator to move said expansion member from its relaxed position to its expanded position.

Abstract: A dock bracket may include an elongate rail engaged by a first clamp, and a first platform support member structured and arranged to support a dock or a dock portion (e.g., a dock platform). A dock platform may include a first edge portion, a second edge portion, a tread member extending from the first edge portion and the second edge portion, and at least one fixation arm extending from at least the first edge portion. A dock accessory kit may include an elongate rail; a first clamp including a first clamp body, a first jaw member, a first clamp adjustment member, and an optional first rail securement member; and a first platform support member. A dock may include first and second dock assemblies, each including a dock section and a stringer pipe, and a dock platform attached to the first and second dock assemblies via first and second dock brackets.

Abstract: A set of components that can be used to construct a structurally sound dock are disclosed. The components can be extruded and the components are shaped such that interconnected components provide support for the other components thereby alleviating weak points due to welded only joints. A fascia channel provides additional strength by including structures that improve the vertical and horizontal strength of the fascia channel. HDPE plastic inserts and sheaves provide sound dampening for metal to metal contact points. Other components include a corner connector, a post system and a hinge system.

Abstract: A shelter and washing system is provided with a cover, supporting trusses, and a cleaning system. The cover is locatable over an area of water and includes cover trusses connectively arranged in a skeletal structure, a border structure, and a roof. The supporting truss may elevate the cover above the area of water and include vertical and horizontal members that include tubes of varying diameters. The cover trusses may be partially bowed and or made with aluminum. The cleaning system may include jets to eject a liquid to clean the watercraft. The liquid may be driven by a pump. A method is provided for sheltering and washing a watercraft.

Abstract: A method of constructing a semi-submersible unit with a side wall. To construct the semi-submersible unit, the method can include placing a hull in a body of water and connecting a deck structure to the hull. In addition, there is a kit for constructing a semi-submersible unit, with a side wall.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved bracket and method for constructing a dock or deck over water on a rocky shore line or on a hard rock face. The present invention includes a base bracket structure having opposite first and second ends, the base bracket being mountable to the rock by a plurality of anchor bolts. A boom having opposite first and second ends is pivotally connected to the base bracket structure adjacent the first end of the angle brackets such that the boom can be set at an angle relative to the base bracket structure, the boom being configured to mount the deck or dock thereon. The improved structure further includes a support rod having opposite first and second ends, the first end of the support rod being pivotally connected to the base bracket structure. The support rod is coupled to the boom by a connector joint located on the boom at a point on the boom between the booms opposite first and second ends.

Abstract: A dock catway is comprised of a catway frame adapted at a near end to be secured to a dock. The dock catway has a nose piece structure at a far end of the catway frame. At least one dock bumper is secured to a side wall of the catway structure. A platform is provided on a top end of the catway frame. The nose piece is molded with two layers of polyethylene. An inner one of the layers is of a lighter contrasting color than an outer one of the layers, wherein the outer one of the two layers is at least partly machined to form delineations having increased translucency to conduct light from one or more internal light sources secured inside the nose piece.

Abstract: A quay structure (1) comprising a quay top (12) is described, wherein one or more storage receptacles (2), which are structured in a manner allowing them to receive an anchor chain (4), are disposed underneath an available area (16) provided on, or in association with, the quay top (12), the storage receptacle (2) being provided with a cover (23) forming, when in a closed state, a portion of said available area (16). A method of using the quay structure (1) for storage of an anchor chain in association with a maintenance operation on the anchor chain is also described.

Abstract: A dock and dock kit suitable for shipping from a manufacturing site to an erection site where a dock can be erected having elongated dock beams with a length that is greater than the length of any of the beams in the dock kit and the mateable beams have surfaces that are mateable and securable to each other through fasteners to form elongated dock beams with each of the mateable beams having supports thereon for receiving and holding a plurality of dock planks thereon.

Abstract: A mooring system for receiving and exercising at least partial control over the approach of a vessel approaching a mooring facility. An array of mooring robots are mounted to the mooring facility. Each robot has at least one vessel contact member supported by a moving mechanism in a manner to thereby be (i) movable relative to the mooring facility and (ii) presentable to engage the side of said vessel. A sensor can sense the position of the vessel relative the mooring facility. A processor can calculate movement instructions based on information received by the processor to calculate instructions for the movement of the contact member during the receipt of the vessel by the mooring system. A controller can preposition the contact member and then control the condition of each mooring robot such as to reduce the approach speed of the vessel at least in a direction towards the mooring facility.

Abstract: A method of building a structure in the presence of water includes providing two or more three-sided elongated triangular bodies that has a first end, a second end, and an internal flow passage that extends between the first end and the second end. Each of the triangular bodies has an apex with a base opposed to the apex. Each of the triangular bodies is positioned in side by side relation, with the flow passage of one or more of the triangular bodies serving as a flow path for water. A road, a bridge or a dock is positioned transversely across the triangular bodies.

Abstract: An improved harbor, which comprises at least one lower level and at least one upper level for loading and unloading goods in a harbor area, the levels being arranged one above the other and so that at least the lower level lies below sea level.

Abstract: A dock structure, dock assembly and dock constructing method use one or more dock elements that are attachable to vertical pilings. Each dock element is a pan-like structure having a first end and a second end, a opposing side walls and opposing end walls, with one end wall disposed at each end of the element, and a floor. The side walls, the end walls and the floor form a pan-like cavity. Two cylindrical rims are disposed at the first end of the dock element, each rim forming a vertically-disposed cylindrical opening in the floor of the element and each opening being functionally adapted to receive a piling through it. Each dock element is attachable to pilings and a pair of overlapping members formed at the second end of each dock element allows adjacent elements to be attached one to another. Following attachment, each dock element is filled with concrete.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for buoyancy distribution along a substantially vertical submarine structure (100), the structure being provided with multiple modules (110), slidably mounted to the structure such that when vertically deployed at sea the modules are may adjust their positions along the structure by sliding, the force of each module acting upon the module above it rather than locally along the structure, resulting in the cumulative force (460) from the modules acting substantially against the top of the structure. Forces between modules may be evenly distributed by use of compliant intermediaries (310).

Abstract: A quay structure (1) comprising a quay top (12) is described, wherein one or more storage receptacles (2), which are structured in a manner allowing them to receive an anchor chain (4), are disposed underneath an available area (16) provided on, or in association with, the quay top (12), the storage receptacle (2) being provided with a cover (23) forming, when in a closed state, a portion of said available area (16). A method of using the quay structure (1) for storage of an anchor chain in association with a maintenance operation on the anchor chain is also described.

Abstract: A pier includes a plurality of support members, a deck supported by the plurality of support members and arranged to define a top surface area, and a plurality of first fasteners connected to the deck. A deck cover is formed from a flexible material and is sized to cover a portion of the top surface area and a plurality of second fasteners is connected to the deck cover. The plurality of second fasteners cooperates with the plurality of first fasteners to removably attach the deck cover to the top surface area to cover the portion of the top surface area.

Abstract: A mooring system for a vessel includes an attachment unit configured to be detachably attached to a hull of the vessel; a robot arm including a plurality of arms, the arms being coupled to each other to turn in a vertical direction, the robot, arm extending by an arm actuator provided thereto to transfer the attachment unit to an attachment position of the hull; a rotation unit connected to the robot arm and allowing the robot arm to turn in a horizontal direction; and a mooring winch for winding a mooring cable to draw the attachment unit. A floating body or a quay wall may include the mooring system.

Abstract: A set of components that can be used to construct a structurally sound dock are disclosed. The components can be extruded and the components are shaped such that interconnected components provide support for the other components thereby alleviating weak points due to welded only joints. A fascia channel provides additional strength by including structures that improve the vertical and horizontal strength of the fascia channel. HDPE plastic inserts and sheaves provide sound dampening for metal to metal contact points. Other components include a corner connector, a post system and a hinge system.

Abstract: A deep-water port is provided which comprises an upper pier deck, a natural deep-water mooring and an under-deck breakwater portion. The port is a mega-structure constructed of prefabricated modular perforated inter-connected marine structure units. The pier deck/breakwater combination is constructed in deep water, connected by bridge to the coast, independent of dry land or any structure thereon, as well as of any separate breakwater.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for installing docks. The system comprises a scaffold portion having at least a first end and a second end. The first end is adapted to be removably secured to a first dock portion. The second end of the scaffold portion has a template thereon adapted for positioning pilings of a second dock portion to be installed. The scaffold includes a support structure upon which a dock builder stands during installation of the second dock portion. The method comprises installing a first dock portion, removably securing a first end of a scaffold portion of a dock installation system to the first dock portion, lowering a second end of the scaffold portion such that the first end of the scaffold portion is cantilevered at the first dock portion, using a template on a second end of the scaffold portion to arrange and position one or more components of a second dock portion to be installed, and installing the second dock portion.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved bracket and method for constructing a dock or deck over water on a rocky shore line or on a hard rock face. The present invention includes a base bracket structure having opposite first and second ends, the base bracket being mountable to the rock by a plurality of anchor bolts. A boom having opposite first and second ends is pivotally connected to the base bracket structure adjacent the first end of the angle brackets such that the boom can be set at an angle relative to the base bracket structure, the boom being configured to mount the deck or dock thereon. The improved structure further includes a support rod having opposite first and second ends, the first end of the support rod being pivotally connected to the base bracket structure. The support rod is coupled to the boom by a connector joint located on the boom at a point on the boom between the booms opposite first and second ends.

Abstract: A dock catway is comprised of a catway frame adapted at a near end to be secured to a dock. The dock catway has a nose piece structure at a far end of the catway frame. At least one dock bumper is secured to a side wall of the catway structure. A platform is provided on a top end of the catway frame. The nose piece is molded with two layers of polyethylene. An inner one of the layers is of a lighter contrasting color than an outer one of the layers, wherein the outer one of the two layers is at least partly machined to form delineations having increased translucency to conduct light from one or more internal light sources secured inside the nose piece.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a floating type of a boat dock or platform includes a plurality of synthetic material decking members that are disposed along the sides and top of the dock. Urethane foam is applied to an interior of the apparatus and it expands to fill the interior voids while simultaneously securing the decking members proximate one-another by securing them to the urethane foam. Accordingly, a monolithic structure is provided without the use of fasteners. Corner members are used that extend around an upper perimeter of the dock. Side members are used to form the sides, ends, and the decking material that forms an upper surface. An optional rounded member is preferably used at the bottom along a perimeter of the apparatus. Optional features, including elastomeric coating, filler blocks, utility conduits, sunken vaults, cleats, upper decking surface and waterline heating are also described.

Abstract: A dock structure, dock assembly and dock constructing method use one or more dock elements that are attachable to vertical pilings. Each dock element is a pan-like structure having a first end and a second end, a opposing side walls and opposing end walls, with one end wall disposed at each end of the element, and a floor. The side walls, the end walls and the floor form a pan-like cavity. Two cylindrical rims are disposed at the first end of the dock element, each rim forming a vertically-disposed cylindrical opening in the floor of the element and each opening being functionally adapted to receive a piling through it. Each dock element is attachable to pilings and a pair of overlapping members formed at the second end of each dock element allows adjacent elements to be attached one to another. Following attachment, each dock element is filled with concrete.

Abstract: A set of components that can be used to construct a structurally sound dock are disclosed. The components can be extruded and the components are shaped such that interconnected components provide support for the other components thereby alleviating weak points due to welded only joints. A fascia channel provides additional strength by including structures that improve the vertical and horizontal strength of the fascia channel. HDPE plastic inserts and sheaves provide sound dampening for metal to metal contact points. Other components include a corner connector, a post system and a hinge system.

Abstract: An improved clamping mechanism for clamping a dock support frame having a hollow recess and a U-shaped cut-out to a vertical support member has an anvil clamping member comprised of extruded aluminum. The anvil clamping member has an arc-shaped clamping surface and is fixedly disposed inside the hollow recess in the support frame. A hammer clamping member comprised of extruded aluminum and having a corresponding arc-shaped clamping surface is adjustably attached to the anvil clamping member such that the vertical support member can pass between the hammer clamping member and the anvil clamping member and through the U-shaped cut-out of the support frame.

Abstract: A mooring system for receiving and exercising at least partial control over the approach of a vessel approaching a mooring facility. An array of mooring robots are mounted to the mooring facility. Each robot has at least one vessel contact member supported by a moving mechanism in a manner to thereby be (i) movable relative to the mooring facility and (ii) presentable to engage the side of said vessel. A sensor can sense the position of the vessel relative the mooring facility. A processor can calculate movement instructions based on information received by the processor to calculate instructions for the movement of the contact member during the receipt of the vessel by the mooring system. A controller can preposition the contact member and then control the condition of each mooring robot such as to reduce the approach speed of the vessel at least in a direction towards the mooring facility.

Abstract: A set of components that can be used to construct a structurally sound dock are disclosed. The components can be extruded and the components are shaped such that interconnected components provide support for the other components thereby alleviating weak points due to welded only joints. A fascia channel provides additional strength by including structures that improve the vertical and horizontal strength of the fascia channel. HDPE plastic inserts and sheaves provide sound dampening for metal to metal contact points. Other components include a corner connector, a post system and a hinge system.

Abstract: An extension for a dock including a platform having a one or more sleeves in which accessory members can be inserted and secured/locked. The platform is pivotally attached to a foundation member, which may be engaged to a pier or a dock, so that the platform from rotate from a operating position, parallel to the dock or pier's surface, to a stored position, perpendicular to the dock or pier's surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing ballast water, cooling water, and/or auxiliary service water to a marine vessel is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of pumps coupled to a docking facility. Each of the pumps collect water surrounding the docking facility and provides filtered water to the marine vessel as the vessel is moored. One or both of the docking facility and pumps may include a filtering device configured to prevent marine species from being entrained in the collected water.

Abstract: A marine dock deck surface includes a light transmissive portion allowing sunlight to pass through the deck surface into the water. The light transmissive portion is formed of a sunlight transparent or translucent material. The light transmissive portion may extend over substantially the entire deck surface. Alternately, the light transmissive portion may be part of an overall deck surface which includes opaque portions.

Abstract: A support structure (1) that includes a support panel (11), at least one pile (14) having associated therewith at least one bracket (17) and at least one mounting strap (20). Each bracket (17) includes a lower portion (70), at least one extension (91, 92) extending upward from the lower portion (70), and a retainer (85) extending outward from a first surface (73) of the lower portion (70). The retainer (85) of the bracket (17) is received within an aperture (67) of an apertured sidewall (64, 215, 218) of the pile (14). At least one mounting strap (20, 23) maintains: the first surface (73) of the lower portion (70) of the bracket (17) in abutting relationship with the apertured sidewall (64) of the pile; and the retainer (85) within the aperture (67) thereof. A first surface (94) of the extension (91, 92) of the bracket (17) and the apertured sidewall (64) of the pile (14) together define a vertical slot (112) having an open top (115) and a closed bottom (118).

Abstract: The extendible building post includes a telescoping hydraulic cylinder integrated within a construction member externally configured and dimensioned essentially identically to a conventional building construction member, e.g., a four-by-four or six-by-six length of lumber, or alternatively a plastic column. The hydraulic system may be formed of stock plastic pipe and fittings, and may use water as the working fluid. The device may include insulation and a heating system to prevent freezing when used in such an environment, with certain types of insulation also providing additional rigidity for the hydraulic assembly.

Abstract: The inventive arrangement of motorized floating mobile systems (7; 107; 207) for moving mooring booms (4A to 4E) for boats B in inner harbors (P), to translationally move the booms (4A to 4E) perpendicular thereto, to provide maneuvering space for the boats (B), is arranged between at least two adjacent booms (4; 4A to 4E), whereas the other spaces between booms are closed for maneuvering. Each system comprises: means for positioning the booms transverse to the translation direction; means (9, 10) disposed on the two ends of each system for attaching the front portion of adjacent systems together or to an attaching means arranged on the end of a pier or a fixed boom; means for translationally guiding parallel to a pier or a main pontoon, with respect to a fixed point of a pile or dolphin (8); and means for translationally moving the booms in a synchronous manner.

Abstract: A separation and guidance structure comprises an arm having an inner end with a crosspiece secured in use to a pontoon or the like, and an outer end provided with fenders extending above and beyond the end of the arm. Flotation is provided to support the outer end of the arm, and may be in the form of a flotation member or be provided by the fenders. In use a number of such structures are secured in parallel to a pontoon or dock to form a berthing system.

Abstract: The present invention discloses and claims a dock system that includes a platform and/or roof. The platform includes a frame member having a top surface and defining an opening and a cross-member inserted into the opening. The cross-member has a dimension approximately equal to the opening. The roof includes a truss member that defines an enclosed volume, a first attachment tab connected to the truss member, a second attachment tab connected to the first attachment tab, and a support connected to the second attachment tab. Particular embodiments may further include a stringer having first and second surfaces, wherein the first surface of the stringer is proximate to the cross-member, and the second surface of the stringer is approximately coplanar with the top surface of the frame member.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for improved transportation functionality. In one aspect, the invention comprises an improved and highly integrated transportation apparatus adapted to bring a plurality of different modalities in close physical proximity for enhanced efficiency. One exemplary embodiment comprises a multi-level structure disposed in a substantially contained low depth body of water (e.g., bay) and proximate one or more land masses to facilitate service via rail, land vehicle, ships, and ferries. Multiple long-length runways are also provided on the substantially planar top surface to accommodate air traffic. A monorail or similar system is also employed to allow ready movement between the various transportation interfaces.

Abstract: The Self-Sustaining Data Center makes use of a site that is inherently immune to catastrophic events and incorporates features to facilitate the substantially continuous availability of data stored therein. The architecture of the Self-Sustaining Data Center makes use of multiple data communication links to sites that are remote from the data center to enable the uninterrupted communication access of customers' computer systems to the mass storage systems operational at the Self-Sustaining Data Center. The Self-Sustaining Data Center also includes facilities that include at least one of: power generation, housing and food for data center staff, and voice communications facilities, thereby to enable the Self-Sustaining Data Center to continue its operation for an extended period of time in the absence of municipal utility services and the possible inability of the data center staff to access outside sources of food and water.

Abstract: An improved harbor, which comprises at least one lower level and at least one upper level for loading and unloading goods in a harbor area, the levels being arranged one above the other and so that at least the lower level lies below sea level.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a marine vessel landing site barrier is described. The apparatus includes a barrier adapted to at least partially surround a marine vessel and partition the water surrounding the marine vessel to prevent or minimize marine species from entering water intake systems located on the marine vessel. The barrier prevents ingress and egress of marine species from entering the water surrounding the marine vessel, which facilitates efficient operation of water intake and exchange systems on the vessel.

Abstract: A portable marine lift capable of multi-directional off-loading of yachts, ships, and other marine vessels at ground level to dry-dock them. It is compact and barge-like, and can be shared by independent shipyards, or used to expand the work area within a single port facility or shipyard. It is also self-contained when fitted with generators and/or propulsion means via add-on pods, and comprises independent platform sections joined together to meet any hull design, length and water depth. Platform sections have the ability to submerge, and may also be employed to capture and temporarily contain environmentally hazardous materials commonly produced by shipyards. In addition, the platform sections are preferably open-framed for weight savings. Computerized lifting, via multiple lift modules secured to platform sections, assures lifting of vessels in substantially level orientation.

Abstract: A gantry to be used in the construction process of bridges, viaducts and other structures, which is equipped with a system that automatically adjusts the prestressing of the gantry's structure in accordance to the external actions being applied on it when loadings occur. The adjustment of the prestressing is achieved through the use of at least one sensor (2) that monitors the structure and which sends the measurements taken to a controller (6), . This controller is then capable of activating at least one actuator which alters the tension of the structure's prestressing cable or cables. Amongst the many advantages of the present invention, one is the possibility of applying a large amount of prestressing without this implying undesirable deformations in the main structure (1) when exterior loads are not applied.

Abstract: A modular floating dock system utilizing steel frame modules that are interconnected to form the dock system desired, the modules preferably having a concrete deck and pontoons or floats with the modules being interconnected with high strength bolts with a primary shock pad being interposed between adjacent modules.

Abstract: The automated, rotary retractable dock will have the elevated structural skeleton of a regular or seasonal dock. This includes the pilings and cross members. The pilings will support guide rails running (track-like) between them. The pilings will also be fixed with cross bars, and rollers which will partially support the material that will serve as the dock surface as it is extended or retracted. This dock surface “material” can be a wooden, metal, or plastic, interlocking grating which will be wound up at the land-ward end of the dock/bulkhead, into a housing unit. Wheels or rollers will be placed periodically along the side of the grated decking material. On one or both ends of the structure, an electric winch will pull the dock surface material out across the structure (water-ward) and on the other end, retract it (land-ward). The system will have both land-ward and water-ward “on/off” switches and a remote control.