Title: Method of connecting adjacent units of a barge tow

Do you think this is a good invention? Vote now:

Votes so far: For:(0) Against:(0)
Claims: What is claimed is:

1. Method of connecting spaced-apart adjacent ends of units of a marine tow comprising the steps of:

a. engaging spaced-apart adjacent ends of units with loosely-engaging rigid connecting means;

b. inserting deflated cushions between said unit ends; and

c. inflating said deflated cushions to expand and preload said rigid connecting means beyond anticipated tow loads plus an additional factor of safety load for precluding all relative movement between said connecting means and said units and the separation thereof until preloading is released by deflation.

2. Method of connecting spaced-apart adjacent ends of units as described in claim 1 wherein said deflated cushions are enclosed in expandable enclosures for preventing frictional engagement between cushions and adjacent ends of units.

3. Method of connecting spaced-apart adjacent ends of units as described in claim 1 wherein said deflated cushions are inflatable pneumatically.

4. Method of connecting spaced-apart adjacent ends of units as described in claim 1 wherein said deflated cushions are inflatable hydraulically.

Other info:

Inventors: Garcia, Emilio C. (New Orleans, LA, US)

Application Number: 444586
Filing Date: 1974-02-21
Publication_date: 1976-05-04
Assignee:
Primary Class(es): 114/249 114/77R
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

2609177	Sep, 1952	Hughes	254/93.
3362372	Jan, 1968	Peterson	114/235.
3492964	Feb, 1970	Garcia	114/235.
3613628	Oct, 1971	Garcia	114/235.
3820258	Jun, 1974	Fahrner	114/235.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Blix, Trygve M.
Assistant Examiner: Frankfort, Charles E.
Attorney: Lake, Jr.; James B.