Patent ID: 7845296
Filing Date: 2010-12-07
Classification: B63B,B63C

Abstract:
1. A method of lifting a multi-ton object in a marine environment comprising the steps of: a) providing first and second vessels at a locale that is next to an object to be salvaged; b) mounting a first frame on the vessels that spans between the vessels; c) mounting a second frame on the vessels that spans between the vessels; d) connecting the frames to the vessels in a configuration that spaces the vessels apart; e) connecting the first frame to the first vessel with a universal joint and to the second vessel with a hinged connection; f) connecting the second frame to the second vessel with a universal joint, and to the first vessel with a hinged connection; g) providing a space under the frame and in between the vessels, enabling a third marine vessel to be positioned in between the vessels and under the frames; h) lifting the object with cabling that extends downwardly from the frames; and i) wherein at least one of the universal joints is comprised of a first, inner universal joint and a second, outer universal joint.