Patent ID: 6568342
Filing Date: 2003-05-27
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
A sliding deck assembly for providing access to a vessel equipment compartment, said vessel having a hull, a deck and drive assemblies, including mechanical and electrical components, comprising:deck means for providing a useful deck surface on the vessel while the vessel is in operation, said deck means including at least a portion of a pilot deck, said deck means being moveable to several positions and being integrated with said vessel deck, and said deck means being a discrete component thereof; sliding assembly means secured to said deck means and to said vessel for providing movement of said deck means; equipment access means within said vessel deck for providing access to said equipment compartment; and said deck means concealing said equipment access means when said deck means is in a first position, and exposing said equipment access means when said deck means is in a second position; whereby said sliding deck assembly completely conceals said equipment compartment when said vessel is in normal operation, and provides quick and efficient access to said mechanical and electrical components for maintenance or repair operations.