Patent ID: 6840188
Filing Date: 2005-01-11
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
1. A towed raft comprising: a receiving area substantially defined laterally by a generally U-shaped floating frame having an open end, and upwardly by a spine and rib assembly connected to said frame, said receiving area being configured to receive a marine vessel therein substantially through said open end, said receiving area having a longitudinal centerline, said spine and rib assembly having a spine upwardly spaced from said frame and substantially aligned with said longitudinal centerline, and a plurality of ribs connecting said spine to said frame, said ribs extending generally outwardly and downwardly from said spine, and at least one lifting device secured to said spine, said lifting device being adapted to lift out of the water in which said raft floats in recovery, lower into said water in launch, and retain out of said water and over said receiving area in the transport of said marine vessel.