Patent ID: 6637361
Filing Date: 2003-10-28
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
An improved connecting device for a push-barge system, wherein an engine driven pusher vessel is connected to a pushed barge vessel, said connecting device including a cylinder in combination with a piston, the cylinder being fastened to a side of the pusher vessel and operated by a pressure medium, and a counterpart connected to said barge vessel and to which a connecting member is connected due to the effect of the movement of the piston of the cylinder, whereinthe connecting device includes a pressure restricting valve through which the pressure medium can be discharged from said cylinder when, due to the effect of the mutual approaching movement between the barge vessel and the pusher vessel, said counterpart transmits to the piston via the connecting member a force, which is so high that the pressure caused by the piston will at least partially open the pressure restricting valve.