Patent Publication Number: US-11643173-B1

Title: Method and apparatus for moving a plurality of cargo units with cavities

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/876,997, filed on May 18, 2020 (issuing as U.S. Pat. No. 10,654,545 on May 11, 2021), which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/131,136, filed on Sep. 14, 2018 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,654,545 on May 19, 2020), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/558,591 filed Sep. 14, 2017, each of the above referenced applications/patents are incorporated herein by reference, and priority of/to each of the above referenced applications/patents is hereby claimed. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable 
     REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX” 
     Not applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     Various embodiments relate to a method and apparatus for transferring cargo having a cavity therein, the system comprising: (a) a lifter/lifting device suspended in free floating form by a crane; (b) the lifter having a frame and at least one lifting arm/prong which is detachably connected to the frame; and (c) wherein the frame has at least one lifting connector for detachably connecting the lifter to the crane. 
     More particularly, various embodiments relate to an improved method and apparatus wherein at least one of the lifting arms has a first/front/free end for engaging the cargo by penetrating the cargo cavity, and a second/rear/attached end which is detachably connected to the frame; and wherein the lifter, when suspended by the crane, is configured such that the free end of at least one lifting arm is elevated higher than the attached end of the at least one lifting arm. 
     Using prior art sling methods to move multiple units of cargo can be slow and/or dangerous. Various embodiments of the method and apparatus can significantly increase the production speed and safety of loading and/or unloading cargo (e.g., in some cases doubling production speeds). In various embodiments the method and apparatus helps protect the integrity of the cargo being moved/transferred compared to the prior sling method which has the cargo units moving relative to each other and at different angles to each other during transfer (see e.g.,  FIG.  4    showing an example of multiple cargo units  2000  shifting relative to each other during movement which shifting can damage the cargo). 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment is provided a system for transferring cargo having a cavity therein, the system comprising: (a) a lifter/lifting device suspended by a crane; (b) the lifter having a frame and at least one lifting arm which is detachably connected to the frame; and (c) wherein the frame has at least one lifting connector for detachably connecting the lifter to the crane. 
     In one embodiment at least one of the lifting arms has a free end for engaging the cargo by penetrating the cargo cavity, and an attached end which is detachably connected to the frame; and wherein the lifter, when suspended by the crane, is configured such that the free end of at least one lifting arm is elevated higher than the attached end of the at least one lifting arm. 
     In various embodiments is provided a method of moving a plurality of cargo units, each of the cargo units having at least one cavity, comprising the steps of: 
     (a) providing a lifter, the lifter including:
         (i) a frame with first/front and second/rear ends, right and left sides, and top and bottom portions; and   (ii) at least one lifting arm/prong having spaced apart first/front and second/rear ends, wherein the second/rear end of the lifting arm is detachably connected to the frame at the second/rear end of the frame;       

     (b) moving the lifter to a position immediately adjacent to the plurality of units of cargo; 
     (c) causing each first/free end of the at least one lifting arm to penetrate the at least one cavity of the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo; 
     (d) while the first/free end of each of the at least one lifting arm has penetrated the at least one cavity of the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo, a crane raising the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo to an elevated position; 
     (e) after step “d”, while the free end of each of the at least one lifting arm has penetrated at least one cavity of the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo, the crane moving the lifter and the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo to a second position, which second position is spaced apart from its position in step “b”, wherein during this step “e” the free end of each of the at least one lifting arm is elevated compared to the second end of each of the at least one lifting arm; 
     (f) after step “e,” the crane depositing the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo at the second position by lowering the lifter/lifting device, and 
     (g) after the lowering of the lifter, the free end of each of the at least one lifting arm being withdrawn from the at least one cavity of each of the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of cargo units. 
     In various embodiments during step “e” wherein during this step “e”, the free end of each of the at least one lifting arm is elevated compared to the second end of each of the at least one lifting arm such that the longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one lifting arm forms an angle of inclination relative to a generally horizontal plane which is greater than 5 degrees. In various embodiments the angle of inclination can be greater than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 89 degrees. In various embodiments the angle of inclination can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for a minimum angle of inclination. 
     In various embodiments, during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e”, the crane can cause the angle of inclination to increase. In various embodiments the increase in the angle of inclination during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e” can be greater than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 90 degrees. In various embodiments the increase in the angle of inclination during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e” can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for an increase in the angle of inclination. 
     In various embodiments, during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e”, the angle of inclination can decrease due the lifter/lifting unit lifting the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo. In various embodiments the decrease in the angle of inclination during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e” from lifting the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo can be at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and/or 15 degrees. In various embodiments the decrease in the angle of inclination during steps “b”, “c”, “d”, and/or “e” from lifting the at least one cargo unit of the plurality of units of cargo can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for a decrease in the angle of inclination. 
     In various embodiments a plurality of lifting arms can be provided with first/front and second/rear ends, wherein each of the plurality of lifting arms can be detachably connectable to the lifter at their second/rear ends. In various embodiments each of the plurality of lifting arms can be substantially of the same length. In various embodiments, the plurality of lifting arms can be of different lengths. In various embodiments the ratio of lengths between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms can be about 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0. In various embodiments the ratio of lengths between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified ratios. 
     In various embodiments the detachable connection of the at least one lifting arm to the lifter can comprise a pin connector. In various embodiments the detachable connection can comprise a set screw connector. 
     In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm detachably connected to the lifting device is selectable by a user. In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm detachably connected to the lifting device selectable by a user is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15. In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm detachably connected to the lifting device selectable by a user can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified quantities. 
     In various embodiments, the cargo lifted by the at least one lifting arm, is forced/tends to move away from the first/free end of the at least one lifting arm to the spaced apart second/rear end of the at least one lifting arm, by the combination of the angle of inclination of the at least one lifting arm and gravity. 
     In various embodiments, during the process of moving a set of a plurality of cargo units (such as coiled wires from a vessel&#39;s hull) where a crane uses a lifter/lifting unit and multiple lifting and depositing steps, the lifter/lifting unit having a first quantity of lifting arms/prongs has its quantity of lifting arms/prongs selectively changed by a user to a second quantity or number which is different than the first quantity or number. After the selective change to the second quantity of lifting arms/prongs, the crane causes the lifter/lifter unit to in quantity additional multiple lifting and depositing steps and a crane causes the lifting unit/lifter to engage in multiple lifting and depositing steps to move an additional plurality of cargo units (such as coiled wires) from the vessel&#39;s hull. 
     In various embodiments different types of cranes can be used with the method and apparatus, such as a vessel&#39;s crane, a shore crane, and/or a floating crane. In various embodiments multiple cranes and multiple lifting devices can be used simultaneously. 
     While certain novel features of this invention shown and described below are pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of the invention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated as being “critical” or “essential.” 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is a left side perspective of one embodiment of a lifter/lifting device. 
         FIG.  2    is a side perspective of the lifting device of  FIG.  1   , but schematically showing that each of the lifting arm/prongs are detachably connectable to the lifting device, with only one lifting arm/prong being shown as detached for purposes of illustration. 
         FIGS.  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C , respectively, are top, right side, and front views of the lifting device of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4    is a lower perspective of the prior art method of lifting coils of wire using slings. 
         FIG.  5    is a front view of the lifting device of  FIG.  1    schematically showing the lifter/lifting device above a set of stored coils in a vessel&#39;s hold (schematically indicating movement of the lifter/lifting device towards the set of stored coils). 
         FIG.  6    is a right side view of the lifting device of  FIG.  5    schematically showing the lifting device being moved towards a set of stored coils in a vessel&#39;s hold, and indicating that the arms/prongs of the lifting device are angled upwardly from a generally horizontal position while the lifter is suspended from a crane. 
         FIG.  7    is a right side view of the lifting device of  FIG.  6    schematically showing the lifting device now having lifted a plurality of coiled wires and also showing the angled upwardly condition of the lifting device when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires. 
         FIG.  8    is a left side perspective view of the lifting device of  FIG.  7   . 
         FIG.  9 A  is a right side view of the lifting device of  FIG.  6    schematically showing the lifting device shortly after having lifted the plurality of coiled wires in  FIGS.  7  and  8   , and also showing the angled upwardly condition of the lifting device when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires, and schematically indicating that the plurality of coiled wires will be transferred, moved to, deposited, and stored on an adjacent barge (with some coils already having been deposited on the adjacent barge). 
         FIG.  9 B  shows the crane moving the plurality of coils for deposit on the barge. 
         FIG.  10 A  is a left side view of the lifting device of  FIG.  6    schematically showing the lifting device shortly after having lifted the plurality of coiled wires in  FIGS.  7  and  8   , and also showing the angled upwardly condition of the lifting device when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires, and schematically indicating that the plurality of coiled wires will be moved and stored on an adjacent dock (with some coils already having been stored on the adjacent dock). 
         FIG.  10 B  shows the crane moving the plurality of coils for deposit on the dock. 
         FIGS.  11 A,  11 B, and  11 C  respectively are top, right side, and front views of the lifting device of  FIG.  1    with some shorter lifting arms/prongs. 
         FIG.  12    is an enlarged perspective view of showing an alternative embodiment of a lifting arm/prong detachably connected to the frame which can be used to selectably adjust the pickup length of the lifting arm/prong with respect to the frame. 
         FIG.  13    is a rear view of the lifting arm/prong shown in  FIG.  12   . 
         FIG.  14    is a top view of the lifting arm/prong shown in  FIG.  12    showing the configuration of the longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the lifting arm/prong. 
         FIG.  15    is a front perspective view of the frame of  FIG.  12    with a plurality of selectively adjustable lifting arms/prongs. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structure or manner. 
       FIG.  1    is a left side perspective of one embodiment of a lifter/lifting device  10 . Generally, lifting device  10  can comprise a frame  100  and a plurality of lifting arms (e.g., arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ).  FIG.  2    is a left side perspective of the lifting device  100 , but schematically showing that each of the lifting arms/prongs  500 , 600 , 700 , 800 , 900  are detachably connectable to the lifting device  10 , with only one lifting prong  500  shown as detached. 
       FIGS.  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C , respectively, are top, right side, and front views of the lifting device  10  with lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  being of substantially equal length  410 .  FIGS.  11 A,  11 B, and  11 C , respectively, are top, right side, and front views of the lifting device  10  with some shorter lifting prongs  800 ′,  900 ′. 
     Frame  100  can comprise a set of structural members forming first/front end  110 , second/rear end  120 , top section/portion  130 , bottom section/portion  134 , and left  138  and right  140  sides. A first family of connectors, such as eyelets  262  and  264  can be provided on the top section  130  and at the second/rear end  120  of frame  100 . A second family of connectors, such as eyelets  270 , can be provided on the top section  130  and toward the first/front end  110  of frame  100 . The second family of eyelets  270  can provide multiple choices for connecting points. For example, in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , three pairs of spaced apart eyelets  270  can be provided, thereby giving a user a choice of which of the three pairs of eyelets will be used to connect frame  100  to crane  1500 . 
     In various embodiments there can be a vertical spacing  160  between the plurality of lifting arms (e.g., arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) and the top section/portion  130  of frame  100 . In various embodiments one or more of the plurality of lifting arms (e.g., arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) can have a length  410  extending outside frame  100 , as shown in  FIGS.  2 ,  3 A, and  3 B . It will be understood that the length  410  of a lifting arm, as measured from where it extends outside of front/free end of the arm, is shorter than its length, as measured from its rear/attached end to its front/free end, the difference being the distance which is the lifting arm is recessed into frame  100  for attachment thereto. Referring e.g., to  FIGS.  2  and  3 A , the length  410  of lifting arm  500  measured from frame  100  is shorter than the length  550  of lifting arm  500  as measured from its rear end  520  to its front end  510 . Henceforth, unless indicated otherwise, the “length” of a lifting arm refers to the distance it extends outside of the frame to its front end, as e.g., length  410  of arm  500  and length  412  of arm  900  as shown in  FIG.  11 C . 
     In various embodiments one or more of the lifting arms (e.g., arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) can be detachably connectable to frame  100 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , in various embodiments a plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be provided with first/free ends (respectively  510 ,  610 ,  710 ,  810 , and  910 ), wherein the first ends are rounded and/or frustoconically shaped. The rounding and/or frustoconical shape can assist the first ends in penetrating cavities of cargo units. 
     In various embodiments a plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be provided with first/front and second/rear ends (respectively  510 , 520 ;  610 , 620 ;  710 , 720 ;  810 , 820 ; and  910 , 920 ), wherein each of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be detachably connectable to the lifter  10  at their second/rear ends (respectively  520 , 620 , 720 , 820 , 920 ). In various embodiments each of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be substantially of the same length  410 . 
     In various embodiments a plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be provided with first/front and second/rear ends (respectively  510 , 520 ;  610 , 620 ;  710 , 720 ;  810 , 820 ; and  910 , 920 ), wherein each of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be detachably connectable to the lifter at their second/rear ends (respectively  520 , 620 , 720 , 820 , 920 ), wherein various of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be of different lengths (e.g., in  FIGS.  11 A through  11 C  showing length  410  for lifting arms  500 , 600 , 700 ; and length  412  for lifting arms  800 ′ and  900 ′). In various embodiments the ratio of lengths between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can be about 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0. In various embodiments the ratio of lengths between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified ratios. 
     In various embodiments the detachable connection between the at least one lifting arm  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  and the frame  100  of the lifter  10  can comprise a pin connector. Pin connectors are shown in  FIGS.  1  through  3   . For example lifting arm  500  can be detachably connectable to frame  100  of lifter  10  via first frame opening  201  and at least one removable connecting pin  540  passing through opening  211  and lifting arm opening  530 . Similar types of detachable connections can be made for lifting arms  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900 —e.g., second frame opening  202  and removable connecting pin  640  passing through connector opening  212  and lifting arm opening  630  for lifting arm  600 ; third frame opening  203  and removable connecting pin  740  passing through connector opening  213  and lifting arm opening  730  for lifting arm  700 ; fourth frame opening  204  and removable connecting pin  840  passing through connector opening  214  and lifting arm opening  830  for lifting arm  800 ; and fifth frame opening  205  and removable connecting pin  940  passing through connector opening  215  and lifting arm opening  930  for lifting arm  900 . 
     In various embodiments the detachable connection can comprise a set screw connector. In various embodiments multiple pins and openings can be provided for each lifting arm (e.g., pins  540 ,  540 ′ inserted respectively into connector openings  211 , 211 ′ and lifting arm openings  530 , 530 ′ for arm  500 ; pins  640 ,  640 ′ inserted respectively into connector openings  212 , 212 ′ and lifting arm openings  630 , 630 ′ for arm  600 ; pins  740 ,  740 ′ inserted respectively into connector openings  213 , 213 ′ and lifting arm openings  730 , 730 ′ for arm  700 ; pins  840 ,  840 ′ inserted respectively into connector openings  214 , 214 ′ and lifting arm openings  830 , 830 ′ for arm  800 ; and pins  940 ,  940 ′ inserted respectively into connector openings  215 , 215 ′ and lifting arm openings  930 , 930 ′ for arm  900 ). In various embodiments one or more frame receiving openings (e.g.,  201 , 202 , 203 , 204 , and/or  205 ) can include a rear stop to prevent the second/rear ends ( 520 , 620 , 720 , 820 , 920 ) of lifting arms  500 , 600 , 700 , 800 , 900  from sliding too far past second/rear end  120  of frame  100  and/or for respectively aligning lifting arm openings  530 , 630 , 730 , 830 , and  930  with connector openings  211 , 212 , 213 , 214 , and  215 . 
     In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) being detachably connected to the frame  100  of the lifting device  10  (such as through one or more openings  201 ,  202 ,  203 ,  204 , and/or  205  in frame  100 ) is selectable by a user. In various embodiments the quantity of at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) being detachably connected to the lifting device  10  selectable by a user is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15. In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) detachably connected to the lifting device  10  selectable by a user can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified quantities. 
       FIG.  4    is a lower perspective of the prior art method of lifting coils of wire  2000  using slings  1610  suspended from a spreader bar  1600 , which in turn is suspended from a plurality of lifting cables  1510 . In this prior art method a plurality of slings  1610  are manually threaded through the cavities  2005  of the wire coils  2000  before lifting. Manually threading slings  1610  is time consuming and dangerous as each of the coils of wire must be manually threaded and a handler must manipulate the coils during this threading process so that the slings can be threaded. For example,  FIG.  6    shows a typical stowage configuration for a plurality of units of cargo  3550 , in this case coils of wire  2000 , in the hold  3000  of a vessel  2900 . Typically, as shown in  FIG.  6   , units of cargo are closely spaced next to each other (e.g., coiled wire units  901 , 903 ,  905 , and  907 ). For a sling  1610  using the prior art method to be threaded through the cavities of two of these adjacent coiled wire units (e.g., units  901  and  903 ) then the units  901 , 903  would have to be manually manipulated to provide a gap between coil wire unit  903  and  905 , allowing the sling  1610  to pass through this gap. This manual manipulation is time consuming and dangerous, as one of the coiled wire units could shift and/or fall on the manipulating person. 
     In various embodiments the method and apparatus can be used to transfer a plurality of cargo units  3550  from the hold  3000  of a vessel  2900  to another vessel such as a barge  3500 , and/or to a dock  3300  as shown, e.g., in  FIGS.  9  and  10   , respectively. In various embodiments the method and apparatus moves a plurality of cargo units when spaced above a water surface (see e.g., in  FIG.  10    water surface  3110  when transferring to dock  3300 , and in  FIG.  9    water surface  3160  when transferring to bare  3500 ). 
       FIG.  5    is a front view of the lifting device  10  schematically showing the lifting device  10  above a set of wire coils  3550  stored in rows (e.g, figure row  2010 , second row  2020 , third row  2030 , and fourth row  2040 ) in a vessel&#39;s hold  3000 . 
       FIG.  6    is a right side view of the lifting device  10  schematically showing the lifting device  10  being moved towards (arrow  3690 ) and penetrating (arrow  52 ) a set of stored coils  3550  in a vessel&#39;s hold  3000 , and indicating that the lifting arms  500 , 600 , 700 , 800 , 900  of the lifting device  10  are angled upwardly (angle of inclination  60 ) from, and relative to, a generally horizontal plane  50 . 
       FIGS.  7  and  8    schematically show the lifting device  10  now having lifted a plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903  and also showing the angled upwardly condition (angle  60 ) of the lifting device  10  when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 . The angle  60  can be controlled by the relative lengths  1522  and  1532  of supporting lines/lifting cables  1520 , 1530 . In various embodiments turnbuckles  1524 ,  1534  can be used to adjust the relative lengths  1522  and  1532  of supporting lines  1520 , 1530 . 
       FIG.  8    is a left side perspective view of the lifting device  10  appearing in  FIG.  7    schematically showing the lifting device  10  having lifted the same plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 , and also showing the angled upwardly condition (angle  60 ) of the lifting device  10  when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 . 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  6 - 8   , the vertical spacing  160  between top section/portion  130  of frame  100  and the plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 ,  900 , can be large enough so that a gap  164  exists after first ends  510 ,  610 ,  710 ,  810 ,  910  of plurality of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 ,  900 , have penetrated the respective cavities of plurality of units of cargo units/coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 . Otherwise, complete penetration by the entire lengths of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 ,  900  into cavities  502 ,  602 ,  702 ,  802 ,  902  could be blocked by a lack of adequate vertical spacing  160 . 
     In various embodiments there can be horizontal spacing between the respective center lines of adjacent lifting arms, e.g., horizontal spacings  422 , 424 , 426 , and  428 , as shown in  FIG.  1   . In various embodiments, the width presented by the totality of lifting arms, measured from the centerline of the first lifting arm to the centerline of the last lifting arm, is generally consistent with the width presented by the totality of cargo units to be picked up at one time by lifter  10 , measured from the center of the cavity of the first cargo unit to the center of the cavity of the last cargo unit (for example, width  420  presented by the totality of the lifting arms  500 , 600 , 700 , 800 , and  900  is generally consistent with width  1000  presented by adjacent cargo units  503 , 603 , 703 , 803 , 903 , as shown in  FIG.  8   ). 
     In various embodiments, the horizontal spacing between adjacent lifting arms, measured from their respective center lines, can be generally consistent with the horizontal spacing between adjacent cargo units to be picked up, measured from the respective centers of the respective cavities of the adjacent cargo units (for example, as shown in  FIG.  5   , horizontal spacing  422  between adjacent lifting arms  500  and  600  is generally consistent with horizontal spacing  2012  between adjacent cargo units  501  and  601  in row  2010 ). 
       FIG.  9 A  is aright side view of the lifting device  10  schematically showing via arrow  3700  the lifting device  10  shortly after having lifted the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 , and also showing the angled upwardly condition (angle of inclination  60 ) of the arms of lifting device  10  when lifting and moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 , and schematically indicating via arrows  3702  and  3704  that the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903  will be moved and deposited on an adjacent barge  3500  (with some coils  3600  already having been deposited on the adjacent barge  3500 ). 
       FIG.  9 B  schematically shows via arrows  3710  and  3712  the crane  1500  moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903  for deposit on the barge  3500 . 
       FIG.  10 A  is a left side view of the lifting device  10  schematically showing via arrow  3720  the lifting device  10  shortly after having lifted the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 , and also showing the angled upwardly condition (angle of inclination  60 ) of the arms of lifting device  10  when lifting (shown via arrow  3722 ) and moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903 , and schematically indicating via arrow  3724  that the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903  will be moved and deposited on an adjacent dock  3300  (with some coils  3650  already having been stored on the adjacent dock  3300 ). 
       FIG.  10 B  schematically shows via arrows  3730  and  3732  the crane  1500  moving the plurality of coiled wires  501 , 503 ;  601 , 603 ;  701 , 703 ;  801 , 803 ; and  901 , 903  for deposit on the dock  3300 . 
     Various Embodiments of Method 
     In various embodiments is provided a method of moving a plurality of cargo units  3550  (e.g.,  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ), each of the cargo units (e.g.,  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) having a cavity (e.g., respectively  902 ,  802 ,  702 ,  602 , and  502 ), comprising the steps of: 
     (a) providing a lifter/lifting device  10 , the lifter  10  including: 
     (i) a frame  100  with first/front  110  and second/rear  120  ends and top  130  and bottom  134  portions; and 
     (ii) at least one lifting arm (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) having spaced apart first/front/free (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) and second/rear (e.g., respectively  920 ,  820 ,  720 ,  620 , and  520 ) ends, wherein the second/rear end (e.g., respectively  920 ,  820 ,  720 ,  620 , and  520 ) is detachably connected to the frame  100  at the second/rear end  120  of the frame  100 ; 
     (b) moving the lifter  10  to a position immediately adjacent the plurality of units of cargo  3550  (e.g., see  FIGS.  5  through  9 B ); 
     (c) causing each first/front/free end (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., respectively  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) to penetrate at least one cavity (e.g., respectively  902 ,  802 ,  702 ,  602 , and  502 ) of the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550 ; 
     (d) while each first/front/free end (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) has penetrated the at least one cavity (e.g., respectively  902 ,  802 ,  702 ,  602 , and  502 ) of the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550 , a crane  1500  raising the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550  to an elevated position (see e.g.,  FIGS.  6 - 8  and  9 A and  9 B ); 
     (e) after step “d”, while each first/front/free end (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., respectively  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) has penetrated at least one cavity (e.g., respectively  902 ,  802 ,  702 ,  602 , and  502 ) of the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550 , the crane  1500  moving the lifter  10  and the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550  to a second position (see e.g.,  FIGS.  6 - 8  and  9 A and  9 B ) which second position is spaced apart from its position in step “b” (see e.g.,  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B ), wherein during this step “e” each first/front/free end (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) is elevated compared to each second/rear end (e.g., respectively  920 ,  820 ,  720 ,  620 , and  520 ) of the at least one lifting arm (see e.g.,  FIGS.  6 - 8  and  9 A and  9 B ); 
     (f) after step “e, the crane  1500  depositing the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of units of cargo  3550  at the second position by lowering the lifter/lifting device  10 ; and 
     (g) after the lowering of the lifter/lifting device  10 , each first/front/free end (e.g., respectively  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) is withdrawn from the at least one cavity (e.g., respectively  902 ,  802 ,  702 ,  602 , and  502 ) of the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) of the plurality of cargo units  3550 . 
     In various embodiments during step “e” each first/front/free end (e.g.,  910 ,  810 ,  710 ,  610 , and  510 ) of the at least one lifting arm (respectively,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) is elevated compared to each second/rear end (respectively,  920 ,  820 ,  720 ,  620 , and  520 ) of the at least one lifting arm (respectively,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ), the longitudinal axis (respectively,  914 ,  814 ,  714 ,  614 , and  514 ) of the at least one lifting arm (respectively,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) forms an angle of inclination  60  relative to a generally horizontal plane  50  which is greater than 5 degrees. In various embodiments the angle of inclination  60  can be greater than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 89 degrees. In various embodiments the angle of inclination  60  can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for a minimum angle of inclination. 
     In various embodiments between steps “c” and “e” the crane  1500  can cause the longitudinal axis (respectively,  914 ,  814 ,  714 ,  614 , and  514 ) of the at least one lifting arm (respectively,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) to increase its angle of inclination  60  relative to a generally horizontal plane  50  (see e.g., angle  60  in  FIG.  7   ). In various embodiments the increase in the angle of inclination  60  between steps “c” and “e” can be greater than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 89 degrees. In various embodiments the increase in the angle of inclination  60  between steps “c” and “e” can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for an increase in the angle of inclination  60 . 
     In various embodiments, prior to step “c” and/or after step “f”, the length  1532  of lifting cables  1530  can be shortened relative to the length  1522  of lifting cables  1520 , or the length  1522  of lifting cables  1520  can be lengthened relative to the length  1532  of lifting cables  1530 , in order to cause the longitudinal axis (respectively,  914 ,  814 ,  714 ,  614 , and  514 ) of the at least one lifting arm (respectively,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) to increase its angle of inclination  60  relative to a generally horizontal plane  50  (see e.g., angle  60  in  FIG.  7   ). Similarly, in various embodiments, prior to step “c” and/or after step “f”, the length  1532  of lifting cables  1530  can be lengthened relative to the length  1522  of lifting cables  1520 , or lifting cables  1530 , in order to decrease the angle of inclination  60  relative to a generally horizontal plane  50 . In various embodiments such increase or decrease in the angle of inclination  60  can be greater than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 89 degrees. In various embodiments the increase or decrease in the angle of inclination  60  can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified degree measurements for an increase in the angle of inclination  60 . 
     In various embodiments, during step “d”, the at least one cargo unit (e.g.,  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 , respectively) each includes first and second ends, and has each respective first end placed in an elevated condition relative to each respective second end (see e.g.,  FIG.  7   ). In various embodiments the at least one cargo unit (e.g., respectively  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ) each include a longitudinal centerline, and during step “d” each such longitudinal centerline has an angle of inclination substantially equal to the angle of inclination of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., respectively  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) penetrating and supporting the at least one cargo unit (respectively,  901 ,  801 ,  701 ,  601 , and  501 ). 
     In various embodiments a plurality of lifting arms (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) can be provided with first/front and second/rear ends (respectively,  910 , 920 ;  810 , 820 ;  710 , 720 ;  610 , 620 , and  510 , 520 ), wherein each of the plurality of lifting arms ( 900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) can be detachably connectable to the frame  100  of the lifter  10  at their second ends (respectively,  920 ,  820 ,  720 ,  620 , and  520 ), wherein various of the plurality of lifting arms can be of different lengths (see e.g., lengths  410  and  412  shown in  FIGS.  11 A,  11 B, and  11 C ). In various embodiments the ratio of lengths (length  412 /length  410 ) between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms (e.g.,  800 , 900 ) to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms (e.g.,  500 , 600 , 700 ) can be about 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0. In various embodiments the ratio of lengths (length  412 /length  410 ) between the shortest of the plurality of lifting arms (e.g.,  800 , 900 ) to the longest of the plurality of lifting arms (e.g.,  500 , 600 , 700 ) can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified ratios. 
     In various embodiments the detachable connection of the at least one lifting arm (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and  500 ) to the frame  100  of the lifter  10  can comprise a pin connector (e.g., pin  540  for lifting arm  500 , pin  640  for lifting arm  600 , pin  740  for lifting arm  700 , pin  840  for lifting arm  800 , and pin  940  for lifting arm  900 ). In various embodiments the detachable connection can comprise a set screw connector. 
     In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) detachably connected to the frame  100  of lifting device  10  is selectable by a user. In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) detachably connected to the frame  100  of the lifting device  10  selectable by a user is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15. In various embodiments the quantity of the at least one lifting arm (e.g., lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) detachably connected to the frame  100  of the lifting device  10  selectable by a user can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified quantities. 
     In various embodiments, one or more of the lifting arms can be provided with a connector at the lifting arm first/front end, such as connector eyelets  512 , 612 , 712 , 812 , and  912 , each connector extending, respectively, from the front ends  510 ,  610 ,  710 ,  810 , and  910  of lifting arms  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900 , as shown in  FIG.  2   . Such connector provided at the first/front/free end of a lifting arm can facilitate the installation and/or removal of such lifting arm from the frame  100  of lifter  10 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  2   , eyelet  512  can provide a convenient point for attaching a cable (not shown) which can be used to pull lifting arm  500  out of frame  100 ) when connecting pin  540  is disengaged from connector opening  211 ). 
       FIG.  12    is an enlarged perspective view of showing an alternative embodiment of a lifting arm/prong  900  detachably connected to the frame  100  via connecting pin/bolt  940  and connector brackets  215 , which can be used to selectably adjust the pickup length of the lifting arm/prong  900  with respect to the frame  100  via a selection of one of the pairs of longitudinally spaced paired openings  930 ,  931 ,  932 , or  934 .  FIG.  13    is a rear view of the lifting arm/prong  900  shown in  FIG.  12   . 
       FIG.  14    is a top view of a lifting arm/prong  900  showing the configuration of the plurality of pairs of longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings (e.g.,  930 ,  931 ,  932 , and/or  934 ) with respect to the longitudinal centerline  902  of the lifting arm/prong  900 . The horizontal arrows schematically indicating which of the connector openings are paired to each other. 
     In various embodiments, one or more of the lifting arms/prongs (e.g.,  900 ,  800 ,  700 ,  600 , and/or  500 ) can each be provided with a plurality of user selectable longitudinally spaced apart paired positioning connector openings (which set of a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings can be located closer to the second end of each lifting arm/prong). For example lifting arm/prong  900  can be provided with selectable paired connector openings  930 ,  931 ,  932 , and  934  which are longitudinally spaced about the longitudinal centerline  902  of lifting arm/prong  900 . The longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings allow a user to select a desired length for a particular arm/prong extending outside of frame  100 . For example, the longest length  410  for arm/prong  900  can be achieved by using connecting pin/bolt  940  with paired openings  930  and connector brackets  215 , and the shortest length  412  of arm/prong  900  by using paired openings  934  and connector brackets. 
     As other examples lifting arm/prong  500  can be provided with selectable paired connector openings  530 ,  531 ,  532 , and  534  which are longitudinally spaced about the longitudinal centerline  502  of lifting arm/prong  500  (selectively usable with pin/bolt  540  and connector brackets  211  for adjusting the pickup length of the arm/prong); lifting arm/prong  600  can be provided with selectable paired connector openings  630 ,  631 ,  632 , and  634  which are longitudinally spaced about the longitudinal centerline  602  of lifting arm/prong  600  (selectively usable with pin/bolt  640  and connector brackets  212  for adjusting the pickup length of the arm/prong); lifting arm/prong  700  can be provided with selectable paired connector openings  730 ,  731 ,  732 , and  734  which are longitudinally spaced about the longitudinal centerline  702  of lifting arm/prong  700  (selectively usable with pin/bolt  740  and connector brackets  213  for adjusting the pickup length of the arm/prong); and lifting arm/prong  800  can be provided with selectable paired connector openings  830 ,  831 ,  832 , and  834  which are longitudinally spaced about the longitudinal centerline  802  of lifting arm/prong  800  (selectively usable with pin/bolt  840  and connector brackets  214  for adjusting the pickup length of the arm/prong). 
     In various embodiments the at least two(2) pairs of longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings are provided in a pickup arm/prong which allow a user to select a desired arm pickup length for the particular arm/prong extending outside of frame  100 . In various embodiments the quantity of pairs of longitudinally spaced art paired connector openings in any one pickup arm/prong can be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 pairs. In various embodiments the quantity of pairs of longitudinally spaced art paired connector openings in any one pickup arm/prong can fall within a range of between any two of the above specified quantities of pairs of longitudinally spaced apart paired connector openings. 
       FIG.  15    is a front perspective view of the frame  100  with a plurality of selectively adjustable lifting arms/prongs  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900 . Arms  500  and  600  are shown selectively connected to frame  100  so that their pickup length  450  is maximized (e.g., by using paired connecting openings  530 , connector  540 , and brackets  211  for arm/prong  500 ; and paired connecting openings  630 , connector  640 , and brackets  212  for arm/prong  600 ). Arm  700  has a medium pick up length  452  (by using paired connecting openings  730 , connector  740 , and brackets  213  for arm/prong  700 ). Arms  800  and  900  are shown at a shorter length  454  (e.g., by using paired connecting openings  830 , connector  840 , and brackets  214  for arm/prong  800  and paired connecting openings  930 , connector  940 , and brackets  215  for arm/prong  900 ). However, it is noted that any one of the paired longitudinally spaced apart connector openings of an arm could be used with the connector and brackets to obtain a selected pickup length (e.g., paired openings  532  of arm/prong  500  or paired openings  631  of arm/prong  600  could be used). 
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 TABLE OF REFERENCE NUMERALS: 
               
               
                 The following is a table of reference numerals used in this application: 
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 Reference 
                   
               
               
                 Number 
                 Description 
               
               
                   
               
               
                  10 
                 lifter/lifting device 
               
               
                  50 
                 generally horizontal plane 
               
               
                  52 
                 arrow in Figure 6 showing direction of movement of 
               
               
                   
                 unloaded lifter 10, penetrating cargo units to be lifted 
               
               
                  60 
                 angle of inclination 
               
               
                 100 
                 frame of lifter/lifting device 10 
               
               
                 110 
                 first end/front of frame 100 
               
               
                 120 
                 second end/rear of frame 100 
               
               
                 130 
                 top section/portion of frame 100 
               
               
                 134 
                 bottom section/portion of frame 100 
               
               
                 138 
                 left side of frame 100 
               
               
                 140 
                 right side of frame 100 
               
               
                 150 
                 width of frame 100 
               
               
                 154 
                 height of frame 100 
               
               
                 160 
                 vertical spacing between lifting arm and top section 130 
               
               
                   
                 of frame 100 
               
               
                 164 
                 gap between top of penetrated cargo unit and top 
               
               
                   
                 section 130 of frame 100 
               
               
                 201 
                 first frame opening 
               
               
                 202 
                 second frame opening 
               
               
                 203 
                 third frame opening 
               
               
                 204 
                 fourth frame opening 
               
               
                 205 
                 fifth frame opening 
               
               
                 211 
                 first pair of connecting brackets 
               
               
                 212 
                 second pair of connecting brackets 
               
               
                 213 
                 third pair of connecting brackets 
               
               
                 214 
                 fourth pair of connecting brackets 
               
               
                 215 
                 fifth pair of connecting brackets 
               
               
                 262 
                 first connector eyelet of first family/set of connectors 
               
               
                 264 
                 second connector eyelet of first family/set of connectors 
               
               
                 270 
                 second family/set of connectors 
               
               
                 410 
                 length of lifting arm extending outside of frame 100 
               
               
                 412 
                 length of alternative (shorter) lifting arm extending 
               
               
                   
                 outside of frame 100 
               
               
                 416 
                 arrow indicating adjustability of lengths 410,412 of 
               
               
                   
                 connecting arms/prongs 
               
               
                 420 
                 width presented by lifting arms 
               
               
                 422 
                 horizontal spacing between the respective centerlines of 
               
               
                   
                 lifting arms 500 and 600 
               
               
                 424 
                 horizontal spacing between the respective centerlines of 
               
               
                   
                 lifting arms 600 and 700 
               
               
                 426 
                 horizontal spacing between the respective centerlines of 
               
               
                   
                 lifting arms 700 and 800 
               
               
                 428 
                 horizontal spacing between the respective \centerlines 
               
               
                   
                 of lifting arms 800 and 900 
               
               
                 500 
                 first lifting arm/prong 
               
               
                 501 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 502 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 501 
               
               
                 503 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 504 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 503 
               
               
                 510 
                 first/front/free end of lifting arm 500 
               
               
                 512 
                 connector eyelet extending from front end 510 of lifting 
               
               
                   
                 arm 500 
               
               
                 514 
                 longitudinal centerline of lifting arm 500 
               
               
                 520 
                 second/rear end of lifting arm 500 
               
               
                 530 
                 opening in lifting arm 500 for connecting pin 540 
               
               
                 540 
                 removable connecting pin 
               
               
                 550 
                 length of first lifting arm 500 measured from its 
               
               
                   
                 first/front end 510 to its second/rear end 520 
               
               
                 600 
                 second lifting arm/prong 
               
               
                 601 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 602 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 601 
               
               
                 603 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 604 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 603 
               
               
                 610 
                 first/front/free end of lifting arm 600 
               
               
                 612 
                 connector eyelet extending from front end 610 of lifting 
               
               
                   
                 arm 600 
               
               
                 614 
                 longitudinal centerline of lifting arm 600 
               
               
                 620 
                 second/rear end of lifting arm 600 
               
               
                 630 
                 opening in lifting arm 600 for connecting pin 640 
               
               
                 640 
                 removable connecting pin 
               
               
                 650 
                 length of second lifting arm 600 measured from its 
               
               
                   
                 first/front end 610 to its second/rear end 620 
               
               
                 700 
                 third lifting arm/prong 
               
               
                 701 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 702 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 701 
               
               
                 703 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 704 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 703 
               
               
                 710 
                 first/front/free end of lifting arm 700 
               
               
                 712 
                 connector eyelet extending from front end 710 of lifting 
               
               
                   
                 arm 700 
               
               
                 714 
                 longitudinal centerline of lifting arm 700 
               
               
                 720 
                 second/rear end of lifting arm 700 
               
               
                 730 
                 opening in lifting arm 700 for connecting pin 740 
               
               
                 740 
                 removable connecting pin 
               
               
                 750 
                 length of third lifting arm 700 measured from its 
               
               
                   
                 first/front end 710 to its second/rear end 720 
               
               
                 800 
                 fourth lifting arm/prong 
               
               
                 801 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 802 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 801 
               
               
                 803 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 804 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 803 
               
               
                 810 
                 first/front/free end of lifting arm 800 
               
               
                 812 
                 connector eyelet extending from front end 810 of lifting 
               
               
                   
                 arm 800 
               
               
                 814 
                 longitudinal centerline of lifting arm 800 
               
               
                 820 
                 second/rear end of lifting arm 800 
               
               
                 830 
                 opening in lifting arm 800 for connecting pin 840 
               
               
                 840 
                 removable connecting pin 
               
               
                 850 
                 length of fourth lifting arm 800 measured from its 
               
               
                   
                 first/front end 810 to its second/rear end 820 
               
               
                 900 
                 fifth lifting arm/prong 
               
               
                 901 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 902 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 901 
               
               
                 903 
                 cargo unit/coil of wire picked up by lifting arm 
               
               
                 904 
                 interior cavity of cargo unit 903 
               
               
                 910 
                 first/front/free end of lifting arm 900 
               
               
                 912 
                 connector eyelet extending from front end 910 of lifting 
               
               
                   
                 arm 900 
               
               
                 914 
                 longitudinal centerline of lifting arm 900 
               
               
                 920 
                 second/rear end of lifting arm 900 
               
               
                 930 
                 opening in lifting arm 900 for connecting pin 940 
               
               
                 931 
                 pair of longitudinally spaced paired openings 
               
               
                 932 
                 pair of longitudinally spaced paired openings 
               
               
                 933 
                 pair of longitudinally spaced paired openings 
               
               
                 934 
                 pair of longitudinally spaced paired openings 
               
               
                 940 
                 removable connecting pin 
               
               
                 950 
                 length of fifth lifting arm 900 measured from its 
               
               
                   
                 first/front end 910 to its second/rear end 920 
               
               
                 1000  
                 width presented by adjacent cargo units to be picked up 
               
               
                   
                 at one time by lifter 10 
               
               
                 1500  
                 crane 
               
               
                 1510  
                 plurality of lifting cables 
               
               
                 1520  
                 first set of lifting cables/supporting lines 
               
               
                 1522  
                 length of first set of lifting cables/supporting lines 1520 
               
               
                 1524  
                 turnbuckles for first set of lifting cables 1520 
               
               
                 1530  
                 second set of lifting cables/supporting lines 
               
               
                 1532  
                 length of second set of lifting cables/supporting lines 
               
               
                   
                 1530 
               
               
                 1534  
                 turnbuckles for second set of lifting cables 1530 
               
               
                 1600  
                 spreader bar 
               
               
                 1610  
                 plurality of slings 
               
               
                 2000  
                 plurality of wire coils 
               
               
                 2005  
                 wire coil cavity 
               
               
                 2010  
                 first row of stored wire coils 2000 
               
               
                 2012  
                 horizontal spacing between centers of cavities of 
               
               
                   
                 adjacent cargo units in first row 
               
               
                 2020  
                 second row of stored wire coils 2000 
               
               
                 2030  
                 third row of stored wire coils 2000 
               
               
                 2040  
                 fourth row of stored wire coils 2000 
               
               
                 2900  
                 vessel 
               
               
                 3000  
                 vessel hold 
               
               
                 3100  
                 water 
               
               
                 3110  
                 water surface 
               
               
                 3160  
                 water surface 
               
               
                 3300  
                 dock 
               
               
                 3500  
                 barge 
               
               
                 3550  
                 cargo units/wire coils to be unloaded 
               
               
                 3600  
                 unloaded cargo units deposited on barge 3500 
               
               
                 3650  
                 unloaded cargo units deposited on dock 3550 
               
               
                 3690  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3700  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3702  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3704  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3710  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3712  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3720  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3722  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3724  
                 arrow showing direction of movement of lifter 10 
               
               
                 3730  
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     It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in the appended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.