Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A ship and associated methods of operation. In an example embodiment, a method of operating a ship includes providing multiple vessels each having a first deck attached to two spaced-apart hull sections. The deck and hull sections define a cavity when the vessel is afloat. A plurality of like coupling mechanisms are provided, each suitable for joining two of the vessels. First and second vessels are joined along starboard and port sides of the deck of the second vessel with one of the coupling mechanisms. Joining is effected by attaching a first of the hull sections on the first vessel to the deck of the second vessel along the port side of the second vessel, and attaching a second of the hull sections on the first vessel to the deck of the second vessel along the starboard side of the second vessel. When coupled to one another the deck of the second vessel is positioned between the first and second hull sections of the first vessel. Attaching of the first vessel to the second vessel includes positioning of a first pin between the first hull section and the deck of the second vessel and positioning of a second pin between the second hull section and the deck of the second vessel. The first coupling mechanism limits movement of the first and second vessels, with respect to one another, to movement about a single axis of rotation, this permitting the first vessel to undergo changes in pitch relative to the second vessel.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim