EP0097088B1 - Floating harbour pontoon for loading or unloading ships, especially roll on, roll off ships - Google Patents

Floating harbour pontoon for loading or unloading ships, especially roll on, roll off ships Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0097088B1
EP0097088B1 EP83401144A EP83401144A EP0097088B1 EP 0097088 B1 EP0097088 B1 EP 0097088B1 EP 83401144 A EP83401144 A EP 83401144A EP 83401144 A EP83401144 A EP 83401144A EP 0097088 B1 EP0097088 B1 EP 0097088B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
aforesaid
bridge
quay
bars
bridge according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP83401144A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0097088A1 (en
Inventor
Pierre Georges G. Lemaitre
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Mac Gregor International SA
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Mac Gregor International SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from FR8209676A external-priority patent/FR2528004B1/en
Priority claimed from FR8304976A external-priority patent/FR2543101B2/en
Application filed by Mac Gregor International SA filed Critical Mac Gregor International SA
Publication of EP0097088A1 publication Critical patent/EP0097088A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0097088B1 publication Critical patent/EP0097088B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B39/00—Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude
    • B63B39/02—Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by displacement of masses
    • B63B39/03—Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by displacement of masses by transferring liquids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B27/00—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers
    • B63B27/14—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers of ramps, gangways or outboard ladders ; Pilot lifts
    • B63B27/143—Ramps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B27/00—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers
    • B63B27/19—Other loading or unloading equipment involving an intermittent action, not provided in groups B63B27/04 - B63B27/18
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
    • E01D—CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGES, ELEVATED ROADWAYS OR VIADUCTS; ASSEMBLY OF BRIDGES
    • E01D15/00—Movable or portable bridges; Floating bridges
    • E01D15/24—Bridges or similar structures, based on land or on a fixed structure and designed to give access to ships or other floating structures

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a floating port pontoon for loading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro.
  • a floating port pontoon of the type described in the preamble of claim 1 is known from GB-A No. 1569564.
  • Another known floating port pontoon for loading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro comprises a ballasting system, a one end of said pontoon being linked to a quay and another end being adjacent to said ship, so as to provide a connecting track between the quay and the ship.
  • the end on the quay side rests on a civil engineering structure specially designed at the quay and the other end, on the ship side, is supported by a float balancing only the self weight of the pontoon.
  • This float is also connected laterally by a rack arm to a Duke of Alba to allow positioning in the longitudinal axis of the ship. In operation, the float is connected to the ship in such a way that this connection absorbs the overloads due to the rolling vehicles.
  • pontoons have a number of drawbacks. Indeed, it is necessary in this case to adjust the transverse position of the pontoon relative to the ship, to provide a special connection with the ship to absorb the rolling overloads and to specially prepare a quay to receive the end of said pontoon. In addition, it is very difficult to change this known pontoon site because of the important operations necessary for this: lifting the pontoon on the quay side, positioning a barge under the part not supported by the float, towing, etc.
  • the present invention aims to eliminate all the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art by creating a floating port pontoon unloading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro, of the type comprising a ballasting system, one end of said pontoon being linked to a quay and another end being adjacent to said ship, so as to provide a connection path between the quay and the ship, characterized in that said end of the pontoon, side by side, is in one-sided connection with the latter, by simple pressing on it , and in that said ballasting system is designed so that said end of the pontoon, quay side, always exerts a downward pressure force on it, regardless of the relative position of the overloads or rolling loads on the pontoon, in the limit of the maximum admissible overloads or rolling loads corresponding to the said ballasting system.
  • the pontoon according to the invention thus supports not only its own weight but also all rolling loads when loading or unloading the ship.
  • the ballasting system makes it possible to ensure that the quay side end of the pontoon is never lifted from the quay, by longitudinal tilting under the rolling loads arriving at the opposite end, but is on the contrary designed so as to always exert a bearing pressure on the quay, regardless of the existence and the relative position of rolling loads on the pontoon.
  • the pontoon comprises a ramp whose free end rests in simple support on the quay, and a floating platform, in particular of generally rectangular parallelepiped shape, integral with said ramp, adjacent to the aforementioned ship and provided with the aforementioned ballasting system; the side of said platform integral with said ramp being in particular opposite to the side adjacent to the ship.
  • the aforementioned platform is divided by a vertical partition substantially parallel to the aforementioned sides of the platform integral with the aforementioned ramp and adjacent to the aforementioned vessel, respectively, and located in particular in the plane vertical transverse median of the platform; said partition defining, on the quay side, at least one ballast compartment preferably filled at least partially with water and, on the other hand on the side adjacent to the ship, at least one lower compartment, permanently filled with air , surmounted by a ballast compartment preferably at least partially filled with water; said ballast compartments communicating through at least one balancing orifice provided in said partition; said compartments defining a ballast assembly.
  • the opening of the above-mentioned balancing orifice can be controlled by a valve.
  • the aforementioned platform comprises two aforementioned ballasting assemblies arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal median vertical plane of the pontoon and separated by at least one bell or marnant compartment communicating by at least one. orifice with outside air.
  • This communication orifice possibly fitted with a valve, is calibrated so that the water level in this compartment will follow the tide level according to a predetermined function of time.
  • the aforementioned end of the pontoon in simple support on the quay comprises at least one support member consisting of two yokes integral with said end and coming to cap by their cylindrical concave internal surface a cylindrical trunnion integral a pad, with a convex cylindrical face, bearing on the quay.
  • Each aforementioned yoke can be closed by a removable retaining tab.
  • the above-mentioned suspension system comprises a means forming a loop cable passing through a system of pulleys fixed at the lower and upper ends, respectively, of two means forming brackets provided, on the quay, on either side other from the aforementioned end of the pontoon, and passing below said end; the ends of said cable being connected to the ends of the transverse edge beam of said end of the pontoon, said beam playing the role of a lifter.
  • the ends of the aforementioned cable are connected to the ends of the aforementioned edge beam by means forming a shackle; each of said ends being connected to the collar of each shackle, while a pivoting connecting member connects, on the one hand, the axis of said shackle and, on the other hand, an axis substantially horizontal and parallel to the edge beam above passing through a screed means provided at each end of said edge beam.
  • Turnbuckles are possibly provided to wrinkle the cables.
  • the aforementioned suspension system consists of a deformable polygon, consisting of a number of bars, in particular of metal, connected together and / or at the aforementioned end of the pontoon.
  • the aforementioned polygon comprises two suspension bars or hangers connected, on the one hand, to the ends of the aforementioned transverse edge beam of the aforementioned end of the pontoon and, on the other hand, to one end of the first means forming spreaders attached to the top of means forming brackets placed, on the quay, on either side of said end of the pontoon, and which can oscillate around an axis substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pontoon; two suspension bars connected, on the one hand, to the other end of said lifter means and, on the other hand, to one end of the second lifter means provided at the lower end of said brackets, and which can oscillate around a substantially horizontal axis and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pontoon, and a balancing crosspiece passing under said end of the pontoon and the two ends of which are articulated at the other end of said second lifting beam means.
  • the upper ends of the aforementioned lines are placed freely movable on the ends of the aforementioned spreaders, produced in particular in the form of a fork.
  • the upper ends of the aforementioned lines are articulated to the first aforementioned spreaders, in particular by a universal joint, the spider of which is rotatably mounted in flanged forks provided at the end of said spreaders and said lines, respectively.
  • the lower ends of the aforementioned lines are articulated at the aforementioned ends of the aforementioned edge beam, in particular by a universal joint, the crosspiece of which is rotatably mounted in the flange forks provided at the lower ends of said lines and at the ends of said edge beam, respectively.
  • the second aforementioned lifting beams are produced in the form of substantially triangular plates at the vertices of which the aforementioned axis of rotation is provided, as well as the axes of articulation of the aforementioned bars.
  • the articulation of the aforementioned bars to the first and second aforementioned lifting beams is effected by means of flange forks provided at the ends of said bars and in which the aforementioned articulation axes can pivot.
  • the aforementioned end of the pontoon is equipped with a certain number of defenses, while a secondary connection is provided between the quay and the aforementioned end of the pontoon by means of cables, tie rods and, optionally, shock absorbers.
  • the road connection between the aforementioned end of the pontoon and the quay is provided by a number of flaps articulated at said end and coming to rest on the quay.
  • the pontoon can be equipped with a bumper system distributed along its side walls, as well as a mooring system comprising a certain number of chains and fixed hawsers , on the one hand, at the quay and, on the other hand at the pontoon, in particular at the ramp and at the platform constituting it.
  • the floating port pontoon 1 for loading and unloading a ship 2, in particular a ro-ro ship, comprises a ballasting system 3.
  • One end 4 of the pontoon 1 is linked to a quay: 5 and another end 6, notably opposite to the first end 4 is adjacent to the ship 2, so as to form a connecting track between the quay 5 and the ship 2.
  • the end 4 of the pontoon 1, platform side 5, is unilaterally connected with the latter by simple pressing thereon.
  • the ballasting system 3 is designed so that the end 4 of the pontoon, side 5, always exerts a downward pressure force on it, regardless of the relative position of the overloads or rolling loads R on the pontoon 1 , within the limit of the maximum allowable overloads or rolling loads corresponding to the ballasting system 3.
  • the pontoon 1 comprises a ramp 7 whose free end 4 rests in simple support on the quay 5, and a floating platform 8, in particular of generally shaped rectangular parallelepiped, integral with the ramp 7, adjacent to the vessel 2 and provided with the ballasting system 3.
  • the side 9 of the platform 8 is integral with the ramp 7 and opposite the side 10 adjacent to the vessel 2.
  • the platform 8 is divided by a vertical partition 11 substantially parallel to the sides 9, 10 of the platform 8 secured to the ramp 7 and adjacent to the ship 2, respectively.
  • the vertical partition 11 is in particular located in the transverse median vertical plane of the platform 8, that is to say the plane perpendicular to the median vertical longitudinal plane of the pontoon X, X ′ whose intersection with the bridge of the platform 8 and the ramp 7 defines the direction of the connecting track connecting, via the pontoon 1, the quay 5 to the ship 2.
  • the partition 11 may extend over all or part of the width or possibly of the length of the platform 8 (in the example shown, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 1, the upper surface of the platform 8 is substantially square but can of course have another shape, in particular rectangular).
  • the partition 11 defines, on the quay side, at least one ballast compartment 12 filled at least partially with water and, on the other hand on the side adjacent to the ship, at least one lower compartment 13, filled permanently air, surmounted by a ballast compartment 14 at least partially filled with water.
  • the ballast compartments 12,14 at least partially filled with water communicate through a balancing orifice 15 provided in the partition 11.
  • the compartments 12,13,14 define what will be called hereinafter a ballast assembly.
  • the opening of the balancing orifice 15 can be controlled by a valve 16.
  • the platform 8. comprises two ballasting assemblies 3a, 3b, each comprising the compartments 12, 13, 14 defined above.
  • the ballast assemblies 3a, 3b are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal median vertical plane of the pontoon X, X 'and are separated by at least one bell or marnant compartment 17 communicating by at least one orifice 18 with the outside air.
  • one or two aforementioned bell compartments 17 can be provided.
  • the communication orifice 18, possibly fitted with a valve 19, is calibrated so that the water level in the marling compartment follows the level of the tide.
  • the ballasting system 3 described above operates as follows.
  • the compartment (s) 13 permanently filled with air generate a hydrostatic thrust constant in intensity and at the point of application exerting a downward pressure force on the end 4 of the pontoon 1 (that is to say in the embodiment illustrated on the end of the ramp 7) by simple support on the platform 5.
  • the volume of the compartment (s) permanently filled with air is of course adapted so that, in relation to the position of the center of gravity of the pontoon, the support on the quay always remains positive despite the presence of the highest rated loads R expected arriving at the end on the ship side of the pontoon.
  • the marly compartment or compartments 17 communicate with the outside air through a calibrated orifice 18 so that the water level in the compartment or compartments follows the level of the tide.
  • the air passage rate through the orifice 18 must correspond to the period of the tide, that is to say approximately 6 h.
  • the lateral compartments 12 and 14 make it possible to ensure transverse balance in the event that the rolling load is transversely offset with respect to the median longitudinal vertical plane of the pontoon (the line E, E 'representing the sea level).
  • Fig. 5a also illustrates the behavior of pontoon 1 according to the level of the tide.
  • the upper line A, A're represents any level of the tide.
  • the ballasting compartments 12, 14 are filled with water at a level corresponding substantially to that of the sea, the orifice 15 provided in the partition 11 separating the two compartments 12, 14 facilitating the equalization of the levels d in said compartments. It is obvious that this is valid for the two ballasting systems 3a, 3b each comprising two compartments 12, 14 for ballasting.
  • the end of the deck of the platform 8, adjacent to the ship 2 is then at a certain level or threshold above sea level.
  • the lower line B, B ' represents a lower tide level than the line A, A')
  • the water level in the compartments remaining substantially at the current level of the tide
  • the threshold defined above remains constant
  • the inclination of the deck of the platform and the ramp relative to the horizontal varies by pivoting the pontoon around the fixed point formed by the simple support on the quay of the free end of the ramp.
  • Fig. 5b illustrates the variation of the threshold defined above according to the type of ship (that is to say according to the height of the ramp of the ship above the water level and / or according to the variation of the load of the ship during the loading or unloading operations thereof) by ballasting of the compartments 12, 14.
  • C ′ corresponds a low threshold
  • D ' corresponds a high threshold.
  • the inclination relative to the horizontal of the pontoon bridge varies, depending on the ballasting of the compartments, by pivoting around the fixed point constituted by the simple pressing of the free end of the ramp on the dock.
  • the end 4 of the pontoon 1 in simple support on the platform 5 comprises at least one support member 20 consisting of two yokes 21 integral with the end 4, and coming to cap by their cylindrical concave internal surface 22 a cylindrical pin 23 secured to a pad 24, with a convex cylindrical face 25, bearing on the platform 5.
  • Each yoke 21 can be closed by a removable retaining tab 26, in particular when moving the pontoon from one site to another.
  • a single support member 20 is provided substantially in the middle of the end 4 of the ramp 7. In fact, in this In this case, the ramp 7 only undergoes negligible torsional stresses due to the bearing reaction on the platform.
  • two support members 20 transversely spaced can then be provided without the torsional stresses in the ramp becoming excessive.
  • the pontoon according to the invention is also equipped with a bumper system 27 distributed along its side walls, in particular on the sides of the platform 8. It is also equipped with a mooring system 28 comprising a certain number of chains 29 and hawsers 30 fixed, on the one hand to the quay 5, and on the other hand to the pontoon, in particular to the ramp 7 and to the platform 8, by mooring bittes 31 .
  • each ballast compartment is controlled by two pairs of pumps, having a flow rate for example of around 450 m 3 / h per pair.
  • These pumps are arranged in housings 32 provided on each side of the platform 8, each pair of pumps being coupled to one of the ballasting systems 3a, 3b defined above.
  • the system is adapted to operate with only one of the two pumps in each pair.
  • the electrical control system for the pontoon can in particular be provided in cabin 33.
  • the connection between the platform 8 and the ship 2 is ensured by the ship's own ramp 36 which simply rests on the platform 8.
  • the connection track 34 defined by the platform and the ramp is limited by safety wheel guide rails 35, an access passage 37 for pedestrians being provided on the ramp.
  • the platform 8 is wide enough transversely to eliminate any positioning adjustment relating to the vessel 2.
  • the pontoon 1 is provided with a suspension system 100 at the end 4 thereof, on the quay side, intended to resume the oscillating movements due to the swell and / or the rolling loads.
  • the suspension system 100 comprises a loop forming means 101 passing through a system of pulleys 102, 103, pivotally fixed to the lower and upper ends, respectively, of two means forming brackets 104, 105 provided, on the quay 5, on either side of the end 4 of the pontoon 1; the cable 101 passing below the end 4.
  • the ends 106, 107 of the cable 101 are connected to the ends 108, 109 of the transverse edge beam 110 of the end mite 4 of the pontoon, which beam 110 plays the role of a lifter.
  • This system amounts to creating a fictitious central support for the spreader, whose possible oscillation movement, of the order of a few degrees, in particular between 5 and 10 °, relative to the horizontal, is taken up by the suspension system, the tilting moment due to overloads being balanced by the shape stability of the float.
  • the suspension system also allows horizontal longitudinal displacement while retaining the ability to hold your vertical forces due to the support reactions of the ramp and overloads. This system is particularly suitable for light walkways.
  • FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the zone XI of FIG. 7, and which is identical to the zone corresponding to the other end of the edge beam 110, the ends 106, - 107 of the cable 101 are connected to the ends 108, 109 of the edge beam 110 by means 111 forming a manifold .
  • Each of said ends 106, 107 is connected, for example by being wound in a loop, to the collar 112 of each shackle 111, while a pivoting connecting member 113 connects, on the one hand, the axis 114 of the shackle 111 and , on the other hand, an axis 115 substantially horizontal and parallel to the edge beam 110 and passing through a screed means 116 provided at each end of the edge beam 110.
  • the axis 114, passing through the flanges 114c of the shackle 111 is provided with locking members 114a, 114b, likewise the axis 115 crossing the two branches of the yoke 116 is provided with locking members, in position, 115a and 115b.
  • the cable 101 in particular the portions thereof between the upper pulleys 102 and the shackles 111, can be fitted with turnbuckles 147.
  • a second embodiment of the suspension system 100 consisting of a deformable polygon 117, consisting of a number of bars, in particular metallic, connected to each other and / or at the end 4 of pontoon 1.
  • the polygon 117 comprises two suspension bars or hangers 118, 119, which may in particular constitute rods, connected, on the one hand, to the ends 108, 109 of the transverse edge beam 110 of the end 4 of the pontoon 1 and, on the other hand, at one end 120a, 121a, facing the pontoon, first means forming spreaders 120,121 fixed to the top of means forming gallows 122, 123 placed, on the quay 5, on both sides other from the end 4 of the pontoon 1, and being able to oscillate about an axis 124, 125 substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis X, X 'of the pontoon 1.
  • the polygon 117 also comprises two suspension bars 126, 127, forming rods, connected, in particular articulated, on the one hand, to the other end 120b, 121b (that is to say the end facing the end of the pontoon) of the first lifting beam forming means 120, 121 and, on the other hand, at one end 128a, 129a of second means forming spreaders 128,12 9 provided at the lower end of the brackets 122, 123, and able to oscillate about an axis 120, 131 substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis X, X 'of the pontoon 1.
  • the polygon 117 further comprises a cross member d balancing 132, forming a link passing under the end 4 of the pontoon 1, and the two ends 132a and 132b of which are connected, in particular articulated, at the other end 128b, 129b of the second means forming spreaders 128,129.
  • This second embodiment of the suspension system allows greater movements, in particular oscillating movements of the end 4 symbolized in phantom in FIG. 4, of the order of a few degrees.
  • This second embodiment also allows greater forces to be taken up in the bars, and the system as a whole has a longer service life than that of the first embodiment notably comprising a cable subjected to rapid wear.
  • This second embodiment is particularly well suited for gangways intended for heavy convoys.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show in detail the connection mode between the lifter 120 and the line 119; however, it is obvious that the connection mode, illustrated by these figures, is identical to the connection mode provided between the lifter 121 and the line 119.
  • Figs. 14 and 15 a second method of connection will be described below between the upper ends of the lines 118, 119 and the spreaders 120, 121.
  • the upper ends of the lines 118, 119 are articulated to the spreaders 120, 121, in particular by a universal joint 135, of which the cross 136, formed in particular of two perpendicular axes 136a, 136b, is rotatably mounted in flange forks 137,138 provided at the end of the spreaders and lines, respectively.
  • Figs. 14 and 15 illustrate the connection mode for the hanger 118 and the lifter 120, but it is obvious that this connection mode is identical for the hanger 119 and the corresponding lifter 121.
  • the second spreader bars 128, 129 are produced in the form of substantially triangular plates at the vertices of which the axis of rotation 130, 131 is provided, as well as the articulation axes 128a, 128b; 129a, 129b of bars 126, 127; 132.
  • the articulation of bars 126, 127; 132 to the first and second spreaders 120, 121; 128, 129 is done in particular by means of flange forks provided at the ends of said bars and in which the hinge pins 130, 131 can pivot.
  • the end 4 of the pontoon 1 is equipped with a number of defenses 143, the shape and number of which vary according to the practical requirements for installing the pontoon.
  • a secondary connection is provided between the quay 5 and the end 4 of the pontoon 1 by means of cables, chains or tie rods 144, tie rods which can in particular be articulated at 148 to the casing 149 of the quay 5.
  • This secondary link may also include shock absorbers 145 comprising in particular an elastomer body 145a, and which is connected, on the one hand, to the tie rods 144 connected to the quay 5 and, on the other hand, to the cables 150 or the like connected to the pontoon 1.
  • gallows 122, 123; 104, 105 can be arranged on a step 151 provided in platform 5 below the level of the platform itself.
  • the pontoon 1 according to the invention is easily transferable from one site of use to another without special auxiliary equipment and by implementing a minimum of operations.
  • the pontoon is lifted from the quay 5 so as to have an acceptable trim and draft.
  • we close the valve connecting the ballast compartments and fill them with water so as to have a good balance of the pontoon with a required draft.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
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Description

La présente invention concerne un ponton portuaire flottant de chargement et de déchargement d'un navire, notamment roulier.The present invention relates to a floating port pontoon for loading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro.

Un ponton portuaire flottant du type décrit dans le préambule de la revendication 1 est connu du GB-A N° 1569564. Un autre ponton portuaire flottant connu de chargement et de déchargement d'un navire, notamment roulier, comprend un système de ballastage, une extrémité dudit ponton étant liée à un quai et une autre extrémité étant adjacente audit navire, de façon à réaliser une voie de liaison entre le quai et le navire. Dans ce ponton connu, l'extrémité côté quai reposesur un ouvrage de génie civil spécialement conçu à quai et l'autre extrémité, côté navire, est supportée par un flotteur équilibrant seulement le poids propre du ponton. Ce flotteur est en outre relié latéralement par un bras à crémaillère à un duc d'Albe pour permettre un positionnement dans l'axe longitudinal du navire. En opération, le flotteur est relié au navire de telle façon que cette liaison absorbe les surcharges dues aux véhicules roulants.A floating port pontoon of the type described in the preamble of claim 1 is known from GB-A No. 1569564. Another known floating port pontoon for loading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro, comprises a ballasting system, a one end of said pontoon being linked to a quay and another end being adjacent to said ship, so as to provide a connecting track between the quay and the ship. In this known pontoon, the end on the quay side rests on a civil engineering structure specially designed at the quay and the other end, on the ship side, is supported by a float balancing only the self weight of the pontoon. This float is also connected laterally by a rack arm to a Duke of Alba to allow positioning in the longitudinal axis of the ship. In operation, the float is connected to the ship in such a way that this connection absorbs the overloads due to the rolling vehicles.

Ces pontons présentent un certain nombre d'inconvénients. En effet, il est nécessaire dans ce cas de régler la position transversale du ponton par rapport au navire, de prévoir une liaison spéciale avec le navire pour absorber les surcharges roulantes et de préparer spécialement un quai pour recevoir l'extrémité dudit ponton. En outre, il est très difficile de changer de site ce ponton connu en raison des importantes opérations nécessaires pour cela: soulèvement du ponton côté quai, posi- tionnementd'une barge sous la partie non supportée par le flotteur, remorquage, etc.These pontoons have a number of drawbacks. Indeed, it is necessary in this case to adjust the transverse position of the pontoon relative to the ship, to provide a special connection with the ship to absorb the rolling overloads and to specially prepare a quay to receive the end of said pontoon. In addition, it is very difficult to change this known pontoon site because of the important operations necessary for this: lifting the pontoon on the quay side, positioning a barge under the part not supported by the float, towing, etc.

Exposé de l'inventionStatement of the invention

La présente invention a pour but de supprimer tous les inconvénients précités de fart antérieur en créant un ponton portuaire flottant déchargement et de déchargement d'un navire, notamment roulier, du type comprenant un système de ballastage, une extrémité dudit ponton étant liée à un quai et une autre extrémité étant adjacente auditnavire, de façon à réaliser une voie de liaison entre le quai et le navire, caractérisé en ce que ladite extrémité du ponton, côtéquar, est à liaison unilatérale avec celui-ci, par appui simple sur celui-ci, et en ce que ledit système de ballastage est conçu de façon que ladite extrémité du ponton, côté quai, exerce toujours une force de pression descendante sur celui-ci, indépendamment de la position relative des surcharges ou charges roulantes sur le ponton, dans la limite des surcharges ou charges roulantes maximales admissibles correspondant audit système de ballastage.The present invention aims to eliminate all the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art by creating a floating port pontoon unloading and unloading of a ship, in particular ro-ro, of the type comprising a ballasting system, one end of said pontoon being linked to a quay and another end being adjacent to said ship, so as to provide a connection path between the quay and the ship, characterized in that said end of the pontoon, side by side, is in one-sided connection with the latter, by simple pressing on it , and in that said ballasting system is designed so that said end of the pontoon, quay side, always exerts a downward pressure force on it, regardless of the relative position of the overloads or rolling loads on the pontoon, in the limit of the maximum admissible overloads or rolling loads corresponding to the said ballasting system.

Le ponton selon l'invention supporte ainsi non seulement son poids propre maiségalementtoutes les charges roulantes lors du chargement ou du déchargement du navire. Le système de ballastage permet en effet d'assurer que l'extrémité côté quai du ponton ne soit jamais soulevée du quai, par basculement longitudinal sous les charges roulantes arrivant à l'extrémité opposée, mais est au contraire conçu de façon à toujours exercer une pression d'appui sur le quai, indépendamment de l'existence et de la position relative de charges rou- tantes sur le ponton.The pontoon according to the invention thus supports not only its own weight but also all rolling loads when loading or unloading the ship. The ballasting system makes it possible to ensure that the quay side end of the pontoon is never lifted from the quay, by longitudinal tilting under the rolling loads arriving at the opposite end, but is on the contrary designed so as to always exert a bearing pressure on the quay, regardless of the existence and the relative position of rolling loads on the pontoon.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le ponton comprend une rampe dont l'extrémité libre repose en appui simple sur le quai, et une plate-forme flottante, notamment de forme généralement parallélépipédique rectangulaire, solidaire de ladite rampe, adjacente au navire précité et munie du système de ballastage précité; le côté de ladite plate-forme solidaire de ladite rampe étant en particulier opposé.au côté adjacent au navire.According to another characteristic of the invention, the pontoon comprises a ramp whose free end rests in simple support on the quay, and a floating platform, in particular of generally rectangular parallelepiped shape, integral with said ramp, adjacent to the aforementioned ship and provided with the aforementioned ballasting system; the side of said platform integral with said ramp being in particular opposite to the side adjacent to the ship.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la plate-forme précitée est divisée par une cloison verticale sensiblement parallèle aux côtés précités de la plate-forme solidaire de la rampe précitée et adjacente au navire précité, respectivement, et située notamment dans le plan vertical médian transversal de la plate-forme; ladite cloison définissant, d'une part côté quai, au moins un compartiment de ballastage de préférence rempli au moins partiellement d'eau et, d'autre part du côté adjacent au navire, au moins un compartiment inférieur, rempli d'air en permanence, surmonté par un compartiment de ballastage de préférence au moins partiellement rempli d'eau; lesdits compartiments de ballastage communiquant par au moins un orifice d'équilibrage prévu dans ladite cloison; lesdits compartiments définissant un ensemble de ballastage. L'ouverture de l'orifice d'équilibrage précité peut être commandée par une vanne.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the aforementioned platform is divided by a vertical partition substantially parallel to the aforementioned sides of the platform integral with the aforementioned ramp and adjacent to the aforementioned vessel, respectively, and located in particular in the plane vertical transverse median of the platform; said partition defining, on the quay side, at least one ballast compartment preferably filled at least partially with water and, on the other hand on the side adjacent to the ship, at least one lower compartment, permanently filled with air , surmounted by a ballast compartment preferably at least partially filled with water; said ballast compartments communicating through at least one balancing orifice provided in said partition; said compartments defining a ballast assembly. The opening of the above-mentioned balancing orifice can be controlled by a valve.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la plate-forme précitée comprend deux ensembles de ballastage précités agencés symétriquement par rapport au plan vertical médian longitudinal du ponton et séparés par au moins un compartiment cloche ou marnant communiquant par au moins un. orifice avec l'air extérieur. Cet orifice de communication, éventuellement muni d'une vanne, est calibré de façon que le niveau d'eau dans tecompartimentmarnantsuive le niveau de la marée selon une fonction prédéterminée du temps.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the aforementioned platform comprises two aforementioned ballasting assemblies arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal median vertical plane of the pontoon and separated by at least one bell or marnant compartment communicating by at least one. orifice with outside air. This communication orifice, possibly fitted with a valve, is calibrated so that the water level in this compartment will follow the tide level according to a predetermined function of time.

En raison du débit de passage d'air de cet orifice, la différence de niveau, créée pour le passage des surcharges roulantes ou mobiles, est maintenue au moins partiellement pendant la durée de ce passage.Due to the air flow rate of this orifice, the difference in level, created for the passage of rolling or mobile overloads, is maintained at least partially for the duration of this passage.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'extrémité précitée du ponton en appui simple sur le quai comprend au moins un organe d'appui constitué de deux chapes solidaires de ladite extrémité et venant coiffer par leur surface interne concave cylindrique un tourillon cylindrique solidaire d'un patin, à face cylindrique convexe, d'appui sur le quai. Chaque chape précitée peut être fermée par une patte de retenue amovible.According to another characteristic of the invention, the aforementioned end of the pontoon in simple support on the quay comprises at least one support member consisting of two yokes integral with said end and coming to cap by their cylindrical concave internal surface a cylindrical trunnion integral a pad, with a convex cylindrical face, bearing on the quay. Each aforementioned yoke can be closed by a removable retaining tab.

Pour éviter les inconvénients, relatifs notam- mentaux mouvements d'oscillation du ponton dus à la houle et/ou aux charges roulantes, quand l'extrémité, côté quai, du navire repose sur le quai par l'intermédiaire d'un ou de deux organes d'appui en forme de rotules, selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention on prévoit un système de suspension de l'extrémité du ponton, côté quai, destiné à reprendre les mouvements d'oscillation dus à la houle et/ou aux charges roulantes.To avoid the drawbacks, in particular relative oscillation movements of the pontoon due to swell and / or rolling loads, when the end, quay side, of the ship rests on the quay by means of one or two bearing members in the form of ball joints, according to another characteristic of the invention there is provided a suspension system from the end of the pontoon, quay side, intended to resume the oscillating movements due to swell and / or rolling loads.

Selon un premier mode de réalisation, le système de suspension précité comprend un moyen formant câble en boucle passant par un système de poulies fixées aux extrémités inférieure et supérieure, respectivement, de deux moyens formant potences prévues, sur le quai, de part et d'autre de l'extrémité précitée du ponton, et passant au-dessous de ladite extrémité; les extrémités dudit câble étant reliées aux extrémités de la poutre de rive transversale de ladite extrémité du ponton, ladite poutre jouant le rôle d'un palonnier.According to a first embodiment, the above-mentioned suspension system comprises a means forming a loop cable passing through a system of pulleys fixed at the lower and upper ends, respectively, of two means forming brackets provided, on the quay, on either side other from the aforementioned end of the pontoon, and passing below said end; the ends of said cable being connected to the ends of the transverse edge beam of said end of the pontoon, said beam playing the role of a lifter.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les extrémités du câble précité sont reliées aux extrémités de la poutre de rive précitée par des moyens formant manille; chacune desdites extrémités étant reliée au collier de chaque manille, tandis qu'un organe de liaison pivotant relie, d'une part, l'axe de ladite manille et, d'autre part, un axe sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à la poutre de rive précitée traversant un moyen formant chape prévu à chaque extrémité de ladite poutre de rive. Des ridoirs sont éventuellement prévus pour rider les câbles.According to another characteristic of the invention, the ends of the aforementioned cable are connected to the ends of the aforementioned edge beam by means forming a shackle; each of said ends being connected to the collar of each shackle, while a pivoting connecting member connects, on the one hand, the axis of said shackle and, on the other hand, an axis substantially horizontal and parallel to the edge beam above passing through a screed means provided at each end of said edge beam. Turnbuckles are possibly provided to wrinkle the cables.

Selon un second mode de réalisation, le système de suspension précité se compose d'un polygone déformable, constitué d'un certain nombre de barres, notamment métalliques, reliées entre elles et/ou à l'extrémité précitée du ponton.According to a second embodiment, the aforementioned suspension system consists of a deformable polygon, consisting of a number of bars, in particular of metal, connected together and / or at the aforementioned end of the pontoon.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le polygone précité comprend deux barres de suspension ou suspentes reliées, d'une part, aux extrémités de la poutre de rive transversale précitée de l'extrémité précitée du ponton et, d'autre part, à une extrémité des premiers moyens formant palonniers fixés au sommet de moyens formant potences placées, sur le quai, de part et d'autre de ladite extrémité du ponton, et pouvant osciller autour d'un axe sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal du ponton; deux barres de suspension reliées, d'une part, à l'autre extrémité desdits moyens formant palonniers et, d'autre part, à une extrémité des seconds moyens formant palonniers prévus à l'extrémité inférieure desdites potences, et pouvant osciller autour d'un axe sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal du ponton, et une traverse d'équilibrage passant sous ladite extrémité du ponton et dont les deux extrémités sont articulées à l'autre extrémité desdits seconds moyens formant palonniers.According to another characteristic of the invention, the aforementioned polygon comprises two suspension bars or hangers connected, on the one hand, to the ends of the aforementioned transverse edge beam of the aforementioned end of the pontoon and, on the other hand, to one end of the first means forming spreaders attached to the top of means forming brackets placed, on the quay, on either side of said end of the pontoon, and which can oscillate around an axis substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pontoon; two suspension bars connected, on the one hand, to the other end of said lifter means and, on the other hand, to one end of the second lifter means provided at the lower end of said brackets, and which can oscillate around a substantially horizontal axis and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pontoon, and a balancing crosspiece passing under said end of the pontoon and the two ends of which are articulated at the other end of said second lifting beam means.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les extrémités supérieures des suspentes précitées, réalisées notamment sous forme d'une rotule, sont posées librement mobiles sur les extrémités des palonniers précités, réalisées notamment sous forme d'une fourche.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the upper ends of the aforementioned lines, produced in particular in the form of a ball joint, are placed freely movable on the ends of the aforementioned spreaders, produced in particular in the form of a fork.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les extrémités supérieures des suspentes précitées sont articulées aux premiers palonniers précités, notamment par un joint de cardan, dont le croisillon est monté rotatif dans des fourches à bride prévues à l'extrémité desdits palonniers et desdites suspentes, respectivement.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the upper ends of the aforementioned lines are articulated to the first aforementioned spreaders, in particular by a universal joint, the spider of which is rotatably mounted in flanged forks provided at the end of said spreaders and said lines, respectively.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les extrémités inférieures des suspentes précitées sont articulées aux extrémités précitées de la poutre de rive précitée, notamment par un joint de cardan, dont le croisillon est monté rotatif dans les fourches à bride prévues aux extrémités inférieures desdites suspentes et aux extrémités de ladite poutre de rive, respectivement.According to another characteristic of the invention, the lower ends of the aforementioned lines are articulated at the aforementioned ends of the aforementioned edge beam, in particular by a universal joint, the crosspiece of which is rotatably mounted in the flange forks provided at the lower ends of said lines and at the ends of said edge beam, respectively.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, . les seconds palonniers précités sont réalisés sous forme de plaques sensiblement triangulaires aux sommets desquelles sont prévus l'axe de rotation précité, ainsi que les axes d'articulation des barres précitées.According to another characteristic of the invention,. the second aforementioned lifting beams are produced in the form of substantially triangular plates at the vertices of which the aforementioned axis of rotation is provided, as well as the axes of articulation of the aforementioned bars.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'articulation des barres précitées aux premiers et seconds palonniers précités se fait grâce à des fourches à bride prévues aux extrémités desdites barres et dans lesquelles peuvent pivoter les axes d'articulation précités.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the articulation of the aforementioned bars to the first and second aforementioned lifting beams is effected by means of flange forks provided at the ends of said bars and in which the aforementioned articulation axes can pivot.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'extrémité précitée du ponton est équipée d'un certain nombre de défenses, tandis qu'une liaison secondaire est assurée entre le quai et l'extrémité précitée du ponton par l'intermédiaire de câbles, tirants et, éventuellement, de tendeurs amortisseurs.According to another characteristic of the invention, the aforementioned end of the pontoon is equipped with a certain number of defenses, while a secondary connection is provided between the quay and the aforementioned end of the pontoon by means of cables, tie rods and, optionally, shock absorbers.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la liaison routière entre l'extrémité précitée du ponton et le quai est assurée par un certain nombre de volets articulés à ladite extrémité et venant reposer sur le quai.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the road connection between the aforementioned end of the pontoon and the quay is provided by a number of flaps articulated at said end and coming to rest on the quay.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention, le ponton peut être équipé d'un système pare-chocs réparti le long de ses parois latérales, ainsi que d'un système d'amarrage comprenant un certain nombre de chaînes et d'aussières fixées, d'une part, au quai et, d'autre part au ponton, notamment à la rampe et à la plate-forme le constituant.According to other characteristics of the invention, the pontoon can be equipped with a bumper system distributed along its side walls, as well as a mooring system comprising a certain number of chains and fixed hawsers , on the one hand, at the quay and, on the other hand at the pontoon, in particular at the ramp and at the platform constituting it.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

L'invention sera mieux comprise, et d'autres buts, caractéristiques, détails et avantages de celle-ci apparaîtront plus clairement au cours de la description explicative qui va suivre faite en se référant aux dessins schématiques annexés donnés uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif d'un mode de réalisation actuellement préféré de l'invention et dans lesquels:

  • La fig. 1 est une vue de dessus d'un ponton portuaire flottant selon l'invention, lié d'une part à un quai et communiquant d'autre part avec un navire roulier.
  • La fig. 2 est une vue de côté, à une échelle un peu plus grande, selon la flèche Il, du ponton de la fig. 1.
  • La fig. 3 est une vue de côté, à la même échelle que la fig. 2, selon la flèche III, du ponton de la fig. 1.
  • Les fig. 4a et 5b sont, respectivement, des vues de face et de côté d'un organe d'appui dont est équipée l'extrémité côté quai du ponton selon l'invention.
  • Les fig. 5a, 5b et 5c sont des vues schématiques du ponton selon l'invention où est représenté en plus de détail le système de ballastage de celui-ci.
  • La fig. 6 est une vue du dessus du ponton portuaire flottant, selon l'invention, relié, d'une part, à un quai et, d'autre part, à un navire roulier.
  • La fig, 7 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne VII-VII de la fig. 8.
  • La fig. 8 estune vue de dessus selon la flèche VI de la fig. 7.
  • La fig. 9 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne IX-IX de la fig. 10.
  • La fig. 10 est une vue de dessus selon la flèche X de la fig. 9.
  • La fig. 11 est une vue agrandie de la zone XI de la fig. 7.
  • La fig. 12 est une vue de face, selon la flèche XI de la fig. 13, d'un premier mode de réalisation de la liaison entre suspentes et palonniers.
  • La fig. 13 est une vue de dessus selon la flèche XIII de la fig. 12.
  • La fig. 14 est une vue de face, selon la flèche XIV de la fig. 15, d'un deuxième mode de réalisation de la liaison entre suspentes et palonniers.
  • La fig. 15 est une vue de dessus selon la flèche XV de la fig. 14.
  • La fig. 16 est une vue agrandie de la zone XVI de la fig. 9.
  • La fig. 17 est une vue selon la flèche XVII de la fig. 16.
  • La fig. 18 est une vue selon la flèche XVI de la fig. 16.
  • La fig. 19 est une vue d'un tendeur amortisseur.
The invention will be better understood, and other objects, characteristics, details and advantages thereof will appear more clearly during the explanatory description which follows, made with reference to the appended schematic drawings given solely by way of non-illustrative example. limiting of a currently preferred embodiment of the invention and in which:
  • Fig. 1 is a top view of a floating port pontoon according to the invention, connected on the one hand to a quay and communicating on the other hand with a ro-ro ship.
  • Fig. 2 is a side view, on a slightly larger scale, along the arrow II, of the pontoon in FIG. 1.
  • Fig. 3 is a side view, on the same scale as FIG. 2, according to arrow III, of the pontoon of FIG. 1.
  • Figs. 4a and 5b are, respectively, front and side views of a support member with which the quay side end of the pontoon according to the invention is fitted.
  • Figs. 5a, 5b and 5c are schematic views of the pontoon according to the invention where the ballast system thereof is shown in more detail.
  • Fig. 6 is a top view of the floating port pontoon, according to the invention, connected, on the one hand, to a quay and, on the other hand, to a ro-ro ship.
  • Fig, 7 is a sectional view along line VII-VII of fig. 8.
  • Fig. 8 is a top view along arrow VI of FIG. 7.
  • Fig. 9 is a sectional view along line IX-IX of FIG. 10.
  • Fig. 10 is a top view according to arrow X in FIG. 9.
  • Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the zone XI of FIG. 7.
  • Fig. 12 is a front view, according to arrow XI in FIG. 13, of a first embodiment of the connection between lines and spreaders.
  • Fig. 13 is a top view along arrow XIII of FIG. 12.
  • Fig. 14 is a front view, along arrow XIV of FIG. 15, of a second embodiment of the connection between lines and spreaders.
  • Fig. 15 is a top view along arrow XV of FIG. 14.
  • Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of the area XVI of FIG. 9.
  • Fig. 17 is a view along arrow XVII of FIG. 16.
  • Fig. 18 is a view along arrow XVI of FIG. 16.
  • Fig. 19 is a view of a shock absorber tensioner.

Meilleure manière de réaliser l'inventionBest way to realize the invention

Le ponton portuaire flottant 1 de chargement et de déchargement d'un navire 2, notamment un navire roulier, comprend un système de ballastage 3. Une extrémité 4 du ponton 1 est liée à un quai: 5 et une autre extrémité 6, notamment opposée à la première extrémité 4, est adjacente au navire 2, de façon à réaliser une voie de liaison entre le quai 5 et le navire 2.The floating port pontoon 1 for loading and unloading a ship 2, in particular a ro-ro ship, comprises a ballasting system 3. One end 4 of the pontoon 1 is linked to a quay: 5 and another end 6, notably opposite to the first end 4 is adjacent to the ship 2, so as to form a connecting track between the quay 5 and the ship 2.

Selon l'invention, l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1, côté quai 5, est à liaison unilatérale avec celui-ci par appui simple sur celui-ci. De plus, le système de ballastage 3 est conçu de façon que l'extrémité 4 du ponton, côtéquai 5, exerce toujours une force de pression descendante sur celui-ci, indépendamment de la position relative des surcharges ou charges roulantes R sur le ponton 1, dans la limite des surcharges ou charges roulantes maximales admissibles correspondant au système de ballastage 3.According to the invention, the end 4 of the pontoon 1, platform side 5, is unilaterally connected with the latter by simple pressing thereon. In addition, the ballasting system 3 is designed so that the end 4 of the pontoon, side 5, always exerts a downward pressure force on it, regardless of the relative position of the overloads or rolling loads R on the pontoon 1 , within the limit of the maximum allowable overloads or rolling loads corresponding to the ballasting system 3.

En se référant en particulier aux fig. 1 à 3, le ponton 1 selon un mode de réalisation actuellement préféré de l'invention, comprend une rampe 7 dont l'extrémité libre 4 repose en appui simple sur le quai 5, et une plate-forme flottante 8, notamment de forme généralement parallélépipédique rectangulaire, solidaire de la rampe 7, adjacente au navire 2 et munie du système de ballastage 3. En particulier, le côté 9 de la plate-forme 8 est solidaire de la rampe 7 et opposé au côté 10 adjacent au navire 2. Comme on peut mieux le voir sur les fig. 5a, 5b, la plate-forme 8 est divisée par une cloison verticale 11 sensiblement parallèle aux côtés 9,10 de la plate-forme 8 solidaire de la rampe 7 et adjacente au navire 2, respectivement. La cloison verticale 11 est notamment située dans le plan vertical médian transversal de la plate-forme 8, c'est-à-dire le plan perpendiculaire au plan longitudinal vertical médian du ponton X, X' dont l'intersection avec le pont de la plate-forme 8 et de la rampe 7 définit la direction de la voie de liaison reliant, par l'intermédiaire du ponton 1, le quai 5 au navire 2. La cloison 11 peut s'étendre sur tout ou partie de la largeur ou éventuellement de la longueur de la plate-forme 8 (dans l'exemple représenté, comme on peut le voir notamment sur la fig. 1, la surface supérieure de la plate-forme 8 est sensiblement carrée mais peut bien sûr présenter une autre forme, notamment rectangulaire). En se référant notamment aux fig. 5a, 5b, la cloison 11 définit, d'une part côté quai, au moins un compartiment de ballastage 12 rempli au moins partiellement d'eau et, d'autre part du côté adjacent au navire, au moins un compartiment inférieur 13, rempli d'air en permanence, surmonté par un compartiment de ballastage 14 au moins partiellement rempli d'eau. Les compartiments de ballastage 12,14 au moins partiellement remplis d'eau communiquent par un orifice d'équilibrage 15 prévu dans la cloison 11. Les compartiments 12,13,14 définissent ce que l'on nommera ci-après un ensemble de ballastage. L'ouverture de l'orifice 15 d'équilibrage peut être commandée par une vanne 16.With particular reference to Figs. 1 to 3, the pontoon 1 according to a currently preferred embodiment of the invention, comprises a ramp 7 whose free end 4 rests in simple support on the quay 5, and a floating platform 8, in particular of generally shaped rectangular parallelepiped, integral with the ramp 7, adjacent to the vessel 2 and provided with the ballasting system 3. In particular, the side 9 of the platform 8 is integral with the ramp 7 and opposite the side 10 adjacent to the vessel 2. As this can best be seen in figs. 5a, 5b, the platform 8 is divided by a vertical partition 11 substantially parallel to the sides 9, 10 of the platform 8 secured to the ramp 7 and adjacent to the ship 2, respectively. The vertical partition 11 is in particular located in the transverse median vertical plane of the platform 8, that is to say the plane perpendicular to the median vertical longitudinal plane of the pontoon X, X ′ whose intersection with the bridge of the platform 8 and the ramp 7 defines the direction of the connecting track connecting, via the pontoon 1, the quay 5 to the ship 2. The partition 11 may extend over all or part of the width or possibly of the length of the platform 8 (in the example shown, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 1, the upper surface of the platform 8 is substantially square but can of course have another shape, in particular rectangular). With particular reference to Figs. 5a, 5b, the partition 11 defines, on the quay side, at least one ballast compartment 12 filled at least partially with water and, on the other hand on the side adjacent to the ship, at least one lower compartment 13, filled permanently air, surmounted by a ballast compartment 14 at least partially filled with water. The ballast compartments 12,14 at least partially filled with water communicate through a balancing orifice 15 provided in the partition 11. The compartments 12,13,14 define what will be called hereinafter a ballast assembly. The opening of the balancing orifice 15 can be controlled by a valve 16.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, et en se référant en particulier à la fig. 5b, la plate-forme 8. comprend deux ensembles de ballastage 3a, 3b, comportant chacun les compartiments 12, 13, 14 définis ci-dessus. Les ensembles de ballastage 3a, 3b sont agencés symétriquement par rapport au plan vertical médian longitudinal du ponton X, X' et sont séparés par au moins un compartiment cloche ou marnant 17 communiquant par au moins un orifice 18 avec l'air extérieur. Selon l'agencement de la cloison 11, on peut prévoir un ou deux compartiments cloche 17 précités. L'orifice de communication 18, éventuellement muni d'une vanne 19, est calibré de façon que le niveau d'eau dans le compartiment marnant suive le niveau de la marée.In the embodiment shown, and with particular reference to FIG. 5b, the platform 8. comprises two ballasting assemblies 3a, 3b, each comprising the compartments 12, 13, 14 defined above. The ballast assemblies 3a, 3b are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal median vertical plane of the pontoon X, X 'and are separated by at least one bell or marnant compartment 17 communicating by at least one orifice 18 with the outside air. Depending on the arrangement of the partition 11, one or two aforementioned bell compartments 17 can be provided. The communication orifice 18, possibly fitted with a valve 19, is calibrated so that the water level in the marling compartment follows the level of the tide.

Le système de ballastage 3 décrit ci-dessus fonctionne de la façon suivante.The ballasting system 3 described above operates as follows.

Le ou les compartiments 13 remplis d'air en permanence sont générateurs d'une poussée hydrostatique constante en intensité et en point d'application exerçant une force de pression descendante sur l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 (c'est-à-dire dans le mode de réalisation illustré sur l'extrémité de la rampe 7) en appui simple sur le quai 5. Le volume du ou des compartiments remplis d'air en permanence est bien sûr adapté de façon que, en relation avec la position du centre de gravité du ponton, l'appui sur le quai demeure toujours positif malgré la présence des plus fortes charges nominales R prévues arrivant à l'extrémité côté navire du ponton.The compartment (s) 13 permanently filled with air generate a hydrostatic thrust constant in intensity and at the point of application exerting a downward pressure force on the end 4 of the pontoon 1 (that is to say in the embodiment illustrated on the end of the ramp 7) by simple support on the platform 5. The volume of the compartment (s) permanently filled with air is of course adapted so that, in relation to the position of the center of gravity of the pontoon, the support on the quay always remains positive despite the presence of the highest rated loads R expected arriving at the end on the ship side of the pontoon.

En outre, le ou les compartiments marnants 17 communiquent avec l'air extérieur par un orifice calibré 18 de façon que le niveau d'eau dans le ou les compartiments suive le niveau de la marée. Pour ce faire, le débit de passage d'air à travers l'orifice 18 doit correspondre à la période de la marée, c'est-à-dire environ 6 h. Ainsi, quand la surcharge roulante R passe longitudinalement sur la plate-forme 8, celle-ci ne s'enfonce que relativement peu à cause du débit de passage d'air relativement faible à travers l'orifice 18. En outre, comme cela est illustré par la fig. 5c, les compartiments latéraux 12 et 14 permettent d'assurer l'équilibre transversal au cas où la charge roulante est transversalement décalée par rapport au plan vertical longitudinal médian du ponton (la ligne E, E' représentant le niveau de la mer).In addition, the marly compartment or compartments 17 communicate with the outside air through a calibrated orifice 18 so that the water level in the compartment or compartments follows the level of the tide. To do this, the air passage rate through the orifice 18 must correspond to the period of the tide, that is to say approximately 6 h. Thus, when the rolling overload R passes longitudinally on the platform 8, the latter sinks only relatively little because of the relatively low air flow rate passing through the orifice 18. Furthermore, as is illustrated in fig. 5c, the lateral compartments 12 and 14 make it possible to ensure transverse balance in the event that the rolling load is transversely offset with respect to the median longitudinal vertical plane of the pontoon (the line E, E 'representing the sea level).

La fig. 5a illustre de plus le comportement du ponton 1 selon le niveau de la marée. La ligne supérieure A, A'représente un niveau quelconque de la marée. Dans ce cas, les compartiments de ballastage 12,14 sont remplis d'eau à un niveau correspondant sensiblement à celui de la mer, l'orifice 15 prévu dans la cloison 11 séparant les deux compartiments 12, 14 facilitant l'égalisation des niveaux d'eau dans lesdits compartiments. Il est bien évident que cela est valable pour les deux systèmes de ballastage 3a, 3b comprenant chacun deux compartiments 12, 14 de ballastage. L'extrémité du pont de la plate-forme 8, adjacente au navire 2, est alors à un certain niveau ou seuil au-dessus du niveau de la mer. Lorsque le niveau de la marée (dans l'exemple illustré par la fig. 5a, la ligne inférieure B, B' représente un niveau de marée plus bas que la ligne A, A'), le niveau d'eau dans les compartiments restant sensiblement au niveau actuel de la marée, le seuil défini ci-dessus reste constant, et l'inclinaison du pont de la plate-forme et de la rampe par rapport à l'horizontale varie par pivotement du ponton autour du point fixe constitué par l'appui simple sur le quai de l'extrémité libre de la rampe.Fig. 5a also illustrates the behavior of pontoon 1 according to the level of the tide. The upper line A, A're represents any level of the tide. In this case, the ballasting compartments 12, 14 are filled with water at a level corresponding substantially to that of the sea, the orifice 15 provided in the partition 11 separating the two compartments 12, 14 facilitating the equalization of the levels d in said compartments. It is obvious that this is valid for the two ballasting systems 3a, 3b each comprising two compartments 12, 14 for ballasting. The end of the deck of the platform 8, adjacent to the ship 2, is then at a certain level or threshold above sea level. When the level of the tide (in the example illustrated in FIG. 5a, the lower line B, B 'represents a lower tide level than the line A, A'), the water level in the compartments remaining substantially at the current level of the tide, the threshold defined above remains constant , and the inclination of the deck of the platform and the ramp relative to the horizontal varies by pivoting the pontoon around the fixed point formed by the simple support on the quay of the free end of the ramp.

La fig. 5b illustre la variation du seuil défini ci-dessus selon le type de navire (c'est-à-dire selon la hauteur de la rampe du navire au-dessus du niveau d'eau et/ou selon la variation de la charge du navire au cours des opérations de chargement ou de déchargement de celui-ci) par ballastage des compartiments 12, 14. Au niveau de la mer représenté par la ligne C, C', correspond un seuil bas, tandis qu'au niveau de la mer représenté par la ligne D, D' correspond un seuil haut. De même, dans ce cas, l'inclinaison par rapport à l'horizontale du pont du ponton varie, selon le ballastage des compartiments, par pivotement autour du point fixe constitué par l'appui simple de l'extrémité libre de la rampe sur le quai.Fig. 5b illustrates the variation of the threshold defined above according to the type of ship (that is to say according to the height of the ramp of the ship above the water level and / or according to the variation of the load of the ship during the loading or unloading operations thereof) by ballasting of the compartments 12, 14. At the sea level represented by the line C, C ′, corresponds a low threshold, while at the sea level represented by the line D, D 'corresponds a high threshold. Similarly, in this case, the inclination relative to the horizontal of the pontoon bridge varies, depending on the ballasting of the compartments, by pivoting around the fixed point constituted by the simple pressing of the free end of the ramp on the dock.

A ce sujet, l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 (c'est-à-dire dans l'exemple représenté de la rampe 7) en appui simple sur le quai 5 comprend au moins un organe d'appui 20 constitué de deux chapes 21 solidaires de l'extrémité 4, et venant coiffer par leur surface interne concave cylindrique 22 un tourillon 23 cylindrique solidaire d'un patin 24, à face 25 cylindrique convexe, d'appui sur le quai 5. Chaque chape 21 peut être fermée par une patte 26 de retenue amovible, notamment lors du déplacement du ponton d'un site à un autre.In this regard, the end 4 of the pontoon 1 (that is to say in the example shown of the ramp 7) in simple support on the platform 5 comprises at least one support member 20 consisting of two yokes 21 integral with the end 4, and coming to cap by their cylindrical concave internal surface 22 a cylindrical pin 23 secured to a pad 24, with a convex cylindrical face 25, bearing on the platform 5. Each yoke 21 can be closed by a removable retaining tab 26, in particular when moving the pontoon from one site to another.

Dans le cas où on utilise une rampe 7 de liaison entre la plate-forme 8 et le quai 5 courte, un seul organe d'appui 20 est prévu sensiblement au milieu de l'extrémité 4 de la rampe 7. En effet, dans ce cas, la rampe 7 ne subit que des contraintes de torsion négligeables dues à la réaction d'appui sur le quai.In the case where a ramp 7 is used for connection between the platform 8 and the short platform 5, a single support member 20 is provided substantially in the middle of the end 4 of the ramp 7. In fact, in this In this case, the ramp 7 only undergoes negligible torsional stresses due to the bearing reaction on the platform.

Quand on est obligé d'utiliser une rampe longue, par exemple du fait d'un marnage important et/ou d'une hauteur de quai importante, et/ou d'une nécessaire limitation de la pente de roulement, deux organes d'appui 20 transversalement espacés peuvent alors être prévus sans que les contraintes de torsion dans la rampe ne deviennent excessives.When it is necessary to use a long ramp, for example due to a large tidal range and / or a large platform height, and / or a necessary limitation of the rolling slope, two support members 20 transversely spaced can then be provided without the torsional stresses in the ramp becoming excessive.

Le ponton selon l'invention est en outre équipé d'un système pare-chocs 27 réparti le long de ses parois latérales, en particulier sur les côtés de la plate-forme 8. Il est également équipé d'un système d'amarrage 28 comprenant un certain nombre de chaînes 29 et d'aussières 30 fixées, d'une part au quai 5, et d'autre part au ponton, notamment à la rampe 7 et à la plate-forme 8, par des bittes d'amarrage 31.The pontoon according to the invention is also equipped with a bumper system 27 distributed along its side walls, in particular on the sides of the platform 8. It is also equipped with a mooring system 28 comprising a certain number of chains 29 and hawsers 30 fixed, on the one hand to the quay 5, and on the other hand to the pontoon, in particular to the ramp 7 and to the platform 8, by mooring bittes 31 .

En outre, le niveau d'eau dans chaque compartiment de ballastage est commandé grâce à deux paires de pompes, ayant un débit par exemple d'environ 450 m3/h par paire. Ces pompes sont disposées dans des logements 32 prévus de chaque côté de la plate-forme 8, chaque paire de pompes étant couplée à un des systèmes de ballastage 3a, 3b définis ci-dessus. En outre, le système est adapté pour fonctionner avec seulement une des deux pompes de chaque paire.In addition, the water level in each ballast compartment is controlled by two pairs of pumps, having a flow rate for example of around 450 m 3 / h per pair. These pumps are arranged in housings 32 provided on each side of the platform 8, each pair of pumps being coupled to one of the ballasting systems 3a, 3b defined above. In addition, the system is adapted to operate with only one of the two pumps in each pair.

Le système de commande électrique du ponton peut être notamment prévu dans la cabine 33.The electrical control system for the pontoon can in particular be provided in cabin 33.

La liaison entre la plate-forme 8 et le navire 2 est assurée par la rampe propre 36 du navire qui vient reposer simplement sur la plate-forme 8. La voie de liaison 34 définie par la plate-forme et la rampe est limitée par des glissières guide-roue de sécurité 35, un passage d'accès 37 pour les piétons étant prévu sur la rampe. En outre, la plate-forme 8 est suffisamment large transversalement pour supprimer tout réglage de positionnement relatif au navire 2.The connection between the platform 8 and the ship 2 is ensured by the ship's own ramp 36 which simply rests on the platform 8. The connection track 34 defined by the platform and the ramp is limited by safety wheel guide rails 35, an access passage 37 for pedestrians being provided on the ramp. In addition, the platform 8 is wide enough transversely to eliminate any positioning adjustment relating to the vessel 2.

En se référant maintenant à la fig. 6, le ponton 1 est muni d'un système de suspension 100 de l'extrémité 4 de celui-ci, côté quai, destiné à reprendre les mouvements d'oscillation dus à la houle et/ou aux charges roulantes.Referring now to FIG. 6, the pontoon 1 is provided with a suspension system 100 at the end 4 thereof, on the quay side, intended to resume the oscillating movements due to the swell and / or the rolling loads.

En se référant en particulier aux fig. 7 et 8, le système de suspension 100 comprend un moyen formant câble en boucle 101 passant par un système de poulies 102, 103, fixées de façon pivotante aux extrémités inférieure et supérieure, respectivement, de deux moyens formant potences 104,105 prévus, sur le quai 5, de part et d'autre de l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 ; le câble 101 passant au-dessous de l'extrémité 4. Les extrémités 106, 107 du câble 101 sont reliées aux extrémités 108, 109 de la poutre de rive transversale 110 de t'extrémité 4 du ponton, laquelle poutre 110 joue le rôle d'un palonnier.With particular reference to Figs. 7 and 8, the suspension system 100 comprises a loop forming means 101 passing through a system of pulleys 102, 103, pivotally fixed to the lower and upper ends, respectively, of two means forming brackets 104, 105 provided, on the quay 5, on either side of the end 4 of the pontoon 1; the cable 101 passing below the end 4. The ends 106, 107 of the cable 101 are connected to the ends 108, 109 of the transverse edge beam 110 of the end mite 4 of the pontoon, which beam 110 plays the role of a lifter.

Ce système revient à créer un appui fictif central au palonnier, dont le mouvement d'oscillation possible, de l'ordre de quelques degrés, notamment entre 5 et 10°, par rapport à l'horizontale, est repris par le système de suspension, le moment inclinant dû aux surcharges étant équilibré par la stabilité de forme du flotteur. Le système de suspension permet en outre le déplacement horizontal longitudinattout en gardant la capacité de tenir tes efforts verticaux dus aux réactions d'appui de la rampe et dessurcharges. Ce système convient particulièrement pour des passerelles légères.This system amounts to creating a fictitious central support for the spreader, whose possible oscillation movement, of the order of a few degrees, in particular between 5 and 10 °, relative to the horizontal, is taken up by the suspension system, the tilting moment due to overloads being balanced by the shape stability of the float. The suspension system also allows horizontal longitudinal displacement while retaining the ability to hold your vertical forces due to the support reactions of the ramp and overloads. This system is particularly suitable for light walkways.

En se référant en particulier à la fig. 11, qui est une vue agrandie de la zone XI de la fig. 7, et qui est identique à la zone correspondante à l'autre extrémité de la poutre de rive 110, les extrémités 106, - 107 du câble 101 sont reliées aux extrémités 108, 109 de la poutre de rive 110 par des moyens 111 formant manifle. Chacune desdites extrémités 106, 107 est reliée, par exemple en étant enroulée en boucle, au collier 112 de chaque manille 111, tandis qu'un organe de liaison 113 pivotant relie, d'une part, l'axe 114 de la manille 111 et, d'autre part, un axe 115 sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à la poutre de rive 110 et traversant un moyen formant chape 116 prévu à chaque extrémité de la poutre de rive 110. L'axe 114, passant à travers les brides 114c de la manille 111, est muni d'organes de blocage 114a, 114b, de même l'axe 115 traversant les deux branches de la chape 116 est muni d'organes de blocage, en position, 115a et 115b.With particular reference to FIG. 11, which is an enlarged view of the zone XI of FIG. 7, and which is identical to the zone corresponding to the other end of the edge beam 110, the ends 106, - 107 of the cable 101 are connected to the ends 108, 109 of the edge beam 110 by means 111 forming a manifold . Each of said ends 106, 107 is connected, for example by being wound in a loop, to the collar 112 of each shackle 111, while a pivoting connecting member 113 connects, on the one hand, the axis 114 of the shackle 111 and , on the other hand, an axis 115 substantially horizontal and parallel to the edge beam 110 and passing through a screed means 116 provided at each end of the edge beam 110. The axis 114, passing through the flanges 114c of the shackle 111 is provided with locking members 114a, 114b, likewise the axis 115 crossing the two branches of the yoke 116 is provided with locking members, in position, 115a and 115b.

Si nécessaire, on peut équiper le câble 101, notamment les portions de celui-ci comprises entre les poulies supérieures 102 et les manilles 111, de ridoirs 147.If necessary, the cable 101, in particular the portions thereof between the upper pulleys 102 and the shackles 111, can be fitted with turnbuckles 147.

En se référant aux fig. 9, 10 et 12 à 15, on décrira ci-après un second mode de réalisation du système de suspension 100 se composant d'un poly- gonedéformable 117, constituéd'un certain nombre de barres, notamment métattiques, reliées entre elles et/ou à l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1.Referring to fig. 9, 10 and 12 to 15, there will be described below a second embodiment of the suspension system 100 consisting of a deformable polygon 117, consisting of a number of bars, in particular metallic, connected to each other and / or at the end 4 of pontoon 1.

En se référant en particulier aux fig. 9 et 10, le polygone 117 comprend deux barres de suspension ou suspentes 118, 119, qui peuvent notamment constituer des biellettes, reliées, d'une part, aux extrémités 108, 109 de la poutre de rive transversale 110 de l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 et, d'autre part, à une extrémité 120a, 121 a, tournée vers le ponton, de premiers moyens formant palonniers 120,121 fixés au sommet de moyens formant potences 122, 123 placées, sur le quai 5, de part et d'autre de l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1, et pouvant osciller autour d'un axe 124,125 sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal X, X' du ponton 1. Le polygone 117 comprend également deux barres de suspension 126,127, formant biellettes, reliées, notamment articulées, d'une part, à l'autre extrémité 120b, 121 b (c'est-à-dire l'extrémité tournée vers l'extrémité du ponton) des premiers moyens formant palonniers 120, 121 et, d'autre part, à une extrémité 128a, 129a de seconds moyens formant palonniers 128,129 prévus à l'extrémité inférieure des potences 122, 123, et pouvant osciller autour d'un axe 120, 131 sensiblement horizontal et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal X, X' du ponton 1. Le polygone 117 comprend en outre une traverse d'équilibrage 132, formant biellette passant sous l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1, et dont les deux extrémités 132a et 132b sont reliées, notamment articulées, à l'autre extrémité 128b, 129b des seconds moyens formant palonniers 128,129.With particular reference to Figs. 9 and 10, the polygon 117 comprises two suspension bars or hangers 118, 119, which may in particular constitute rods, connected, on the one hand, to the ends 108, 109 of the transverse edge beam 110 of the end 4 of the pontoon 1 and, on the other hand, at one end 120a, 121a, facing the pontoon, first means forming spreaders 120,121 fixed to the top of means forming gallows 122, 123 placed, on the quay 5, on both sides other from the end 4 of the pontoon 1, and being able to oscillate about an axis 124, 125 substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis X, X 'of the pontoon 1. The polygon 117 also comprises two suspension bars 126, 127, forming rods, connected, in particular articulated, on the one hand, to the other end 120b, 121b (that is to say the end facing the end of the pontoon) of the first lifting beam forming means 120, 121 and, on the other hand, at one end 128a, 129a of second means forming spreaders 128,12 9 provided at the lower end of the brackets 122, 123, and able to oscillate about an axis 120, 131 substantially horizontal and parallel to the longitudinal axis X, X 'of the pontoon 1. The polygon 117 further comprises a cross member d balancing 132, forming a link passing under the end 4 of the pontoon 1, and the two ends 132a and 132b of which are connected, in particular articulated, at the other end 128b, 129b of the second means forming spreaders 128,129.

Ce second mode de réalisation du système de suspension permet des mouvements plus importants, notamment des mouvements d'oscillation de l'extrémité 4 symbolisés en trait mixtes sur la fig. 4, de l'ordre de quelques degrés. Ce second mode de réalisation permet également la reprise d'efforts plus importants dans les barres, et le système dans son ensemble a une durée de vie plus importante que celle du premier mode de réalisation comprenant notamment un câble soumis à une usure rapide.This second embodiment of the suspension system allows greater movements, in particular oscillating movements of the end 4 symbolized in phantom in FIG. 4, of the order of a few degrees. This second embodiment also allows greater forces to be taken up in the bars, and the system as a whole has a longer service life than that of the first embodiment notably comprising a cable subjected to rapid wear.

Ce second mode de réalisation est particulièrement bien adapté pour des passerelles destinées aux convois lourds.This second embodiment is particularly well suited for gangways intended for heavy convoys.

En se référant aux fig. 12 et 13, on décrira ci-après un premier mode de réalisation de la liaison entre les extrémités supérieures des suspentes 118, 119 et les extrémités 120a, 121 a des premiers moyens formant patonniers 120,121. Selon ce premier mode de réalisation, les extrémités supérieures des suspentes 118, 119, réalisées notamment sous focme d'une rotule 133, sont posées librement mobiles sur les extrémités 120a, 121 a des palonniers 120, 121, réalisées notamment sous forme d'une fourche 134, dont les bords supérieurs des branches sont pourvus d'évidements en regard 134a, 134b facilitant la rotation de la rotule 133. Il est à noter que les fig. 7 et 8 représentent en détail le mode de liaison entre le palonnier 120 et la suspente 119; cependant, il est bien évident que le mode de liaison, illustré par ces figures, est identique au mode de liaison prévu entre le palonnier 121 et la suspente 119.Referring to fig. 12 and 13, there will be described below a first embodiment of the connection between the upper ends of the lines 118, 119 and the ends 120a, 121 to the first means forming masters 120,121. According to this first embodiment, the upper ends of the lines 118, 119, produced in particular under the focal point of a ball joint 133, are placed freely movable on the ends 120a, 121 has lifting beams 120, 121, produced in particular in the form of a fork 134, the upper edges of the branches of which are provided with recesses 134a, 134b facilitating the rotation of the ball joint 133. It should be noted that FIGS. 7 and 8 show in detail the connection mode between the lifter 120 and the line 119; however, it is obvious that the connection mode, illustrated by these figures, is identical to the connection mode provided between the lifter 121 and the line 119.

En se référant maintenant aux fig. 14 et 15, on décrira ci-après un second mode de liaison entre les extrémités supérieures des suspentes 118, 119 et les palonniers 120, 121. Dans ce cas, les extrémités supérieures des suspentes 118,119 sont articulées aux palonniers 120, 121, notamment par un joint de cardan 135, dont le croisillon 136, formé en particulier de deux axes perpendiculaires 136a, 136b, est monté rotatif dans des fourches à bride 137,138 prévues à l'extrémité des palonniers et des suspentes, respectivement. Il est à noter que les fig. 14 et 15 illustrent le mode de liaison pour la suspente 118 et le palonnier 120, mais il est bien évident que ce mode de liaison est identique pour la suspente 119 et le palonnier 121 correspondants.Referring now to Figs. 14 and 15, a second method of connection will be described below between the upper ends of the lines 118, 119 and the spreaders 120, 121. In this case, the upper ends of the lines 118, 119 are articulated to the spreaders 120, 121, in particular by a universal joint 135, of which the cross 136, formed in particular of two perpendicular axes 136a, 136b, is rotatably mounted in flange forks 137,138 provided at the end of the spreaders and lines, respectively. It should be noted that Figs. 14 and 15 illustrate the connection mode for the hanger 118 and the lifter 120, but it is obvious that this connection mode is identical for the hanger 119 and the corresponding lifter 121.

En se référant maintenant plus particulièrement aux fig. 16,17 et 18, on décrira ci-après l'articulation entre les extrémités inférieures des suspentes 118,119 et les extrémités 108,109 de la poutre de rive 110.Referring now more particularly to FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, the articulation will be described below between the lower ends of the lines 118, 119 and the ends 108, 109 of the edge beam 110.

Dans les fig. 16, 17 et 18, on a représenté le mode de liaison entre l'extrémité inférieure de la suspente 118 et l'extrémité 108 de la poutre de rive 110, mais il est bien évident que le mode de liaison est identique pour la suspente 119 et l'extrémité 109 de la poutre de rive 110. Les extrémités inférieures des suspentes 118, 119 sont articulées aux extrémités 108, 109 de la poutre de rive 110, notamment par un joint de cardan 139 dont le croisillon 140, formé en particulier de deux axes perpendiculaires 140a, 140b, est monté rotatif dans des fourches à bride 141,142 prévues aux extrémités inférieures des suspentes 118,119 et aux extrémités 108,109 de la poutre de rive 110, respectivement. Ce système d'articulation permet une rotation des suspentes d'un angle compris entre environ 10 et 15°, comme cela est représenté en traits mixtes sur les fig. 16 et 17.In fig. 16, 17 and 18, the mode of connection between the lower end of the line 118 and the end 108 of the edge beam 110, but it is obvious that the connection method is identical for the line 119 and the end 109 of the edge beam 110. The lower ends of the lines 118, 119 are articulated at the ends 108, 109 of the edge beam 110, in particular by a cardan joint 139 whose cross-member 140, formed in particular of two perpendicular axes 140a, 140b, is rotatably mounted in flange forks 141,142 provided at the lower ends lines 118,119 and 108,109 ends of the edge beam 110, respectively. This articulation system allows rotation of the lines by an angle of between approximately 10 and 15 °, as shown in phantom in FIGS. 16 and 17.

En se référant en particulier à la fig. 9, les seconds palonniers 128, 129 sont réalisés sous forme de plaques sensiblement triangulaires aux sommets desquelles sont prévus l'axe de rotation 130, 131, ainsi que les axes d'articulation 128a, 128b; 129a, 129b des barres 126, 127; 132. L'articulation des barres 126, 127; 132 aux premiers et seconds palonniers 120, 121; 128, 129 se fait notamment grâce à des fourches à bride prévues aux extrémités desdites barres et dans lesquelles peuvent pivoter les axes d'articulation 130, 131.With particular reference to FIG. 9, the second spreader bars 128, 129 are produced in the form of substantially triangular plates at the vertices of which the axis of rotation 130, 131 is provided, as well as the articulation axes 128a, 128b; 129a, 129b of bars 126, 127; 132. The articulation of bars 126, 127; 132 to the first and second spreaders 120, 121; 128, 129 is done in particular by means of flange forks provided at the ends of said bars and in which the hinge pins 130, 131 can pivot.

En se référant en particulier aux fig. 8 et 10, l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 est équipée d'un certain nombre de défenses 143, dont la forme et le nombre varient selon les nécessités pratiques de mise en place du ponton.With particular reference to Figs. 8 and 10, the end 4 of the pontoon 1 is equipped with a number of defenses 143, the shape and number of which vary according to the practical requirements for installing the pontoon.

En outre, une liaison secondaire est assurée entre le quai 5 et l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 par l'intermédiaire de câbles, chaînes ou tirants 144, tirants qui peuvent être notamment articulés en 148 au cuvelage 149 du quai 5. Cette liaison secondaire peut également comprendre des tendeurs amortisseurs 145 comportant en particulier un corps en élastomère 145a, et qui est relié, d'une part, aux tirants 144 reliés au quai 5 et, d'autre part, aux câbles 150 ou analogues reliés au ponton 1.In addition, a secondary connection is provided between the quay 5 and the end 4 of the pontoon 1 by means of cables, chains or tie rods 144, tie rods which can in particular be articulated at 148 to the casing 149 of the quay 5. This secondary link may also include shock absorbers 145 comprising in particular an elastomer body 145a, and which is connected, on the one hand, to the tie rods 144 connected to the quay 5 and, on the other hand, to the cables 150 or the like connected to the pontoon 1.

La liaison routière entre l'extrémité 4 du ponton 1 et le quai 5 est assurée par un certain nombre de volets 146 articulés à l'extrémité 4 et venant reposer sur le quai 5.The road connection between the end 4 of the pontoon 1 and the quay 5 is ensured by a number of flaps 146 articulated at the end 4 and coming to rest on the quay 5.

Il est à noter que les potences 122, 123; 104, 105 peuvent être agencées sur une marche 151 prévue dans le quai 5 au-dessous du niveau du quai proprement dit.It should be noted that the gallows 122, 123; 104, 105 can be arranged on a step 151 provided in platform 5 below the level of the platform itself.

Enfin, le ponton 1 selon l'invention est facilement transférable d'un site d'utilisation à un autre sans équipement auxiliaire spécial et par mise en oeuvre d'un minimum d'opérations. En effet, par déballastage des compartiments 12, 14, le ponton est soulevé du quai 5 de façon à avoir une assiette et un tirant d'eau acceptable. Pour ce faire, on ferme la vanne reliant les compartiments de ballastage et on remplit ceux-ci d'eau de façon à avoir un bon équilibre du ponton avec un tirant d'eau requis. Une fois le ponton mis en position de transport haute, il peut être déplacé par exemple par un remorqueur venant à couple ou par auto-propulsion.Finally, the pontoon 1 according to the invention is easily transferable from one site of use to another without special auxiliary equipment and by implementing a minimum of operations. In fact, by deballasting the compartments 12, 14, the pontoon is lifted from the quay 5 so as to have an acceptable trim and draft. To do this, we close the valve connecting the ballast compartments and fill them with water so as to have a good balance of the pontoon with a required draft. Once the pontoon is placed in the high transport position, it can be moved, for example, by a tug coming with torque or by self-propulsion.

Claims (24)

1. Port floating bridge for loading and unloading a ship, particularly a roll-on/roll-off ship, including a ballasting system, one end of the said bridge (1) being connected to a quay (5) and another end being adjacent to the said ship (2), so as to provide a connection path between the quay and the ship, characterized in that the said end (4) of the bridge (1), adjoining the quay (5), is in unilateral-constraint connection with the latter, by simply bearing thereon, and in that the said ballasting system (3) is designed so that the said end (4) of the bridge (1), adjoining the quay (5), always exerts a downward pressure force on the latter, irrespective of the relative position of the rolling overloads or loads R on the bridge (1), within the limit of the admissible maximum rolling overloads or loads corresponding to the said ballasting system (3).
2. A bridge according to Claim 1, characterized in that it includes a ramp (7) whose free end (4) rests in simple bearing relationship on the quay (5), and a floating platform (8), particularly generally rectangular parallelepipedic in shape, secured to the said ramp (7), adjacent to the aforesaid ship (2) and provided with the aforesaid ballasting system (3); the side (9) of the said platform (8) which is secured to the said ramp (7) being in particular opposed to the side (10) adjacent to the ship (2).
3. A bridge according to Claim 2, characterized in that the aforesaid platform (8) is divided by a vertical partition (11), substantially parallel to the aforesaid sides (9, 10) of the platform (8) secured to the aforesaid ramp (7) and adjacent to the aforesaid ship (2), respectively, and located particularly in the transverse medial vertical plane of the platform, the said partition (11) defining, on the one hand, on the side adjoining the quay, at least one ballasting compartment (12) preferably at least partially filled with water, and on the other hand, on the side adjacent to the ship, at least one lower compartment (13) permanently filled with air, surmounted by a ballasting compartment (14) preferably at least partially filled with water; the said ballasting compartments (12, 14) communicating preferably through at least one balancing orifice (15) provided in the said partition (11), the said compartments (12,13,14) defining a ballasting assembly.
4. A bridge according to Claim 3, characterized in that the opening of the aforesaid balancing orifice (15) is controlled by a valve (18).
5. A bridge according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the aforesaid platform (8) includes two aforesaid ballasting assemblies (3a, 3b) arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal medial vertical plane (X, X') of the bridge and separated by at least one bell or tiding compartment (17) communicating through at least one orifice (18) with the external air.
6. A bridge according to Claim 5, characterized in that the aforesaid communication orifice (18), possibly provided with a valve (19), is calibrated so that the water level in the tiding compartment (17) follows the level of the tide in accordance with a predetermined function of time.
7. A bridge according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1) in simple bearing on the quay (5) includes at least one bearing member (20) constituted by two clevises (21) secured to the said end (4) and engaging by their inner cylindrical concave surface (22) a cylindrical shaft (23) secured to a shoe (24), with a convex cylindrical face (25), for bearing on the quay.
8. A bridge according to Claim 7, characterized in that each aforesaid clevis (21 ) can be closed by a removable retaining tongue (26).
9. A bridge according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized by a system (100) for suspending the end (4) of the bridge (1), adjoining the quay (5), intended to take up the oscillating movements due to the swell and/or to the rolling loads.
10. A bridge according to Claim 9, characterized in that the aforesaid suspension system (100) includes a means forming a loop cable (101) passing through a system of pulleys (102, 103) secured to the lower and opper ends, respectively, of two means forming gallows (104, 105) provided, on the quay (5), on either side of the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1), and passing below the said end (4); the ends (106,107) of the said cable (101) being connected to the ends (108, 109) of the transverse edge beam (110) of the said end (4) of the bridge (1), the said beam (110) fulfilling thefunction of an equilibrating bar.
11. A bridge according to Claim 10, characterized in that the ends (106,107) of the aforesaid cable (101) are connected to the ends (108, 109) of the aforesaid edge beam (110) by means (111) forming a shackle; each of the said ends (106, 107) being connected to the collar (112) of each shackle (111), whereas a pivotable connecting member (113) connects, on the one hand, the pivot pin (114) of the said shackle (111) and, on the other hand, a substantially horizontal pin (115) parallel with the aforesaid edge beam (110) extending through a means forming a clevis (116) provided at each end of the said edge beam (110). 12, A bridge according to Claim 10 or 11, characterized in that stretching devices (147) are provided to stretch the aforesaid cable (101).
13. A bridge according to Claim 9, characterized in that the aforesaid suspension system (100) is composed of a deformable polygon (117) constituted by a certain number of bars, particularly metal bars, connected to one another and/or to the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1).
14. A bridge according to Claim 13, characterized in that the aforesaid polygon (117) includes two suspension bars or slings (118, 119) connected, on the one hand, to the ends (108, 109) of the aforesaid transverse edge beam (110) of the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1) and, on the other hand, to an end (120a, 121 a) of first means forming equilibrating bars (120, 121) secured to the top of means forming gallows (122, 123) placed on the quay (5), on either side of the said end (4) of the bridge (1) and capable of oscillating about a substantially horizontal axis (124, 125) parallel with the longitudinal axis (X, X') of the bridge (1); two suspension bars (126, 127) connected, on the one hand, to the other end (120b, 121b) of the said first means forming equilibrating bars (120, 121) and, on the other hand, to one end (128a, 129a) of second means forming equilibrating bars (128, 129) provided at the lower end of the said gallows (122, 123) and capable of oscillating about a susbtantially horizontal axis (130,131) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X, X') of the bridge (1), and an equilibrating cross-member (132) passing under the said end (4) of the bridge (1) and both ends (132a, 132b) of which are connected, in particular pivotally, to the other end (128b, 129b) of the said second means forming equilibrating bars (128, 129).
15. A bridge according to Claim 14, characterized in that the upper ends of the aforesaid slings (118,119),designed particularly in the form of a ball (133), are placed freely movably on the ends (120a, 121a) of the aforesaid equilibrating bars (120, 121), designed particularly in the form of a fork (134).
16. A bridge according to Claim 14, characterized in that the upper ends of the aforesaid slings (118, 119) are pivotally connected to the aforesaid equilibrating bars (120,121), particularly by a Cardan joint (135) the cross-pin assembly (136) of which is mounted rotatably in flanged forks (137, 138) provided at the end of the said equilibrating bars and of the said slings, respectively.
17. A bridge according to one of Claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the lower ends of the aforesaid slings (118, 119) are pivotally connected to the aforesaid ends (108, 109) of the aforesaid edge beam (110), particularly by a Cardan joint (139) whose cross-pin assembly (140) is rotatably mounted in the flanged forks (141, 142) provided at the lower ends of the said slinds (118, 119) and at the ends (108, 109) of the said edge beam (110), respectively.
18. A bridge according to one of Claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the aforesaid second equilibrating beams (128,129) are designed in the form of substantially triangular plates at the vertices of which are provided the aforesaid rotation axis pin (130,131) as well as the pivot pins (128a, 128b; 129a, 129b) of the aforesaid bars (126, 127; 132).
19. A bridge according to one of Claims 14 to 18, characterized in that the pivotal connection of the aforesaid bars (126, 127; 132) with the aforesaid first and second equilibrating bars (120, 121 ; 128, 129) takes place by means of flanged forks provided at the ends of the said bars and in which can pivot the aforesaid pivot axis pins.
20. A bridge according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1) is equipped with a certain number of fenders (143).
21. A bridge according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a secondary connection is ensured between the quay (5) and the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1) through the medium of cables, chains or rods (144) and possibly of damper tensioners (145).
22. A bridge according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection path between the aforesaid end (4) of the bridge (1) and the quay (5) is ensured by a certain number of flaps (146) pivotally connected to the said end (4) and rested on the quay.
23. A bridge according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is equipped with a shock absorbing system (27) distributed along its lateral walls.
24. A bridge according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is equipped with a mooring system (28) including a certain number of chains (29) and hawsers (30) attached on the one handto the quay and, on the other hand, to the bridge, particularly to the ramp and to the platform constituting it.
EP83401144A 1982-06-03 1983-06-03 Floating harbour pontoon for loading or unloading ships, especially roll on, roll off ships Expired EP0097088B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8209676A FR2528004B1 (en) 1982-06-03 1982-06-03 FLOATING PORT PONTOON LOADING AND UNLOADING A VESSEL, ESPECIALLY ROLLER
FR8209676 1982-06-03
FR8304976A FR2543101B2 (en) 1983-03-25 1983-03-25 FLOATING PORT PONTOON LOADING AND UNLOADING A VESSEL, ESPECIALLY ROLLER
FR8304976 1983-03-25

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0097088A1 EP0097088A1 (en) 1983-12-28
EP0097088B1 true EP0097088B1 (en) 1986-02-19

Family

ID=26222938

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP83401144A Expired EP0097088B1 (en) 1982-06-03 1983-06-03 Floating harbour pontoon for loading or unloading ships, especially roll on, roll off ships

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EP (1) EP0097088B1 (en)
DE (1) DE3362165D1 (en)
WO (1) WO1983004233A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2166089A (en) * 1984-10-25 1986-04-30 Peter Edward Caddick Improvements in or relating to the clearing of waterways
GB9108618D0 (en) * 1991-04-23 1991-06-12 Arnprior Holdings Limited Bridges for providing access from a water-borne craft to the shore
DE9206490U1 (en) * 1992-05-13 1993-09-16 Schuermann Werner Watercraft
CN112278195B (en) * 2020-10-23 2022-07-05 中船黄埔文冲船舶有限公司 Mooring method of roll-on/roll-off ship

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4005670A (en) * 1971-02-01 1977-02-01 Campbell Industries Passive stabilization system for ships
US4055264A (en) * 1975-08-04 1977-10-25 Brown & Root, Inc. Deck section loading
FR2359051A2 (en) * 1976-07-22 1978-02-17 Mac Gregor International Sa Folding ship's access gangway - has sections hinged together and selectively lockable in position against quay side
FR2362969A1 (en) * 1976-08-27 1978-03-24 Metalliques Entrepr Cie Fse Temporary floating dock for inaccessible protected coastline - consists of land caisson with bridge deck sections spanning pontoons to form two roadways
GB1569564A (en) * 1976-11-11 1980-06-18 Seafarm Design Ltd Floating platform for loading and unloading cargoships
FR2394642A1 (en) * 1977-03-22 1979-01-12 Mac Gregor Comarain Sa PORT RAMP ACCESS TO A RO-RO VESSEL

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO1983004233A1 (en) 1983-12-08
EP0097088A1 (en) 1983-12-28
DE3362165D1 (en) 1986-03-27

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