EP2679482A2 - Ensemble d'éléments et de pièces pour le montage, l'agrandissement et la reconversion modulaire rapide et réversible d'embarcations, de radeaux, de passerelles, de ponts flottants et de structures flottantes provisoires comprenant plusieurs flotteurs, particulièrement pour des urgences dans un environnement aquatique - Google Patents

Ensemble d'éléments et de pièces pour le montage, l'agrandissement et la reconversion modulaire rapide et réversible d'embarcations, de radeaux, de passerelles, de ponts flottants et de structures flottantes provisoires comprenant plusieurs flotteurs, particulièrement pour des urgences dans un environnement aquatique Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2679482A2
EP2679482A2 EP11823103.4A EP11823103A EP2679482A2 EP 2679482 A2 EP2679482 A2 EP 2679482A2 EP 11823103 A EP11823103 A EP 11823103A EP 2679482 A2 EP2679482 A2 EP 2679482A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
crossbars
floats
floating
same
pieces
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EP11823103.4A
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German (de)
English (en)
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EP2679482A4 (fr
Inventor
José Nieto León
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication of EP2679482A2 publication Critical patent/EP2679482A2/fr
Publication of EP2679482A4 publication Critical patent/EP2679482A4/fr
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B3/00—Hulls characterised by their structure or component parts
    • B63B3/02—Hulls assembled from prefabricated sub-units
    • B63B3/04—Hulls assembled from prefabricated sub-units with permanently-connected sub-units
    • B63B3/06—Hulls assembled from prefabricated sub-units with permanently-connected sub-units the sub-units being substantially identical
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B35/00—Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for
    • B63B35/34—Pontoons

Definitions

  • the present invention belongs to the field of small or medium detachable watercrafts composed of at least two parallel floats, arranged all of them in mutual lateral contact or having at least a gap between two of them, being these floats joined perpendicularly to at least two crossbars.
  • the Utility Model ES1064408U also European PatentApplication EP20070822879 , describes a set of parts and structural components for modular construction of custom small watercrafts with multiple floats, mainly for recreational and leisure purposes, which take the form of small removable pedal boats whose number of floats and seats can be increased laterally by repeated addition of the same modular structural units.
  • the invention is characterized in that each passenger is placed on a seat, which is always placed between each pair of adjacent floats and rests over two longitudinal bars bent into U shape, which in turn are simultaneously coupled and fixed through their respective longer central straight longitudinal segments to the crossbars, and at the same time through their respective twin shorter transverse ends to the main floats.
  • this structure consists of three main structural parts: crossbars, floats and U-shaped longitudinal bars. Because of its simplicity, this structure is good for obtaining an expandable main frame for a watercraft to accommodate a higher or lower number of passengers depending on the need or circumstances, until reaching a limit because practical and technical reasons, being usually the suitable number of passengers of one of two if such watercrafts are manufactured in small size for enhancing portability.
  • This expandable main frame is easy and quick to assemble, disassemble and reconfigure, and has an increased structural strength with respect to the case where there is only a coupling between floats and crossbars, due to the fact that such three parts are mutually joined by three types of screws in a intercrossed triple coupling. It also allows assembling of short pontoons.
  • This main frame structure is characterized by an intertwined coupling of three main structural pieces in three stacked horizontal parallel layers, that is, floats down, crossbars in middle, and U-shaped longitudinal bars above. If these U-shaped longitudinal bars could be joined among them by an additional piece to add, the main frame structure obtained would have more cooperating fastening elements to be added to the mounting screws to endure better distortions, breakages and collapses of the structure. With some additional anchoring elements with which join rigidly the U-shaped longitudinal bars on the same plane parallel to the horizontal plane of the crossbars, it would be more difficult the collapse of the assembled structure because many reasons: continuous deformation by water movements, accumulated metal fatigue, corrosion, load excess, excessive wear, hits, among many others.
  • the invention is characterized by a main frame which is detachable, modular and expandable through a series of attachable and removable structural groups, equal to each other in the most of the cases, which are repeated in the direction of the crossbars and are joined to them.
  • Such detachable main frame has a length or width which can be chosen depending on the type and size of the structure to assemble, well by selecting crossbars of the correct length, well by coupling in series several crossbars until completing the desired length.
  • Such length of crossbars can be relatively short for assembling catamarans, boats or rafts, or relatively long for assembling large or long structures like floating pontoon bridges, barges or floating platforms.
  • the floats according to their anchoring positions to the crossbars, can be placed all of them together in mutual side contact (continuous segmented hull) or leaving gaps between two adjacent of them while there are free positions along the length of the crossbars (pontoons, catamarans).
  • Each structural module added increases the floating structure in direction of the crossbars, each structural module removed makes the contrary.
  • Such addition or removal of modules increases or decreases along this direction simultaneously the length or width of the structure, the accessible surface of the top platform, the buoyancy, the cargo capacity, as well as the number of repeated coupling positions and locking devices, so that the structural strength will increase as modules are added to the assembly or to the contrary, or at least it will partly compensate its decrease when length increases.
  • the structures, totally or partially assembled, may not only be linear, but also horizontally and vertically branched thanks to branched linking pieces, rigid, foldable, articulated by intermediate hinges between rigid sections, fully flexible through cables that join the different detached modules, as well as the structures can be wound or unwound around reel middle pieces for shaping a chain of floats that can be transported rolling on ground or over soil.
  • Each modular structural group comprises at least a float on which two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars are coupled, which are attached slightly above the same, symmetrically on both sides of the vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of the float, touching them mutually by their transverse ends that reach to this same plane of symmetry, forming both two an horizontally elongated rectangular frame whose longer side is in the same direction than the float on which is coupled, and on which in turn a rectangular horizontal platform or plate can be attached, adjusting and fitting exactly over the external or internal perimeter of such rectangular frame in order to obtain a walking expandable surface section where to stand, to walk and to place objects justly above this same float.
  • two or more of these crossbars of equal length are in contact with no clearances with these transverse grooves of the floats by bottom and side sides and with the longitudinal U-shaped bars by the top side, whether if such grooves are only from the same float or from several or many equal floats arranged in parallel with all of their grooves also mutually aligned.
  • the crossbars are always sandwiched between the top U-shaped longitudinal bars and the floats below with a triple interlocking, so that the displacement of each crossbar is limited to a single direction coincident with the symmetry axis of its respective transverse groove where it is placed, until such crossbar is screwed up and locked in the desired transverse position.
  • Each one of these three main structural elements is attached and locked to one from the other different two ones by a set of screws, so that by having a total of three different sets of mounting screws, the larger number of these ones is distributed through the structure and can drain loads and distortions that the structure can suffer in a more efficient way. Furthermore, since to extract and to release from the assembly one of the three types of said main elements (crossbars, floats or U-shaped longitudinal bars) joined to the other two it is necessary to completely remove two of the three sets of screws, it is difficult that the structure can accidentally break or being dismantled except by clear negligence, wrong assembly or by choice.
  • the transverse grooves of such same float are in practice holes due to be inaccessible from above, so that on this structural module with coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars a crossbar only can be attached by inserting it by one of their ends coaxially to the transverse groove and sliding it in the same direction until desired position for fixing with screws.
  • the transverse grooves are accessible from above, so it is possible to couple this float at any free position in a crossbar, both in intermediate as in terminal positions, and then coupling the two U-shaped longitudinal bars over them.
  • the U-shaped longitudinal bars from two adjacent modules with floats can be arranged in mutual touch and can support to each other by their central longer longitudinal segments, thereby alleviating from the mounting screws many of the distortion moves, efforts and burdens as a result of compression strokes in the direction of the crossbars.
  • Such joining and linking elements are two twin small transverse bars for joining in a whole each two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars attached to the same float, and several hinges and bolts for joining two adjacent U-shaped longitudinal bars from adjacent floats also in a whole, but allowing their mutual folding if no crossbars are threaded crossing the transverse grooves of the involved floats.
  • the lengths of all the involved parts (crossbars, floats and U-shaped longitudinal bars) in the direction of the crossbars must be divided into sections of a same standardized length both for coupling and for spacing, so lengths of all elements in this direction are always a multiplier equal or greater than the unit of a certain length which is chosen and taken as the most optimized suitable unitary length by practical and technical reasons.
  • This unit length is matched to the transverse separation distance between the two outer edges of the two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars engaged to the same float.
  • two different rectangular frames shaped from two different pairs of twin U-shaped longitudinal bars docked over a float each can be in mutual touch each other when screwed into adjacent screwing positions, and do not touch each other if one or more gaps between them are left.
  • the different pieces and elements must have always a length measured in the direction of the crossbars that is a multiplier equal or greater than the value of this unitary chosen length
  • addition or removal of the modular pieces along the crossbars increases or decreases, also in a modular way by incremental units, length and / orwidth of the structures, platform surface, buoyancy, cargo capacity, total number of possible docking positions for floats, and number of anchoring and locking mechanisms available.
  • This chosen unit length is called hereafter as "segment”.
  • Segment (a single one) also may refer in the text to the minimum possible increment or decrement in either of these properties in mounting or dismantling of structures, but it is mainly referred to the length measured in the direction of the crossbars, as such properties are obviously proportional to the length in the direction of the crossbars. "x segments” is then a number of x times this minimum increment or decrement in all of these properties cited.
  • a “segment” is also the minimum transverse distance separation posible between the two outer edges of the two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars engaged to a same float, being the length of this "segment” and of this float in this same direction the most suitable optimal for handling, assembling, storing and transporting operations, that is, not too big but also not too small.
  • each segment from the crossbars can be occupied by a docking piece or be left free, and also such segment can be screwed to such docking piece, so standardization in segments is applied on lengths and on locking and coupling elements. So pieces of different lengths / widths can be coupled and screwed segment by segment, even if there are free gaps.
  • distributions of all anchoring and locking mechanisms on each one of the parts and pieces from the set are symmetrical with respect to a vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of each respective part and perpendicular to the axis of the each one of the crossbars, as well as they are also symmetrical with respect to a vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of each separate unitary distribution segment of all anchoring and locking mechanisms on each one of the parts. That allows to some parts to be coupled in left or right positions indifferently, and to use them in interchangeably way on left and right sides.
  • two twin small transverse bars for each float are added, which have an outer cross-section that is the same that the inner cross-section of the metal tube the U-shaped longitudinal bars is made from.
  • Such small twin transverse bars have a length that is equal or, for practical reasons, slightly less than twice the length of one of the two twin shorter transverse arms from an U-shaped longitudinal bar for coupling to the float, and therefore they have a standardized value in length slightly smaller than a positive integer number of segments.
  • each one can be introduced without space or clearance inside the tubular ends of any U-shaped longitudinal bar, standing symmetrically between each pair mutually coupled of them, which is in turn coupled to the same float.
  • the twin transverse bars act as a linking piece between each two coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars in a whole in the form of a rectangular frame, as the screws that cross and fix the U-shaped longitudinal bars to the float are used also for crossing and fixing each transverse bar inside its coupled pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars and then both to the float.
  • each two of these twin transverse bars held together each two paired U-shaped longitudinal bars as two joined halves of a rectangular horizontal frame, which can be removed from the float where it is coupled by loosening the fixing screws, but this rectangular frame still remain in a single whole, with its composing U-shaped longitudinal bars still joined by the same fixing screws which are not completely removed and still cross both these pieces and the inner twin transverse bars.
  • This feature was not possible before due to the lack of any joining element between the twin coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (with exception of the float when joined to it).
  • this assembly is structurally much stronger than a simple rectangular frame made of a single tube bent and welded, despite of having two separable parts.
  • transverse bars may be solid or made in tube of thick wall, giving to the corners and short sides of the rectangular frame much more resistance to bending or breaking in any direction horizontal or vertical, to strokes, to excessive weights or excessive compressions in the direction of the crossbars and transverse bars.
  • rectangular frame, split into two halves could finish with breakage of fixing screws and U-shaped longitudinal bars released from the assembly or partially out from their coupling positions and out from their common horizontal plane, being mounted one above the other and collapsing the structure.
  • the transverse bars aid to transmit and distribute effectively the compressive stress applied in the direction of the crossbars among all different structural modules in the assembly, freeing the screws of part of this duty.
  • two twin transverse bars allow to each coupled twin U-shaped longitudinal bars to be assembled as a rectangular frame without necessarily having a float below, allowing to complete continuous platforms on long structures with floats spaced with gaps between them as floating pontoon bridges.
  • This improvement is a series of longitudinal hinges, in the form of straight metal coaxial tubes, welded, screwed or bolted, which are positioned slightly above the outer edge of the central longer longitudinal linear section of each U-shaped longitudinal bar, in a way that these tubes are placed consecutively aligned in assembly position but they belong alternately to each one of the two U-shaped longitudinal bars to link together.
  • This allows, by introducing a robust pin or bolt inside of the aligned series of aligned coaxial tubes, to strengthen the structure as well as to add hinges between two adjacent U-shaped longitudinal bars and two adjacent structural modules in touch for mutual folding in case that no crossbars are inserted crossing inside the transverse grooves of the floats.
  • the addition of these longitudinal hinges allows that the structural modules of all the set of pieces and parts are not only removable, but also foldable as a choice, so that besides the option of storage, transport and assembly of them by detached pieces or separate modules, there is the additional option of building more or less long chains of structural modules previously longitudinal linked by hinges, and preserved and transported folded, bent or wound around reel pieces for further unrolling and unfolding operations in deployment and structure strengthening by coupling and screwing of the crossbars to the deployed structure, whether if they are short chains (boats) as if they are long chains (rafts or floating walkways sections).
  • such a system of longitudinal hinges is an additional strengthening device for the structure on the same plane when they are bolted with pins, which act in cooperation with the crossbars once they are placed. It is also safer and more versatile than the use of locks, latches or hooks, which in addition to not providing the above advantage of the ability of folding, as they can have hooked shapes, projections or spikes that can be released, loosen or broken, losing their effectiveness, and they can hurt hands and fingers during hasty fast assembly and transport steps or become hooked with objects at inopportune times.
  • the strength and toughness of such longitudinal hinges is greater the greater the thickness and length of their tubes are, as well as their hinge pins, and they have smoothed and rounded shapes with no burrs which are safer for handling and assembly.
  • This detachable expandable main frame which can be enlarged by adding successively structural modules especially reinforced, constitutes the core of the invention, which allows build a very broad range of floating structures, either for watercrafts or pontoon bridges, among many others.
  • This invention along herein, successively a number of additional parts and pieces are added, which are going perfecting, completing, expanding or specializing functions of the elements previously described and claimed in succession, for the reasons explained later, pointing the objective of the invention.
  • the invention does not include propulsion or steering control systems, of which it is assumed outboard motors will be responsible for, as well as oars or paddles, but it incorporates elements for nailing or for pinning to anchor the structure to the soil below water, elements to tow by other watercrafts, or elements to pull the assemblies throughout guide cables.
  • the shape and characteristics of these floats on each case is different and appropriate or fully optimized for their specific function in a watercraft or in a pontoon bridge, maximizing hydrodynamics or buoyancy.
  • R.I.B.s Rigid Inflatable Boats
  • Zodiac Water Inflatable Boats
  • These boats are designed in such a quality and performance that has not been improved substantially since its invention and have demonstrated its full practical utility for decades.
  • the only problem is that they are precisely boats, and they can only be used as boats. They can not change its own shape or size, they can not be transformed into something else, they can not be divided into detached parts to partition the size or weight to transport and carry, and they can not be divided or split to be in more than a single place at a time.
  • the inflatable boats are very compactable and very portable, but they need an air compressor for fast inflation, or they must be transported inflated draining big space from transport vehicles, and they may be not suitable for use in shallow draft areas having strong water stream where they can finish being ripped, punctured by sharp or pointed submerged objects as those that can be found in natural and urban places.
  • Each R.I.B. needs a trailer for transportation on land, and therefore a vehicle for each trailer and R.I.B. to transport and to deploy. Due to its length and width, typically they do not fit within the boxes and trunks of standard vehicles such as small trucks, ATVs or vans and can not be lifted to and be lowered from car roof racks by muscle.
  • the trailer is an element that reduces speed, maneuverability and stability on road and on cross-country, and it can make difficult to enter and to pass through narrow, close country access roads, and they can not overcome ravines or road cuts, so sometimes they have to make a long detour that means wasted time. Also the trailer needs access to get close or get into the water to release the boat by human strength or by a cable and a crank, and this good deployment point may be hard to find or to reach sometimes.
  • While the core of the invention is a removable, expandable, strong structural main frame which allow to build quickly and safely short or long linear or branched structures, it may have little practical utility. To carry out its role effectively this main frame should be complemented with other items, parts, accessories and pieces that allow the invention to face and cope successfully many random conditions and scenes that it is possible to find in a real flooding situation: strong water currents, banks and shores at different levels from water level, available points for placing a pontoon bridge which are not in perpendicular direction in relation to the water stream, need of transporting and building a floating walkway in very little time, road closures, flash floods, tides or hydrodynamic tides which may need flexible or hinged non-rigid structures, and thousands more. Throughout this document all elements and parts constituting this invention will be presented and explained.
  • the main structural elements of the invention and its mutual coupling way can be seen in Figure 1 .
  • the invention consist of, firstly, in at least one pair of twin crossbars (1) in tube of square or rectangular cross-section, preferably made of metal or alloy resistant to corrosion, both of them of the same length, which is not specified but it may be selected by the user.
  • These crossbars (1) join at least two floats (2) arranged in parallel longitudinally in mutual contact or separated between them (in the figure only one is shown for clarity), all of them symmetrical with respect to a vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry that passes through its own center.
  • the assembly is completed for now by two U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) for each float (2) in tube of square or rectangular cross-section, also preferably made of metal or alloy resistant to corrosion.
  • All the floats (2) have at least five transverse grooves on its top surface flat horizontal which cross it perpendicularly and completely. At least two of such transverse grooves (4), which are located on top flat surface in the central part of each float (2), serve for joining, coupling and screwing of the crossbars (1), thus they have the same cross section that them.
  • transverse grooves (5) that serve for joining, coupling and screwing of the transverse shorter ends of said U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), also having the same cross section that these transverse ends, with the characteristic on all the floats (2) that the transverse grooves (4) are always placed between the two transverse grooves (5), so that the crossbars (1) coupled inside the transverse grooves (4) are always placed between the two transverse ends of each one of both twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • Such U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) once coupled and screwed to the other pieces can distribute and disperse weights and load forces from the top platform of the structure of watercraft or whatever structure, simultaneously both to the crossbars (1) as to the floats (2).
  • An additional last transverse groove (6) is near the prow of all the floats (2), with the same cross section as the transverse grooves (4) for placement of a third crossbar (1), which increases the strengthening of the structure when coupled and screwed, and prevents that the prows in the watercrafts tend to be separated and deformed by the continued impact on the water because the own displacement of the watercraft, as well as to place further accessories for many practical applications to perform at the prow.
  • the triple linkage between each two of the three types of main sandwiched structural parts achieves a greater structural strength and endurance than in the case of having only the usual coupling between crossbars (1) and floats (2), and the structural tensions are supported and distributed to a higher number of screws or bolts. It also enables greater versatility in assembly, disassembly and conversion operations, since by removing two of these types of connecting screws, threaded rods or bolts (7), (8) and (9), it is possible to release one of these three types of structural main parts with respect of the other two, which remains joined by the third not removed set of connecting screws.
  • Each float (2) with two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) screwed over by strong floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9), is an independent modular floating structural module that can be attached or detached to an assembly in construction or conversion by fixing and screwing it over the common crossbars (1) that join all modules together in common assemblies.
  • This independent modular floating structural module also can be moved sliding along the same crossbars (1) for changing or adjusting its transverse position in relation to them but without releasing from them.
  • each detached float (2) can now be intercalated in a gap enough wide between two side floats (2) and screwed or bolted to the joining crossbars (1), placing, coupling and screwing it from below with respect to the horizontal plane of the crossbars (1) in the floating structure.
  • the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) can be coupled to its corresponding float (2) and screwed or bolted from above to it as to the crossbars (1) in a sandwiched arrangement by means of the crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and the floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9).
  • Such structural elements can also be removed by the reverse process, to reduce the number of floats (2) and floating structural modules joined to the crossbars (1) and / or to redistribute transversely them if necessary.
  • the first insertion procedure by sides is more suitable for construction of large or long floating structures, since there is no need to completely lift them, but slightly tilting them to insert, to slide and to stack the floating structural modules to their final positions, compacting the series if necessary.
  • many gapped detachable watercrafts can be compacted transversely for reducing its width in preassembled arrangements for fast deployment by expanding the floats (2) and floating structural modules to the sides, as in case of catamarans, trimarans or small pontoons.
  • the second intercalation process top-bottom can be faster and suitable for completing small watercrafts or rafts with the maximum number of floating structural modules, coupling and fixing the crossbars (1) over the floats (2) disposed on ground, then coupling and fixing twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) have the characteristic that, once screwed or bolted to the floats (2) in coupling positions, their shorter transverse ends of each one reach exactly to the vertical longitudinal symmetry plane of its corresponding float (2) where it is attached on, so that both two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) touch mutually between them by their transverse shorter ends and share a common float (2), making a rectangular frame which provides rigidity to the structures of more than two floating structural modules in mutual side contact.
  • All the floats (2) have a fifth transverse groove (6) made in the top flat horizontal surface on the prow of the floats (2).
  • a top sliding cover (10) on each float (2) which is placed and removed sliding along the longitudinal direction, covers the prow's top flat horizontal surface including this transverse groove (6), using for its coupling and movements one or several twin longitudinal guideways or flanges (11), which are shaped or placed longitudinal on this top flat horizontal surface on the prow of the floats (2), to slide only in longitudinal direction when it is inserted on them.
  • Each top sliding cover (10) can be fixed by at least a floats-sliding covers fixing screw (12) to the prow of its corresponding float (2). So that this transverse groove (6) is covered or uncovered by the user with great ease, in order to couple and lock or to release different elements which can be coupled inside it, especially a crossbar (1) for joining the floats (2) among them by their prows.
  • the crossbars (1) are always manufactured in different selectable lengths to choose among them, being such possible selectable lengths a positive integer multiple of an unitary length which is a constant value in the invention, or at least in each possible format or version of the invention due to the size or dimensions of the manufactured pieces (for example, for handling and lifting by human power or by lifting machinery).
  • This unitary length is matched with the maximum width of each one of the narrowest floating structural modules possible for practical use, that is, the transverse distance measured perpendicularly between the parallel outer edges of the two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) coupled together over each float (2).
  • this transverse distance is previously calculated for a optimized transport, storage, assembly and handling operations, that is, it is those width for floating structural modules that is fully optimal, so narrower floating structural modules are less practical or less manageable, or simply, they are too small.
  • the positive integer multiple may vary between one (to accommodate a single floating structural module with a single float (2) and two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), coinciding exactly with its maximum width), to a limit determined by the size, strength and handling of both the floating structural modules and the assembled structures with them.
  • a crossbar (1) of a number n of segments may therefore be coupled exactly, without excess or lack of length on such crossbar (1), over a number n of segments of floats (2), regardless of whether this is achieved with a single float (2) of n segments in width or with several floats coupled with an overall width of n segments stacked in series.
  • This allows to the set of parts and pieces to be joined together not only piece by piece but segment by segment, so that it is possible to multiply the number of structures possible to be built, and a great freedom of choice for engaging or not one piece over another even if they have different lengths or widths, for leaving a gap vacant or not, for choosing the dimensions and the coupling position thereof, is provided.
  • Each one of these two sets of holes are drilled in all and each one of the segments of all the crossbars (1), symmetrically at both sides in relation to the transverse vertical plane of symmetry passing through the center of said segment (which is parallel to the vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of each float (2) in the mounting coupling arrangement and same spatial relative orientation between crossbars (1) and floats (2)).
  • the set of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) tighten the crossbars (1) to the floats (2) when placed, having their ends screwed into female threaded metal parts firmly housed or embedded inside the body of the floats (2) at matching positions over the horizontal surface of the transverse grooves (4).
  • the crossbars (1) do not have necessarily threads but necessarily the same diameter hole or slightly greater, and are optionally countersunk for hiding the head of each one of the crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) with no protruding.
  • the set of connecting screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) tighten the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) to the crossbars (1), if necessary with the aid of nuts, but as they are long they can be better substituted by long thick bolts or pins, so this simple change can streamline assembly processes and also avoids the presence of nuts that can be lost as there are no bottom nuts or female threaded metal parts in the float (2) for hosting these elements.
  • the floats (2) must have, obligatorily, exactly the same width, or just slightly a little less width than a positive integer number of segments. Thanks to that, it has (or best said, it can have, as it depends on the pieces coupled by the user) in almost all occasions the same or slightly less width than the rectangular frame constituted by the coupled pair of two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) assembled above it.
  • new inner crossbars (13) are added as important new assembly elements.
  • The have exactly all the same characteristics that the crossbars (1), but with the distinction of having an outer cross section whose shape and dimensions are such that these inner crossbars (13) can be inserted snugly inside the hollow tubular usual outer crossbars (1) and be displaced along all its length also snugly, and be fixed to them or together with them with the same sets of fixing screws.
  • These inner crossbars (13) serves as a lateral connection element between two crossbars (1) for increasing their length by connecting both two in series and / or s for achieving a longer or doubled thickness than the original crossbars (1) to make them more resistant to bending, as well as for connecting two assembled floating structures by coupling in series each crossbar (1) of one of them with the other corresponding crossbar (1) from the other one sequentially in the same line, making possible to assemble longer or larger floating structures as rafts or pontoon bridges plugin sideward smaller ones, which are more easy to mount and to transport, as shown in Figure 4 and in Figure 5 .
  • the fifth transverse groove (6) of the floats (2) has the same cross section as the transverse grooves (4) have, so a third crossbar (1) can be coupled, hosted and screwed to the prow of each float (2) and the prow of any watercraft assembled with them, or to the considered side of any assembled structure with floats (2) arranged in parallel having all their transverse grooves (4) y (6) consecutively aligned.
  • the upper sliding cover (10) covers and locks such front crossbar (1) hosted and screwed inside the transverse groove (6), and by not being under the main frame constituted by the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) in the assemblies, the access, opening and closing of this transverse groove (6) is easy, quick and immediate, thanks to the aid of said upper sliding cover (10).
  • This third crossbar (1) aids to increase structural strength at this side, especially if this is the prow of a watercraft that impacts to the water due to its own displacement move.
  • Figure 7 illustrates the enormous number of possible combinations for mounting different floating structures in the example of having ten twin detached floating structural modules a single segment wide available, and a sufficient number of crossbars (1) (from two to six segments long) of all possible lengths between two to twenty segments in length. Still they are not shown the possible additional possibilities for connections of these structures later into larger ones by use of inner crossbars (13). However, it is possible to extend still more structural mounting possibilities with new connecting elements and additional parts that can be attached and linked over the previous ones.
  • Pieces for cable passage (15) Other terminal coupling parts that can be attached laterally inserted into the crossbars (1) are the pieces for cable passage (15). These short pieces, in two versions, have always the same outer cross section than the inner cross section of the crossbars (1) in first version, and the same outer cross section than the inner cross section of the inner crossbars (13) in second version. So such pieces for cable passage (15) can be introduced inside the tubular hole of both linear linking elements and displace along all their length coincident with its main axis for being fixed at terminal or intermediate fixing positions. Each one of said pieces for cable passage (15) have several longitudinal parallel complete holes that cross them side to side in parallel to the central symmetry axis of symmetry of crossbars (1) or inner crossbars (13) when coupled to them.
  • Such longitudinal complete parallel holes are always drilled or shaped in the same preset positions, so that when several pieces for cable passage (15) are inserted a crossbar (1) or inner crossbar (13) in whatever positions, such holes are coaxially aligned in parallel to crossbars (1) and inner crossbars (13). Then, a cable or rope can be placed passing through a single row of these aligned consecutive holes, so it is possible thanks to these pieces for cable passage (15) to pass several resistant guide cables or ropes inside each crossbar (1) or inner crossbar (13) on a floating structure or floating structural module.
  • Such longitudinal holes are drilled or shaped at preset positions in a way that the cable or rope that pass through its holes row does not bump or rub with any element from the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) for safety reasons.
  • the longitudinal holes are drilled or shaped with no sharp edges or burrs. This has full utility for transporting floating structural modules or preassembled structures and overcoming ravines or hard terrain slopes by gravity, by making them to fall down sliding through those guide cables.
  • FIG. 9 Another terminal piece especially designed to be placed easily on the transverse grooves (6) and locked with the help of the sliding covers (10) and the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) from these transverse grooves (6), is shown in Figure 9 .
  • a further group is to facilitate transport and drag by hand of floating structural modules and assembled floating structures.
  • They are simple handles (17) for use with a single hand each, for instance in molded plastic, each one able of being introduced in terminal positions into a crossbar (1) perfectly, having for that inner and outer coincident cross sections respectively, and with a series of vertical holes drilled crossing them which are in coincident positions and diameter with the set of holes drilled in crossbars (1) for the set of connecting screws, threaded rods or bolts (8), so that these elements can also fix simple handles (17) when docked.
  • a series of three terminal pieces which engage over the ends of the crossbars (1) can be seen in Figure 11 .
  • the first is a piece for embracing the floats (21), a modification of the inner crossbars (13) that engages always in opposite pairs to both ends of the same crossbar (1) to embrace, as a jaw, a series of stacked floats (2) in mutual contact with no gaps that occupy all its length, retaining them against traction movements to the sides, so that they can be coupled optionally by the user.
  • Each piece for embracing the floats (21) consists of a inner crossbar (13), usually a segment long, which ends in an outer protruding larger section which has such a shape that it can adapt perfectly to the external shape of the floats (2) like a wedge, for a good embracing action, preventing the floats (2) of the floating structure from be separated from each other by the watercraft movement itself.
  • they can be fixed to the crossbars (1) by having the same sets of holes in coincident positions for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and the crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8).
  • terminal coupling parts are pointed terminal pieces for penetration and self-centering of the crossbars (22) on the transverse grooves (4) and (6) of the floats (2). It is a piece made of hard plastic or metal and finished in conical or pyramidal tip which engages and is screwed onto the end of the crossbars (1) by having the same sets of holes in coincident positions for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and the crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8).
  • terminal coupling parts are terminal pieces for spiking to the shallow soil (23). These are a segment of crossbar (1) or inner crossbar (13) with the standardized sets of holes for the usual fixing screws previously said, with an extended thicker end finished in a vertical hole or horizontal ring with enough diameter, inside of which it is possible to insert a vertical bar or peg for spiking and immobilizing the floating structure to shallow soft soil. As the bars are nailed vertically, the floating structure can follow variations in water level, as in tides or in slow flooding of a place.
  • a modification of last piece is in the form of intermediate linking pieces for spiking to the shallow soil (24). They are the same than the terminal pieces for spiking to the shallow soil (23), but instead of having a single arm of crossbar (1) or inner crossbar (13) a segment long, they have two twin ones, with the second one symmetrically disposed in the opposite direction than the first one, that is, coaxially aligned in the same line. So this element makes the same function than the terminal pieces for spiking to the shallow soil (23), but at the same time allowing each one to join two floating structures through two consecutive crossbars (1) or inner crossbars (13).
  • Last terminal coupling parts are crossbars split in two U-shaped pieces (25) and inner crossbars split in two U-shaped pieces (26), which can be seen in Figure 12 and in Figure 4 .
  • Such elements can be disassembled into two unequal halves in form of bars of U-shaped cross-section, one that can fit inside the other with no clearances by their open sides, but having when coupled the same outer cross section than crossbars (1) and inner crossbars (13), respectively, having also the same standardized length of an integer positive number of segments and the same distributions of sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8), so they can be swapped by the crossbars (1) and inner crossbars (13) respectively.
  • each element Before the two parts of each element are joined to each other and / or the floats (2), they can flank from both sides and close inside of them, along all its length, a cable, rope or chain whose extremes are far or are tied or hooked to a tree, lamppost, post, rock, or any elements from the environment where both extremes of the cable must be fixed, for instance, for passing a guide between two opposite shores.
  • a cable, rope or chain whose extremes are far or are tied or hooked to a tree, lamppost, post, rock, or any elements from the environment where both extremes of the cable must be fixed, for instance, for passing a guide between two opposite shores.
  • As such elements are splittable, they can flank such cable, cable or rope and a complete watercraft or floating structure can be built around it, feature impossible to perform with usual crossbars (1) and inner crossbars (13) as they are made in a single piece.
  • the two halves can joined together by means of a series of spaced holes, either if vertical or horizontal, which cross
  • the rigid angled pieces (27) are just two sections of crossbars (1) or inner crossbars (13), or one of each, usually a segment in length, which are rigidly mutually linked, bent or welded at one of its ends in one of several possible standardized angles between 0 ° and 180 ° and different from them. Both arms in all these rigid angled pieces (27) have the same standardized length of an integer positive number of segments and the same distributions of sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8), for standardized coupling with other parts in the same way.
  • both arms have also a preset additional distance close to the corner to be calculated previously for each standardized angle, for allowing that the elements and pieces coupled to the segment or segments of each arm can fit and match in angle with the elements and pieces coupled to the segment or segments of the opposite arm, usually in this case the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) without interfering or colliding but touching mutually for strengthening the assembly.
  • the rigid angled pieces (27) may have at least a reinforcing rod or adjustable drilled plate (28) that obliquely connects both arms, which can be fixed by pins crossing through holes on both arms.
  • the rigid angled pieces (27) permit the coupling on a floating structure of oblique or vertical side panels or floating structural modules.
  • An example is to build an V-shaped or U-shaped cage or case over a floating structure or watercraft for transporting bulky cargo and avoiding they can fall or slide by sides to water, as may be sacks or tubes.
  • variable angled pieces (29) and (30) are similar to the rigid angled pieces (27), also two sections of crossbars (1) or inner crossbars (13), or one of each, usually of a segment in length, each one of which is rigidly linked to the half of a centerpice which is split in two foldable halves, which can pivot each in relation to the other thanks to a middle transverse hinge, horizontal in relation to the same spatial orientation of coupling to the crossbars in the assemblies, that links both middle piece halves and therefore allow the folding of the two arms.
  • variable angled pieces with centered hinge 29
  • the transverse hinge is centered vertically with respect to the two articulated arms, allowing them to freely take symmetrically angles in both directions, as much as the shape of the piece may allow until touch between the two halves
  • the transversal hinge is displaced from the center of the arms and middle pieces to the upper or lower extreme, allowing to their arms to freely take angles between 0° and 180° (or little less than 180°, depending on the shapes of the pieces and touches), and be folded one over the other.
  • Both arms in all variable angled pieces (29) and (30) have the same standardized length of an integer positive number of segments and the same distributions of sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8), for standardized coupling with other parts in the same way.
  • these parts are less strong than rigid angled pieces (27), they are more versatile as a single one of them can adopt a wide range of possible angles.
  • the variable angled pieces (29) and (30) may have at least a reinforcing rod or adjustable drilled plate (28) that obliquely connects both arms in the same piece, which can be fixed by pins crossing through holes on both arms.
  • variable angled pieces with centered hinge (29) allow to build safer long flexible floating structures formed by rigid short sections hinged together, which adapt to the waves, water movements, tides and swinging movements because displacement of cargo along the top deck or platform (as may be case of a vehicle in movement).
  • variable angled pieces with centered hinge (30) enable the construction and coupling of lateral tilting, swinging or folding accessories or devices such as foldable bridge sections, foldable side ladders, foldable side accessing ramps, foldable side panels, etc.
  • Such folding capabilities may be by having several identical pieces in parallel in a V-shape or L-shape folding arrangement with a common folding axes, or two consecutive ones in U-shape or Z-shape folding with two common folding axis, for larger foldable retractile sections.
  • crossbars (1) rigid angled pieces (27) and variable angled pieces (29) and (30) from the floating structures and substituting them by stronger convex polygonal frames (32), which are made in a single piece. They are made of the same metal tube as that used for the crossbars (1), and therefore with its same cross section, but with shape of a flat closed polygon of straight sides, symmetrical in two planes mutually perpendicular (horizontal and vertical with respect to the floating structure to be built with them), as well to the third perpendicular symmetry plane as these pieces are flat.
  • a section of the same metal tube that the used for the crossbars (1) with the same length than the perimeter of the convex polygonal frames (32) to make, is bent preset angles on preset longitudinal positions for shaping exactly such cyclic polygonal frame (32) desired, welding the free extremes together for closing the polygon.
  • Each one of the sides of the polygonal cyclic frames (32) must have a length of an integer positive number of segments to permit standardized engagement of the same number of segments of floats (2) and floating structural modules over each one of the polygon sides, with the caution of adding to each polygonal side two additional small lateral distances on each of the two side ends, previously calculated for each angle, thus leaving on each vertex sufficient additional space for allowing the two floating structural modules docked flanking each corner to touch and to support mutually in angle on their two respective U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • Each cyclic polygonal frame side (32) has their corresponding standardized sets of holes in the direction perpendicular thereto contained in or in parallel to the plane of the cyclic polygonal frame (32) itself for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8).
  • linking elements both in vertical branching (two-deck watercrafts, floating scaffolding, floating shelving) or horizontal branching (branched horizontal platforms, branched piers), consisting in ramified T-shaped and X-shaped linking pieces.
  • These pieces consist of at least three sections of crossbars (1) and / or inner crossbars (13), usually a segment in length each, all of them mutually joined together by one of their ends, in an arrangement where they are aligned along the three main spatial mutually perpendicular directions, so arranged radially from the central common vertex, with at least two of them aligned coaxially in the same direction, sharing a common symmetry axis.
  • Each one of the crossbars (1) sections and inner crossbars (13) sections has their corresponding standardized sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8).
  • Such parts are easily understood visually in Figure 15 .
  • Figure 15a it can be observed an embodiment of some of these parts where all the arms are made with crossbars (1) sections which depart from a cubic middle piece, or from a cubic middle piece that can be inscribed inside a cube, having this cube a side length coincident or larger than the transverse perpendicular thickness of the crossbars (1) measured in their thicker side.
  • Such cubic middle piece may have a hole or several orthogonal holes for introducing bars through and spiking the floating structures to shallow soil.
  • branching pieces there are also a series of welded reinforcing metal braces with holes for fixing with pins or bolts diagonal braces or bars between two of these branching pieces mounted in the structure in the same vertical or horizontal plane but in opposite corners.
  • Figure 15b it can be observed an alternative embodiment of some of these parts which is identical to embodiment from Figure 15a , with the exception that instead of arms made with crossbars (1) sections, the pieces are made with inner crossbars (13) sections, and with the consequence that no welded reinforcing metal braces with holes for fixing diagonal braces can be added, as these arms are introduced inside the ends of crossbars (1) or inside ends of pieces having sections of those, so they are weaker in comparison with the previous embodiment.
  • Figure 15c is seen a last embodiment, made with crossbars (1) sections, where the pieces lacks of a central cubic middle piece, so it is possible to introduce completely an inner crossbar (13) through all the tubular hole of a single one of the arms, constituting stronger assemblies than in previous embodiments.
  • T-shaped vertical coupling elements (33), (33'), (44) and (44') are added, which consists of a horizontal metal plate a segment wide or less on its longer side, with vertical holes practiced coincidentally with the positions of the set of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) for standardized coupling over a segment of a crossbar (1), inner crossbar (13) or float (2) in any of their transverse grooves (4) or (6).
  • Over this horizontal drilled plate there is a crossbar (1) section or an inner crossbar (13) section of at least a single segment in length, welded vertically.
  • Such vertical arm in the coupling position over a floating structural module or a floating structure
  • T-shaped vertical coupling elements (33), (33'), (44) and (44') are useful for attaching a second platform of deck over the floating structure (as may be in two-deck watercrafts, floating scaffolding, floating shelving, among others), being used in opposite pairs on each end of each vertical crossbar (1) or inner crossbar (13) used for raising the second deck from the main one. They also enable quick and easy assembly and disassembly operations of such elevated decks or platforms without removing all or part of the main floating structure as happen with other prior elements, as they are coupled and screwed directly over the main crossbars (1) without being inserted or interspersed in their same lines and therefore without disassembly, but only with simple unscrewing and screwing operations.
  • the bottom of the floats (2) is flat or slightly convex, with a little prominent keel and / or middle longitudinal fin, for sliding on water but being tough and durable against shocks and abrasion due to submerged objects, stones or hard soil during transport or assembly. Because of the need for standardization of dimensions and lengths of the parts and pieces, and of positions of the different coupling devices and mechanisms, like the crossbars (1), inner crossbars (13) and related pieces composed of sections from those, the floats (2) are manufactured in several different selectable widths that are a positive integer multiple of the unitary length of a segment.
  • the positions of the sets of holes located at the top flat surface of transverse grooves (4) and (6) are both repeated transversely sideward in the direction of the transverse grooves (4), (5), (6) and the crossbars (1) at each segment, so repeated as many times as segments the float (2) has in width.
  • This periodic repetition of locking devices and mechanisms at each segment in length sideward is also applied on each set of several equal longitudinal guideways or flanges (11) shaped or placed longitudinal on top flat horizontal surface at the prow of the floats (2), and to each set of vertical holes (best said the female threaded metal bodies embedded in the body of the floats (2) that contains such sets of threaded holes) for screwing the set of floats-sliding covers fixing screws (12). All of those being disposed symmetrically with respect to the vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of the float (2), as well as in relation to the vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry passing through the center of each unitary set a segment wide of all locking and fixing devices (as they are repeated sideward on each segment).
  • floats (2) two, three, four, or more segments wide if they were to make, allow the construction of large floating structures (as those that must withstand heavy loads or more people over) in less time and with less screwing operations, at the cost of more size, weight, more operating crew and less portability and handling easiness. Also wider floats (2) allow that hulls can be less segmented, so their watercrafts should be stronger than the same one built with narrower floats (2). It is clear the desirability of various possible sizes of floats (2) to choose among, to pick them smaller, lighter and more portable for building small, maneuverable, light, fast watercrafts, or bigger, heavier, less transportable for building big, heavy, slow, high-capacity watercrafts and rafts. This is the same case for building shorter or longer pontoon bridges and pontoon walkways.
  • the floats (2) have the problem that although they are suitable for construction of pontoon-type floating structures with floats separated with gaps between all or several of them, whether if it is a watercraft as if it is a pontoon floating bridge or pontoon floating walkway, in case of assembled watercrafts they can easily suffer pontoon effect, due to the fact that the main deck or platform for cargo and passengers is placed above the floats, so that the buoyancy center can be very close or even below the gravity center. Therefore, those watercrafts built with floats (2) must be enough wide to increase its stability, so reducing its speed, or being limited simply to catamaran-type or pontoon-type watercrafts.
  • floats (2) should be improved with a new version of hollow counterparts.
  • An alternative enhanced embodiment of the floats (2) are the hollow floats (67), which are exactly as the floats (2) on its dimensions, materials and shapes, but having upper openings on its top horizontal surface that shape and give access to a series of inner compartments (68).
  • a comparison of the floats (2) and (67), and some of the improved models of floats, from one to three width segments can be seen in Figure 16 .
  • top openings in floats (67), as well the inner compartments (68), both having coincident or similar perimeters and shapes in the horizontal plane, are practiced on the float (67) from above without reaching to the bottom, obviously for impeding entry of water, but arranged inside the perimeter formed by the two twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) when coupled to the float (67), so also avoiding the occupied surfaces by the transverse grooves (4), so that there are three separated top openings and there may be also from one to three inner compartments below, depending if such inner compartments are fused together or not.
  • Those top openings are provided with top covers (69) to close the inner compartments (68) of them with corresponding locks, latches and locks.
  • compartments (68) can be filled with ballast, with which to keep the gravity center of the watercraft as low as possible to increase stability and placing it below the buoyancy center, or use them to store tools, accessories, supplies, water or fuel tanks, electric batteries, and any element which, being within the floating element, so in practice inside of a floating structural module, can be added or removed from the different structures within the same with noi need of removing it if the overall weight is light and manageable.
  • the main feature of floats (67) is that they allow to make the same than floats in rigid inflatable boats, by lowering the deck height for placing people in a more stable position and protected against fall by the inner faces of the float (67). Passenger may sit on detachable seats and backrest dockable along perimeter of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • Floats (67) have also inner transverse vertical walls or transverse beams (70) separating each two adjacent inner compartments (68) and hosting also on their top surface, coincident with the same of the float (2), the transverse grooves (4) with the set of holes for screwing the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), and inside their bodies the female threaded metal bodies that contains such said sets of threaded holes, for obtaining the same coupling capabilities than floats (2) and the same structural strength.
  • floats (71), (72), (73), (74), (75) and (76) differ among them in if their prow and stern are equal and symmetrical or are different.
  • Floats (71) and (74), (closed and open, respectively) have a pointed end and the other is blunt, rounded or completely straight seen from above, making it possible to choose, depending on the duty that is to do, one of the two ends as prow in a watercraft, so having two possible orientations of the floats (71) or (74) when assembling watercrafts.
  • the floats (72) and (75) (closed and open, respectively), and the floats (73) and (76) (closed and open, respectively), have both ends equal and symmetrical to each other, with the distinction that when seen from above, in the first pair both ends are pointed and in the second pair they are blunt, rounded or completely straight.
  • First pair is especially for assemblies where it is necessary to cut or split the water flow at both sides of the floating element, while the second pair is especially for assemblies where it is necessary to deviate water flow below the floating element, as well as for assembling of continuous multihull long or large watercrafts, as linear barges expandable in length to see later.
  • Figure 17 illustrates clearly the practical advantage of using asymmetrical floats (71) and (74) having different pointed and blunt ends for choosing between.
  • a detachable watercraft with a multiple-float sectional hull in compact arrangement that carries little cargo, so it slides smoothly above water surface and can reach high speed.
  • Figure 18 illustrates two examples of useful uses of symmetric floats (73) and (76), both with symmetric blunt ends.
  • a long modular expandable barge is shown, being such barge built with floats (73) and / or floats (76) which are arranged perpendicularly to the direction of advance of the barge, which moves in the same direction than the crossbars (1), so perpendicularly to the normal direction in almost all watercrafts assemblies.
  • symmetric floats (73) and (76) have both equal indifferent ends, those can be the symmetric port and starboard sides in the barge. If floats (73) are used, the main platform or main deck is placed over its top.
  • ballast or part of the cargo can be loaded inside their inner compartments (68), fully exploiting cargo capacity and improving stability of the barge.
  • the added floating structural modules expand the width, in this other arrangement is the length the one which is expanded with no theoretical but practical limits, so barges can be very long, which enhances speed, and can have highest cargo capacity.
  • Case (b) is only possible in case that the separation distance d between the main symmetry axes of each pair of contiguous crossbars (1) and therefore between the main symmetry axes of each pair of contiguous transverse grooves (4), (6) and (77), that is, its spacing, is constant, but at the same time the distance from the symmetry axes of both crossbars (1) coupled inside the transverse grooves (6) and (77) and the symmetry axes of these last ones to the extreme of the closest end of the float (73) or (76), is half the said constant distance d. With these two geometrical conditions it is possible to mount the floats (73) and (76) in horizontal two-dimensional arrangements, able of growing in length but also in width.
  • the floats (73) and / or (76) can be assembled in longitudinal rows touching mutually by their extremes (shorter sides), not by their sides (longer sides) for growing the structure in a single direction.
  • the successive rows at side are displaced relatively to the previous one or two crossbars (1), so they interlace.
  • the successive rows symmetrically at both sides from a central row obtained structure is or can be arrowhead-staggered in shape.
  • the successive rows symmetrically at both sides from a central row obtained structure is or can be diamond in shape or cushion in shape with staggered sides.
  • obtained structure is rhomboidal with staggered sides.
  • an additional supplementary rounded side float (80) is added to the set of pieces, shown in Figure 19 . It is docked in symmetric twin pairs at both sides of a watercraft or at the prow and stern of a linear barge, smoothing and rounding corners and hull shapes, besides providing additional buoyancy and lateral stability.
  • This supplementary side float (80) is preferably of a segment of width, and is symmetrical in relation to a vertical symmetry plane transverse to the forward direction of the watercraft that passes through its own center, but unlike all other floating elements it is asymmetric with respect to a vertical symmetry plane parallel to the forward direction of the watercraft that passes through its own center. It can be laterally coupled perfectly the direction of the crossbars (1) on either equal vertical flat side faces of the floats (73) and (76), so for that its vertical flat face has exactly the same matching section for a seamless junction with them, while the other opposite side is parallel to the anterior surface and much smaller, both being joined by continuous curved surfaces that aid to round and to smooth the hull shapes when two twin supplementary side floats (80) are docked.
  • such supplementary side floats (80) For coupling to the floating structures by means of the crossbars (1), such supplementary side floats (80) have their corresponding transverse grooves (4), (5), (6) and (77) arranged symmetrically to its vertical transverse plane of symmetry, each one with the corresponding sets of holes located at the top flat surface of them (best said the female threaded metal bodies embedded in the body of the supplementary side floats (80) that contains such sets of threaded holes) for screwing the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9).
  • crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws for screwing the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9).
  • the shorter floats (2) and (67) of three transverse grooves (4) and (6) have the advantage of fitting better inside boxes of smaller vehicles as small trucks, vans and car roof racks of ATVs, being particularly suitable a length of about 3 meters with a spacing between their transverse grooves (4) and (6) of about a meter.
  • a practical solution is to add to the set of pieces and parts three selectable sliced float sections (82), (83) and (84). These have the respective geometric shapes that result from severing an asymmetrical float (71) for each one of their standardized widths in segments, with one or two cuts according to a vertical plane perpendicular to its vertical symmetry longitudinal plane that passes through its center on calculated longitudinal preset positions, to obtain a bow sliced section (82) containing the pointed prow end, the transverse groove (4) and closest transverse groove (5), a stern sliced section (83) containing the straight blunt end, the transverse groove (77) and closest transverse groove (5), and an intermediate sliced section (84) containing none of the two ends with constant cross section, with exception of the upper transverse grooves (4) and the only modification of two additional adjacent transverse grooves (5) in middle, separated by a thin wall or fused in a single one.
  • each coupled pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) join longitudinally two consecutive sliced sections (82), (83) or (84) and their respective crossbars (1), which before this coupling were independent and were kept separate.
  • Last additional floating element to add is a pneumatic inflatable float (85) which combines a solid top non-deformable section (86), which has an integer number of segments in width, with a bottom inflatable pneumatic section (87) in approximately cylindrical symmetry, so in shape of capsule or banana, which is fastened to the previous solid top non-deformable section (86) through a series of hooks and buttonholes (88) or straps (89) at intervals around it, thus facilitating rapid replacement when damaged, ripped or punctured, with no need of changing top solid non-deformable section (86).
  • top solid non-deformable section (86) has the same transverse grooves (4), (5), (6) and (77), the same longitudinal guideways or flanges (11) and (78), and the sliding covers (10) and (79) as almost all other floating elements in in the same relative positions for compatible coupling operations, having also obviously over the top flat horizontal surface of transverse grooves (4), (5), (6) and (77) the same respective sets of holes, drilled vertically, for introduction of sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or
  • transverse grooves (4), (5), (6) and (77) can be completely coated or covered by thin wall U-shaped protection spacers (91), seen in Figure 23 , made of a hard or flexible material (either metal, hard plastic, rubber or any one) which can be placed between crossbars (1) and transverse grooves (4), (6) and (77) and between U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and transverse grooves (5) making contact with both and separating them by a thin wall.
  • U-shaped protection spacers (91) are those who suffer the most wear and may be replaced with ease, besides being much less expensive than the flotation elements themselves.
  • the sliding covers (10) and (79) may also be manufactured in many alternative custom shapes and embodiments with additional useful practical custom functions in addition to its main function of locking of front crossbar (1) inside the transverse groove (6) and / or locking of rear crossbar (1) inside the transverse groove (77).
  • the sliding covers (10) and (79) are applicable only to this function, providing a smooth, rounded aesthetic shape that continues the smooth surfaces of prow and / or stern from the floating element where they are placed.
  • such sliding covers (10) and (79) can be equal or different in shape, but always having the same bottom slots for sliding and docking on the longitudinal guideways or flanges (11) and (78).
  • both may be replaced by sliding covers whose embodiment is a rectangular platform section (92), of one or more segments of width, which are provided with non-slip textures for safety on its top horizontal surface. Those extend forward and backward (or laterally, depending on the orientation of the floating structure) the main deck or walking platform above the ends of the floating elements as they are added to the floating structure in assembly.
  • those can also be replaced by sliding covers with sections one or more segments in width, where each one incorporates a vertical or inclined panel (93) or handrail, railing or similar thing, as well can have shape of a molded seat and backrest (94), with which easily build in row an expandable gunwale or seat row at the sides, respectively.
  • such elements are added as each floating structural module is added to the assembly, giving an expandable walking platform at sides and / or expandable seat rows or expandable gunwales, defending the interior of the watercraft or floating pontoon bridge against water shocks or splashes and protecting walkers or passengers from falling to water.
  • FIG 25 a new important element for assembly of watercrafts is shown, which is a combination between a floating element and a sliding cover for changing shape and / or materials of the watercraft's prow for practical purposes, and increasing also its structural strength, in concrete an attachable front prow (95) of two or more segments in width, which is selectable, removable and interchangeable and can docked if necessary.
  • Each attachable front prow (95) has variable custom external shape, length, width, material and hydrodynamic profile, being obviously symmetrical in relation to a vertical symmetry plane that pass through the center of the watercraft and through the center of the same in coupling position, and has a cavity, recess or hollow which is also symmetrical in the same way in relation to said symmetry planes.
  • This hollow is practiced in longitudinal horizontal direction and is open only to the rear for docking on the floating elements, but closed to all other sides, for avoiding to be filled with water when the watercraft floats or moves.
  • This cavity, recess or hollow has the same transverse width and segments in width than the pile or stacking of all floating structural modules of the watercraft where those attachable front prow (95) is to be docked, so overall width of the complete piece is a little more due to both two opposite walls that flanks the central cavity, recess or hollow.
  • each attachable front prow (95) can be docked indifferently on homogeneous or heterogeneous floating structural modules, on symmetric or asymmetric arrangements of them, but preferably on homogeneous and symmetric ones for stability.
  • the surface of the recess or inner hollow matches and fits to the outer surfaces at prow of the different floating elements involved in the assembly, both their top flat surfaces as their other rounded smooth surfaces, so the attachable front prow (95), once coupled and fixed, is supported but also held and tightened backwards to the floating elements by the compression due to the forward move of the watercraft, as the bottom of the attachable front prow (95) extends and inserts below the floating elements in the watercraft some longitudinal distance, causing the water flow to continue under the hull without they receive the force impact, so that it prevents this attachable front prow (95) can be peeled from its position and also protects, embraces holds together the longitudinal floating elements.
  • each attachable front prow (95) has a series of slots practiced on the top surface of its inner hollow in matching coincident positions for obviously match with all the longitudinal guideways or flanges (11) and avoiding to the piece to slide longitudinally in relation to the floating structure when landing over the top horizontal surface of the floating elements, guided by those longitudinal guideways or flanges (11) to a stop position, where the attachable front prow (95) is screwed or bolted to the floating structure by using the sets of floats-sliding covers fixing screws (12) usually used for sliding covers (10).
  • the attachable front prow (95) has a set of vertically drilled holes in coincident positions with the holes found below over the top surface of the floating elements for said fixing screws that cross completely the top wall of the piece for being crossed by them.
  • said longitudinal slots and said vertical holes are also in sets whose relative distribution is repeated sideward at each segment for standardization and for following the same compatible coupling system with other pieces.
  • the attachable front prow (95) their twin side walls are symmetrically pierced along a horizontal transverse direction in preset position, in a way that when the piece is docked and screwed to the floating structure, said holes are coincident in shape, dimensions and position with the consecutive aligned transverse grooves (6) of all stacked floating elements, so the attachable front prow (95) can be also held to the watercraft by means of a crossbar (1) that goes through said side holes and said consecutive aligned transverse grooves (6), as a kind of big bolt for fixing the whole piece on the watercraft main body.
  • attachable front prows allow change and to improve modularly and interchangeably shapes, materials, lengths, mechanical properties and hydrodynamic shape of almost any modular watercraft's prow without changing the main composing longitudinal floating elements in docking and undocking operations.
  • the two twin coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) attached to each float or float sliced section (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) or (85) constitute, once joined together, a rectangular horizontal frame which is elongated with its longer side in parallel to the main longitudinal floating elements. As commented before, they allow the distribution of weights and forces from the platform above the floating structure assembled both to the floats or float sliced sections (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) or (85) and to the crossbars (1).
  • Each pair of coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) have the problem that they are not linked together directly, needing to be connected through the same float or float section (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) or (85) where both are screwed or bolted, acting such floating element as a joining intermediate piece between them. Therefore, if both are coplanar it is because they are fixed only by the transverse grooves (5) and the sets of thick and strong crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars connecting screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars connecting screws or bolts (9), as happens with mutual coplanarity of all coupled pairs of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • twin small, simple transverse crossbars (100) are added, which are preferably made of metal, stainless steel or alloy resistant to corrosion for obtaining structural strength, being solid or hollow tubular, with the same outer cross section than the inner cross section that the metal tube with which the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) are made, or slightly smaller than last one.
  • Each one of said small transverse crossbars (100) can fit and being inserted easily with no clearances by inside the tubular openings of the transverse ends of tubular U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), in a way that when assembled, half of each of these small transverse crossbars (100) is introduced inside a transverse end of a single U-shaped longitudinal bar (3), and the opposite half can also fit inside a transverse end of another opposite single U-shaped longitudinal bar (3) in mirrored arrangement in relation to the first one, precisely as U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) are arranged when coupled and fixed to the transverse grooves (5) sharing a common float or float sliced section (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) or (85).
  • Both transverse ends of both coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and both twin small transverse crossbars (100) placed inside them are drilled with the same coincident consecutive vertical holes (in coupling position) with the vertical holes practiced on top horizontal surface of transverse grooves (5) for placing the sets of floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars connecting screws (9), so these fixing screws cross both types of structural metal pieces.
  • the sets of floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars connecting screws (9) can join together both coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) in a single whole linked by the said middle twin small transverse crossbars (100), even if they are not screwed to any floating element, but increasing enormously structural strength of detached floating structural modules and assembled floating structures when they are screwed to any floating element, as they maintain all U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) in the same plane, especially if said small transverse crossbars (100) are solid, made in metal, and fill completely hollow transverse ends of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3).
  • Some or all pairs of coupled twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) can be replaced by rectangular frames (99), characterized by having exactly the same shape, dimensions and perimeter than each one of said pairs of coupled twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), thus both can be swapped indifferently in all the assemblies. So these rectangular frames (99) have standardized dimensions as all pairs of coupled twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), with the sides that are perpendicular to the crossbars (1) in coupling positions of the same constant length, and with the sides that are parallel to the crossbars (1) in coupling positions of a series of possible standardized lengths in a positive integer number of segments.
  • one of the two said elements for constituting a section of platform can be coupled indifferently (a pair of coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or a rectangular frame (99) of the same dimensions and perimeter), with same results with exception of the structural strength.
  • each coupled pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and each rectangular frame (99) can be coupled over a floating element with the same width in segments, for constituting a floating structural module, or well be coupled over a floating element, or several ones, having different width.
  • the floating structural modules can be coupled or uncoupled to a floating structure in assembly detachedly one by one, including all their possible docked accessories and contents inside their inner compartments (68), while in second case this is not possible, but as the main structural elements are interlaced even more, resulting structure is even stronger by intercrossing of different pieces with different width.
  • a pontoon bridge can be built using big floating elements three segments wide, but the platform coupled above is made with rectangular frames (99) a single segment wide, obtaining triple number of crosspieces in the bridge for supporting more weight on the platform (for example, for passing vehicles), or two segments wide, being interlaced with bottom floating elements and raising rigidity, as the widths of both elements individually do not match. This operation is the same for sliding covers (10) and (79), rectangular platform sections (92), and other possible accessories.
  • a modular rectangular platform (101) can be screwed or bolted along their respective metal tube perimeters through drilled holes, for giving a walking platform or main deck which is expandable with each floating structural module added, each coupled pair of coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) added, and each rectangular frame (99) added, so main deck expands or shrinks modularly.
  • Those modular rectangular platforms (101) can be made in any resistant material for supporting weight and load with no breakage (perforated stainless steel plates, hard plastic, wood), always with rough textures or anti-slip surfaces for safety when walking, standing and stepping.
  • All of these platform rectangular modules made of coupled pairs of U-shaped longitudinal bars U (3) or rectangular frames (99), cooperate with the other elements by supporting each other to each other to withstand better compressive and shear forces in transverse direction, but they are relatively ineffective against transverse tensile and longitudinal shear forces that tend to separate them or to slide them longitudinally in parallel to each other, so that these types of deformations will be fully supported by the sets of thick and strong crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9). Therefore, several anchoring elements for additional reinforcement against these movements are added.
  • Figure 26 shows the different ways in which two adjacent floating structural modules or platform rectangular modules (that is, with no floating element below) may be in mutual side contact.
  • long structures is would be convenient to attach, in those positions along crossbars (1) where there are no floating element underneath, some metal oblique braces (102) for reinforcement, which can be secured with convenient screws or bolts to the holes present in crossbars (1), that are free.
  • Such elements would be essential in very long structures, especially if they are experiencing strong water currents, since the ends and the central sections would be subjected to differential thrust forces which would tend to bend the crossbars (1) in the same direction.
  • U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) can be provided with vertical holes or anchoring vertical side tubes (103) in the same predetermined positions along some points on its perimeter, for inserting through them thick strong anchoring U-shaped pins (104) or X-shaped pins (105) of vertical insertion, being the most effective action if the coupling positions of said elements are placed near the corners and center of longitudinal sides of each pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular racks (99) to bolt.
  • rectangular platforms (101) are drilled with the same coincident holes for allowing these bolting operations.
  • each coupled pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or each rectangular frame (99) can be screwed or bolted to them, so in addition to their specific functions they can cooperate to the structural strength.
  • wide accessories such as baskets or trays (a) may be dropped vertically to fit into the inner perimeter of a coupled pair of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or of a rectangular frame (99), using the sets of holes in the crossbar (1) for the sets of crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) for fixation by bolting with no sliding capability.
  • Those elements may be wide and occupy all surface delimited by said perimeter, or only a part.
  • the accessories can have the ability of slide longitudinally forward or backward for commodity or for adjusting position of cargo in parallel direction to the straight linear sections of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular frames (99) that are transverse to the crossbars (1), resting and sliding above them, between two stopping positions delimited by their sides parallel to the crossbars (1).
  • some horizontal wheeled pins (107) can be useful when bolted to said accessories docked inside a rectangular perimeter of two coupled U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or of a rectangular frame (99), as they allow sliding until stopper positions resting on these elements but they prevent their accidental release in vertical direction due to water movements.
  • the sliding can be obviously avoided by insertion of a single or several vertical pins, exactly as the previous case.
  • a kind of new necessary element to greater accommodation and safety for passengers in a watercraft are lateral supports (108) providing with cushioned or inflatable sections (109) for attaching a soft, safe gunwale, similar to those that rigid inflatable boats have but detachable.
  • Said elements can be anchored vertically arranged in parallel direction to the floating elements above the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular frames (99) and being bolted to them, or well, for saving space, they can be provided with at least two twin inner crossbar (13) stumps for being inserted and fixed inside the tubular ends of crossbars (1) of the watercraft.
  • Said lateral supports (108) have a series or rings, straps or belts for embracing inflatable or cushioned section.
  • Figure 28 shows an example of a modular detachable motorboat constructible with parts and pieces of the invention already seen (with exception of the attached outboard motor) for moderate speeds as it lacks of a attachable front prow (95). Cushioned and inflatable elements (109) are supported by said side lateral supports (108).
  • this watercraft has been built with floating elements different in length but symmetrically arranged (as it can happen in case of pieces shortage), being the side floating elements two twin short floats (2) coupled in inverted position with their pointed extreme placed at the stern of the watercraft, shaping a staggered prow but avoiding to have a saw-teeth prow which could retain water flow in water bags at prow.
  • Said cables serve as guideways for holding by opposing water dragging force of several floating structural modules which are to going filling the gap between shores at intervals by being attached along the parallel cables and being displaced by sliding along them to get close to the opposite shore, in a way that each floating structural module is intercalated with a platform section with no floating element.
  • These cables pass through the transverse grooves (6), (4) or (77) of the floating elements used.
  • middle transverse grooves (4) the modules are harder to build but stronger, as the cables are retained with no possibility of releasing (with only exception of cable breakage) by the structural frames constituted by coupled pairs of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular frames (99).
  • each new floating structural module or platform section is added at the shore, linked to the last one of the growing chain, and all the chain is pushed to the opposite shore one step along the guide cables.
  • the floating walkway grows in stages, one with each floating structural or platform section added.
  • twin lines of crossbars (1) rigidly connected in series by middle inner crossbars (13) sections, so these lines are for giving stiffness to the floating structure.
  • the placing of the elements from the growing chains is performed one by one on the growing end on water of the floating pontoon bridge.
  • a series of coaxial equal longitudinal hinges (110) are added to all or all pairs of U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and rectangular frames (99) for obtaining hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) and hinged rectangular frames (112) respectively, as seen in Figure 30 .
  • Said longitudinal hinges (110) allow hinge in longitudinal direction over a common folding axis two of these structural elements, so also two adjacent floating structural modules.
  • They consist of equal thick cylindrical metal tubes which are joined by any method (as may be welded, screwed or bolted), longitudinally, coaxially, consecutively exactly on the top outer edge of the linear sections of a usual U-shaped longitudinal bar (3) or usual rectangular frame (99) that in coupling positions on a floating structure are arranged in parallel to the floating elements, and perpendicularly to the crossbars (1), so they are not joined to any of their surfaces or faces, but exactly on this edge, protruding slightly upward and sideward a little additional preset distance.
  • each longitudinal hinge (110) and each row of some aligned of them coincidently with the edge between two hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) and hinged rectangular frames (112) but slightly above from their top surfaces for allowing the mutual folding, with the caution of placing gaps between each two consecutively aligned longitudinal hinges (110) in the same row for matching, coupling and hinging with other row from an adjacent hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (111) or hinged rectangular frame (112) symmetrically arranged to the previous one in relation to its common folding axis defined by said aligned longitudinal hinges (110).
  • the joining position of said longitudinal hinges (110) does not introduce additional distances sideward due to touch between adjacent hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) and / or hinged rectangular frames (112), so coupling positions of these two elements over the crossbars (1) are coincident with usual U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and rectangular frames (99).
  • hinged versions can fold one over each other or being linked in more or less long chains through said longitudinal hinges (110), as well as the floating structures composed by these hinged elements with their floating structural modules assembled together in mutual contact and hinged by inserting hinging bolts, are much stronger, as said longitudinal hinges (110) constitute a new linking element that impedes the relative separation of adjacent floating structural modules, relieving an important portion of the task from the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7), crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) and floats-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws or bolts (9).
  • Pins or bolts (113) are responsible of joining each two rows of longitudinal hinges (110) in a common folding axis.
  • one of the main utilities of longitudinal hinges (110) is to facilitate lateral linking of additional floating structural modules to the growing end over water on a floating pontoon walkway in construction both a single one each time as in sets of two, three, or even more, depending on the size and weight of the resulting final short chains, the number of assembly workers, and conditions.
  • said floating structural module can be linked to the growing end by said longitudinal hinges (110) and fixing pins (113) without dropping it to water, and once linked, it can be dropped freely to water with no risk of being lost dragged by the stream.
  • flotation structural modules can also be added in short chains of several of them, which can be in turn partially flexible by being linked together by their respective longitudinal hinges (110), or rigid by being impaled by crossbars (1), as seen in Figure 32 .
  • the new rigid section is added to the growing structure through their respective longitudinal hinges (110) and terminal pins (113), so thereafter stiffness is obtained by further impalement by crossbars (1) and screwing to them.
  • the new rigid section is added to the growing structure through intermediate variable angled pieces with centered hinge (29), to obtain a long floating structure composed of short rigid straight sections liked by hinges, so these sections are previously rigid as they have mounted already with crossbars (1) before this operation.
  • watercrafts and rafts as short floating pontoons, can be folded in two layers reducing its width by half, in addition to which in turn they can be stacked in successive double layers one above the other, exploiting to maximum spaces in storing facilities and vehicles.
  • longitudinal hinges (110) Another important practical application of longitudinal hinges (110) is to allow assembly of preassembled arrangements of easy and quick transport and deployment of long, large floating structures, exploiting the feature that the floating structural modules can be chained, folded, curled, wound, shaped for further impalement and strengthening with crossbars (1). So that said preassembled arrangements give new methods of transport, deployment and collecting of structures as may be long floating walkways or bridges much faster than previously seen.
  • flotation structural units can be linked by their longitudinal hinges (110) of their hinged U-longitudinal bars (111) and / or hinged rectangular frames (112) with the help of fixing pins (113). All of said modules can be folded in the same direction of rotation, but not to the other or in alternating directions, curving part or all of the flexible chain to a single side. So always all floats or float sliced sections (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) or (85) are on convex side of the curved chain, and all hinged U-longitudinal bars (111) and / or hinged rectangular frames (112) are inwardly on concave side.
  • each one of the flotation structural modules may be disposed in relation to an adjacent one freely at any angle between 0 ° (the two flotation structural modules are aligned in the same plane), and close to 180 ° (the flotation structural modules are completely folded).
  • the floating structure With three floating structural modules linked mutually by their longitudinal hinges (110), the floating structure can be closed in a prismatic shape with two twin polygonal bases, being said structure in shape of triangular prism, regular or irregular, depending on the width in segments of each one of the three floating structural modules linked.
  • FIG 34 ssome examples of reel middle pieces are seen, being the most useful and simple convex polygonal racks (114) in (a) .They are constituted by a flat metal tube frame with a shape of convex polygon, usually regular, so having the same angles and sides, because in this way it is possible to wind chained floating structural modules around, shaping cyclic regular prisms, suitable for being transported rolling or stepping-rolling on ground is they are enough close to a cylinder in shape. They do not need to be as thick as convex polygonal frames (32) as they do not pass through transverse grooves (4), (6) and (77) as those, so they do not need to have their same cross section, but they are made in a metal tube enough strong.
  • This cage is the reel middle piece around of which it is possible to wind the chain of floating structural modules, previously linked by their longitudinal hinges (110) as explained.
  • a pair of twin convex polygonal racks (114) is chosen for assembling the said cage for that chain, but having necessarily such twin convex polygonal racks (114) the same number of sides than the number of floating structural modules linked in the chain, as well as the length of each one of their sides is matched with the width of each one of the floating structural modules linked in the chain.
  • all sides on each convex polygonal rack (114) are equal, all floating structural modules linked in the chain must have the same width than the side length of those sides, so usually being identical.
  • each convex polygonal rack (114) has different lengths, widths from each floating structural modules linked in the chain must be matched in the same sequence, matching one by one when winding over the reel cage middle piece. Then, it is possible to wind the chain around said reel cage middle piece following and matching its perimeter, obtaining a prismatic shape with outer floating structural modules when terminal longitudinal hinges (110) are linked by fixing bolts (113).
  • two specific twin convex polygonal racks (114) most suitable ones for manufacturing may be regular hexagonal racks (114) or regular octagonal racks (114).
  • any floating structural modules can be linked in any order, only taking care of matching with radius of central elements used.
  • This element allows built a reel cage middle piece whose shaping ability is adjustable but weaker than in previous convex polygonal racks (114).
  • star-shaped adjustable racks (116) which consists of at least three tubular spoke arms of the same length and same square or rectangular cross section, which are welded at their ends to a common center in a same plane, giving to the piece a star-shaped look.
  • convex polygonal racks (114) have, on its center all star-shaped adjustable racks (116) have a central hole that crosses it completely in a direction that is perpendicular in relation to its main plane that serves for introduction of a cylindrical cross-bar, along rotation axis of the assembly for pulling or pushing on ground all the structure wound around the reel cage middle piece in prism-shaped form.
  • Such tubular spokes are distributed symmetrically around the center, with the same angle between each adjacent two of them, and are drilled with identical holes in a direction that is perpendicular in relation to the piece's main plane, being those holes arranged in rows of constant spacing centered and aligned on each spoke, so each hole on a concrete spoke always has other counterparts in other spokes at the same radial distance from the center than theirs.
  • a movable wedge (117) for each spoke can be moved radially and be placed on a concrete radial position by a bolt or pin that crosses the piece and one of those holes on the spokes. Said movable wedges (117) can be placed then at the same or at different radial distances from center independently.
  • each one of them has an U-shaped guide piece that fits and slides over the outer surfaces of the spokes, having also the hole for its fixation pin or bolt along its corresponding spoke.
  • each spoke has a telescopic leg (118), which can also move along its corresponding spoke and can be fixed on a desired radial position thanks to a fixing pin or bolt independent from the others, but in this case displacing inside the tube the spokes are made with, for not colliding with movable wedge (117) from its same spoke.
  • Two identical star-shaped adjustable racks (116) can be arranged coaxially in parallel vertical planes, and can be joined by transverse bars for constituting a star-shaped reel cage middle piece.
  • This element it is possible to wind, in a similar way as described for convex polygonal racks (114), a chain of linked floating structural modules which can adapt a prismatic shape with the same number of floating structural modules than number of spokes of the twin star-shaped adjustable racks (116) chosen, being possible with these to fit chains having different width among them with no problem, in difference with convex polygonal racks (114).
  • the chained floating structural modules are not supported in prismatic shape by tube straight sections (the sides of convex polygonal racks (114)) by a side-side touch, but by a corner-corner touch.
  • the movable wedges (117) have angular shape, so along its displacement along its respective radial spokes they can be placed on a radial distance each (either if the same than if different, depending on the structure to shape around) for fitting and matching to a inner corner of the tubular prismatic hollow of the prismatic structure of chained floating structural modules to shape and to maintain with no falling because its own weight.
  • said movable wedges (117) have a section which is perpendicular to the main plane of the star-shaped adjustable rack (116) with which can reach and hold the structure in a prismatic shape.
  • both star-shaped adjustable racks (116) are arranged in vertical planes outside all the outer perimeters of all coupled pairs of hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) or hinged rectangular frames (112), so said perpendicular protruding section of each movable wedge (117) elongates and reaches to inside said perimeters, touching each one a corner between two hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) or hinged rectangular frames (112), flanking middle row of longitudinal hinges (110).
  • the floats or float sliced sections (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76), (82), (83), (84) and (85) are always arranged outside, so they are the elements that touch the ground.
  • detachable wheel rims (119) are composed of identical detachable wheel rim sections, in a way that when docked to spokes on a same the star-shaped adjustable racks (116) they constitute a circular wheel with spokes.
  • Two twin ones of these assemblies can give a two-wheeled cart for transporting a fast-deployment big, heavy, bulky pontoon bridge rolling on ground pulled by a motor vehicle or by human force.
  • Those big side wheels can be built coupled on the star-shaped adjustable racks (116) used for shaping the chain of floating structural modules around, so all the structure spins as a whole and has a big rotation momentum, or coupled to two twin additional side star-shaped adjustable racks (116) sharing a common horizontal shaft with the prismatic structure supported, so transport is enhanced as the bulky prism does not spin with the side wheels.
  • Case (d) is a foldable version of star-shaped adjustable racks (116), in which spokes are replaced by a certain number of bars threaded through a central common axis where a shaft is inserted.
  • Movable wedges (117) and telescopic legs (118) works exactly in the same way. Despite a lower structural strength and not allowing odd numbers of chained floating structural modules, they are easily transportable on vehicles.
  • the crossbars are introduced (1), suitably lubricated externally, for impaling, fixing and strengthening all the pontoon bridge, using elements described above for making these procedures easier.
  • the floating pontoon bridge should be very long, it is also possible to link a second prismatic structure (a second spool of floating structural modules) to the first one, linking them by the same row of longitudinal hinges (110), doubling the length of pontoon bridge, and performing unwinding and strengthening operations.
  • a third spool of floating structural modules is hard to be moved along a section of pontoon bridge because size and weight reasons, so additional floating structural modules must be added one by one, or said third spool of floating structural modules should be moved to the extreme on water floating for linking and unwinding.
  • it is not suitable to build rigid floating pontoon bridges too long with crossbars (1) because structural reasons.
  • FIG. 37 shows how two twin platform sections can be linked at both sides of a floating structural module, using their longitudinal hinges (110) for linking. Repeating this assembly multiple times, an accordion-shape foldable structure is obtained, well linear if all floating structural modules are in the same plane, well curved if those are gradually turned a certain angle around their consecutive longitudinal hinges (110) in a curved arrangement.
  • each floating structural module has two coupled hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111) or a hinged rectangular frame (112), but the twin platform sections are not made with those elements, as the middle hinge that folds mutually them must invert its folding direction. This alternation of folding directions allow to platform sections to be folded upwards or inwards in the prismatic mixed wound-folded arrangements, where there is enough free space in the central tubular hollow to accommodate them.
  • the two twin platform sections mutually foldable can be built with three types of elements to choose depending on the circumstances and availability or shortage of pieces.
  • they are made with two coupled pairs of hinged U-shaped bars (111), only inverting vertically in coupling position on each coupled pair the hinged U-shaped bar (111) that links both platform sections mutually foldable, reversing then the direction of the folding movement.
  • U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111), rectangular frames (99) and hinged rectangular frames (112) are flat, but not in case that they may present a not flat embodiment with curves or bent sections for structural reasons.
  • each rectangular platform section is constituted by a modified hinged rectangular frame (120), which is exactly the same than a hinged rectangular frame (112), but having a row of their longitudinal hinges (110) inverted vertically in relation to the other one, so allowing inversion of folding direction.
  • each rectangular platform section is constituted by a hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (111) coupled with a modified hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (121) for obtaining the same result, being said modified hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (121) a modification of a hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (111) where the row of longitudinal hinges is vertically inverted for allowing inversion of folding direction.
  • modified hinged U-shaped longitudinal bar (121) is to split the size and width of a modified hinged rectangular frame (120) in two halves for easy handling and storage.
  • Figure 38 there is an example of a prismatic wound-folded assembly with six identical floating structural modules and six twin foldable rectangular platform sections folded inwards which are intercalated between each two floating structural modules.
  • This structure is supported without folding because its own weight by a reel cage middle piece built with transverse bars joining two twin coaxial star-shaped adjustable racks (116) in vertical parallel planes.
  • the perspective view allows better overview of the elements that are slightly clarified in previous two-dimensional figures, such as movable wedges (117) and telescopic legs (118), as well transverse bars (122) for shaping the reel cage middle piece.
  • each pair of two twin rectangular platform sections linked is unfolded and introducing the crossbars (1) therethrough, so that the unfolded platform sections can rest on them and does not bend or break fatally by excess of weight, making the deployment process slow.
  • Figure 39 an alternative procedure is seen, in which the floating structure grows as a blind, by maintaining the prismatic wound-folded assembly in fix position on the shore supported by a bracket made with telescopic legs (118) and two twin side star-shaped adjustable racks (116) at a certain height for not touching with the soil or any other object, as a waterwheel, and extending the growing end.
  • This procedure is safer as the floating pontoon bridge is deployed from a structure anchored to the shore in safety, but also has the advantage of being reversible, being relatively easy to perform the inverse process of folding and winding the floating chain, especially with mechanical or electric devices. It is therefore suitable for temporary or permanent fixed placement in points where a portable detachable pontoon bridge is needed, for example in frequent flood zones or seasonal river overflow, where there are no bridges or similar infrastructures have been destroyed. To wind / fold and unwind / unfold faster and easier it is suitable to pass cables along through all transverse grooves (4), (6), (77) for pulling from the other side if accessible and if necessary, being then easier to impale with the crossbars (1) by using said cables as a guide.
  • FIG 40 A similar process to that summarized in Figure 36 but safer is shown in Figure 40 , although it can not be used in deep water for avoiding to float above water but making to rest and to advance all structure standing over the shallow soil.
  • the structure is unwound and unfolded like a carpet, keeping fix and taut the end on the shore and making advancing all prismatic wound-folded structure to the opposite shore, step by step, standing over the four telescopic legs (118), being possible to ballast all structure for opposing to drag water force.
  • detachable wheel rims (119) can be used for having more surface on the shallow soil, but in this case telescopic legs (118) can not be adjusted separately for adapt to shallow soil irregularities.
  • the floating elements are provided with crossbars (1) sections with terminal pieces for passing cables (15) on said transverse grooves (4), (6) or (77), a flexible floating pontoon bridge is obtained, supported by said cables, tighten and taut between the opposite shores. If this is not the case, those cables can serve as a guideways for pulling the crossbars (1) and go impaling all consecutive floating structural modules in a rigid structure to bolt, or several ones joined by flexible cables (for example, if two transverse grooves (4), (6) or (77) rows are filled with crossbars (1) and the other one or two with said cables).
  • Procedure is to suspend hanging from the cargo helicopter, with an appropriate supporting frame or rack, a freely spinning reel cage middle piece wrapped by a prismatic wound-folded structure or prismatic wound structure to deploy.
  • An electric drive system (124) controls releasing of floating structural units and rectangular platform sections from the spool, which fall guided through at least two cables that pass each one along a row of aligned transverse grooves (4), (6) or (77) that are provided with crossbars (1) sections with terminal lubricated pieces for passing cables (15) for good sliding of the chain along the guide cables, so the chain unwinds and unfolds by gravity but step by step slowly.
  • the rotation of the spinning shaft may be also controlled by an engaged electric motor and / or brake (125) to better control the chain unwinding speed, which also could be able or rewinding and refolding the same for picking up of the structure when unnecessary using said cables as guideways.
  • a cable spool (123) placed inside the device unwinds (or winds in reverse mode) said guide cables, being their extremes previously dropped to the shore, for being fixed firmly to elements as trees, posts, rocks, streetlights, bollards, or any similar thing to keep cables tensed and make fall the chain along them.
  • floating chain does not have a prismatic wound-folded arrangement, but a similar longer ribbon-folded structure, which is similar to an accordion-folded arrangement, but with at least a 180° curve at one of their extremes, being possible to obtain ribbon-folded structures with two or three layers for deploying a long floating pontoon bridge on air, or for delivering by air a supporting frame with a long floating chain inside for cutting sections of desired of needed length.
  • the floating chain does not wrap a reel cage middle piece, but their floating structural modules rest on or hang from horizontal flat guides or shelves horizontally along they can be displaced, while all intercalated twin foldable rectangular sections are folded perpendicularly, reducing overall length in relation of unfolded structure.
  • Said supply containers are prismatic wound structures where the floating structural modules are wrapping a reel cage middle piece composed of at least two twin convex polygonal racks (114), but including inside the tubular longitudinal cavity appropriate cases containing supplies, tools or any other deliverable necessary item, as well as crossbars (1).
  • longitudinal hinges (110) can be hinged or not.
  • Those longitudinal hinges (110) give rigidity and a link between each two adjacent floating structural modules and / or rectangular platform sections which force to them to remain in the same plane. This situation is good in structures to strengthen with crossbars (1), but if this is not the case, the different sections can move with water movements, so in enough wavy water or enough strong water stream the longitudinal hinges (110) can be broken if no care.
  • unlink longitudinal hinges (110) for giving flexibility to the floating structure if it is long, as seen in Figure 44 , for obtaining a long floating structure supported by taut cables with independent movable floating structural modules, or as seen in Figure 45 , to assemble an articulated long floating structure hinged by stronger variable angled pieces with centered hinge (29) in wavy waters.
  • Another set of elements allow to dispose of parts and pieces for long structures, especially floating pontoon bridges and floating pontoon walkways, in which the floating elements do not couple in perpendicular direction to the line of crossbars (1) so also main platform or deck as before, but they can be arranged with respect to them in a fixed or variable angle, to keep them in parallel to the flow of a stream of water, especially if it is very strong.
  • the parts available so far do not allow a practical solution to the problem that would be presented in case where the floating elements of the structure could not be arranged in parallel to the direction of water flow, but forming with it a certain angle.
  • a first set of units (c) consists of some additional modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130) and (131), which are respective modifications of those floats (2), (71), (72), (73), (85) which do not have top openings and inner compartments (68), and therefore are completely closed.
  • modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130), (131) are characterized in that their transverse grooves (4), (6) and (77) are modified in form of oblique transverse grooves (132), (133) and (134), respectively, being all of them mutually parallel and exactly with the same cross section than previous ones for a compatible coupling with crossbars (1), but being all of them molded on the body of its corresponding floating element following a single one from a set of possible selectable standardized non-right oblique angles in relation to the longitudinal direction of that floating element.
  • oblique transverse grooves (132), (133) and (134) allow the crossbars (1) to be coupled to such modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130), (131) in that same angle.
  • transverse grooves (5) in modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130) and (131) are maintained exactly as in original floats (2), (71), (72), (73), (85).
  • the screw holes drilled in U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and rectangular frames (99) for the sets of crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars connecting screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) do not match with their counterparts in crossbars (1) due to the angled arrangement, so in these assemblies they must be drilled in new positions.
  • Modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130), (131) give strong floating oblique pontoons, but they have several important drawbacks.
  • crossbars (1) are coupled in angle to the modified floats (127), (128), (129), (130), it is not possible to arrange two or more floating structural units in mutual side contact because the separation distances between them, measured perpendicularly to the floating elements, is reduced in relation to the case of perpendicular usual coupling.
  • floats for geometrical reasons will be those of a single or very few segments in width with angles between floating elements and crossbars (1) in the range from 90° to approximately 45°, because crossbars (1) can not get smaller angles for being more in parallel to the floating elements as they can get into transverse grooves (5).
  • This subset of pieces requires an excessive number of additional pieces of large size, obtaining very few practical benefits in compensation.
  • All of said intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) or (142) are box-shaped and have the same outer shape and dimensions for swapping among them compatibily, as well each one of them is crossed by an oblique transverse groove or hole (143) that pierces it completely with a hole of the same inner cross section than the outer cross section from crossbars (1) for a compatible coupling with them.
  • Said oblique transverse groove or hole (143) is practiced in the horizontal plane at the same height in all identical intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142), following a series of different standardized angles with respect to the modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139), and (140) when said intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) or (142) are coupled to them, to allow engagement thereon of the crossbars (1) according to the same standardized angles, perfectly and with no gaps or clearances.
  • the two intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142) differ in that first ones are pierced with oblique transverse holes (143), and second ones are pierced with oblique transverse grooves (143), exactly with the same outer cross section for coupling on crossbars (1).
  • Modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139) and (140) have exactly the same shape and characteristics as their respective original versions (2), (71), (72), (73) and (85), with the exception that transverse grooves (4) are here expanded from original size largely along the top flat horizontal surface of modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139) and (140) for giving at least two expanded transverse grooves (144), on which the crossbars (1) do not couple, but intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142), exactly and with no gaps or clearances.
  • the expanded transverse grooves (144) have greater height than the original transverse grooves (4), and are considerably longer, so that they can occupy all or most of the distance between the twin transverse grooves (5), which remain with no changes in the same relative positions as in almost all floating elements described.
  • This occupied distance is then divided equally among all the intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) or (142) present (usually two) for giving them the same shape and dimensions, with a narrow transverse wall separating each two consecutive intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) or (142) coupled along top flat horizontal surface of modified float (136), (137), (138), (139) or (140), or without said transverse wall or walls, being all expanded transverse grooves (144) fused on a single one that occupies almost all space between twin transverse grooves (5).
  • All intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142) are firmly coupled to the modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139), (140) through a series of floats-intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling connecting screws or bolts (145), which are screwed vertically inside respective female threaded metal bodies embedded in the body of said modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139), (140), which are arranged in sets placed inside and near the outer perimeter of each expanded transverse groove (144) and are symmetrical in relation to the vertical longitudinal symmetry plane that passes through the center of said modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139), (140) and said intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142) when coupled to last ones.
  • crossbars (1) are coupled to the intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142) by sets of usual crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) that are not arranged perpendicularly to the floating elements, but to the crossbars (1) (with exception of cases where expanded transverse grooves (144) are pierced perpendicularly over its intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142).
  • the sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) are also the same standardized angle value in the same direction in relation to the modified floats (136), (137), (138), (139) and (140).
  • all intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling (141) and (142) have other sets of threaded complete holes vertically drilled for being crossed for respective sets of crossbars-intermediate pieces for crossbar coupling fixing screws (146), in a way that they are arranged aligned with the corresponding oblique transverse groove or hole (143) and coincidentally with positions of the sets of holes for the sets of crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7) and crossbars-U-shaped longitudinal bars fixing screws, threaded rods or bolts (8) when the crossbar (1) is coupled in the right position and displacement.
  • floating structural modules which can turn over a vertical shaft, then they can adopt any angle or at least many angles form an angle range in relation to the crossbars (1) lines.
  • floating structural modules must be separated from the platform, as their elements are rigidly joined, in two different horizontal planes with said shafts as linking element between them, so that the floating structural modules can rotate freely below and in relation to the horizontal plane defined by the platform of deck.
  • the floating structural modules are oriented automatically at all times in the direction of the water stream, being an example when the floating structure changes its orientation relative to the to the water stream when towed by a watercraft or when pivoted from one end at the shore after having been assembled on land.
  • Figure 47 shows a number of elements that incorporate a robust short vertical shaft, which allow to assemble quickly small straight sections of floating walkways in which at least two floating structural modules can rotate independently to each other pivoting on a vertical shaft each below the horizontal plane defined by the platform, usually an angle range which is limited in most cases for practical reasons to a value of more than 90 ° and less than 180 °.
  • It is a crossbar with central vertical shaft (147) that can be engaged in any transverse groove (4), (6) or (77), but preferentially in the forward transverse groove (4) of any floating element, using the corresponding usual crossbars-floats fixing screws or bolts (7).
  • a crossbar (1) at least one segment in length, in whose exact center a wide vertical hole is drilled to insert inside a strong cylindrical shaft (148), either solid or thick-walled tubular, which passes it vertically reaching exactly to the underside without protruding from the same, for an exact coupling on said transverse groove (4).
  • Said cylindrical vertical shaft (148) is tightly welded to the crossbar (1), and optionally some reinforcing elements as triangle-shaped reinforcing plates or supplementary tube jackets or washers can be welded to the joint areas between both parts for strengthen against strong bending movements that could break said cylindrical vertical shaft (148).
  • crossbeam (149) that engages and embraces all crossbars (1) from top platform keeping them above the floating elements and cylindrical vertical shaft (148), is added.
  • Such crossbeam (149) can pivot freely around a cylindrical vertical shaft (148) by being threaded by it through a vertical hole with coincident diameter, so it can pivot freely in relation to the floating structural module where the crossbar with central vertical shaft (147) is coupled, resting its weight, and weight from top walkway platform section, over the flat top horizontal surface of bottom rectangular modular platform section (101).
  • Said crossbeam (149) is made in metal, stainless steel or alloy resistant to corrosion, and can be a single thick robust metallic bar, or several of them in parallel welded, riveted, bolted or screwed together in order to achieve greater size and structural strength.
  • metal transverse grooves (150) play the role of the usual transverse grooves (4), they also have the usual standardized sets of holes the usual transverse grooves (4) and crossbars (1) always have in coincident positions and distributions, so that they also should have the minimum length of one segment to place these crossbars (1).
  • a row of vertical cylindrical tubes or holes (151) with the same diameter than central hole (this one really belongs to said row) is practiced.
  • Said vertical cylindrical tubes or holes (151) are selectable for inserting vertical shaft (148) through one of them which snugly, which is secured to not vertically get out from position by a ferrule (152) horizontally traversed by a pin (153), which in turn also simultaneously passes through the top of cylindrical shaft (148), so it has for this purpose a horizontal hole along its diameter near its upper end.
  • the crossbeam (149) has a flat bottom face for resting and sliding with as little friction as possible, but at the same time distributing the most weight on the top flat horizontal surface from modular rectangular platform (101), the latter being suitable to be constituted by perforated high-strength metal sheet.
  • the crossbeam (149) can also rest on a high-diameter intermediate lubricated washer arranged between the two surfaces, or it can incorporate, along its outer perimeter, a series of wheels or rollers (154), fastened by small plates (155), to facilitate sliding and then rotation with high weight on the walkway platform section, and to also greatly increase the buckling resistance of the cylindrical shaft (148) with increasing distance lateral support all orientations.
  • Each floating pontoon walkway straight section rests over at least two side floating structural modules, provided each one with a crossbar with central vertical shaft (147) and vertical cylindrical shaft (148) and a crossbeam (149) in the arrangement said.
  • This system can be improved with new elements that allow construction of straight sections of floating pontoon bridges, having bottom pivotable floating assemblies, which can be chained by common vertical shafts for giving long articulated floating pontoon bridges, longer than those previously cited.
  • this system can be improved with new elements with which to assemble long floating articulated pontoon bridges composed by straight rigid short sections mutually joined each two through vertical shafts where on each one a floating arrangement can turn freely 360° below the horizontal plane of the top straight platform sections.
  • each one of said floating arrangements are composed by symmetrical groups of at least two floating structural modules.
  • Floating structural modules constituted by solid floats in a single piece (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75) or (76), are screwed in even-numbered sets to them to at least two identical crossbars (1) which have more than two segments in length each, in a way that these sets of floating structural modules are screwed leaving a central symmetrical gap with no floating structural modules coupled.
  • This gap should be from one segment in width to as much three segments in width, but always all arrangement, including the central gap, must be symmetric in relation to a vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry that passes through its own center. Each side of this arrangement has the same number and symmetrical arrangement order of floating elements.
  • the number and width of the floats (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75), (76) used in the assembly determines its cargo capacity and stability, therefore usually it is more suitable it they are relatively wide, several segments in width to ensure side stability.
  • a number of new elements is coupled, in the form of an assembly which gives a common strong vertical shaft for turning freely in relation to the floating pontoon bridge section to place above later, suspended over said vertical shaft.
  • a box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) is fitted and coupled.
  • This box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) fits perfectly from above and without clearances between the two floating structural modules that flank the crossbars (1) central gap in the assembly, fitting exactly on the rectangular hollow that remains between the two central crossbars (1) coupled to transverse grooves (4) of all floating elements used, and the two U-shaped longitudinal bars (3), hinged U-shaped longitudinal bars (111), rectangular frames (99) or hinged rectangular frames (112) used that are placed at sides.
  • this box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) touches with those elements, this placement provides greater stiffness against shear movements or bias on the assembly structure.
  • this box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) rests its weight on the free central segment or segments of both crossbars (1), front and back, with which it is in contact, so the top metal plate (157) thereof extends forward and backward to fit the entire top surface of the free segment or segments of crossbars (1).
  • top metal plate (157) For fixing the box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) to the floating assembly, such protruding surfaces from the top metal plate (157) are drilled with vertical holes groups at coincident positions with their counterparts on the crossbars (1) below, for using the same standardized fixing or bolting elements already described lots of times.
  • the front and rear edges of said top metal plate (157) may be bent downward, or be bonded or welded to transverse U-shaped beams placed below, providing twin pieces which fit exactly on the crossbars (1) surrounding and embracing them from their top and sides, leaving its bottom free for extracting vertically the box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) in disassembly.
  • the width of said box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156) measured in parallel to the crossbars (1) when coupled to them is a positive integer number of segments, being preferable and sufficient a single segment for a robust, compact, strong assembly.
  • This element incorporates on its vertical longitudinal symmetry plane that passes through its own center, a row of vertical strong thick tubes for shaft housing (159), all of them of the same large diameter and thick wall, so one of them can be chosen for placing the rotation pivoting axis of all floating assembly, so for centering or for displacing it forwards or backwards in relation to the floating pontoon bridge platform section to place above later and achieving balance or torque compensation in a water stream.
  • the top metal plate (157) is drilled with holes matching in diameter and position to each one of said tubes for shaft housing (159), allowing introduction of a shaft from above on one of them, while the thick bottom metal plate (158) is not normally drilled to support said shaft with no falling down, or drilled with a smaller centered hole for crossing it with a vertical bar or peg for nailing or anchoring the floating structure to shallow soil.
  • the pivot shaft (160) is a cylindrical strong robust thick-walled tube of large diameter that achieves robustness and high resistance against bending, which fits exactly or with little clearance to allow the surfaces to be oiled, inside each of the tubes for shaft housing (159), resting its lower end and weight on the bottom metal plate (158), thus transmitting a fraction of weight from the upper platform section to the center bottom of the pivoting floating assembly.
  • a thick rotation bushing (161) may be interposed between the pivot shaft (160) and bottom metal plate (158), to facilitate smooth rotation once greased.
  • the pivot shaft (160) can be attached optionally to the supporting frame for shaft (156) to prevent accidental loss or releasing due to wide water vertical oscillations by using a thick horizontal pin (162) which passes through and holds together simultaneously the pivot shaft (160) and the tube for shaft housing (159) in which it is housed, so for that rotation shaft (160) and each and every one of tube for shaft housing (159) have practiced horizontal holes at the same height in the direction of their diameters, to allow said horizontal pin (162) housing.
  • a horizontal circular plate (163) is placed.
  • the horizontal circular plate (163) receives the weight of the platform section placed above through a intermediate big crossbeam piece (164).
  • This approximately box-shaped element, made of metal, has similar functions than the crossbeam (149) but it is stronger and larger, is symmetrical with respect to two own vertical planes, longitudinal and transverse, respectively. It has two flat horizontal surfaces, top and bottom, where the top one is interrupted by transverse metal grooves (150) and bottom one may be smaller than the top one to concentrate weight and load from the upper platform section on the horizontal circular plate (163) on which it rests.
  • transverse metal grooves (150) On its top flat horizontal surface, by cutting and / or welding, riveting, bolting or screwing of right metal parts, at least two transverse metal grooves (150) are added, arranged symmetrically at both sides of said big crossbeam piece (164) in relation to its own center and perpendicularly in relation to the direction of their longest side, being these transverse metal grooves (150) arranged horizontally in parallel, and having the same cross section than transverse grooves (4), (69, (77), so that over them crossbars (1) can fit and be coupled perfectly with no gaps or clearances.
  • each crossbeam (149) for strengthening the structure, or to get wider or narrow walkways depending on if two or four of those are engaged with crossbars (1) lines.
  • metal transverse grooves (150) play the role of the usual transverse grooves (4), they also have the usual standardized sets of holes the usual transverse grooves (4) and crossbars (1) always have in coincident positions and distributions, so that they also should have the minimum length of one segment to place these crossbars (1).
  • the big crossbeam piece (164) has internally a thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) which passes through its center connecting top and bottom flat horizontal surfaces and can host inside it the pivot shaft (160), so said top and bottom flat horizontal surfaces has holes of the same diameter than thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) which are centered on it.
  • the big crossbeam piece (164) can pivot around the pivot shaft (160), which is inserted inside its inner thick vertical cylindrical tube (165), resting its weight over the greased horizontal circular plate (164).
  • the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) has larger diameter thand the pivot shaft (160), so that it is introduced with some play to allow the introduction of supplementary lubricated sleeves (166) or thick washers, which can be placed or not depending on the need.
  • Such supplementary lubricated sleeves (166) are all identical and introduced greased, stacked in column and making contact between the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) and the pivot shaft (160), surrounding this last one, so that they smooth rotation and strengthen said pivot shaft (160), impeding this could swing when placed inside the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165), so limiting movement to only rotation along a vertical axis.
  • the top end of pivot shaft (160) protrudes slightly above the top surface of big crossbeam piece (164), so it has the required length for this feature and the two pieces are fastened together, for not getting out vertically one from the other, through a horizontal pin (167) which simultaneously pass through horizontal consecutive drilled holes practiced at the top end of pivot shaft (160) and a top sleeve (168).
  • each pivoting float assembly is freely rotatable 360° about its pivot shaft (160) in relationto the top pontoon bridge platform section.
  • the floating structural modules can incorporate a series of rear vertical fins (169) that are introduced vertically in water acting as a rudder.
  • These vertical fins (169) can be joined to a detachable rear supporting rack, symmetric in relation to the vertical symmetry plane of the arrangement and can dock over the rear crossbar (1), either if placed on a row of transverse grooves (4) or (77).
  • Said detachable rear supporting rack can be telescopic for prying better and align automatically the floating elements to the water flow direction.
  • tubes for shaft housing (159) allow to place the pivot shaft (160) centered on the box-shaped supporting frame for shaft (156), or moving it forward or backward along it and in relation to the symmetric floating assembly of floats (2), (67), (71), (72), (73), (74), (75) or (76) used on the same, thus adjusting the stability and / or compensating the torque applied to the floating pontoon bridge due to a water stream drag force. movements applied to the structure may tend to force and drag these elements, so pivoting shafts (160) may deviate from verticality in an independent way, so they could be broken even if thick and robust.
  • each big crossbeam piece (164) Placed above and resting over the horizontal circular plate (163), an additional piece is added optionally depending on the need for giving said additional strong articulation, docked below the big crossbeam piece (164) and in intermediate position between those.
  • a supplementary rocking piece (170) with rounded bottom surfaces is docked, which allows to the upper big crossbeam piece (164) to tilt a limited angle range in a vertical plane as a rocking chair does, so the floating pontoon bridge section coupled above said latter piece makes the same. Thanks to this supplementary rocking piece (170) each straight platform section from the articulated floating pontoon bridge can tilt slightly in relation to each other with no danger for pivot shafts (160).
  • Said supplementary rocking piece (170) has a top part in form of a thick rectangular plate of exactly or approximately the same size and dimensions than the bottom flat horizontal surface of each big crossbeam piece (164) for good coupling between both pieces, being joined with the help of a series of supplementary rocking piece fixing screws (171), which are inserted and tightened from below through vertical screw holes drilled in matching positions in both pieces for joining them firmly.
  • the rectangular plate has a central hole with a diameter greater thand the pivot shaft (160) so that this can pass through said hole with enough perimetral space to spare.
  • this rectangular plate from supplementary rocking piece (170) has on its underside in coupling position, disposed below their short sides and avoiding the middle area of the center hole, twin symmetric curved surfaces which rest and touch on the horizontal circular plate (163).
  • twin symmetric curved surfaces has the shape of a cylinder chopped along a plane which is perpendicular to their bases, passing through its center or not.
  • supplementary lubricated sleeves (166) are not placed or removed, a tubular gap remains between the pivot shaft (160) and the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) from each big crossbeam piece (164), so these two can adopt a certain relative angle before colliding between, so the tilting angle range is determined mainly by the diameters ratio between these two elements and by the arc length of the twin symmetric curved surfaces.
  • the top sleeve (168) is changed by a single torus-shaped or conical sleeve (173) with rounded surfaces that touch the inner perimeter top edge of the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165), so due to its shape said torus-shaped or conical sleeve (173) tends to maintain at all times mutually centered the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165) with the pivot shaft (160) inside, so also tends to automatically align pivot shaft (168) and the big crossbeam piece (164).
  • the torus-shaped or conical sleeve (173) must have then the same horizontal hole for insertion of the horizontal pin (167) that top sleeve (168) has.
  • the horizontal pin (167) is not used, but instead of it a transverse tilting shaft (175) is used.
  • This element is a strong cylindrical horizontal bar that acts as strong horizontal pin and tilting shaft.
  • This elements crosses through convenient holes the supplementary rocking piece (170) through its center in the direction of their long sides, and coincidentally with the rotation axis of its tilting movement, as well as it crosses also with a coincident horizontal hole the pivot shaft (160), being suitable that this latter would be changed by a short pivot shaft (172), identical to the pivot shaft (160) but shorter, which does not protrude upwards from the thick vertical cylindrical tube (165), allowing a wider tilting angle range.
  • supplementary rocking piece fixing screws (171) can be used by this purpose, provided they are thick and sturdy enough, or present in enough number for scattering deformation efforts among them. Simply their vertical screwing positions are adjusted to desired touching positions to the bottom horizontal circular plate (163), so the length of their screw studs added to the screw head (being suitable that said head is finished in a hemispherical shape for best function) determines such angle or angle range.
  • First ones is to support each end of each straight platform section over a single symmetric pivoting floating assembly for stabilized flotation over water and / or over ground, then towing or pivoting from shore this straight platform section to final position, and then additional straight platform sections to coupling to the previous one are joined by means of linear linking elements following the lines of crossbars (1), either flexible ones (cables) or articulated ones (variable angled pieces with centered hinge (29). This way only allows assembly of linear straight articulated long floating pontoon bridges.
  • the second way is to support each end of an initial straight platform section over a single symmetric pivoting floating assembly for stabilized flotation over water and / or over ground, then building the following straight platform sections successively over the previous one, having each (starting from second one) only a single symmetric pivoting floating assembly on its farthest end and sharing a symmetric pivoting floating assembly with a common pivot shaft (168).
  • After completion of each straight platform section over the previous one it is dropped to water and pivoted until straight direction to the previous one, or in the desired angle, fixing to the soil by nailing, ballasting or anchoring elements already exposed, repeating the process as many times as needed for reaching th the other shore.
  • An oblique raft is a raft assembled with identical oblique floats (129) (or less preferably with oblique floats (138)), both of which have twin pointed ends. Because there are no distinction between prow and stern on any of them , being both extremes ending in tip end, both can serve as forward part of the watercraft.
  • said identical oblique floats (129) (or les preferable, oblique floats (138)) are coupled, belonging each one to a floating structural module, to four identical crossbars (1) along their oblique transverse grooves (132), (133) and (134), leaving gaps between each two of them as they can not (and must not) be placed together in mutual contact., and being preferable to use only two side floating elements for giving the less weight possible for easy handling and lifting by hand, despite it is possible to build oblique rafts with more floating elements.
  • the other half of the same oblique raft is assembled exactly in the same way, but with the difference of using oblique floats (129) or oblique floats (138) whose oblique transverse grooves (132), (133) and (134) have the same angle but in the opposite specular direction.
  • two halves of this oblique raft in assembly are mirror symmetric and one can be coupled with full coincidence over the other, giving a oblique raft which is reversible as it has twin swappable top and bottom floating layers.
  • All crossbars (1) are provided with terminal pieces for passing cables (15), and a series of parallel cables can be passed through said crossbars (1). If the guide cable is sufficiently tense, the crossbars (1) are always maintained, more or less, approximately in perpendicular direction to the water flow direction, but oblique floats (129) will be in an angle relative thereto. Said angle, obviously, can be selected by choice of these oblique floats (129) for adapt to conditions as water flow speed.
  • Submerged floating elements on bottom floating layer act as passive propulsion devices by diverting the water flow partially to a side, in a way that the more load transported over the oblique raft, the more oblique surface from oblique floats (129) are sunk and the more transverse pushing force is obtained (depending also as commented of the selected oblique floats (129) because the angle). So if the guide cables are enough oiled, said transverse component pushes the oblique raft on the desired direction with no motors used and no physical effort spent. If a water hit sinks all oblique raft, the top floating layer increases buoyancy inmediately, making the oblique raft to raise from water.
  • the guide cables must be loosen, untied and also swapped, interchanging forward cables with backward cables and to the contrary with no need of extracting them from the crossbars (1), and tying and tightening them other time, so the trip in the other direction is performed in the same way.
  • a strong container like a basket or a stretcher, which is coupled and joined to the crossbars (1) in middle of both oblique floats (129) from the top floating layer, so it is detached and reattached when the overturn has been made.
  • This oblique raft is rigid and strong, suitable for strong water stream and relatively hard water stream conditions, with the only limitation of swapping top and bottom layers and front and rear guide cables for switching direction of displacement.
  • this switching step is to be made by human strength, the size and weight must be manageable, imposing a limit of the load and number of people to transfer on each trip, but two or more of these devices can be placed, working in parallel for taking less time if necessary.
  • oblique rafts do not need human force or electric or mechanical motors or traction devices, this same principle is good for assembly a new bigger model of oblique raft for transference of higher capacity of cargo or people between two opposite shores using the water stream force, as ferries that cross rivers displacing along a transference cable, but with the need that the angle of their floating elements should be mirrored and even adjusted with no need of lifting the craft, so if this were possible, the oblique raft could stay in water at the shore in load and unload processes, and accelerate and braking by adjusting in navigation the angle of their floating elements in relation to the flow.
  • Said assembly which can be seen in Figure 50 , will be only suitable for non-rescue operations in laminar strong water flow conditions, but has no oil or electric consumption. It is detachable with parts and elements already described and which can be identified by their respective numbers, with exception of the crossbars (181), which can be exactly identical to crossbars (1), or having the drilled screw holes practiced only in preset positions, different from the same ones present in crossbars (1) and especially modified for this assembly, as well as longitudinal straight bars (182), whose task is to link in a same line firmly all vertical shafts from crossbars with central vertical shaft (147), so both crossbars (181) and longitudinal straight bars (182) form a rhomboidal flexible grate whose sides are rigid but whose angles can be varied thanks to a hand crank and locked into fix positions thanks to oblique braces (183).
  • four (at least) identical regular convex polygonal frames (32) are coaxially arranged in parallel vertical planes coupled on the transverse grooves (4), (6) and (77) of a certain number of identical closed symmetric floats (72), (73) and (85), in a way that all segments of all sides of the identical regular convex polygonal frames (32) are fully occupied by said floats (72), (73) or (85), so them are arranged around said regular convex polygonal frames (32) in a peripheral prismatic arrangement, radially symmetric in relation to the center.
  • Smaller arrangements are those in which they are used as many floats (72), (73) or (85) as sides have the regular convex polygonal frames (32) used, so that each side is occupied by a single float (72), (73) or (85) of the same width in segments as its length. Bigger arrangements are those in which the same arrangement of floats (72), (73) or (85) that completes exactly all the segments in length of a side of the regular convex polygonal frames (32), is repeated symmetrically radially on all other sides.
  • Coupled pairs of twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular frames (99) can be docked and screwed simultaneously to the regular convex polygonal frames (32) and to the floats (72), (73) or (85) used until completing all segments in length of each side of the regular convex polygonal frames (32) (in easier words, using a single one of these elements or several ones but always completing the length of each side), giving a sandwiched structure on each side of the regular polygonal prismatic structure.
  • Coupled pairs of twin U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or rectangular frames (99) are used, they can be mutually linked by their longitudinal hinges (110), either if they are placed on corners as if they are placed on faces of the inner prismatic hollow, so the regular polygonal prismatic structure is even stronger and tougher. Rectangular platforms (101) are also coupled. Since in all floating structural modules the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) or similar counterparts and the crossbars (1) are placed in different parallel horizontal planes, in this arrangement the U-shaped longitudinal bars (3) and regular convex polygonal frames (32) are placed in two different coaxial aligned prisms, one contained inside the other.
  • the vertices of all regular convex polygonal frames (32) protrudes from the floating elements, so they can be joined by longitudinal bars (112), hosted in a longitudinal row of holes for each vertex.
  • longitudinal bars (112) are placed outside from the arrangement of floating elements, while in all previous reel cage middle pieces they are placed inside the arrangement of floating elements.
  • two twin star-shaped adjustable racks (116) of the same number of spokes than sides in the regular convex polygonal frames (32) used are docked over the two outer ones on the assembled prismatic structure, being connected each spoke to each vertex and all star-shaped adjustable racks (116) and regular convex polygonal frames (32) coaxially aligned.
  • the two outer star-shaped adjustable racks (116) give two aligned holes which are coincident to the symmetry axis of the prismatic structure, so suitable for placing a thick cylindrical hollow shaft for making the capsule to spin around.
  • the transference cable orset of parallel transference cables pass, suitably lubricated tensioned and for this function.
  • the faces of the inner prismatic hollow are filled with any cushioned or inflatable elements for protecting the passengers when all the capsule is spinning passing through the water stream, who are housed within the prismatic structure in rotation, being attached hanging from central thick cylindrical hollow shaft from safety harnesses and other security equipment, as helmets.
  • Said thick cylindrical hollow shaft may be also cushioned. Passengers may pick up his legs toward the abdomen if necessary, depending on the space available and the diameter of the structure built, so they do not hit the rotating periphery.
  • This rugged floating rotary cage which has peripheric spinning outer hull, lacks a preferred vertical orientation, so it can not overturn in any way independently of the value of the water stream force and torque applied to the prismatic structure, so the stronger the water flow is, the higher angular acceleration suffers the rotational capsule and it spins faster, and to the contrary., so the rotating capsule floats while it rotates freely around its central rotation axis.
  • the center of gravity is placed on the rotation axis, usually centered on it.
  • Passengers firmly attached to the thick cylindrical hollow shaft, are surrounded by padded protections and can not be released except by breaking or voluntary opening of harnesses, but in that case they still remain inside the cage, rolling over the cushioned parts.
  • the torque exerted is very large, but rather than producing uncontrolled pitching or shaking as in the case of a normal watercraft, this is translated into a rotary motion for making the rotating capsules spin, so the capsule is stabilized as it rolls over the water stream, dragged objects or debris.
  • the rotating capsule Since the rotating capsule has to move transversely to the water stream using the transverse component from their own pushing force, both in a direction as to the contrary, it can resort to the transverse cable placement in slightly oblique arrangement with respect to the water stream, as in Figure 51 .
  • an oblique radial paddle (184) is placed on the rotating capsule to each one of all spokes from both star-shaped adjustable racks (116), so arranged in a radial symmetrical distribution.
  • Each oblique radial paddle (184) is a metal bar with square cross section which can be inserted snugly inside, displaced along and fixed at a certain radial distance from center along each one of said spokes with bolts (as telescopic legs). To such bar a metal plate is welded for shaping the paddle at an angle of 45 ° in relation the faces of said square bar.
  • These oblique radial paddle (184) protrudes from the floats (72), (73) or (85), all of them with the same orientation of 45° or -45° in all spokes, so they cooperate.
  • each oblique radial paddle (184) When water flow hits each oblique radial paddle (184), the longitudinal component makes the rotating capsule to spin, and the transverse component makes the rotating capsule to slide along the transference cable on the desired direction, which depends on the coupling orientation of them.
  • the rotating capsule Once the rotating capsule has reached the shore and passengers have got out, simply all oblique radial paddle (184) are rotated 90° for inverting the direction.
  • the floats (72), (73) and (85) are symmetrical with respect to a vertical transverse symmetry plane that passes through its own center, both two ends are equal and indifferent, therefore the rotating capsule present the same behavior in a sense of displacement as on the other. In other case such behavior in both directions can be different.
  • An additional element to add to rotating capsules are a kind of triangular prism-shaped floats (185) .Each one of them fits exactly in the triangular hollow between two adjacent floats (72), (73) or (85), so their bases are regular triangles (equilateral and equiangular) only in case of a rotating capsule having six sides, while in all the rest of cases their bases are an isosceles triangle, whose angles depend on the number of sides of the rotating capsule where it is to be coupled.
  • said triangular prism-shaped floats (185) increase the buoyancy of the rotating capsule by filling with floating bodies the gaps between the main floats (72), (73) or (85).
  • Each triangular prism-shaped float (185) has a complete longitudinal hole which crosses completely it, located in a position near the vertex which is inserted between the two adjacent floats (71), (72) or (85), in a way that each longitudinal bar (122) can impale each triangular prism-shaped float (185) through such longitudinal hole, holding it in position without being released.
  • Said triangular prism-shaped float (185) may be replaced by a pneumatic inflatable version (196) for increasing buoyancy and saving space in vehicles.
  • twin radially-symmetric sliding covers (187), being each one constituted by one piece or more. Said pieces cover both sides of the tubular prismatic hollow of the rotating capsule, avoiding it could be filled with water, and impede that the passengers may be hit and injured with floating objects that can entry into said tubular prismatic hollow, pushed by the stream.
  • twin radially-symmetric sliding covers (187) are polygon-shaped pieces, or several identical pieces that when joined in a radially-symmetric arrangement they shape a polygon, being such polygon regular and of the same number of sides than the twin regular bases ofthe prismatic structure of the rotating capsule.
  • Each one of said twin radially-symmetric sliding covers (187), or the radial arrangement of several identical ones of them, has / have longitudinal slots which are also arranged in a radially-symmetric disposition, in a way that they can fit without play on the longitudinal guides or flanges (11) or (78) of each one of the floats (71), (72), (73) or (85) assembled in the rotating capsules, and slide along them until stop touching the star-shaped adjustable rack (116), to which it / they can be screwed or bolted from inside the prismatic tubular hollow by passengers, as well as from outside to the floats (71), (72), (73) or (85), arranged radially, by means of the sets of floats-sliding covers fixing screw (12).
  • rotating capsules are also tsunami emergency capsules. Only differences are that they do not use transference cables and oblique radial paddles (184).
  • a floating walkway of rotary-peripheral hull is a walkway placed connecting two shores, which is arranged crossing a water body, water stream, frozen water stream or sloping terrain with high risk of liquefaction, characterized by being wrapped by one or several prismatic rotary structures, made with floating structural modules, in a way that each one of said prismatic rotary structures spin around a floating walkway section, in the same way that rotary capsules do, but in a longitudinal fix position over such floating walkway. Then, they try to offer protection to people crossing the walkway in a situation of evacuation emergency in a similar way that the rotary capsules offer to the passengers inside.
  • the prismatic rotary structures rolls over water, dragged objects, debris, ice blocks, or any solid object, while the people cross inside such structure in rotation for making a fast evacuation in seconds or minutes if necessary.
  • Said prismatic rotary structures are the same ones used for rotary capsules, but with lack of oblique radial paddles (184), twin radially-symmetric sliding covers (187) and star-shaped adjustable racks (116).
  • such horizontal walkway is located inside of a large three dimensional prismatic frame (188) which is positioned within and along each and every one of the inner prismatic tubular hollows that each and every prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangements placed one after another to complete the entire length between the two anchoring points at the edges or shores.
  • each prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement has not an inner middle longitudinal coaxial polygonal hollow, but a cylindrical one, so it can spin making contact rolling on several inner rolling elements (190), as wheels or rollers, which are located at some selected points around the three dimensional prismatic frame (188) for a ood rolling action, and having parallel rotation axes to the same from the prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement where they are placed inside.
  • inner rolling elements 190
  • wheels or rollers which are located at some selected points around the three dimensional prismatic frame (188) for a ood rolling action, and having parallel rotation axes to the same from the prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement where they are placed inside.
  • These inner rolling elements (190) are arranged rigidly thereto, so that their rotational axes are all parallel to the symmetry and rotation axis of each one of the prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangements and therefore about their respective inner longitudinal cylindrical hollow, and further grouped into several coaxial groups which are angularly spaced along a plane transverse to this symmetry and rotation axis on different points to ensure centered, stable coaxial rolling contact between these inner rolling elements (190) and the inner surface of cylindrical inner longitudinal hollow constituted by all curved rectangular platform sections (189) of each prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement.
  • three dimensional prismatic frame (188) is weighted at its bottom by easily removable weight or weights, or has weighted adjustable bars to be placed at variable distances to produce an adjustable torque over the three dimensional prismatic frame (188) that counteracts the torque applied on the same piece due to the rotation of the prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement.
  • the gangway sides are protected from inner rolling elements (190) and the prismatic rotatory floating peripheral arrangement in rotation around, while one or more upper longitudinal bars allow to walkers or evacuees to wear a safety harness or belt to be hooked to the same for safety while they cross from side to side.
  • flood fighter brigades may have a modular detachable tool with which to respond fastly and adapt proportionally to the seriousness, extension, intensity and many other variables to take into account in flooding situations, as they can assemble multiple structures to choose among, depending on the situation, and reusing the same modules and pieces in almost all possible structures, only changing a part of the elements for

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Bridges Or Land Bridges (AREA)
  • Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
EP11823103.4A 2010-09-11 2011-09-10 Ensemble d'éléments et de pièces pour le montage, l'agrandissement et la reconversion modulaire rapide et réversible d'embarcations, de radeaux, de passerelles, de ponts flottants et de structures flottantes provisoires comprenant plusieurs flotteurs, particulièrement pour des urgences dans un environnement aquatique Pending EP2679482A4 (fr)

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ES201001195A ES2405704B1 (es) 2010-09-11 2010-09-11 Conjunto de elementos de montaje y unión de embarcaciones y estructuras flotantes de construcción modular
PCT/ES2011/000272 WO2012032198A2 (fr) 2010-09-11 2011-09-10 Ensemble d'éléments et de pièces pour le montage, l'agrandissement et la reconversion modulaire rapide et réversible d'embarcations, de radeaux, de passerelles, de ponts flottants et de structures flottantes provisoires comprenant plusieurs flotteurs, particulièrement pour des urgences dans un environnement aquatique

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WO2016020814A1 (fr) * 2014-08-04 2016-02-11 Scanu John Catamaran
CN106240759A (zh) * 2016-08-23 2016-12-21 中国人民解放军总后勤部军事交通运输研究所 船用模块化人行桥（道）面结构
CN107107990A (zh) * 2014-08-04 2017-08-29 J·斯卡努 双体船
US9776686B2 (en) 2015-12-03 2017-10-03 Formex Manufacturing, Inc. Modular watercraft with in-line or pontoon-type flotation
CN108791736A (zh) * 2018-08-09 2018-11-13 华南理工大学广州学院 水面清洁船的船体结构
RU2716629C1 (ru) * 2018-11-26 2020-03-13 Федеральное государственное казенное военное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "ВОЕННАЯ АКАДЕМИЯ МАТЕРИАЛЬНО-ТЕХНИЧЕСКОГО ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ имени генерала армии А.В. Хрулева" Способ создания речной части неразрезного наплавного железнодорожного моста
WO2020117084A1 (fr) * 2018-12-03 2020-06-11 Евгений Игоревич ЕСАУЛОВ Système flottant robotisé
CN114047725A (zh) * 2021-10-20 2022-02-15 杭州智缤科技有限公司 一种窨井智能监测系统以及监测方法
WO2022214116A1 (fr) * 2021-04-08 2022-10-13 Lodě Helios s.r.o. Rampe d'accès conçue principalement pour un équipement se déplaçant sur des objets flottants

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US11807345B2 (en) 2020-04-14 2023-11-07 Tillicum International, Inc. Modular flotation device
CN113212667B (zh) 2021-04-26 2022-06-21 江苏大学 一种可跨塘的农用两栖投饵船及控制方法
CN113371843B (zh) * 2021-07-14 2022-09-30 上海新园林实业有限公司 一种基于河道复合生态系统对低污染水的处理装置及方法
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US9849936B2 (en) 2014-08-04 2017-12-26 John SCANU Catamaran boat
RU2683048C2 (ru) * 2014-08-04 2019-03-26 Джон СКАНУ Катамаранное судно
CN107107990A (zh) * 2014-08-04 2017-08-29 J·斯卡努 双体船
WO2016020814A1 (fr) * 2014-08-04 2016-02-11 Scanu John Catamaran
US9776686B2 (en) 2015-12-03 2017-10-03 Formex Manufacturing, Inc. Modular watercraft with in-line or pontoon-type flotation
CN106240759A (zh) * 2016-08-23 2016-12-21 中国人民解放军总后勤部军事交通运输研究所 船用模块化人行桥（道）面结构
CN108791736A (zh) * 2018-08-09 2018-11-13 华南理工大学广州学院 水面清洁船的船体结构
CN108791736B (zh) * 2018-08-09 2023-10-20 华南理工大学广州学院 水面清洁船的船体结构
RU2716629C1 (ru) * 2018-11-26 2020-03-13 Федеральное государственное казенное военное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "ВОЕННАЯ АКАДЕМИЯ МАТЕРИАЛЬНО-ТЕХНИЧЕСКОГО ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ имени генерала армии А.В. Хрулева" Способ создания речной части неразрезного наплавного железнодорожного моста
WO2020117084A1 (fr) * 2018-12-03 2020-06-11 Евгений Игоревич ЕСАУЛОВ Système flottant robotisé
WO2022214116A1 (fr) * 2021-04-08 2022-10-13 Lodě Helios s.r.o. Rampe d'accès conçue principalement pour un équipement se déplaçant sur des objets flottants
CN114047725A (zh) * 2021-10-20 2022-02-15 杭州智缤科技有限公司 一种窨井智能监测系统以及监测方法
CN114047725B (zh) * 2021-10-20 2024-05-31 杭州智缤科技有限公司 一种窨井智能监测系统以及监测方法

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ES2405704A1 (es) 2013-06-03
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ES2405704B1 (es) 2014-03-26

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