US20210039760A1 - Watercraft dry dock storage system and method - Google Patents
Watercraft dry dock storage system and method Download PDFInfo
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- US20210039760A1 US20210039760A1 US17/077,580 US202017077580A US2021039760A1 US 20210039760 A1 US20210039760 A1 US 20210039760A1 US 202017077580 A US202017077580 A US 202017077580A US 2021039760 A1 US2021039760 A1 US 2021039760A1
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- Prior art keywords
- watercraft
- carrier
- tug
- support
- lift
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C1/00—Dry-docking of vessels or flying-boats
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C3/00—Launching or hauling-out by landborne slipways; Slipways
- B63C3/06—Launching or hauling-out by landborne slipways; Slipways by vertical movement of vessel, i.e. by crane
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C15/00—Storing of vessels on land otherwise than by dry-docking
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C3/00—Launching or hauling-out by landborne slipways; Slipways
- B63C3/12—Launching or hauling-out by landborne slipways; Slipways using cradles
Abstract
There is provided a storage system for storing and retrieving watercraft or other items to or from a storage position in a storage area as part of an enclosure having a plurality of storage areas. The storage system may include at least one carrier to support the item during movement to or from a storage position, and a positioning system to move the carrier system. An elevator system is usable to move the positioning system and carrier system to and from a storage area, and a control system is usable to control the positioning system to move the carrier system and item into and out of its storage position.
Description
- This patent application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/266,415 filed Feb. 4, 2019, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/093,988 filed Dec. 2, 2013, now U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/196,115 issued Feb. 5, 2019, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/865,017 filed Oct. 27, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,596,946 issued Dec. 3, 2013, which is a national stage application of PCT/US09/32253, filed Jan. 28, 2009, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/024,024 filed Jan. 28, 2008, which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates generally to a craft storage system, such as for watercraft, aircraft or other items in a space efficient and effective manner. More particularly, examples of this invention relate to a dry stack craft storage system that uses a carrier system for supporting the craft, with the carrier assembly mating with a support system provided in association with a bay or berth of the storage system, for receiving the craft with the carrier system. In an example, the carrier system and craft are lifted into the proper position in the bay or berth by a lifting frame and lifting system. Craft operational systems may be provided for connection of the craft to utilities or the like, such as for electric and/or plumbing. A computer control system may be used to control operation of the various systems, including the lift and positioning systems, craft operational systems and/or other systems of the invention. The storage system is adaptable and adjustable to different sized/shaped craft or other items, and may provide systems for maintaining the craft systems operational.
- Dry watercraft storage systems have been developed for enabling the convenient storage of watercraft for use of the watercraft while providing storage in a dry docked condition. Such facilities are generally arranged with a number of berths formed by framework in a building constructed on the body of water, to allow a boat to enter and be lifted into a berth for storage. A lifting system, such as a fork lift, overhead crane or other systems have been used to position the boat in a berth. Though somewhat effective, there are various deficiencies associated with such facilities, including the need for implementing a more efficient dry watercraft storage system which can handle and store a large number of watercraft configurations and sizes. As watercraft come in a wide variety of types, shapes and sizes, it would be desirable to provide a system which can accommodate these wide variations. Further, for large watercraft, it would be desirable to provide support that ensures safe storage over extended periods. It would also be desirable to provide a system which allows for optimized use of the berth space available for use, based on the types of watercraft being stored.
- Another deficiency of such facilities is that for shorter storage applications, where it is desired to use the watercraft often and dry store it to extend its life, such facilities do not provide desired storage capabilities to maintain the watercraft in condition for use.
- The present invention provides a dry stack watercraft storage system for storing and retrieving watercraft from a body of water. The storage system generally comprises an enclosure having a support system provided therein to form a series of storage positions for watercraft. The support system may be of various types, including one or more floor supports, on which a plurality of watercraft may be positioned and stored via a carousel or tram system to allow movement of the watercraft on the support floor. Alternatively, the support system may comprise a framework system generally forming a plurality of berths or bays in a stacked configuration. Further, a plurality of support columns and cross beams may be used to form a series of berths, wherein the size of the berths is adjustable for accommodating different size craft. The enclosure for the support system may include walls and a roof, and may be formed of any type of material of the builder's choice. The walls of the enclosure may be attached directly to the exterior of the framework system to provide an external protection for the watercraft in the storage system. In an example, a positioning system is provided to position the watercraft on the support system. Depending on the desired storage position of the watercraft, the positioning system may include a lifting system to elevate the watercraft and position the watercraft on a tram or sled system provided on a support floor or into a berth. As an example, a positioning system may be provided as an elevator system, such as a rigid chain lift or other suitable elevator system, a trolley bridge adjacent or in the enclosure to provide support for a bridge-crane trolley, or other suitable systems to provide lifting and positioning of watercraft into the desired position in the storage facility. A cradle system may be used in association with the positioning system to interface with a carrier system made to support a watercraft, wherein the carrier system may be selectively positioned in association with the cradle assembly, and together with the watercraft positioned thereon, allows a watercraft to be positioned on the support system in association with its carrier system.
- The cradle assembly may include a system for interlocking with the carrier system during lifting and positioning. The cradle system may also have an adjustable width to accommodate different width watercraft. The carrier system may include one or more stops to position the carrier and watercraft in a predetermined position on the cantilever support. There may also be provided watercraft operational systems for connection of the watercraft to utilities or the like. A computer control system may be used to control operation of the lift system, watercraft operational systems and/or other systems of the invention. Watercraft operational systems may include an electric supply system and/or fluid supply system to be selectively coupled to the electric system and fluid circulation system of the watercraft when stored in the facility.
- The lifting and positioning system to position a watercraft in a storage position in the storage system, may be any suitable positioning system. Such systems may include a crane lifting and positioning system, an elevator system to provide elevation of a watercraft into a desired storage position with its carrier, and/or a vertical transfer system. Also, the support system may be adapted to mate with the carrier and associated watercraft, such as via a carrier support system, a support beam, a track system, rail system or other suitable systems to receive and lock the carrier therewith. Further aspects of the invention will become apparent upon a reading of the following description of an example thereof in association with the figures.
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FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of an example of the dry stack watercraft storage system according to an example of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of a conveyor support system for storage of a plurality of watercraft according to the example ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a top view of a carrier system according to an example. -
FIG. 4 is a front view of the carrier system shown inFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 is a side view of a watercraft positioned on the carrier system shown inFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 6 is a top view of an example of a cradle system for use in the storage system. -
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view taken along line 7-7 ofFIG. 6 of this example of the cradle system. -
FIG. 8 is an end view of the cradle system as shown inFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 9 is a top view of a tram system for use in positioning a watercraft on the watercraft support system. -
FIG. 10 is a side view of the tram system shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 11 is a front view of the train system shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 12 is a side view of a watercraft positioned on its carrier system and on a tram system in a storage position on the support system. -
FIG. 13 shows a view of another example of a storage system of the invention. -
FIG. 14 shows a carrier and air sled according to an example. -
FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a watercraft on a lift associated with the system according to an example. -
FIG. 16 shows a top view of the elevator system and tug system according to an example. -
FIG. 17 shows a partial view of the mating the lift system and the elevator system according to an example. -
FIG. 18 shows a view of a tug system according to an example. -
FIG. 19 shows a partial view of the elevator system and tug system according to an example. -
FIG. 20 shows a watercraft positioned on the elevator system adjacent an opening in the storage facility according to an example. -
FIG. 21 shows the movement of the watercraft from the elevator system into the facility according to an example. -
FIG. 22 shows positioning of the watercraft on an air sled in the facility according to an example. -
FIG. 23 shows a top view of watercraft stored in the facility according to an example. -
FIG. 24 shows an alternate example of a storage system according to the invention. -
FIGS. 25-27 show an alternate example of a storage system according to the invention. -
FIG. 28 shows an alternate example of a storage system according to the invention. -
FIG. 29 shows a partial view of elevator system according to an example. -
FIG. 29A shows a schematic end view of an alternate tug and bunk arrangement for supporting a craft. -
FIG. 30 shows a partial view of the elevator system as shown inFIG. 29 . -
FIG. 31 shows a partial view of an elevator drive system according to an example. -
FIG. 32 shows a partial view of the elevator drive system according to an example. -
FIG. 33 shows a partial view of a mid-level or upper level elevator drive system according to an example. -
FIG. 34 shows a partial view of a mid-level or upper level elevator drive system according to an example. -
FIG. 35 shows a partial view of a bottom portion of the elevator system according to an example. -
FIG. 36 shows a partial view of a bottom portion of the elevator system according to an example. -
FIGS. 37-40 show views of an elevator lift system according to an example. -
FIG. 41 shows a partial view of tug drive system according to an example. -
FIG. 42 shows a turntable loading/unloading system according to an example. -
FIG. 43 is a cross sectional view of another example of the dry stack watercraft storage system according to the invention. -
FIG. 44 is a partial side view of a support system according to the example as shown inFIG. 43 with a carrier system shown positioned therewith. -
FIG. 45 is a partial front view of a plurality of bays associated with the system shown inFIG. 43 . -
FIG. 46 is a partial side view of an example of a positioning system including an elevating system of an example of the invention. -
FIG. 47 is a partial front view of a plurality of bays in conjunction with the elevating system as shown inFIG. 46 . -
FIG. 48 is a partial top view of the elevating system as shown inFIG. 46 . -
FIG. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the elevating system as shown inFIG. 46 . -
FIG. 50 is a partial side view of a support system associated with another example of the invention. -
FIG. 51 is a partial front view of a watercraft positioned in a storage bay according to the example shown inFIG. 50 . -
FIG. 52 is a top view of a carrier system according to another example for use with the support system in the example ofFIG. 50 . -
FIG. 53 is a front view of the carrier system as shown inFIG. 52 . -
FIG. 54 is a top view of an example of a cradle system for use in the storage system example as shown inFIG. 46 . -
FIG. 55 is a cross sectional view taken along line 55-55 ofFIG. 54 of the cradle system. -
FIG. 56 is an end view of the example of a cradle system as shown inFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 57 is a top view of an alternate cradle system according to the invention. -
FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of the cradle system as shown inFIG. 57 . -
FIG. 59 is an end view of the cradle system as shown inFIG. 57 . -
FIG. 60 is a partial view showing the electrical supply system according to an example for use in the storage system of the invention. -
FIG. 61 is a partial view showing the fluid supply system according to an example for use in the storage system of the invention. - An example of the dry
watercraft storage facility 10 according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 1-12 . The storage system may be designed for storing and retrievingwatercraft 100 from a body of water for short term or longer term storage. The system may be designed to allowwatercraft 100 to be loaded into storage directly from the water, and selectively and put back into the water for use directly from storage. Such afacility 10 may also be used to store other vehicles or products, such as aircraft, large shipping and storage containers, automobiles and a variety of other items. In the example shown, thefacility 10 may include a water channel that enters the facility, or may be located adjacent a body of water to allow transfer from the water to the facility. If needed, an intermediate positioning system may be used to move a watercraft from a body of water to a positioning system associated with the facility, as will hereinafter be described. As seen inFIGS. 1 and 2 , the storage system may be provided in anenclosure 110, such as a building, in which the storage system is integrated. Theenclosure 110 may be of any suitable type, and generally will includeside walls 112 and aroof 114, with an open interior. In this example, a plurality of support floors orsuitable structures 116 may be provided around the periphery of theenclosure 110, such as in an oval type of shape or any other desired configuration. As shown inFIG. 2 , theenclosure 110 may have one or more opening ordoor 118 through whichwatercraft 100 may be introduced into theenclosure 110, and positioned on any of the plurality ofsupport floors 116. Atransfer system 120 or any other suitable structure may be used to facilitate transfer of awatercraft 100 into the facility, and as will be described below, could be formed to interface with acarrier system 130 associated with awatercraft 100. As will be described more fully below, thewatercraft 100 may be introduced into thefacility 100 on itscarrier 130 and positioned on a tram system 150 (FIGS. 9-11 ) to allow movement of the watercraft on thesupport floor 116. As seen in this example, a large number ofwatercraft 100 can be selectively stored on each of thesupport floors 116 infacility 100. In the configuration shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , the oval configuration of the support floors orpaths 116 may take advantage of the typical shape ofwatercraft 100, which may have a tapered forward hull portion, which allows closer packing ofwatercraft 100 on thesupports 116, while allowing for movement along thesupports 116 via thetram system 150. It thus should be recognized that awatercraft 100 to be stored infacility 10 can be introduced onto any open storage position on thesupports 116, and then the entire series of storedwatercraft 100 can be moved around thesupports 116 via thetram system 150 or other suitable conveyance system. Stored watercraft may then be easily retrieved from storage by moving the watercraft to the position of thedoor 118, so as to be selectively removed from thetram system 150 andsupport 116, and positioned back in the water for use. Thefacility 10 may further comprise fire suppression systems (not shown) situated above thewatercraft 100 may be any suitable system that is accepted by local, state or national fire code, and may be of any suitable configuration. In general, the fire suppression system will be mounted above eachsupport track 116 so as to be positioned abovewatercraft 100 positioned thereon. For many situations, the fire suppression system may be provided such that each watercraft in the facility is protected by an individual fire suppression system. - In this example, one or more main positioning and/or lifting systems (not shown) may be provided to position and/or lift and
position watercraft 100 from the water onto thetransfer system 120. Although shown schematically, thetransfer system 120 may be of any suitable configuration to allow awatercraft 100 and associatedcarrier 130 to be positioned thereon, and then to allow thewatercraft 100 to be moved into position on thesupport 116 andtram system 150. The one or more positioning and/or lifting systems may also be of any suitable type, such as to facilitate handling of different types and sizes of watercraft, and efficiently positioningwatercraft 100 into thesystem 10. As an example, bridge cranes may be used, having different lifting capacities (e.g. 30 ton and 50 ton cranes) as may be needed. To increase the speed of watercraft storage or retrieval or boat throughput, one or more further intermediate positioning and/or lifting systems (not shown) may be used to allow the boat to be removed or launched from or into the water by transferring the boat carrier onto or from the intermediate lifting system and to and from a main positioning and/or lifting system for example. In an example, the positioning and/or lifting system is a plurality of vertical lifting and lateral positioning systems to raise or lower the watercraft and move the watercraft into or out offacility 10, with the plurality of vertical lifting systems being articulated or not articulated for transfer of watercraft both to and from a body of water and/or to and from a support system. Other suitable positioning and/or lifting systems are also contemplated, such as stacker cranes, captive aisle cranes, heavy equipment, elevator type systems or the like. - The system in examples, whether employing one or more positioning and/or lifting systems, may therefore be situated adjacent to the body of water, and a water channel may be provided in the
building 110 or adjacent thebuilding 110 if zoning or permitting does not allow a channel to enter into thebuilding 110. An intermediate or further positioning and/or lifting system may be used for lifting and launching of a watercraft external to thebuilding 110, to move the watercraft into thestorage facility 10, and from which the watercraft can be retrieved or positioned for use or storage. - Depending on the size, length, width or other parameters of the
watercraft 100, acarrier 130 is configured for aparticular watercraft 100, to provide proper support for thewatercraft 100 in a storage position. Thecarrier 130 is shown in more detail inFIGS. 3-5 , and may comprise anelongated frame 132 formed of steel or other suitable material, having a plurality of lockingdevices 134 provided therewith to lock the position of thecarrier 130 with respect to thetram system 150 when positioned thereon. The lockingdevices 134 may be of any suitable type, and serve to prevent unwanted movement of thecarrier 130 when positioned on atram system 150. Also arranged along the length of thecarrier 130 may be provided a plurality of hull supports 136, one of which is shown in more detail inFIG. 4 . The hull supports 136 are formed to support the watercraft hull in association with thecarrier 130, and may be formed to have a configuration which matches the shape of the hull of awatercraft 100 at the location at which eachhull support 136 is positioned relative to hull 102, as shown inFIG. 5 . Eachhull support 136 may be particularly formed in association with aparticular watercraft 100, and in association with thecarrier 130, designed to support thewatercraft 100 in the desired manner, with the weight and load of the watercraft being distributed properly on thecarrier 130. As should be recognized, thecarrier 130 and associated hull supports 136 shown in the FIGS, is only one example, and the characteristics of thecarrier 130 and hull supports 136 are adaptable to anywatercraft 100, such as the alternative lengths or widths, using a different number or dimensions for the hull supports 136, or with other hull shapes, such as twin or triple hull shapes to mention but a few hull styles anticipated, or new styles not yet developed. The hull supports 136 may also be configured for simple fabrication to match the shape of the watercraft hull as desired. The hull supports 136 may be formed of a base and at least one upper support surface that may be deformed by the actual watercraft hull or otherwise formed to match the shape of the hull. In this way, the carrier and hull supports are specifically designed to accommodate aparticular watercraft 100 in a predetermined manner. Depending on the particular characteristics of awatercraft 100, the center of gravity and other characteristics of the watercraft are accounted for in designing eachcarrier 130 and hull supports 136 associated therewith. Thecarrier 130 is then positionable using a positioning and/or lifting system for example, which may include a cradle system interfacing with thecarrier 130, as will be described below, in a particular location on thetram system 150 to provide optimized support of aparticular watercraft 100. - As also shown in
FIGS. 3 and 5 , and as will be described in further detail hereafter, thecarrier 30 may also comprise watercraft operational systems for connection of thewatercraft 100 to utilities or the like. Such watercraft operational systems may be used to maintain thewatercraft 100 in a desired condition when in storage. Watercraft operational systems may include anelectric supply system 140 andwater circulation system 142 for example. Theelectric supply system 140 is designed to mate with an electrical coupling of thewatercraft 100, to supply electric power to any or all watercraft systems as desired. For example,many watercraft 100 have electric appliances, utilities, lights, equipment, dehumidifiers, air conditioning, ice makers, or other electric and/or water operated devices or systems, and the present invention allows electric power of any suitable type to be supplied to thewatercraft 100 during storage. In this way, any or all watercraft systems can be maintained operational during storage, to facilitate use for a variety of situations. As an example, the user may wish to store theirwatercraft 100 for short periods between uses, and it would be desirable to maintain the appliances, such as a refrigerator, in operational condition to maintain food and beverages or the like that are on board. Similarly, it may be desirable to maintain operation of the dehumidifier system and/or air conditioning system to allow use of the watercraft on short notice without the need for extended preparations. It should be recognized that any electrically powered device or systems can thus be maintained in operational condition if desired. To further facilitate these abilities, there may also be provided a water orcoolant circulation system 142 for use in maintaining the air conditioning system of awatercraft 100 in operational condition. Inmany watercraft 100, the air conditioning system includes a water circulation system for facilitating heat transfer. Typically, water from the body of water in which thewatercraft 100 is operated may be used to provide circulated water for the air conditioning system. When stored in thefacility 10, the present invention therefore provides awater circulation system 142 to supply water (or other suitable fluid) to the air conditioning system of thewatercraft 100, thereby allowing the air conditioning system to remain operational. Water may also be supplied for use or consumption onwatercraft 100, for the ice maker or other systems if desired. Other systems associated with awatercraft 100 may also be accommodated in accordance with the invention, such as a system for waste removal from the watercraft or the like. For safety and proper operation, the electrical or plumbing connections may include sensors detecting proper connection prior to having the electric power or water supply remotely activated for each watercraft for example. A suitable computer control system may be used to control operation of such systems. - In this example, the
carrier 130 may further include a plurality ofguide wheels 138 which mate with a wheel guide and support system associated with atram system 150 or cradle described below for example. The number ofwheels 138 may be suitable for theparticular watercraft 100. The locking oranti-roll system 134 may simply be a stop block or blocks which are selectively moved into a position to prevent outward movement of theguide wheels 138 andcarrier 130 from thetram system 150 or cradle described below. Thecarrier 130 may include a system to selectively fix it in place relative to other structures. - In an alternate embodiment as shown in
FIGS. 6-8 , to facilitate movement of thewatercraft 100 andcarrier 130, such as by a suitable positioning and/or lifting system as described, acradle system 170 may be used. Thecradle system 170 may be coupled tocrane lift cables 190 for example. Thewatercraft 100 andcarrier 130 may be interfaced with thecradle 170 for lifting and positioning on thetransfer system 120 in this example. A positioning system such as a crane may be used to lift thecradle 170 in association with thewatercraft 100 andcarrier 130. Thecradle assembly 170 may comprise aframe assembly 172 having afirst side 174,second side 176 having a predetermined height, which may be configured to exceed the keel to gunnel height of watercraft to be handled. Abottom frame wall 178 supports a wheel guide andsupport system 180 which mates with theguide wheels 138 on thecarrier 130 to position thecarrier 130 andwatercraft 100 thereon, to be lifted and positioned by the lifting system. The wheel guide andsupport system 180 may comprise a plurality of guide rails, as may be desired for various watercraft. It should also be recognized that the wheels could be provided on thecradle 170 and guides associated with thecarrier 130 if desired. - The
frame assembly 172 may provide open ends into which thewatercraft 100 may be maneuvered in the body of water for loading, or for loading from an intermediate lifting and positioning system. Thelocking system 134 associated with thecarrier 130 may be provided for locking thecarrier 130 or preventing movement thereof from thecradle system 170. Alternatively, an anti-roll locking system may be provided in association with thecradle 170. In the example shown, to further facilitate safe transfer of the carrier/watercraft from thecradle system 170 onto thetransfer system 120 andsupport system 116, thecradle 170 may comprise locatingmembers 182 which may be interlocked with rake pins, clamps or any other suitable device or method, at the proper location relative to thetransfer system 120 or other structures. The interface with thetransfer system 120 may also include mating pins, clamps or the like, to ensure alignment of the guide rails 180 on thecradle 170 with the guide rails associated with thetransfer system 120 for example, both horizontally and vertically. - To facilitate transfer of the carrier/watercraft from the
cradle 170 ontosupport system 116 or fromsupport system 116 and ontocradle 170, one or moresuitable transfer systems 184 may be provided in association with the cradle 170 (and/or support system 116) to push, pull or otherwise transfer thecarrier 130 from or onto thecradle 170. Thetransfer system 184 as an example, may be a hydraulic motor, hydraulic cylinder, a driven roller or wheel acting on thecarrier 130 or any other suitable device or method. Alternatively, thetransfer system 186 may be positioned such as shown inFIG. 7 , to act on thewatercraft 100 positioned therein. It should be recognized in this example, that thecradle system 170 allows movement of the carrier/watercraft into or from a storage position onsupport 116. The carrier/watercraft is rolled onto and from thesupport system 116 andcradle 170, when thecradle 170 is positioned adjacent thedoor 118 andtransfer system 120. To accommodatevarious width watercraft 100, thecradle system 170 may have an adjustable width, such as by an adjustablewidth bottom frame 178 or multiple or differently spaced wheel guide andsupport system 180 as shown inFIG. 6 . Similarly, the width or position of thecrane cables 190 can be adjusted in association with the lifting and positioning system in any suitable manner. - In this example, the
carrier 130 is selectively moved into or from a storage position onsupport 116, onto or from atram system 150. Thetram system 150 may be of any suitable type, and in the example shown (FIGS. 9-11 ), comprises a plurality of support frames 152 to accommodatecarriers 130 on each support frame. The support frames 152 may be connected together to allow movement of the series of support frames 152 around thesupport track 116 in thefacility 10. For example, eachtram support frame 152 may have articulatingarms 154 which interconnect with other tram support frames 152, which in the example shown, may be in a circular or oval configuration. Thus, theentire tram system 150 formed of a series of tram support frames 152 can move aroundtrack support 116, such that each of the tram frames 152 may be positioned at the location of the building opening(s) 118, for storage or removal of a watercraft therefrom. Awheel guide system 156 interfaces with the guide wheels ofcarrier 130 similar to the cradle system as described previously, or vice versa. To allow movement of each of the tram frames 154,air bearings 158 may be used on each corner thereof, or any other suitable system to allow movement of support frames 152 may be used. A system for supplyingair 160 may be provided for operation of theair bearings 158. To facilitate movement of the system of tram support frames 152, each may include a trampuller tractor system 162, providing eachtram support frame 152 with a drive system, which can then work in conjunction to move the entire tram system as needed. It should also be understood that any other suitable drive system for thetram system 150 may be used. Further, the use of any other suitable tram or conveyor type system for supporting and moving the storedwatercraft 100 is contemplated. The tram support frames 152 may move along a path following the support floor or track orsupport 116 as seen inFIG. 2 . As mentioned above, it may be desired to provide watercraft operational systems in association with the storedwatercraft 100. Thecarrier 130 was described as having anelectric supply system 140 and/or awater circulation system 142 for example. To interface with thecarrier 130, thesupport track 116 may include an electric and water circulation connection system to supply the operational systems of thewatercraft 100. In this example, thesupport track 116 may have anelectric raceway 164 andelectric connection 166 associated with the tram support frame, which interfaces with theelectric supply system 140 on thecarrier 130. It should be evident that as thecarrier 130 moves along thesupport track 116, the electrical connection via theraceway 164 andconnector 166 allows electric power to be supplied to thecarrier 130 and watercraft positioned thereon, regardless of its position on thetrack support 116. Other operational systems may be supplied to the watercraft when stored, at their location on thetrack support 116. Fire suppression systems may also be provided to suppress fire in any watercraft stored along track orsupport 116. - In this example, the conveyor system associated with the
support track 116 may be computer controlled. Further, in operation, a facility may have a lifting and positioning system in or outside of the facility to handle the watercraft loading and unloading to and from storage. The watercraft is positioned in association with itscarrier 130, and may then be moved via the positioning system. In the example described, a crane may be positioned inside and/or outside of thebuilding 10, and interfaced with a cradle to lift the carrier and watercraft out of water. The watercraft is lifted to the desired level of the support tracks provided in the facility and the crane lifts cradle slightly above the transfer system orcarrier 120, and then is moved into the transfer system or carrier so that alignment pins can be engaged with thecarrier 130. The crane may then be operated to lower the boat on locking pins, and the boat is transferred to or from the transfer carrier from or onto the cradle. Theboat 100 andcarrier 130 is pushed onto/into the transfer carrier to stops provided in association therewith. The crane then lifts up, and a mechanical trip lock falls into place assuring theboat 100 andcarrier 130 do not move after being positioned on thetram carrier 150. The crane lifts up to disengage the locking pins, and may then be used to move and position another boat from the water or to another level infacility 10 or to another facility as desired. The crane can service multiple buildings if desired. If the crane is positioned outside thefacility 10, it may operate in set back areas of thefacility 10. In this example, to provide flexibility in handling different watercraft, the support tracks 116 may be adjustably positioned relative to the ground and/or other support levels if desired. - In another example as shown in
FIGS. 13-23 , similar to the prior example, a storage facility and system is generally shown at 500 inFIG. 13 , which may include a plurality of docking slips 502 into whichwatercraft 510 may be positioned. A plurality of doors oropenings 505 may be provided in facility 500. The position in the docking slip may be considered a station, with thewatercraft 510 then moved between additional stations to a storage position, or from a storage position via a number of stations. One or more of theslips 502 may be provided with alift system 504 to raise and lower thewatercraft 510 positioned therein to or from the water. Thelift system 504 may be a hydraulic, computer-controlled system onto which a carrier orsupport member 520 is positioned for carrying awatercraft 510 between stations as will be described. Thecarrier 520 may be a customized carrier or other suitable carrier to provide support of the watercraft as it is moved between stations to and/or from the storage facility 500, as shown in more detail inFIG. 14 . Thecarrier member 520 as shown may include aframe 522 with a plurality ofadjustable straps 524 to fully support and cradle the hull of anywatercraft 510. Thecarrier 520 may further include a plurality of wheels or the like (not shown) on its bottom, to mate with rails associated with different stations, and to anair sled 560, or the like at a storage position as will be described. The center bottom portion of thecarrier 520 is adapted to allow ingress and egress of a tug system as will be described. Thesystem 520 may be positioned on thelift 504 to allow positioning of awatercraft 510 thereon, or alternatively awatercraft 510 may be lifted and positioned on thecarrier system 520 in another manner if desired. - Once positioned on the
carrier 520 in alift 504, thelift 504 may position thewatercraft 510 andcarrier 520 adjacent a first floor of facility 500 or another position as may be desired. In the example shown, as seen inFIGS. 15 and 16 , thelift system 504 raises thewatercraft 510 to a position adjacent anelevator system 530 positioned on the exterior (or interior) of facility 500. Atug system 540 is provided to move thewatercraft 510 andcarrier system 520 from thelift system 504 into theelevator system 530. As seen inFIG. 17 , thelift system 504 may includerails 505, which upon being lifted, mate withsimilar rails 532 associated with theelevator 530. Thelift system 504 may haveinterlock members 506 on the side adjacent theelevator system 530, and theelevator system 530 may have a securingplate member 534 which is moved into an interlocking position withinterlock members 506. Theinterlock members 506 may be male type extensions, and in the example shown, are tapered and curved members formed as fang-like members that engageholes 536 formed inplate member 534 to positively position thelift system 504 in a desired position relative to theelevator system 530. Theinterlock members 506 in association withreceivers 536 rigidize the movement of thecarrier system 520 andwatercraft 510 from thelift system 504 to theelevator 530 or other transport mechanisms or stations in movement of the watercraft to or from the facility 500 as may be desired, and allow for rapid travel transfers between stations. Other suitable forms of positive engagement and positioning of the lift system 504 (or other systems) relative to theelevator system 530 or the like are contemplated. Further, thewatercraft 510 andcarrier 520 may be positioned on a ground transporter to allow “yard” movement of thewatercraft 510 and carrier orcassette 520 to storage, maintenance and/or repair areas. - The
tug system 540 is selectively moved from a “home” position in association with theelevator 530 into a position beneath thecarrier system 520. Thetug system 540 is shown inFIG. 18 , may include a plurality ofdrive members 542 andalignment members 544 on its sides to engage and drive thetug system 540 in association withrails members 546, which may be piston type members, that are selectively extended into engagement with thecarrier system 520 to support it apart from the lift system 504 (or other systems as will be described). Upon being supported on thetug system 540, thecarrier 520 andwatercraft 510 can be moved between stations in the system in a desired manner. In moving thewatercraft 510 from the water to the facility 500, thetug system 540 may initially move thewatercraft 510 from thelift system 504 to theelevator system 530. As thewatercraft 510 is moved, it may be moved through an omni-directional washing system 550 (FIG. 15 ) to clean the exterior surfaces of the watercraft before being stored in facility 500. The wash down water can be recycled to make the system ecofriendly. Thetug system 540 moves thecarrier 520 andwatercraft 510 into position on theelevator 530 for subsequent movement into a desired storage position in facility 500. Thetug system 540 is selectively moved between stations by thedrive members 542 which engage the interior ofrails watercraft 510 andcarrier 520, the tug system may be configured to support the weight and dimensions ofwatercraft 510, andadditional drive members 542, alignment members and/orlift members 546 may be used if desired. Other suitable configurations of thetug system 540 may also be used. - As shown in
FIG. 19 , theelevator system 530 may havewheels 533 that allow movement within atrack system 535. Theelevator system 530 may thus be moved to any desired location exterior or interior of the facility 500, to position watercraft at a desired position. Alift platform 537 is driven vertically (if needed) within a frame system 538 to lift thewatercraft 510 andcarrier 520 on thetug system 540 to or from a desired storage position in facility 500 as needed. The elevator system may use a lifting system incorporating a rigid chain lift, such as produced by Serapid, Inc., or other suitable systems. Upon being positioned adjacent a predetermined floor or location in facility 500 as shown inFIGS. 20-22 , the tug system may then move thewatercraft 510 and associatedcarrier 520 from a station on theelevator 530 to a storage station. As shown in this example, the facility 500 may have a plurality ofopenings 505 through whichwatercraft 510 may be moved into or from the facility 500. Abarrier 509 adjacent theopening 505 on each floor may be selectively moved to mate with theelevator system 530 viarails 552, which also mate withrails 554 positioned on a floor inside facility 500. As seen inFIGS. 21 and 22 , thetug system 540 may then move thewatercraft 510 and associatedcarrier 520 onto anair sled 560 or other suitable system for storage in facility 500. In this example, the facility 500 is arranged to storewatercraft 510 on a plurality of floors in a circular or oval configuration for example, with a plurality ofwatercraft 510 moved in a carousel type fashion. As shown inFIG. 23 , as an example, on a floor of facility 500, aguide track system 570 and a plurality of air sleds 560 are provided, such that a plurality ofwatercraft 510 may be positioned on the air sleds 560 and selectively moved aroundguide track system 570. Each of the air sleds 560 may be positioned at the location of the building opening(s) 505, for storage or removal of a watercraft therefrom. Thetug system 540 can move thewatercraft 510 and associatedcarrier 520 to or from anair sled 560 via rails between these stations and associated with theair sled 560, along with wheels oncarrier 520 that mate with the rail system. To allow movement of each of the air sleds 560,air bearings 562 may be used on each corner thereof, or any other suitable system to allow movement ofsleds 560 may be used. A system 580 (FIG. 23 ) for supplying air may be provided at a position in the carousel arrangement or in another position if desired. To facilitate movement of the system ofsleds 560, each may include one of more drive members 564 (FIGS. 14 and 23 for example) that interface withguide track system 570, providing eachsled 560 with a drive system, which can then work in conjunction with one another to move the entire system as needed to position anysled 560 adjacent theopening 505 to accept or remove a watercraft and carrier therefrom. It should also be understood that any other suitable drive system for thesled systems 560 may be used. Further, the use of any other suitable tram or conveyor type system for supporting and moving the storedwatercraft 510 is contemplated. - As mentioned above, it may be desired to provide watercraft operational systems in association with the stored
watercraft 510. Thecarrier 520 may have an electric supply system and/or a water circulation system for example, to interface with thesled 560, theguide track 570 or the like. Suitable interface allows electric and water circulation connection systems to supply the operational systems of thewatercraft 510. For example, theguide track 570 may have a power supply raceway (not shown) to which an electric connection associated with thecarrier 520 and/orsled 560 is interfaced, and/or plumbing lines to supply water circulation systems. As thesleds 560 move along theguide track 570, the electrical and plumbing connections may thus allow electric power and water circulation to be supplied to thewatercraft 510, regardless of its position in the carousel-type arrangement. Other operational systems may be supplied to the watercraft when stored, at their location on the carousel. Fire suppression systems may also be provided to suppress fire in any watercraft stored along the carousel. - In this example, the movement of the
carrier 520 andwatercraft 510 via the lift system and thetug system 540 may be computer controlled. Further, in operation, a facility may have additional lifting and/or positioning systems in or outside of the facility to handle the watercraft loading and unloading to and from storage. The watercraft is positioned in association with itscarrier 130, and may then be moved via thetug system 540 as described and/or additional positioning systems. In operation, storage or retrieval of a watercraft or other item can be performed very quickly and effectively. - In another example as shown in
FIG. 24 , a storage facility and system is generally shown at 600, which may include a plurality of floors having a plurality of storage systems for watercraft 610 (or other items such as shipping containers 612) formed in a carousel type configuration. In this example, aframework 602 supports a plurality ofcarriers 604, which in turn support thewatercraft 610 or other items. Thecarriers 604 are movable on the framework by wheels, air bearings or other suitable arrangements, and are indexed around theframework 602 by asuitable drive system 606, such as a chain drive mechanism as may be used in pulling roller coasters up inclines, a push/pull chain drive system or other drive systems for example. Drive or push/pull systems such as produced by Serapid, Inc. may be suitable. Other suitable drive systems may be used. A turntabletug rail system 608 may be used to interface with thestorage facility 600, which may allow positioning of a watercraft or the like on acarrier 604 exterior to theframework 602 and then moved into position viarails 612 or the like. Theturntable 608 allows reorientation of thewatercraft 610 or the like to a desired position. - In another example, as shown in
FIGS. 25-27 , astorage system 700 for a plurality ofwatercraft 710 or the like may be configured as a circular structure. A plurality of docking slips 702 may be providedadjacent facility 700, which allow a staged transition to or from storage, where a user may drop a boat off in aslip 702 and then the boat can subsequently be put into thestorage facility 700. Watercraft may be selectively stored and/or removed fromfacility 700 at a fixedlift station 712 for example. Other suitable systems to lift and/or position awatercraft 710 intofacility 700 are contemplated, such as described in other examples. In this example, once the watercraft is lifted atstation 712, it may be moved intofacility 700 as seen inFIG. 26 , by a tug system, chain push/pull system or other suitable system as described in other examples. The lifting of craft or the like may be via an elevator type arrangement, a lifting frame system, hoist system or other suitable system. In this example, thewatercraft 710 are supported on a carousel arrangement such as previously described and movable in a circular motion withinfacility 700 until an open position is located adjacent thestation 712. The arrangement allows for close packing ofvarious size watercraft 710, such aslarger craft 715, and provides space for personal watercraft (jet skis, etc.) 716 or other items between crafts or items stored on radius lines from the center of the circular configuration for example. Such as system may be suitable for larger craft along radius lines for example, or may allow multiple craft to positioned along a radius of the circular configuration such as shown inFIG. 27 . The systems for lifting and moving the craft or other items may be similar to other examples or other suitable arrangements. - Another example is shown in
FIGS. 28-44 , wherein astorage facility 800 is provided with a plurality ofberths 802, which may of different sizes to accommodatedifferent watercraft 810 or other items. Thefacility 800 may have two or more stacks orstructures berths 802, which are separated from one another. A travelingelevator system 820 may be positioned between thestacks stacks watercraft 810 in any desired berth in eitherstack turntable positioning units 880 provided for positioning of watercraft (or otherwise) inberths 802, and such a turntable positioning arrangement may also be used in association with theelevator system 820 if desired. - As seen in
FIG. 29 , theelevator system 820 may include atower 822 associated with a lateraldrive guide system 824, such as one or more pairs ofdrive guide rails 824, that allows theelevator tower 822 to move laterally along thestacks elevator system 820 further has alift platform 828 that is selectively moved up and down in thetower 822. Situated onplatform 828 may beguide rails 830, which accept and support a push/pull tug 832 with carrier or cassette 833 on which awatercraft 810 is positioned and supported. The carrier orcassette 832 may be customized for thewatercraft 810 or adapt to its configuration. Alternatively, abunk system 835, as shown inFIG. 29A , could be provided to carry and supportdifferent watercraft 810, wherein thebunk system 835 may haveuniversal supports 836 extending from atug system 837 to support the hull ofwatercraft 810. Thesupports 836 may havehydraulic cylinders 838 associated therewith, that allow for variable extension of thesupports 836 and allow for some flexibility in supporting thewatercraft 810. Each of the carrier orcassette 832 orbunk system 835, are associated with a tug system that allows movement of the watercraft 810 (or other item) both into aberth 802 from theelevator system 820 or from aberth 802 onto theelevator system 820. Thetug systems flanged wheels 840 which mate with thetug guide rails 830, and allow the system to be moved onto or off of theelevator lift platform 828. Thetug system 832 and/or 837 may also provide for electrical and/or plumbing connections to thewatercraft 810 if desired, such as described in other examples. - As seen in
FIGS. 30 and 31 , theelevator system 820 may include adrive system 840 for cooperating with the lateral drive guides 824. The drive system may include a plurality ofdrive members 842 that cooperate with the drive guides 824. For example, thedrive members 842 may be geared wheels and theguides 824 may be a gear track, but other suitable systems are contemplated. There may also be provided a plurality ofguide wheels 841 that engage thestacks tower 822 in a centered position therebetween. Thedrive members 842 may be driven by amotor 843 coupled to each of the drive members vialinkage arms 844 and associatedtransfer case systems 845. Alternatively, separate motors may be used to drive each of or several of thedrive members 842 if desired. The drive members are actuated in a synchronized fashion, such as by use of thesingle motor 843 andsynchronization transfer cases 845, which translate output drive from themotor 843 to each of thedrive members 842 in a synchronized fashion. Alternatively, several or separate motors may be operated in a synchronized fashion to cause synchronized movement of thedrive members 842 vialinkage arms 844. If desired, upper portions of thetower 822 may be similarly driven relative tostacks FIGS. 32 and 33 ) in association with additional drive members 849 (one being shown inFIGS. 32 and 33 ). To allow synchronous driving of mid-level and/or upperlevel drive members 849, themotor 843 may also be coupled to asynchronization transfer case 846 coupled to synchronously drive asynchronization shaft 847 that feeds drive to a further series of synchronizing transfer cases 854 (FIG. 34 ) and linkage arms 850 (one being shown inFIGS. 32 and 33 ) coupled to driveadditional drive members 849. As seen inFIG. 34 , aupper synchronization shaft 850 may feed drive poser to a further transfer case and linkage arms if desired. Thedrive guide rails 848 may be positioned mid-way and/or toward the top oftower 822 to facilitate smooth movement of thetower 822 laterally betweenstacks tower 822 in a centered position relative tostacks additional drive members 849 and associated drive systems may be provided at mid-level and/or upper level locations, they are optional and may not be provided as desired. - As seen in
FIGS. 35 and 36 , theelevator system 820 may be positioned onguide tracks 826 to allow movement of thetower 822 between thestacks tracks 826. Thetracks 826 may be positioned and leveled byrail leveling plates 827. Thetracks 826 may extend interior to thestacks tower 822 to the exterior or other locations as may be desired. Thetower 822 may be supported on thetracks 826 viaflanged load wheels 860 provided on the bottom edges of thetower 822. Theload wheels 860 engage and are movable on thetracks 826 to enable lateral movement of thetower 822, upon actuation of thedrive members 842. - Turning to
FIGS. 37-39 , a lift system associated with thelift platform 828 may be any suitable type but in the example, may comprise a plurality of rigid chain lift systems, such as produced by Serapid, Inc. For example, a rigid chain lift system such as the Link-Lift 100R systems produced by Serapid may be suitable. Such a system is generally shown at 900 inFIG. 37 , and includes adrive housing 902 attached to the base frame of theelevator system tower 822. Mounted in association with thedrive housing 902 is adrive sprocket 904 androller guide 906. A series ofrigid chain links 910 have two series ofdrive rollers drive housing 902 by thedrive sprocket 904. The chain links 910 are attached to thelift frame 828 by anattachment link 914. The chain links 910 are driven through thedrive housing 902 by rotation of thedrive sprocket 904 acting onrollers 913, androller guide 906 guides at a plurality ofrollers 912 from at least twochain links 910. In this way, such as shown inFIG. 37 , guiderollers 912 fromadjacent links 910 are constrained by theroller guide 906 and create a locking moment between therollers 912 in theroller guide 906 and therollers 913 acted on bydrive sprocket 904 to lock theadjacent links 910 together as they are driven through thedrive housing 902, creating a beam-like assembly that will raiselift frame 828 to a desired height. Thesystem 900 has a chain storage 916 at the bottom, and upon rotatingdrive sprocket 904 in the opposite direction, pulls thelift frame 828 back down to a ground level position and stores the chain accordingly. As seen inFIG. 38 , thelift frame 828 may be raised up and down by fourchain drive systems 900, with one at each corner of abase frame 822. Eachsystem 900 includes adrive motor 918, with eachmotor 918 operated synchronously to simultaneously raise and lower thelift frame 828. As seen in FIGS. 39 and 40, eachsystem 900 may includelift frame 828 supported on each of the chain drives 900 for raising and lowering thelift frame 828 relative to thebase frame 822. Upon actuation ofmotor 918, the chain drive operates to raise and lower thelift frame 828, with therigid chain links 910 driven through the rigidchain drive housing 902, with the extending rigid chain positioned in achain guide 920. Thesystems 900 operating together can provide desired lifting characteristics as thechain drive systems 900 are capable of supporting significant loads, allow for quick raising and lowering speeds, are accurately positioned adjacent a berth for storage or removal of a watercraft or otherwise, are easily maintained and operate both efficiently and quietly. Alternatively, other raising/lowering systems may be used in association with thelift frame 828, such as a cable hoist, crane lift, or other suitable systems. - Turning to
FIG. 41 , there may also be achain drive system 930 used in association with the lift frame to operate the movement of the watercraft or otherwise to and from the lift frame and an adjacent berth. Thedrive system 930 may include a push/pull motor 932 operating adrive shaft 934 coupled to achain drive 936. A tug system (not shown) may be moved to and from the lift frame ontug guide rails 830 by the chain drive system, that allows push/pull movement of the tug system into or out of a berth and off or onto the elevator lift as desired. Achain storage 938 may be provided to house a length of chain needed to fully push or pull the tug system into or out of a berth and onto or off of the elevator system. Other systems to allow movement of the tug system and correspondingly of the watercraft or otherwise to and from the elevator may be used if desired. - Also in this example, the
storage system 800 may utilize one or more other systems to movewatercraft 810 into and out ofberths 802. As shown inFIG. 28 for example, one ormore turntables 880 may be provided forpositioning watercraft 810. As seen inFIG. 42 , theturntable system 880 is shown in more detail. In use, theturntable system 880 may be positioned adjacent aberth 810, and allows positioning of a watercraft and carrier thereon via the guide rails 830. The guide rails 830 are provided on asupport frame 882 which is selectively rotatable to position guide rails 830 in a desired orientation for loading a watercraft thereon, and for positioning into or retrieving a watercraft fromberth 810. Theframe support 882 may be mounted onbase support 885 via a set of bearings, and include support wheels that are aligned withcircular tracks 884, and may be driven by a motor to selectively rotate theframe 882 relative tobase 885. As seen inFIG. 42 , therails 830 may thus be aligned with rails 886 inberth 810, and a watercraft can then be selectively moved into or out of theberth 810 on a carrier or cassette via a tug system as previously described. Such a loading/unloading system may be used in the various example systems to facilitate handling of watercraft or other items in an efficient, effective manner. Various systems may be used to position the watercraft or otherwise on theturntable system 880, andmultiple systems 880 may be used if desired. - A further example of the invention is shown in
FIGS. 43-45 , wherein an alternative watercraft (or other craft such as aircraft) support system is provided in thefacility 200, which works together with one or more lifting andpositioning systems 220 for positioning awatercraft 100 in a storage position within the facility. In this example, the watercraft support systems are formed as a plurality of bays orberths 230 formed in a vertically stacked type of arrangement within thefacility 200. As shown in this example, the facility may includevertical support columns 232 and horizontal support beams 234 to form theberths 230. As an example, a series ofvertical support columns 232 are positioned in spaced apart locations adjacent the wall of theenclosure 200, with another series of vertical columns positioned outwardly from the wall in spaced relationship, a predetermined distance from the wall. The distance between columns may be varied to allow watercraft of different widths to be efficiently accommodated. The horizontal support beams may be positioned between adjacent vertical columns along the wall and between the outer columns to form rear and forward supports for thesupport system 240 in theberth 230. To facilitate configuring abay 230 to accommodate a variety of watercraft, the horizontal support beams 234 may be adjustably positioned on thevertical columns 232 to vary the size of the opening forming anindividual bay 230. Such adjustability can be provided by any suitable system, such as a series of mounting holes formed in thevertical columns 232, which are used to selectively mount the horizontal support beams 234. Mounting holes may be formed to allow repositioning of the support beams 234 in predetermined increments upwardly or downwardly for example. Other mounting arrangements to allow repositioning of thebeams 234 are also contemplated. In this manner, a wide variety ofwatercraft 100 may be positioned in thebay 230. This also provides the ability to form thebays 230 in a configuration to efficiently accommodate different watercraft within the given space of thefacility 200. In somefacilities 200, the rear support beams positioned along the wall of the enclosure may be a part of the building structure, and therefore may be fixed. In such an example, the forward support beams 234 may be adjustably positioned, and if positioned relatively above or below the correspondingrear support 234, a suitable spacer (not shown) may be used in association with a rear support 16 to provide a substantially horizontal support in conjunction with theforward support 234. Such spacer may use either a lower or higher rear support as the spacers supporting beam. The structure provides a strong frame structure for supporting watercraft of various sizes and configurations. The columns and beams may be configured as I-beams or other suitable configuration. The frame system may provide support and protection ofwatercraft 100 stowed in thestorage system 10. - As shown, several
bridge crane systems 220, such as of different load bearing capacities (e.g. 50 and 30 ton cranes), are provided to efficiently handle different size watercraft using thefacility 200. Thecranes 220 may include a system to rotate the watercraft into any desired orientation, as well as allowing for the adjustment of the cranes lifting cable spacing to suit an adjustable cradle and carrier system width as may be adjusted from time to time. Other suitable lifting systems are also contemplated, such as stacker cranes, captive aisle cranes or the like. In this example, asupport system 240 is provided in eachbay 230, such as is shown inFIGS. 44 and 45 . As shown inFIGS. 44 and 45 , thesupport system 240 may be formed as a wheel guide similar to the prior example, to receive a carrier similar to thecarrier 130 described previously. The wheel guide system may be positioned via a wheel guide andsupport channel 242 provided in association with eachberth 230. A plurality of support beams 243 may be provided to support the wheel guide andsupport channel 242. Acarrier anti-roll lock 244 may be provided similar to that described earlier. In this example, the watercraftoperational systems carrier 130 as an example, and coupled to utility supplies by suitable interfaces provided in association with eachberth 230. Thecarrier 130 and/orsupport system 240 may also have suitable drive systems associated therewith for movement of the watercraft/carrier into and from eachberth 230, similar to that described previously. The watercraft/carrier may be lifted and positioned in aberth 230 by one of thecranes 220 using acradle system 170 similar to that described previously. Upon movement ofcarrier 130 intobay 230, aforward stop 245 may be provided in association with the wheel guide andsupport channel 242 to limit inward movement ofcarrier 130 and watercraft 1.00 to a desired extent. - As seen in
FIG. 45 , thecarrier 130 may supportwatercraft 100 as previously described, and be lifted and positioned relative to abay 230 by the lifting/positioning system 220 andsupport cradle 170. Thecarrier 130 andwatercraft 100 may then be moved from thecradle 170 intobay 230 and onto the wheel guide andsupport channel 242 positioned in eachbay 230 for storage, with the position ofcarrier 130 inbay 230 retained by carrier anti-roll locks 244 as an example. Removal ofwatercraft 100 from storage is simply provided by positioningcradle 170adjacent bay 230 and movingcarrier 130 onto the cradle in a reverse fashion. - Alternatively, the lifting and positioning system may be an elevator type of arrangement, such as shown in
FIGS. 46-49 . In this example, the lifting andpositioning system 250 may be a system positioned in the aisles of the facility adjacent thebays 230, and may comprise, as merely one suitable form, avertical guide system 252 having a plurality oflift columns 254 supporting amovable platform 256. On theplatform 256, a wheel guide andsupport system 258 interfaces with theguide wheels 138 ofcarrier 130 for example. A suitable locking/anti-roll system may be used in association with thecarrier 130 and/orplatform 256 when thecarrier 130 is onpositioning system 250. Thewatercraft 100 andcarrier 130 may be placed on thepositioning system 250 in any desired manner, such as by arail type system 265 on which the watercraft/carrier is transported at ground level, or any other suitable system. - The
lift columns 254 may then be used to elevate the watercraft/carrier in any suitable manner, such as byhydraulic lift cylinders 260 which selectively lift thesupport platform 256 to the desiredbay 230 on either side of the aisle. Alternatively, any other suitable system for vertical movement ofplatform 256 is contemplated, such as another system to push theplatform 256 upwardly, hoist cables to lift theplatform 256 from above, a cog/gear arrangement to climb alift column 254 or any other suitable system. - The
platform 256 may havedrive rollers 268 and associated drives 270 (seeFIG. 48 ), to allow it to be moved along the ground floor to a particular stack ofberths 230 if desired. Once theplatform 256 is positioned relative to thebay 230 in which the carrier/watercraft is to be positioned, a transport or conveyance system 262 (seeFIG. 48 ) may be used to transport or push the carrier from theplatform 256 and onto the mating wheel guide andsupport system 240 in thebay 230. For safety, thesystem 250 may include a vertical lock andalignment system 266, such as one or more locking pins 267, which are made to selectively extend into associated apertures adjacent thebay 230. To ensure proper positioning ofplatform 256 relative to abay 230, avertical locating unit 269 may be provided. These systems properly position theplatform 256 and prevent any vertical movement or dropping of theplatform 256 relative tobay 230 when transferring a watercraft/carrier into or frombay 230. When transferring the watercraft/carrier frombay 230 onto theplatform 256 to retrieve it from storage, aconveyance system 271 associated with thesupport system 240 may be used to transport or push thecarrier 130 from thebay 230 and onto the mating wheel guide andsupport system 258 on thelift platform 256. Alternatively, thecarrier 130 may have a suitable conveyance system to move itself between theplatform 256 andbay 230. - In a further example of the invention, as shown in
FIGS. 50-51 , a different support system is provided in eachbay 230 in afacility 200. Mounted within eachbay 230 is asupport system 280 formed as a cantilever support that extends from therear support beam 234 and past theforward support beam 234 in the center of thebay 230. Thecantilever support 280 cooperates with acarrier 290, which is designed to support thewatercraft 100 in position in association with thecantilever support 280 similar to prior embodiments. Thecantilever support 280 comprises in this example, a generally rectangular formed channel member, constructed of steel or other suitable material. Thecantilever support 280 may be formed to have atop surface 282, andside walls 284, with an open bottom. Within the open bottom channel formed by thecantilever support 280, there may be provided a fire suppression system, generally designated 288. In general, thefire suppression system 288 will be mounted in the bottom of thecantilever support 280 of eachberth 230, to protect thewatercraft 100 in the berth below thesystem 288. In this way, each watercraft in the facility is protected by an individual fire suppression system. For watercraft positioned in atop bays 230, a separate fire suppression system may be provided. Thecantilever support 280 also comprisescarrier locating members 286 on thetop surface 282. Thecarrier locating members 286 may be positioned at predetermined positions along the length of thecantilever support 280 to properly position thecarrier 290. Thelocators 286 may simply be upstanding posts that mate withapertures 292 provided on thecarrier 290, and thereby securely position thecarrier 290 in a predetermined position relative to thecantilever support 280. Any other suitable positioning system to accurately position thecarrier 290 with respect to thecantilever support 280 is contemplated. It should also be recognized that the characteristics of thecantilever support 280 may be adapted to the particular watercraft to be supported thereon, such as having a predetermined width, length or other characteristics to properly support aparticular watercraft 100. - In this example, the
carrier 290 as shown inFIGS. 52-53 , may be somewhat similar to that previously described, including aframe 294 and hull supports 296, but it does not need the wheels of prior embodiments. Watercraft operational systems, such aselectrical supply 297 andwater circulation system 298 may also be provided. - The invention contemplates using any number of locating systems from mechanical stops, intelligent optics, laser targets, ultrasonic sensing and other suitable systems that can be used as the watercraft is lifted from the water or intermediate positioning system in the
carrier 290, and positioned into the desired berth or bay associated with any of the examples. Computer control of all systems allows for efficient and effective positioning of craft or other items. Further, in this example, as shown inFIGS. 54-56 , acradle system 300 similar to that described previously may be provided. Thecradle system 300 may comprise aframe assembly 302 having afirst side 304,second side 306, having a predetermined height, which may be configured to exceed the keel to gunnel height of watercraft to be handled for example. Anend 308 may provide adjustability of the width betweenwalls walls watercraft 100 to be lifted thereby. Theframe assembly 302 thereby provides open ends into which thewatercraft 100 may be maneuvered in the body of water for loading for example. Theframe assembly 302 further comprises first and secondbottom walls central area 314 therebetween. Thebottom walls carrier frame 294 to securely support thecarrier 290 when being lifted and positioned with thewatercraft 100 thereon. The locking system may be of any suitable type, such as an interlock system that engages thecarrier 290, so as to provide a secure, temporary engagement with thecarrier 290 in a manner to lock thebottom walls carrier 290 and resist any spreading of the bottom walls when loaded with awatercraft 100. In operation for example, thecarrier 290 is locked into position with thecradle system 300, and is positioned in the water for thewatercraft 100 to maneuver into position over thecarrier 290. Generally, the center of gravity of the watercraft positioned in thecradle 300 is positioned at approximately the location noted at 316. The carrier and cradle are lifted into proper engagement with thewatercraft 100 and then lifted and positioned in the predetermined bay. Upon being supported on a cantilever beam 28 the interlocking system of thecradle 290 simply releases from engagement with thecarrier 290 upon being lowered therefrom. It should also be recognized that thecradle system 300 allows movement of the cradle/carrier/watercraft into thebays 230 without interference with thecolumns 232,beams 234 orcantilever support 280, and lowered into the desired position on thecantilever support 280. Further, to accommodatevarious width watercraft 100, thecradle system 300 may have an adjustable width. Thecradle system 300 may have anend wall 308 which allows adjustment of the width in any suitable manner. - In an alternate example of a cradle system as shown in
FIGS. 57-59 , thecradle 320 may have anend wall 322 which may be a frame extending away from theside walls watercraft 100 in thecradle system 320. Theend wall 322 may have one or more telescoping sections to allow adjustment of the width, either by manual or powered width adjustment, that may be controlled either manually or by computer control, to fix a desired relative position between eachbottom wall section crane cables 332 can be adjusted in association with the cradle in any suitable manner. Upon adjustment of the width of thecradle 320, thecrane cables 332 are desirably repositioned to be in line with the cradle connections for lifting thecradle 300 in a safe and stable manner. - Turning now to
FIGS. 60 and 61 , watercraft operational system connections are shown in more detail according to an example of the invention. Such systems or similar systems may be used in the various examples of the invention. Theelectric supply system 350 which may be provided in any of the examples above, is shown in more detail inFIG. 60 . In an example, thesystem 350 may be configured such that the electrical connection of a power supply, such as the electric utilities of the facility, occurs automatically upon positioning thewatercraft 100 in its storage position within the facility. In the examples using a bay or berth, thesupply system 350 may comprise abase unit 352 which is mounted within thebay 230 in a suitable manner to automatically connect to the system associated with the carrier. Thebase unit 352 may have anelectrical conductor pad 354 and associatedinsulator pad 356, which are electrically connected to an electrical supply line or feed 358. The base unit is generally fixed in a predetermined position, or could be made to have its position adjustable. The location of thebase unit 352 is predetermined to correspond to the position of a matingupper contact unit 360 which is positioned with the carrier or in association with thewatercraft 100. Theupper contact unit 360 may also comprise anelectrical contact pad 362 and associatedinsulator pad 364, electrically connected to aload line 366 which feeds power to any watercraft systems as desired. Thecontact 362 is adapted to mate withcontact 354 associated with thebase unit 352. To facilitate making the electrical connection between thecontacts contacts upper contact 362 may be biased outwardly by means ofspring member 368 to exert an outward pressure oncontact 362 and against themating contact 354. Any other suitable system for supplying electrical power to the watercraft when stored is contemplated. Different electrical-requirements, including all combinations of AC and/or DC power or any approved electrical connectors may be provided via thesupply system 350 according to the invention. For example, thesupply system 350 may provide 110 volt and/or 220 or 440 volt service, and may include ground and negative and positive connection terminals for 110/220 volt service, or three phase power and ground connections for 220/440 volt service. Any other desired electrical supply is also contemplated. It may also be desirable to provide a plurality ofsystems 350, either on a common support or individual supports, mounted in positions to ensure proper connection to the electrical power supply of the facility. Power connections will be set up to accommodate any or all electrical supply configurations now existing or that may be developed in the future. The electrical supply may also be usable to operate the fire suppression system described above. The electrical supply system may also be coupled through a metering system for tracking electricity use associated with anyparticular watercraft 100 stored in the facility. - Turning to
FIG. 61 , an example of thefluid circulation system 370 is shown in more detail. Thecirculation system 370 is designed to work in conjunction with the onboard fluid or water circulation system of thewatercraft 100 for example. Typically, thewatercraft 100 has a water intake port and a separate water exhaust or drain port associated therewith. An intake and/or drainport 372 associated with thewatercraft 100 is normally positioned through the hull of thewatercraft 100. Theport 372 is coupled to the intake or drainage plumbing of thewatercraft 100 to circulate water to and from the air conditioning system of thewatercraft 100 for example. Theport 372 is selectively and automatically coupled to thecirculation system 370 when thewatercraft 100 is positioned in a bay of the facility for example. Thesystem 370 may comprise asuitable plumbing line 374 coupled to anadjustable housing 376, which may be shaped in a plunger like shape or fluid connector shape or material that will seal any fluid being delivered to or returned from the boat into a “catch” system. This will allow latitude in the coupling position in association with theport 372. Thebell housing 376 may also be formed of a suitable material to allow sealing of thehousing 376 with the hull ofwatercraft 100. To further facilitate proper coupling and sealing of thehousing 376, thehousing 376 may be formed of a resilient material which will allow some amount of collapse of thehousing 376 when it engages the hull. To also facilitate proper engagement of the housing in association with the hull, there may be provided a spring biased mounting system 378, such as a pair of mountingplates 380 coupling theplumbing line 374 to thehousing 376, with abias spring 382 positioned therebetween. This arrangement provides a biasing force outward on thebell housing 376 to facilitate proper sealing engagement and sealing pressure between the connector and with the hull. - In yet a further example of the invention, an alternate support system may be provided in the facility; which uses one or more vertical support systems provided on one or more levels within the facility. The vertical support systems may be provided as a conveyor type system arranged along a movable path, to move
watercraft 100 positioned thereon to any position within the facility on a level. The number ofwatercraft 100 positionable on the support system is variable dependent on the size of the support system. Systems such as the carriers and lifting systems may be used to position watercraft on the vertical support system. The vertical support systems may be a vertically oriented carousel support system, such as similar to those produced by Intertex Carousels Corporation or the like. In such systems, instead of being oriented in the horizontal position, thesupport system 320 may be oriented in vertically oriented support loops or serpentine arrangements for example. The support system would be provided to support the number and size ofwatercraft 100 as desired. - As yet another example of the invention, a storage facility could be constructed to have interior spaces through which watercraft are moved for positioning in or from a storage position.
Watercraft 100 could be brought into or out of the facility either by means of a channel and/or the use of one or more intermediate lifting and positioning systems to position thewatercraft 100 on a transfer system within the facility. The transfer system may be of any suitable type to support the watercraft and allow movement to and from its storage position, such as a rolling conveyor or carrier supported on wheels to allow movement, or air bearings that allow the support to “float” above the floor using compressed air. Alternatively, a rail system may be provided on the lower floor along which watercraft can be moved and positioned temporarily or for storage/removal from a particular watercraft storage position. In an example, as shown in FIGS. - In other examples of the invention, combinations of systems as described may be used, such as to allow a lifting crane system to move watercraft while concurrently allowing watercraft to be positioned in a storage position by other lifting and positioning systems for example. Each example may also utilize the watercraft operational systems as previously described, or other aspects in combination. There may also be provided a washing station for washing of watercraft in the facility before or after storage, or other functions.
- While particular examples of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended to limit the invention, except as defined by the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A system for storage of watercraft comprising:
a building structure having a plurality of storage areas, including upper storage areas arranged vertically, each for receiving and supporting a plurality of watercraft,
at least one carrier system on which a watercraft is supported for movement,
at least one tug system configured to support and move the at least one carrier system with or without a watercraft thereon,
a traveling lift system for supporting and moving the at least one tug system with or without a watercraft and its cradle system to and from an upper storage area,
a control system for controlling the at least one tug system and at least one elevator system to move the watercraft to and from a storage area,
wherein the each carrier system is configured to support a watercraft based on the characteristics of a watercraft to be supported, wherein the at least one tug system has a body portion and at least one drive member to engage and drive the body portion in association with a guide system, and further comprises lifting members that are configured to extend into engagement with the at least one carrier system based on the characteristics of the at least one carrier system.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one carrier system for a watercraft to be stored is configured to support a particular watercraft based on at least its size, weight, hull shape, and center of gravity.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of storage areas are formed as berths having a polygonal shape defining an opening with storage areas configured to have an opening of different sizes or configurations than others for watercraft of different sizes or configurations.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the traveling lift system being configured as a tower structure with a rectangular lift platform configured for the at least one tug system to move onto and off of the lift platform with the at least one carrier and positioned in an aisle between a plurality of storage areas, and moves in the aisle using a plurality of drive members at each side of the tower structure that cooperate with drive guides positioned in the aisle.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control system tracks the location of each watercraft and the position of the at least one tug system to support the at least one carrier system.
6. A system for storage of watercraft comprising:
a building structure having a plurality of storage areas, including upper storage areas arranged vertically, with at least some storage areas having different size or configuration to accommodate watercraft of substantially different size or configuration for receiving and supporting at least one watercraft,
at least one carrier system on which a watercraft is supported for movement,
at least one tug system configured to support and move the at least one cradle system with or without a watercraft thereon,
a traveling elevator system for supporting and moving the at least one tug system with or without a watercraft and its carrier system to and from an upper storage area, and
a control system for controlling the at least one tug system and traveling elevator system to move the watercraft to and from a storage area,
wherein the each at least one carrier system is configured to a watercraft for supporting that watercraft, wherein the at least one tug system has a body portion and at least one drive member to engage and drive the body portion in association with a guide system wherein the at least one tug system is configured to lift and support different carrier systems.
7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the at least one tug system moves in association with a guide system for predetermined movement in relation to the building structure, and to and from a watercraft lift system that moves a watercraft to and from a body of water.
8. A system for storage of watercraft comprising:
a building structure having a plurality of storage areas, including upper storage areas arranged vertically, for receiving and supporting watercraft of different sizes,
at least one tug system configured to support and move watercraft of different sizes,
a traveling lift system for supporting and moving the at least one tug system to and from a storage area,
and a control system for controlling the at least one tug system and traveling elevator system to move different sized watercraft to and from a storage area, wherein the at least one tug system has a body portion and at least one drive member to engage and drive the body portion in association with a guide system building structure and lift systems configured to support different sized watercraft.
9. The system of claim 8 , wherein each storage area includes a guide system for interfacing with the at least one tug system.
10. The system of claim 8 , wherein the at least one elevator includes a guide system for interfacing with the at least one tug system.
11. The system of claim 8 , wherein the tower structure includes at least four corner posts and the lift platform is guided by the four corner posts to maintain its position with respect to the tower structure as it is raised and lowered.
12. The system of claim 11 , wherein a lift platform drive engages at least opposing sides of the lift platform to uniformly raise and lower the lift platform.
13. The system of claim 8 , wherein the control system is used to move the tug system to at least one carrier system sized for a watercraft to be stored and moves the at least one carrier to have that watercraft placed thereon for movement, and moves the watercraft and at least one carrier to a predetermined position in a storage area, wherein the at least one carrier is positioned in the storage area to position the watercraft in the predetermined position.
14. The system of claim 8 , wherein the control system operates the at least one tug system to move the at least one tug system to a position exterior to the building structure to receive a watercraft for storage.
15. The system of claim 8 , wherein the lift systems of the at least one tug system engage a hull of a watercraft in a manner to support that watercraft for movement.
16. The system of claim 8 , wherein the traveling lift system has a lift platform for a watercraft that is movable up and down by separate lift systems engaged to the lift platform.
17. The system of claim 8 , wherein the traveling lift system is configured as a tower structure with a plurality of drive systems operated synchronously to move the tower structure in association with drive guides.
18. The system of claim 17 , wherein the tower drive system includes a drive member positioned at each corner of the tower structure that engage a guide rail.
19. The system of claim 8 , wherein the traveling lift system drive system includes drive systems for driving upper and lower portions of the tower structure.
20. The system of claim 8 , the traveling lift system having guide systems at an upper portion of the lift system.
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2013
- 2013-12-02 US US14/093,988 patent/US10196115B2/en active Active
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2019
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- 2019-02-04 US US16/266,351 patent/US20190233065A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2019-02-04 US US16/266,415 patent/US20190329848A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2020
- 2020-10-22 US US17/077,580 patent/US20210039760A1/en not_active Abandoned
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WO2009097342A3 (en) | 2009-11-05 |
US10196115B2 (en) | 2019-02-05 |
US20190233065A1 (en) | 2019-08-01 |
US8596946B2 (en) | 2013-12-03 |
WO2009097342A2 (en) | 2009-08-06 |
US20140154034A1 (en) | 2014-06-05 |
US20110052350A1 (en) | 2011-03-03 |
US20190351983A1 (en) | 2019-11-21 |
US10745092B2 (en) | 2020-08-18 |
US20190329848A1 (en) | 2019-10-31 |
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