Gary Charles Robb

US Patent:

6502523, Jan 7, 2003

Filed:

Nov 27, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/722830

Inventors:

Gary K. Robb - San Leandro CA 94577

International Classification:

B63B 3528

US Classification:

114 26, 114 611

Abstract:

The road-towed heavy-load ferry may be produced in larger or smaller versions using the same design. Its basic embodiment can transport afloat loads exceeding 16 metric tons (17. 6 tons) including its tow vehicle. The ferry essentially comprises three longitudinal hulls. Outboard hulls ( ) pivot outward and inward to rest atop central hull ( ). Thereby, the ferry is reduced to a width suitable for towing on public roads. Equipment for road towing includes telescoping towing tongue ( ), and pneumatic-tired wheels ( ) which remain intact afloat. Winch ( ) enables kedging across shoal water or ground. The wheels extend below the deployed outboard hulls to assist in kedging by reducing friction, suction, and risk of hull damage. A water-ballast system counterbalances on-board loads and otherwise improves stability in adverse winds, waves, and currents. Hinged gunwales provide additional freeboard.

US Patent:

7021228, Apr 4, 2006

Filed:

Jan 6, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/337916

Inventors:

Gary K. Robb - Alameda CA, US

International Classification:

B63B 35/28

US Classification:

114 26, 114 611, 114125, 114344

Abstract:

This invention is a road towed ferry with a hull system with a central hull and multiple outboard hulls having adjustable positions relative to the central hull. A first outboard hull position corresponds with a road tow configuration wherein the ferry may be towed over a road by a tow vehicle; the second position corresponds with a ferry configuration adapted to ferry the tow vehicle over water. The ferry in the tow configuration has a width, height, length, weight conforming with certain public road regulations without requiring special permits. In the ferry configuration the ferry is adapted to ferry heavy loads over water, such as in one configuration up to at least 16 tons, or in another configuration up to at least 19 tons.