RECORDING DEVICE AND RECORDING METHOD FOR A WATERCRAFT

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device and method for picking up a watercraft (1). A ramp (10) can be moved relative to a stationary supporting device (2) between a pick-up position and a parking position. Said ramp (10) has a frame (4) and a deformable body (5) fastened to the frame (4). When the ramp (10) is in the pick-up position, the deformable body (5) faces towards the watercraft (1) to be picked up and is at least partly above the water surface (WO). The watercraft (1) is driven onto the ramp (10) and deforms the deformable body (5) from above. The watercraft (1) is pulled out of the water and transferred onto the supporting device (2).

Description

[0001] Recording device and recording method for a watercraft

[0002] The invention relates to a receiving device for receiving at least one watercraft, in particular a receiving device for a boat on board a mothership.

[0003] A ship often carries at least one boat while underway. This boat is sometimes launched and later retrieved and taken back on board. One way to bring the boat back on board is for a crane on board to lift it out of the water and lower it onto the ship. To avoid the need for a crane, the ship is often equipped with a ramp positioned just above the waterline. The boat either drives up the ramp under its own power or is pulled onto it. It is then moved into a desired position on the ramp and held there. Because the ramp is sloped, the boat can quickly slide back down into the water if needed. This type of arrangement is used, for example, on board sea rescue cruisers.

[0004] US 2016 / 0375965 AI discloses a launch, recovery, and handling system (LRHS) installed on board a ship 14. This launch system is capable of supporting two waterborne vessels (RHIB 201 and RHIB 202). RHIB stands for Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boat. The launch system comprises three cradle 15s, each capable of supporting one waterborne vessel: an aft cradle 15 (as viewed in the direction of travel of the ship), a transfer cradle 16 (midship cradle), and a forward cradle 17 (forward cradle). The aft cradle 15 can be moved into a rear zone, in which it is partially submerged (water mission zone area, WMZ area 22). The forward cradle 17 is in a storage area 24.

[0005] US Patent 2008 / 0202405 AI describes a mothership (vessel or host ship 5) that is capable of selectively retrieving either an inflatable boat 20 or an underwater vehicle 25 from the water and moving it on board, see Figure 1. A launching / recovery device 10 on board the mothership can be selectively pivoted to either position A, in which the launching device 10 is partially submerged, or to another position B, in which the launching device 10 is completely submerged. In position A, the launching device 10 is capable of receiving an inflatable boat 20. In position B, the launching device 10 is capable of receiving a

[0006] To pick up an underwater vehicle. A watercraft 20, 25 to be picked up drives onto the conveying unit 10. The conveying unit 10 pulls the watercraft 20, 25 out of the water and transfers it to a stationary ramp on board the mothership 5. In one embodiment, the conveying unit 10 pulls the watercraft 20, 25 out of the water using a chain conveyor with traction members 55 and end pieces 60, see Figures 2A to 2D. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the watercraft 20, 25 drives onto a V-shaped element 55 with a surface 90. This surface 90 creates high friction between the V-shaped element 55 and the watercraft 20, 25. The V-shaped element 55 with the watercraft 20, 25 moves and pulls the watercraft 20, 25 out of the water. Figure 5 and Figure 6 show a guide and drive unit for such V-shaped elements 55.Figure 13 shows how two sets of inclined bars 455 form the V-shaped elements of the ramp. From WO 2008 / 098393 AI, a lowerable platform 1 is known which is articulatedly attached to the stern 8 of a watercraft 10 and can be raised and lowered by means of a lifting mechanism 3, cf. Fig. 1. A buoyancy body 2 with a hollow body 43 is mounted under the platform 1. In the embodiment according to Fig. 5, a tender receptacle 23 is mounted on the platform 1, which is capable of carrying a tender boat 27. With the aid of a pair of rollers 25, the tender receptacle 23 can be moved horizontally relative to the platform 1 towards the watercraft 10. Fig. 6 shows an embodiment with several modular buoyancy bodies 2a, which are adapted to a propulsion system of the watercraft 10 that projects into the water.

[0007] Figure 1 of DE 102011109092 AI shows a system 1, which is mounted on board a ship 8 and is capable of recovering an underwater vehicle 2. The underwater vehicle 2 is pulled onto a recovery ramp 12 of the system 1 by means of a rope 50. A wave compensation ramp 24 is mounted to this recovery ramp 12 such that the wave compensation ramp 24 can move up and down relative to the recovery ramp 12 about a horizontal pivot axis S. The front end 26 of the wave compensation ramp 24 – viewed in the direction of movement of the underwater vehicle 2 – is connected to the recovery ramp 12 via a joint 28. Near its free rear end 34, two floats 36, 38 are mounted, see Figure 1 and Figure 4. The rear float 38 is mounted on a receiving device 40 for the underwater vehicle 2, see Figure 4. The underwater vehicle 2 travels between two spread guide rails 130, 132 towards the recovery ramp 12, see Figure 4.Figure 7, and is held between the guide rails 130 and 132 pushed together, see Figure 8.

[0008] WO 2016 / 088033 AI discloses an inflatable apparatus 1 with an inflatable fender that can be attached to one side of the hull 21 of a boat 20 and protects the hull 21 from mechanical damage. This apparatus 1 comprises a support structure 2 and an inflatable bag 3 which is attached to a segment 8 of the support structure 2.

[0009] It is also known that a boat is launched using a slipway with a sloping ramp. A carrier, such as a trailer or boat trolley, carries the boat. The carrier can be designed as a trailer for a motor vehicle. The carrier with the boat rolls down the ramp into the water until the boat floats due to its buoyancy. To retrieve the boat, the carrier is lowered into the water, the boat is driven onto the carrier, and the carrier with the boat is pulled up.

[0010] The object of the invention is to provide a receiving device with the features of the preamble of claim 1 and a receiving method with the features of the preamble of claim 23 for receiving at least one watercraft, wherein the risk of a large quantity of water entering the receiving device when the ramp is in the receiving position and the watercraft drives onto the ramp is reduced.

[0011] This problem is solved by a receiving device with the features specified in claim 1 and a receiving method with the features specified in claim 23. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims, the following description, and the drawings.

[0012] The solution-specific receiving device is capable of at least one [unclear] on the water.

[0013] to include a floating watercraft. It includes

[0014] • a stationary support device and

[0015] • a movable ramp.

[0016] The ramp

[0017] • can be positioned relative to the stationary support device in at least one recording position

[0018] move and • includes a frame and a deformable body.

[0019] The deformable body is attached to the ramp frame. When the ramp is in the loading or receiving position, the deformable body faces the watercraft in the water. The deformable body is held at least partially above the water's surface. A watercraft to be loaded drives onto the ramp and deforms the deformable body from above. The watercraft on the ramp is pulled out of the water and guided onto the stationary support device. The body is made of a deformable material. This means that the vertical dimension of the body is reduced under load compared to an unloaded state. The body can be deformed more than the ramp frame. The deformable body faces the watercraft to be loaded when the ramp is in the loading or receiving position and the watercraft is floating on the water.While the ramp is in the loading or receiving position, the deformable body protrudes at least partially from the water. The watercraft floats towards the ramp and...

[0020] • collides with the deformable body or

[0021] • strikes the free end of the frame at an acute angle and is deflected by the frame and guided against the deformable body.

[0022] In both cases, the watercraft comes into contact with the deformable body and deforms it from above. Because the body is deformable, the watercraft is not damaged in the process. Thanks to the invention, the ramp does not need to be lowered to such an extent that its free end is submerged to the point where the distance from the water's surface is at least equal to the draft of the watercraft being lifted. This draft often varies and is frequently unknown, meaning that a conventional ramp often has to be lowered further than necessary. Thanks to the deformable body, the ramp needs to be less deep in the water, i.e., with a shallower immersion depth than the watercraft's draft.

[0023] Watercraft. Nevertheless, the watercraft floating on the water can drive, be pulled, or pushed onto the ramp, thereby deforming its body and pressing the deformable body downwards sufficiently so that the watercraft can drive onto the ramp and the ramp is at least partially below the watercraft. Conversely, the watercraft is lifted, thus reducing its draft in the water, as it drives onto the ramp. Particularly due to this feature, less water enters the vessel compared to conventional receiving devices.

[0024] The receiving device is used when the watercraft drives onto the ramp. This is particularly advantageous if the receiving device belongs to another watercraft that floats on the water when it receives the other vessel. A large amount of water entering the receiving device can compromise the stability of the other vessel.

[0025] It is not necessary to use a lifting device, such as a crane, to lift the watercraft out of the water. Because the watercraft drives onto the ramp, it can be picked up while the other watercraft is moving along and does not need to be stopped for the pickup.

[0026] Furthermore, the deformable design of the structure allows a vessel to approach and then load onto the ramp at a higher speed, without the risk of damage to either the vessel or the ramp, compared to a ramp made entirely of rigid material. Due to the resulting deformation, the deformable structure absorbs kinetic energy from the moving vessel.

[0027] The ramp gently guides the watercraft onto the ramp and slows its movement without damaging it. Because the watercraft can approach the ramp faster compared to a rigid ramp, time is saved.

[0028] A vessel being picked up, which travels on the water towards the ramp and then onto the ramp, is at least temporarily above the deformable body and comes into contact with it. To a certain extent, the deformable body automatically adapts to the underwater profile of the vessel being picked up thanks to its deformability. This design allows the same

[0029] The recording device can successively capture watercraft with different underwater profiles. It is not necessary to know or scan the exact underwater profile of the watercraft being recorded. Furthermore, no actuator is required to adjust the recording device to the watercraft being recorded.

[0030] The characteristic that the ramp has a deformable body thus increases the

[0031] Interoperability of the receiving device. The deformable body is mounted on the ramp frame. This frame can be made of a rigid material and designed to withstand environmental influences. It is arranged and positioned such that the deformable body is always, or at least temporarily, located between the frame and a floating vessel to be received when the ramp is in the receiving position. Thus, the vessel does not collide with the preferably rigid frame at all, or only at an acute angle and within a small area, reducing the risk of damage. Thanks to the frame, the ramp can be moved more easily into and out of the receiving position, even against gravity. An actuator or a

[0032] To attach connecting elements to the deformable body itself.

[0033] In one embodiment, the ramp frame is made of steel or another metal and is therefore particularly stable and robust. The deformable body contains no metallic component that comes into contact with a watercraft being lifted.

[0034] The design reduces the risk of a watercraft being picked up from the ramp being damaged.

[0035] According to the solution, the deformable body faces a watercraft to be picked up when the ramp is in the loading or receiving position. At least part of the deformable body is located below the watercraft to be picked up. In one embodiment, the watercraft slides over the deformable body towards the stationary support device. The watercraft comes into contact with a surface of the deformable body, preferably the upward-facing surface. Various embodiments are possible to minimize friction between the base of the

[0036] The aim is to reduce the friction between the watercraft and the surface of the deformable body facing the watercraft. In one embodiment, this surface of the deformable body is made of a material that results in low friction between the deformable body and the watercraft. In another embodiment, a series of rollers is applied to the surface of the deformable body. The watercraft slides over these rollers, setting them into rotation. Preferably, a gap is maintained between the watercraft and the rest of the deformable body as the watercraft slides over it, so that the watercraft only comes into contact with the rollers and not with any other part of the deformable body. The rest of the deformable body can therefore be made of a material with high friction against the watercraft.

[0037] The deformable body can be designed as a solid. The specific gravity of the deformable solid is preferably less than that of water, allowing it to float. The buoyancy generated by the solid is greater than the weight of the ramp. The solid body can be made of polystyrene or another sufficiently lightweight plastic. Preferably, however, the deformable body comprises at least one cavity. This cavity is surrounded by a casing made of a deformable material. The cavity, or at least one cavity, can be filled with air or another gas, thereby increasing the volume of the cavity and pressurizing the gas within it. This design makes it possible to pump or otherwise transfer the gas into the cavity when a watercraft needs to be loaded.

[0038] The ramp, with its inflated or otherwise gas-filled cavity, is positioned in a receiving position and can be deformed by the vessel when it is to be picked up and collides with the deformable body. The gas can then be removed from the cavity, and the cavity, and thus the ramp, takes up less space. This makes it easier to stow the ramp or otherwise move it into a parking position when it is not currently needed. Compared to a ramp without a cavity, less space is required to receive the deformable body after the ramp has been moved from the receiving position.

[0039] It is also possible that the deformable body is a deformable solid body and a

[0040] The device comprises a hollow body, the solid body preferably capable of floating on water. This design allows the deformable body to float even if the cavity cannot be inflated at all or only partially, e.g., due to a leak. It is also possible for one cavity to be filled and emptied with gas, and for another cavity to be permanently filled with gas. In one embodiment, the cavity, or at least one cavity, can be filled with gas such that the volume of the gas-filled cavity becomes sufficiently large and the buoyancy of the deformable body is greater than its weight, preferably at least twice its weight. The deformable body can float on the water. The vessel being transported collides with the floating deformable body.This design facilitates the desired process of the watercraft pushing the deformable body downwards below the water's surface.

[0041] In one embodiment, not only the deformable body alone, but even the entire ramp can float on the water in the receiving position, at least as long as the vessel to be picked up is not on the ramp. "Floatable" means that the volume of the ramp, including the preferably rigid frame, in the receiving position is greater than the weight of the water displaced by the ramp. The ramp with the deformable body is in the receiving position, floats on the water, and can be deformed by the vessel when the vessel is to be picked up and collides with the deformable body. Therefore, the ramp does not submerge in the receiving position even if it is not supported by another component of the receiving device. Part of the ramp protrudes from the water. In particular, at least part of the deformable body protrudes from the water.The ramp is permanently in this buoyant state or can be put into this state.

[0042] to bring it into a floating state, for example by filling a cavity with gas.

[0043] The ramp with the emptied hollow body is not necessarily buoyant. The property of being buoyant is not required when the ramp is in a parked position.

[0044] In another embodiment, the deformable body can move up and down relative to the ramp frame when the ramp is in the or a

[0045] The shooting position is such that the deformable body is floating on the water.

[0046] This design allows the ramp's support frame to be moved and held in a predetermined underwater position. The deformable body floats on the water and is moved up and down relative to the frame by the water waves and by a vessel on the ramp. This design simplifies the construction of an actuator for the ramp. It is sufficient for the actuator to move the frame into a fixed, predetermined underwater position and hold it there. Preferably, the free end of the frame is held deep enough in the water that the distance to the water surface is greater than the draft of a vessel.

[0047] The design with the buoyant body and the embodiment with the buoyant ramp further reduces the risk of water entering the receiving device when the ramp is in or in a receiving position. The ramp is only partially submerged and partially above water, and the deformable body prevents water ingress. Thanks to the deformable body, the watercraft can still drive onto the ramp and, due to its own weight, push the ramp underwater.

[0048] In one embodiment, the receiving device is mounted on board another watercraft. The ramp can be moved relative to the other watercraft, e.g., rotated or otherwise pivoted, preferably even when the ramp is in a receiving position. Thanks to the design that allows the ramp to float on the water in the receiving position, the ramp can move relative to the other watercraft when wind or waves move the other watercraft. The upper surface of the ramp exhibits less relative movement to the water surface compared to a ramp that cannot float and is therefore supported by the other watercraft and moves with it.

[0049] A corresponding advantage is achieved with a buoyant, deformable body on the ramp frame, whereby the buoyant body can move up and down relative to the frame. It is possible that the frame does not move relative to the other watercraft when the ramp is in the receiving position.

[0050] Preferably, the deformable body is transferred from another state to a floating state. In this other state, the deformable body preferably occupies less space. This transfer is preferably carried out in parallel with the step of moving the ramp from a parking position to a receiving position. This overlapping approach saves time. Similarly, the process of transferring the deformable body from the floating state to the other state is carried out in parallel with the process of moving the ramp from the receiving position to the parking position. A watercraft to be picked up can drive onto the ramp, which is in the receiving position, or be moved onto it in one direction. When the ramp is in a receiving position, the deformable body is preferably at least half as wide and half as long as the frame.The length and width are the respective dimensions in a direction parallel to and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the watercraft. The deformable body thus occupies at least half the width and at least half the length of the entire ramp. Particularly preferably, the deformable body occupies at least three-quarters of the width and three-quarters of the length of the entire ramp when the ramp is in a receiving position. Preferably, the deformable body is wider than the watercraft to be received. The configuration in which the deformable body is at least half as long and half as wide as the ramp enables the following: At least temporarily, the entire watercraft is supported by the deformable body and has a vertical distance from the ramp frame. The deformable body dampens vibrations emanating from the frame. Conversely, the deformable body dampens vibrations that the watercraft experiences, for example.due to water waves. The damping reduces wear on the vessel being lifted. Thanks to the deformable body, the vessel on the ramp cannot tip sideways. Preferably, the deformable body is mounted on a support element that is part of the ramp frame. This support element has a width—that is, a dimension in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vessel being lifted onto the ramp—that is at least as large as the dimension of the stationary support device in this direction. Thus, this support element is also wider than the vessel being lifted. Preferably, the support element is also wider than the deformable body.

[0051] It is possible to attach at least one actuator or connecting element laterally to the support element, which is capable of moving the ramp; preferably one element on each side of the support element. Thanks to the sufficient width of the support element, the actuator or connecting element does not obstruct the watercraft's passage onto the ramp.

[0052] If the receiving device belongs to another vessel, the support element can preferably be moved into a position in which it seals the receiving device against the surrounding water. In this sealed position, the support element completely closes off the receiving device. Preferably, in this position, the support element is flush with the outer hull of the other vessel. A received vessel is located inside the other vessel. This feature reduces the signature of the other vessel, i.e., its detectability in a radar image.

[0053] Preferably, in the closed position, the support element seals the outer hull of the other watercraft in a watertight manner. The support element can be made sufficiently robust and thick to protect, to a certain extent, the watercraft on the support device and its crew members from environmental influences such as waves, wind, and gunfire.

[0054] Preferably, the ramp can be pivoted, moved linearly, or otherwise moved from the loading position to a parked position. Preferably, the ramp is completely above the water surface in the parked position. In one embodiment, the ramp can rotate between the two positions. The axis of rotation for this rotation is preferably located above the water surface. In the parked position, or in each parked position, the deformable body is located between the ramp frame and the stationary support structure. In this position, the deformable body prevents a watercraft on the stationary support structure from colliding with the frame. This is particularly important if the loading structure belongs to another watercraft that can navigate through high waves and tilt in different directions.This inclination allows the watercraft to slide along the stationary support device onto the ramp and, in one design, is stopped by the deformable body.

[0055] Preferably, the deformable body is moved into a receiving chamber when the ramp is moved into its parking position. Even more preferably, the deformable body is moved into the receiving chamber solely due to the movement of the ramp into its parking position, e.g., by gravity. An additional actuator for this movement is then not required.

[0056] Preferably, the receiving device includes a deflector element. This deflector element is located below the deformable body and lifts it, at least when the ramp is in its or a parked position. This prevents part of the deformable body from sliding downwards in an undesirable manner and, for example, obstructing the ramp's movement into its parked position. The deflector element may be located within the receiving chamber. Preferably, the ramp—or even just the buoyant deformable body—is fixed in its or a receiving position by at least one flexible connecting element, such as two parallel ropes, to prevent lateral displacement, i.e., unwanted movement in a direction perpendicular to or oblique to the direction of travel of a watercraft onto the ramp.The or at least one flexible connecting element is at least temporarily taut or tensioned when the ramp is in the or a receiving position.

[0057] It is possible that at least one roller tensions a flexible connecting element. In another embodiment, the flexible connecting element, or at least one, is tensioned and / or stretched by the deformable body. In this embodiment, the volume of the deformable body can be increased to a maximum volume, for example, by pressurizing gas into a cavity of the deformable body. Alternatively, the dimension of the deformable body in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the watercraft can be increased to a maximum dimension. When the deformable body has reached its maximum volume or maximum dimension, it tensions or stretches the flexible connecting element, or at least one.

[0058] In one embodiment, the receiving device includes a conveying device, e.g., at least one conveyor belt or an endless chain, which actively pulls the watercraft out of the water. This conveying device can form part of the stationary support structure, be located between the ramp and the support structure, or be part of the ramp itself. In another embodiment, the watercraft is pulled out of the water and onto the support structure by means of a rope. It is also possible for the watercraft to drive onto the stationary support structure under its own power. These embodiments can be combined.

[0059] The vessel to be recovered may have its own propulsion or be pulled or pushed towards the recovery device. The recovery device may belong to a ship, e.g., a warship, research vessel, merchant ship, passenger ship, or search and rescue cruiser, or be part of a floating platform or a stationary recovery device located on land and positioned on a shore.

[0060] The inventive device is explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawings.

[0061] Fig. 1 in one embodiment in a side view shows the stern area of ​​a mothership, the receiving device of the embodiment with the ramp in a receiving position and an inflatable boat both on the water and on the carrying device;

[0062] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of area II of Fig. 1;

[0063] Fig. 3 shows a top view of part of the arrangement of Fig. 1;

[0064] Fig. 4 shows the rear area of ​​Fig. 1 with the receiving device in the parked position and the

[0065] Inflatable boat on the carrying device;

[0066] Fig. 5 shows a rear view of the rear area of ​​Fig. 4.

[0067] In this embodiment, the invention is used to accommodate at least one boat on board a ship. The receiving ship therefore functions as a mothership. The boat(s) are accommodated, for example, inside or on the deck of the mothership. In this embodiment, the boat(s) to be accommodated have their own propulsion, preferably a motor and at least one propeller or a water jet propulsion system. The invention can also be used to accommodate a boat or other floating object without its own propulsion. Figures 1 and 4 show a right-hand side view of the stern area of ​​a receiving vessel 20, which is also called a mothership and has a support structure T. A lower part Hu and an upper part Ho of the stern of the mothership 20 are shown. Figure 1 also shows the same inflatable boat 1 floating on the water surface WO (position l).w) and once picked up by mothership 20 (position l .a). The picked-up inflatable boat 1 in position l .a rests on a stationary support device 2, which belongs to a boat garage of mothership 20 and whose upper surface, viewed into the.

[0068] The direction of travel of the mothership 20 rises obliquely, see Fig. 1 and Fig. 4. In the exemplary embodiment, the inflatable boat 1 is propelled by a water jet drive. It is also possible that the inflatable boat 1 has at least one outboard motor. This is folded upwards before the propeller reaches the receiving device as described in the solution. The inflatable boat 1 to be received can also be designed without its own propulsion.

[0069] A crew member M. l of the inflatable boat 1 or the mothership 20 can the

[0070] Exit the boat garage through a door (not shown) and later via the same route.

[0071] Re-enter the boat garage. Figures 1 and 4 also show two containers 30.1 and 30.2 on board the mothership 20, which are not part of the receiving device of the

[0072] Examples of implementation include...

[0073] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of area II of Fig. 1, i.e. the front part of the ramp 10 and the rear part of the support device 2. Fig. 3 shows a top view of part of the arrangement of Fig. I.

[0074] In the following, the terms "front", "rear", "right" and "left" refer to the corresponding directions of travel FR of the inflatable boat 1 and the mothership 20. In Fig. 1 to Fig. 4, the direction of travel FR is from right to left, and in Fig. 5 it points away from the viewer.

[0075] The inflatable boat 1, in position lw, approaches the mothership 20 from behind and reaches a ramp 10. This ramp can be moved relative to the support device 2 and the support structure T of the mothership 20 about a horizontal axis of rotation DA between two positions: at least one loading position (Figs. 1 to 3) and a parking position (Figs. 4 and 5). The horizontal axis of rotation DA is perpendicular to the direction of travel FR and is preferably located above the water surface WO. The inflatable boat 1, in position l .w, has a draft Tg and reaches the ramp 10 in a contact position C, see Fig. 1. In one embodiment, the inflatable boat 1, in position l .w, is grasped from below by a conveying device 6 of the ramp 10 and pulled onto the sloping ramp 10. The conveying device 6 can comprise a conveyor belt or a chain.The inflatable boat 1 is then pushed further by means of another conveying device 3, which belongs to the stationary support device 2. The inflatable boat 1's own propulsion assists this movement onto the ramp 10 and later onto the support device 2, until the propulsion system is completely lifted out of the water at point F. In the exemplary embodiment, the two conveying devices 3 and 6 form a continuous inclined plane. As soon as the bow of the inflatable boat 1 reaches point F, the propeller(s) or water jet propulsion of the inflatable boat 1 is completely withdrawn from the water, and the inflatable boat 1 is then moved only by the conveying devices 3 and 6. The inflatable boat 1 has reached the parking position 1a in the boat garage when the stern of the inflatable boat 1 has passed a predetermined point, e.g., the plane A - A, or when the bow has reached point B.In one embodiment, a sensor (not shown) automatically detects one of these two events. As soon as one of these two events occurs, both conveyor devices 3 and 6 are stopped.

[0076] In one variation, the ramp 10 does not have its own conveying device 6, but rather a non-powered conveyor belt that forms a continuous inclined plane with the conveying device 3. Due to its own drive, the inflatable boat 1 moves this conveyor belt as soon as it reaches point C. Its own drive pushes the inflatable boat 1 to point F. Preferably, the inflatable boat 1 can only move the conveyor belt in such a way that it is moved towards the mothership 20. The conveyor belt prevents the inflatable boat 1 from sliding back into the water. The powered conveying device 3 of the support structure 2 operates in the same way as described above.

[0077] In a third embodiment, the ramp 10 has neither a conveyor 6 nor a conveyor belt. In this embodiment as well, the upper surfaces of the ramp 10 and the conveyor 3 form a continuous inclined plane. The inflatable boat 1, in position lw, glides directly on the deformable body 5, which forms the upper surface 0.5 of the ramp 10 and is described below, towards the support device 2.

[0078] In one embodiment, a plurality of rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... point upwards on the upper surface of the deformable body 5. The inflatable boat 1 glides over these rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... The rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... reduce the friction between the deformable body 5 and the inflatable boat 1. These rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... can be non-driven rollers or driven rollers.

[0079] It is also possible that neither ramp 10 nor support device 2 has its own

[0080] The conveying device is equipped with a transport device. The inflatable boat 1 glides over the upper surface 0.5 of the ramp 10 and over the upper surface of the support device 2 into position l .a. In this embodiment as well, the upper surfaces form a continuous inclined plane.

[0081] Rollers can be mounted on the upper surface 0.5 of the deformable body 5 and / or the stationary support device 2. The inflatable boat is pushed towards the support device 2 by its own propulsion. In one embodiment, the inflatable boat 1 is additionally pulled onto the support device 2 by a rope (not shown).

[0082] Ramp 10 of the exemplary embodiment has the following components:

[0083] • a rigid frame,

[0084] · a deformable body 5 and

[0085] • in one embodiment the conveyor device 6 or the treadmill which surrounds the

[0086] deformable body 5 is guided around it.

[0087] The surface 0.5 of ramp 10 facing the inflatable boat 1 and the upper surface of the support device 2, e.g., the conveyor device 3, are V-shaped or otherwise contoured when viewed in a direction parallel to the direction of travel FR. They are thus adapted to the underwater profile of the inflatable boat 1.

[0088] The frame of ramp 10 includes

[0089] • a sufficiently thick support plate 4 with a rear part 4.h, a middle part 4.m and a front part 4.v,

[0090] • two preferably flexible connecting elements 9.1, 9.r and

[0091] • Two actuators (not shown) that are articulated to the support plate 4. Each plate part 4.v, 4.m, 4.h extends in a separate plane. The front plate part 4.v, for example, is angled at approximately 100 degrees at an edge perpendicular to the

[0092] The direction of travel (FR) is fixed to the middle sheet metal part 4.m. In the exemplary embodiment, the middle sheet metal part 4.m is fixed to the rear sheet metal part 4.h at an angle of approximately 160 degrees along a parallel edge. Other configurations of the support plate 4 are also possible.

[0093] The support plate 4 can be positioned relative to the support structure T of the mothership 20 and thus to the

[0094] Rotate support device 2 about a horizontal axis of rotation DA, which is perpendicular to the

[0095] The support plate 4 is located in the planes of Figs. 1, 2, and 4, and in the planes of Figs. 3 and 5, and is positioned above the water surface. The support plate 4 can be rotated back and forth by an angle W (Fig. 2) between a receiving position (Fig. 1) and a parking position (Fig. 4). At least one stop element (not shown) limits the rotation of the support plate 4 from the parking position downwards to the receiving position. The support structure T of the mothership 2 limits the upward movement of the ramp 10 in the opposite direction.

[0096] Direction. When ramp 10 is in the receiving position, the middle sheet metal part 4.m and the rear sheet metal part 4.h are completely submerged in the water surface WO, see Fig. I.

[0097] Naturally, the support plate 4 can temporarily and partially emerge from the water due to movements made by the mothership 20 and waves.

[0098] In the parked position, the rear sheet metal section 4.h is flush with the upper stern section Ho, and the middle sheet metal section 4.m is flush with the lower stern section 4.u. The angle between sheet metal sections 4.h and 4.m is adapted to the angle between stern sections 4.o and 4.u, see Fig. 4. When ramp 1 is in the parked position, the deformable body 5 is located inside the mothership 20. Therefore, the mothership 20 with ramp 10 in the parked position has a lower electronic signature.

[0099] The two actuators, which are designed, for example, as two hydraulic or pneumatic piston-cylinder units and are not shown, are connected to the support plate 4 at two lateral attachment points, are supported on the support structure T of the mothership 20 and can rotate the ramp 10 back and forth around the axis of rotation DA between the two positions.

[0100] A flexible right connecting element 9.r and a corresponding flexible left connecting element 9.1 (not shown) are connected at two lateral attachment points to the support plate 4 and to the support structure T of the mothership 20, cf. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4. When the ramp 10 is in the receiving position and therefore fully lowered, the connecting elements 9.1, 9.r are fully tensioned. The upper surface 0.5 of the deformable body 5 is subject to greater wear than the rest of the deformable body 5 because an inflatable boat 1 repeatedly impacts and is deflected onto this upper surface 0.5. The following embodiment avoids the

[0101] The necessity of having to replace the entire deformable body 5 when it wears out. In this embodiment, the upper surface 0.5 of the deformable body 5 facing the inflatable boat 1 is provided with a stable protective layer. The rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... can be embedded in this protective layer or protrude upwards through a recess in the protective layer. This stable protective layer is detachably connected to the rest of the deformable body 5. Preferably, this stable protective layer can be deformed together with the rest of the deformable body 5. In this embodiment, the

[0102] Inflatable boat 1 to be mounted in contact with the stable and preferably deformable

[0103] The protective layer and, in one embodiment, additionally include the rollers, but not any other component of the deformable body. The protective layer wears more than the rest of the deformable body. 5. In case of wear, only the stable protective layer needs to be replaced.

[0104] The deformable body 5 can be formed as a solid body made of a deformable material, e.g. rubber.

[0105] In the exemplary embodiment, the deformable body 5 comprises at least one cavity which can be filled with a gas and is preferably divided into two chambers 13.1, 13.r, cf. Fig. 4. In the following, the term “hollow body 5” is used when referring to the property that the deformable body 5 of the exemplary embodiment comprises a cavity which can be filled with a gas.

[0106] As indicated in Fig. 4, the two chambers 13.1, 13.r of the cavity 5 have two upwardly sloping upper surfaces. Together, these form an obliquely rising surface with a V-shaped cross-section when viewed in the direction of travel FR. In the exemplary embodiment, the rear ends of the two chambers 13.1, 13.r, viewed from above, together have the shape of a swallowtail, which is adapted to the underwater profile of the front segment of the inflatable boat 1 to be accommodated.

[0107] In one embodiment, a conveying unit (not shown), e.g. a hydraulic or pneumatic pump, is able to convey a gas into the cavity 13.1, 13.r and thereby create a

[0108] Overpressure is generated in this cavity 13.1, 13.r. In another embodiment, a fluid connection is established between the cavity 13.1, 13.r and at least one source of gas under overpressure, e.g., a compressed air cylinder, and the cavity 13.1, 13.r is filled in this manner. The casing of the cavity 13.1, 13.r forms the outer surface of the deformable body 5 and is made of a deformable material, e.g., rubber. By filling the cavity 13.1, 13.r with gas, the hollow body 5 expands backward, upward, left, and right, and the volume of the deformable hollow body 5 can be increased up to a maximum volume. The deformable body 5 is then in a fully inflated state 5.a, cf. Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. By releasing the gas again through an opening in the casing, the volume of the deformable hollow body 5 is reduced again.The deformable body 5 is then in an emptied state 5.p, see Fig. 4 and Fig. 5.

[0109] The deformable body 5 is attached to the support plate 4. When the ramp 10 is in the

[0110] In the recording position, the deformable body 5 is located above the support plate 4. In one embodiment, the rear edge HK of the support plate 4 projects rearward beyond the deformable body, e.g., the hollow body 5 in the inflated state 5.a, cf. Fig. 1. In another embodiment, the deformable body 5 projects beyond the rear edge HK.

[0111] In the exemplary embodiment, the hollow body 5 is able to float on the water when inflated 5.a. In one embodiment, the hollow body 5, when inflated 5.a, is even able to support the ramp 10 on the water. The buoyancy that the

[0112] The inflated hollow body 5 produced is, in this case, greater than the weight of the ramp 10.

[0113] In one embodiment, the deformable body 5 is attached to the support plate 4 over its entire length, or at least over the entire length of the middle plate section 4.m and the front plate section 4.v. This ensures that the deformable body 5 remains connected to the support plate 4 over its entire surface even when the ramp 10 is in the receiving position. In another embodiment, the deformable body 5 is attached only to a front area of ​​the middle plate section 4.m and preferably to the front plate section 4.v, or even only to the front plate section 4.v. The rear plate section 5.h is not connected to the deformable body 5. Fig. 2 shows an example of a connection area VB in which the deformable body 5, designed as a hollow body, is attached to the middle plate section 4.m.

[0114] As already mentioned, preferably the hollow body 5 in the inflated state 5.a or the deformable body 5 configured as a solid body is able to float on water. Several configurations of the ramp 10 in the receiving position with the preferably buoyant deformable body 5 are possible:

[0115] • In one embodiment, the deformable body 5 is connected to the support plate 4 only in a front area, e.g., in the connection area VB. If the ramp 10 the

[0116] Once the receiving position has been reached and the frame parts 4.m, 4.h are underwater, the deformable body 5 is lifted off the support plate 4, for example, outside the connection area VB, by its own buoyancy. The deformable body 5 can move up and down relative to the support plate 4, preferably about a horizontal axis parallel to the axis of rotation DA, for example, due to waves or because the boat 1 is moving towards the ramp 10. In one embodiment, the flexible connecting elements 9.1, 9.r dampen the movements of the floating

[0117] Hollow body 5, because the inflated hollow body 5 tensions the flexible connecting elements 9.1, 9.r, or even prevents such movements of the hollow body 5. The support plate 4 can be held in a fixed position below the floating deformable body 5 of the water surface WO and preferably does not perform any movements relative to the mothership 20.

[0118] • In an alternative embodiment, the deformable body 5 supports the entire ramp 10, including the support plate 4, on the water. The deformable body 5 can be connected to the support plate 4 over a substantial portion of its length. The support plate 4 can rotate relative to the mothership 20 about the axis of rotation DA while the ramp 10 floats on the water. This allows the entire ramp 10 to move up and down relative to the mothership 20, for example, due to waves or because the boat 1 is approaching the ramp 10.

[0119] • In a third embodiment, a support device, e.g., two lateral spring elements or two lateral piston-cylinder units, holds the ramp 10 in the receiving position, so that the deformable body 5 remains partially above the water surface WO. The buoyancy of the deformable body 5 and the support device compensate for the weight of the ramp 10. Preferably, the ramp 10 can move up and down relative to the mothership 20. The actuator for the ramp 10 continuously compensates for the movement of the mothership 20 while the ramp 10 is in the receiving position, so that the deformable body 5 always protrudes approximately the same distance from the water.

[0120] As already mentioned, two flexible lateral connecting elements 9.1, 9.r hold the ramp 10 in a desired centered position, in which the upper surface 0.5 of the ramp 10 and the upper surface of the stationary support device 2 form a continuous, ascending inclined plane. The deformable body 5 is located between the connecting elements 9.1 and 9.r. In a preferred embodiment, the inflated hollow body 5 clamps the

[0121] Connecting elements 9.1, 9.r. This design enables particularly good fixation of the lowered ramp 10 in the centered position. When the hollow body 5 is emptied (state 5.p), the connecting elements 9.1, 9.r are slack or partially retracted into the supporting structure and do not impede movement of the ramp 10.

[0122] The ramp 10 is rotatably attached to the support structure T of the mothership 20. When the ramp 10 is in the receiving position, the floor of a receiving chamber AK and the central sheet metal section 4.m preferably form a continuous inclined plane. This floor and a front wall of the receiving chamber AK do not move with the ramp 10 and enclose the receiving chamber AK. When the ramp 10 is raised into the parked position, the emptied and limp hollow body 5 slides into this receiving chamber AK. The central sheet metal section 4.m forms the rear wall of the receiving chamber AK when the ramp 10 is in the

[0123] The unit is in its parked position. The deflector plate 7 is attached to the bottom of the receiving chamber AK and projects into the receiving chamber AK. The receiving chamber AK is smaller than the hollow body 5 in its inflated state 5.a.

[0124] Figures 4 and 5 show the ramp 10 in the raised parking position and the hollow body 5 in the emptied position 5.p. The now limp hollow body 5 is located in the

[0125] Receiving chamber AK and above the deflector plate 7. This deflector plate 7 prevents the now slack hollow body 5 from sliding downwards and, for example, getting between the support plate 4 and the support structure T. The connecting elements 9.1, 9.r are slack or in the

[0126] Supporting structure T partially retracted. In the exemplary embodiment, the inflatable boat 1 is moved from position lw onto the

[0127] Carrying device 2 moved:

[0128] • The ramp 10 is moved from the parked position (Fig. 4) to the receiving position (Fig. 1), for example, by extending two hydraulic piston-cylinder units which are supported by the support structure T of the mothership 20 and connected to the support plate 4. The support plate 4 is thereby rotated about the axis of rotation DA until the piston-cylinder units are fully extended or until the stop element(s) stops further rotation of the support plate 4. The deformable body 5 is then attached to the

[0129] The support plate 4 is rotated about the axis of rotation DA. In one embodiment, the hollow body 5 is inflated in a temporally overlapping manner with the lowering of the ramp 10, thereby transitioning from the deflated state 5.p (Fig. 4) to the inflated state 5.a (Fig. 1).

[0130] At the latest when the ramp 10 reaches the receiving position, the deformable body 5 floats on the water. In one embodiment, the inflated hollow body 5 or buoyant hollow body 5 detaches from the support plate 4, which is located underwater, due to its buoyancy in the areas where it is not connected to the support plate 4. The actuator holds the support plate 4 in a fixed position relative to the mothership 20, with the plate sections 4.m and 4.h remaining underwater. In another embodiment, the entire ramp 10 floats on the water due to its own buoyancy. In a third embodiment, the support device holds the ramp 10 in a position in which the deformable body 5 protrudes from the water. In the latter two embodiments, the entire ramp 10 moves up and down relative to the mothership 20 when water waves move the mothership 20 or the ramp 10.

[0131] The inflated hollow body 5 is located between the connecting elements 9.1 and 9.r. The connecting elements 9.1, 9.r are taut or tensioned and hold the ramp 10 and, in particular, the deformable body 5 in the centered position.

[0132] The inflatable boat in position l .w approaches ramp 10 from behind and touches ramp 10 at contact point C. In one embodiment, contact point C coincides with the rear edge HK of the support plate 4, see Fig. I. In another embodiment, contact point C is formed by the rear end of the inflated hollow body 5 floating on the water.

[0133] The self-propelled drive pushes the inflatable boat 1 onto the ramp 10. Depending on the design of the inflatable boat 1 and the ramp 10, the inflatable boat 1 either first contacts the rear sheet metal part 4.h or the rear end of the deformable body 5. As already mentioned and shown in Fig. 3, the rear end of the inflated hollow body 5 preferably has the shape of a dovetail and is adapted to the underwater profile of the inflatable boat 1.

[0134] In both cases, the inflatable boat 1 pushes the deformable body 5 downwards and underwater as the inflatable boat 1 moves towards the mothership 20. The feature that the body 5, preferably designed as an inflated hollow body 5, is deformable prevents damage to the inflatable boat 1. Conversely, the sloping surface 0.5 of the ramp 10 lifts the inflatable boat 1 out of the water. The V-shaped or otherwise upturned design of the upper surface 0.5, i.e., the conveying device 6 or the conveyor belt or the deformable body 5, helps to gently lift the inflatable boat 1 out of the water onto the ramp 10.

[0135] • The conveying device 3 of the carrying device 2 pulls the inflatable boat 1 further out of the

[0136] Water until the inflatable boat reaches parking position l .p on the support device 2, see Fig. 4. The drive of the conveyor device 3 is now stopped. Or the

[0137] Inflatable boat 1 is connected to one side with a rope, and the rope is pulled along with inflatable boat 1 by a winch.

[0138] • The actuator rotates the support plate 4 upwards around axis DA back into the park position (see Fig. 4 and Fig. 5), for example by retracting the piston-cylinder units. The sheet metal parts 4.m and 4.h now sit flush with the outer hull of the mothership 20. Simultaneously with this rotation, the gas is released from the hollow body 5. When the support plate 4 has reached the park position, the front sheet metal part 4.v rests on the floor of the receiving chamber AK, and the hollow body 5 is in its relaxed state, i.e., in state 5.p. The now relaxed hollow body 5 falls into the receiving chamber AK and onto the deflector plate 7.

[0139] In the same manner, the inflatable boat 1 can be moved from position l .a on the support device 2 to position l .w on the water. Due to its own weight, the inflatable boat 1 glides down the inclined plane into the water.

[0140] Reference sign

[0141] 1 inflatable boat to be included, acts as the watercraft to be included

[0142] The position of the captured inflatable boat 1 when it is on the stationary

[0143] Support device 2 rests

[0144] l .w Position of the inflatable boat to be picked up 1, when it is floating on the water

[0145] 2 stationary and inclined support devices, supporting the received

[0146] Inflatable boat La, in one embodiment includes the conveying device 3

[0147] 3. Optional conveying device of the stationary support device 2, pulls the inflatable boat to be picked up l .w out of the water.

[0148] 4 The support plate, on which the hollow body 5 is mounted, is located in the axis of rotation DA at the

[0149] The supporting structure T is attached, comprises the sheet metal parts 4.h, 4.m and 4.v, belongs to the frame of ramp 10, and functions as a planar supporting element.

[0150] 4.h rear part of the support plate 4, has the rear edge HK

[0151] 4.m middle part of the support plate 4

[0152] 4.v front part of the support plate 4

[0153] 5 deformable body, preferably designed as an inflatable hollow body, which is divided into chambers 13.1 and 13.r

[0154] 5.a inflated state of the hollow body 5, in which the hollow body 5 rests on the

[0155] Water can swim

[0156] 5.p emptied state of the hollow body 5, in which the now limp hollow body

[0157] 5 can be admitted to the admissions chamber AK

[0158] 6 optional conveying device of the ramp 10

[0159] 7 Deflector plate in the receiving chamber AK, prevents the emptied

[0160] Hollow body 5 in state 5.p slides under the support plate 4

[0161] 9.1 Flexible left connecting element in the form of a rope

[0162] 9.r flexible right connecting element in the form of a rope

[0163] 10 Ramp, comprising the support plate 4 and the connecting elements 9.1, 9.r as well as the deformable body 5

[0164] lO.p Ramp 10 in the parking position, in which the support plate 4 is flush with the outer hull of the mothership 20

[0165] lO.w Ramp 10 in the receiving position, in which the deformable body 5 protrudes from the water, preferably floats on the water

[0166] 13.1, 13.r left and right chamber of the hollow body 5

[0167] 15.1, Rollers, embedded in the upper surface 0.5 of the deformable body 5 15.2

[0168] 20 Mothership, receives the inflatable boat l .w on the support device 2, includes the receiving device, the support structure T, the stern Hu, Ho and the side walls Slo, Slu, Sro, Sru

[0169] 30.1, Containers on board the mothership 20

[0170] 30.2,

[0171] 30.3

[0172] AK receiving chamber for the emptied hollow body 5 (in state 5.p)

[0173] C Point of initial contact where the inflatable boat l .w first touches ramp 10

[0174] DA horizontal axis of rotation around which the ramp rotates relative to the supporting structure T of the

[0175] Mothership 20 and can be rotated relative to the support device 2

[0176] F Place where the propulsion of the inflatable boat 1 is pulled out of the water and can no longer propel the inflatable boat 1

[0177] FR matching direction of travel of the inflatable boat 1 and the mothership 20

[0178] HK rear edge of the support plate 4, forms an edge of the rear part 4.h

[0179] H .o upper part of the stern of mothership 20, closes flush with the rear

[0180] Sheet metal part 4.h off when ramp 10 is in the parking position

[0181] H .u lower part of the stern of mothership 20, closes flush with the middle

[0182] Sheet metal part 4m off when ramp 10 is in the parking position

[0183] 0.5 upper surface of the deformable body 5, comes into contact with the

[0184] Inflatable boat 1 is equipped in a configuration with the rollers 15.1, 15.2, ...

[0185] Slo upper part of the left side wall of the mothership 20

[0186] Slu lower part of the left side wall of the mothership 20

[0187] upper part of the right side wall of the mothership 20

[0188] Sru lower part of the right side wall of the mothership 20

[0189] M. l, M.2 Crew member of vessel 1

[0190] The supporting structure of the mothership 20 carries the ramp 10 and the support device 2

[0191] Tg Draft of the inflatable boat 1 in the lw position on the water VB Connection area in which the deformable body 5 is connected to the middle sheet part 4.m of the support plate 4

[0192] W angle between the recording position and the parking position of the ramp 10

[0193] WH Water surface

Claims

Patent claims 1. Receiving device for receiving at least one watercraft (1), whereby the receiving device a stationary support device (2) and • a ramp (10) movable relative to the stationary support device (2) includes, wherein the carrying device (2) is designed to carry a watercraft (1) to be accommodated and wherein the ramp (10) is movable into at least one receiving position in which the ramp (10) is at least partially below the water surface (WO) and a watercraft (1) to be picked up can drive onto the ramp (10), and wherein the receiving device is designed to lift a watercraft (1) out of the water and guide it onto the support device (2), characterized in that the ramp (10) • a frame (4, 9.r) and • a deformable body (5) has, wherein the deformable body (5) is attached to the frame (4, 9.r) in such a way, that the deformable body (5) points towards a watercraft (1) in the water when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, and whereby the receiving device is designed to keep the deformable body (5) at least partially above the water surface (WO), when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position.

2. Receiving device according to claim 1, characterized in that the deformable body (5) has at least one cavity (13.1, 13.r) includes, wherein the cavity (13.1, 13.r) is surrounded by a casing made of a deformable material.

3. Receiving device according to claim 2, characterized in that the receiving device comprises a conveyor device, which is designed to convey gas under pressure into the cavity (13.1, 13.r).

4. Receiving device according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterized in that the cavity (13.1, 13. r) can be enlarged by filling with gas up to a maximum volume and the deformable body (5) at least when the cavity (13.1, 13. r) has reached the maximum volume, floats on water.

5. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable body (5) comprises a deformable solid body, which is made of a material that has a lower specific gravity than water.

6. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device comprises a support device, which is designed to to support the ramp (10) located in the or a receiving position in such a way that the deformable body (5) is at least partially above the water surface (WO).

7. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable body (5) is connected to the frame (4, 9.r) in a connecting area (VB), wherein the extension of the connecting area (VB) in the direction of travel (FR) of a watercraft (1) to be accommodated is less than the extension of the frame (4, 9.r) in the direction of travel (FR), and the deformable body (5) is always or in at least one state (5.a) buoyant on the water, wherein when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, • the deformable body (5) floats on the water, • the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) is at least temporarily completely under the Water surface (WO) and • outside the connection area (VB) a vertical distance between the floating deformable body (5) and the frame (4, 9.r).

8. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ramp (10) is movably connected to the stationary support device (2) in such a way that that a watercraft (1) on the ramp (10) located in the or a receiving position the ramp (10) is able to be pushed downwards relative to the support device (2).

9. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable body (5) both parallel and transverse to the direction of travel (FR) of the vessel onto the ramp (10) each takes up at least half of the ramp (10) located in the or a receiving position.

10. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) has a supporting element (4), wherein the deformable body (5) is attached to the support element (4) and wherein the support element (4) has a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of a watercraft (1) onto the ramp (10), which is at least as large as the dimension of the stationary support device (2) in this direction is.

11. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ramp (10) is designed so that • a surface (0.5) of the deformable body (5) points towards a watercraft (1) to be picked up and located in the water and · comes into contact with the watercraft (1) at least temporarily when the ramp (10) is in or a receiving position, wherein at least one roller (15.1, 15.2) is mounted on said surface (0.5).

12. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable body (5) has a coating element which • is detachably connected to the rest of the deformable body (5) and • when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, to a shows the watercraft (1) that is in the water and is to be picked up.

13. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ramp (10) is movable from the or a receiving position into at least one parking position, wherein when the ramp (10) is in the or a parking position, the deformable body (5) • between the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) and • the stationary support device (2) is located.

14. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ramp (10) is movable from the or a receiving position into at least one parking position and the receiving device has a receiving chamber (AK), which is designed to, when the ramp (10) is in the or a parking position, to accommodate the deformable body (5).

15. Receiving device according to claim 14, characterized in that the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) comprises at least one flat component (4) which extends in one plane, wherein when the ramp (10) is in the or a parking position, the plane of the flat component (4) forms an angle of no more than twenty degrees with the vertical.

16. Receiving device according to claim 14 or claim 15, characterized in that the receiving device comprises a deflector element (7), which, when the ramp (10) is in the or a parking position, is located below the deformable body (5).

17. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable body (5) is permanently in a state or can be brought into a state (5.a), in which the buoyancy of the deformable body (5) causes that the ramp (10) in the or a receiving position floats on the water.

18. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device comprises at least one conveyor unit (3, 6), which is designed to pull a watercraft (1) located on the ramp (10) out of the water.

19. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dimension of the deformable body (5) can be increased up to a maximum dimension in at least one direction perpendicular to the direction of travel (FR) of a watercraft (1) driving onto the ramp (10), in which the deformable body (5) occupies at least half the width of the ramp frame (4, 9.r).

20. Receiving device according to claim 19, characterized in that the recording device • a supporting structure (T) and • at least one flexible connecting element (9.r) includes, wherein the or each flexible connecting element (9.r) • with the supporting structure (T) and • with the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) is connected and wherein the deformable body (5) is designed and arranged in such a way that at least when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, the deformable body (5) enlarged to the maximum dimension tightens and / or tensions the flexible connecting element (9.r).

21. A vessel having a receiving device according to any one of the preceding claims.

22. Ship according to claim 21, characterized in that the ship has an outer hull (Slu, Slo, Sru, Sro, Hu, Ho) and the ramp (10) is movable from the receiving position into a parking position, wherein when the ramp (10) is in the parking position, the frame (4,7) of the ramp (10) is flush with the outer shell (Slu, Slo, Sru, Sro, Hu, Ho).

23. Method for picking up at least one watercraft (1) using a recording device with • a stationary support device (2) and • a ramp (10) movable relative to the stationary support device (2), the method comprising the steps of • the ramp (10) is moved relative to the support device (2) into a receiving position in which the ramp (10) is at least partially below the water surface (WO), • the watercraft (1) drives onto the ramp (10) in the receiving position and • the watercraft (1) is lifted out of the water and guided onto the support device (2), characterized in that the ramp (10) • a frame (4, 9.r) and • a deformable body (5) attached to the frame (4, 9.r) has, wherein the step of moving the ramp (10) into the or a receiving position causes the deformable body (5) to point towards the watercraft (1) in the water, wherein, when the ramp (10) is moved into the receiving position, the deformable body (5) is held at least partially above the water surface (WO), and wherein the step of the watercraft (1) driving onto the ramp (10), triggers the process whereby the watercraft (1) deforms the deformable body (5) from above.

24. Method according to claim 23, characterized in that the deformable body (5) comprises at least one cavity (13.1, 13.r) that can be filled with a gas, wherein the method comprises the additional steps of conveying gas into the cavity (13.1, 13.r), and wherein the step of conveying the gas into the cavity (13.1, 13.r) is completed at the latest when the watercraft (1) reaches the ramp (10).

25. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that the step of moving the ramp (10) into the or a receiving position, and the step of conveying gas into the cavity (13.1, 13.r), be carried out at overlapping times.

26. Method according to one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that the step of moving the ramp (10) into the or a receiving position, additionally causes the deformable body (5) to float on the water, and the step causes the watercraft (1) to drive onto the ramp (10), is carried out while the deformable body (5) floats on the water.

27. Method according to one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that the step of moving the ramp (10) into the or a receiving position additionally causes • the frame (4, 9.r) is held in a fixed position relative to the supporting structure (2) under water and • at least a part of the deformable body (5) moves upwards relative to the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) held under water.

28. Use of a method according to any one of claims 23 to 27 for accommodating a watercraft (1) on board another watercraft (20).