Pick-up device and pick-up 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] 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.

[0002] A ship often carries at least one boat while traveling on the water. 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. The boat 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.

[0003] US 2016 / 0375965A1 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), a transfer cradle (16), and a forward cradle (17). The aft cradle (15) can be moved into a water mission zone (WMZ area 22), where it is partially submerged. The forward cradle (17) is located in a storage area (24).

[0004] US 2008 / 0202405 A1 describes a mothership (vessel or host ship 5) which is capable of either taking an inflatable boat 20 or an underwater vehicle 25 out of the water and moving it on board, cf. Figure 1A launch / recovery device 10 on board the mothership can be selectively pivoted to either position A, in which the launch / recovery device 10 is partially submerged, or to position B, in which the launch / recovery device 10 is completely submerged. In position A, the launch / recovery device 10 can pick up an inflatable boat 20. In position B, the launch / recovery device 10 can pick up a submersible vehicle. A watercraft 20, 25 to be picked up drives onto the launch / recovery device 10. The launch / recovery device 10 pulls the watercraft 20, 25 out of the water and places it on a stationary ramp on board the mothership 5. In one embodiment, the launch / recovery device 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 moves onto a V-shaped element 55 with a surface 90. This surface 90 causes 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 Figure 6 shows 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.

[0005] From WO 2008 / 098393 A1 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 below platform 1. In the embodiment according to Fig. 5A tender receptacle 23 is mounted on the platform 1, capable of supporting a tender boat 27. The tender receptacle 23 can be moved horizontally relative to the platform 1 towards the watercraft 10 by means of a pair of rollers 25. Fig. 6 shows an embodiment with several modular buoyancy bodies 2a, which are adapted to a propulsion system of the watercraft 10 that extends into the water.

[0006] Figure 1German patent application DE 102011109092 A1 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. Two floats 36, 38 are mounted near its free rear end 34 (see figure). Figure 1 and Figure 4 The rear float 38 is mounted on a receiving device 40 for the underwater vehicle 2, cf. Figure 4The underwater vehicle 2 travels between two spread guide rails 130, 132 towards the recovery ramp 12, see Figure 7, and is held between the pushed-together guide rails 130 and 132, see Figure 8.

[0007] WO 2016 / 088033 A1 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.

[0008] From German patent application TW 201 204 599 A, a receiving device for a yacht at the stern of a ship is known, which is intended to form a yacht trough with an opening at the aft end at the stern of a mothership. The sliding rail device, extending in a straight line, is formed in the center of the bottom surface of the yacht trough and is combined with a yacht carrier that can move forwards and backwards along the sliding rail device. A spring assembly is also used to push the rearward-extending and pivoting swing arm. A transverse roller is combined at the free end of the swing arm.On the middle and rear sides of the inner wall surface on the left and right sides of the yacht trough, a yacht clamping device with the press cylinder for driving and clamping the roller is combined with the stern door at the rear end of the mothership; in this way, when the stern door is opened, the present invention can use the transverse roller of the yacht carrier to hook the yacht in order to pull it into the yacht trough, and use the clamping roller of each yacht clamping device to press against the two sides of the yacht for positioning, in order to achieve the effectiveness of stability in positioning the yacht and accuracy in receiving.

[0009] US Patent 8,821,066 B1 describes a universal launching and retrieval system for watercraft.

[0010] 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.

[0011] CN 2 511 600 Y discloses a release / recovery sleeve for a skimming boat, comprising a slipway arranged on a movable or fixed body and not parallel to the horizontal plane, wherein the shape of the lower central support of the slipway is similar to that of a boat; a guide roller set, a cushion roller set, and bogie wheelsets used for releasing and recovering boats are arranged along the slipway; a specially shaped guide roller set is arranged along the centerline of the slipway, wherein the lengths and heights of the guide rollers gradually decrease; the righting bogie wheelsets, arranged on both sides of the slipway, are positioned on the line corresponding to the boat.The utility model ensures that when releasing and restoring miniature planing boats or semi-planing boats with outriggers such as chine lines, the outriggers, such as chine lines, spray guards, steps, etc., and a propeller protruding from the hull lines of the boat body are free from all damage, including collisions, scratches, and scrapes; the slipway is located on a mothership and allows for smooth and safe launching and navigation at night without lighting.

[0012] CN 205 044 917 U belongs to the boat and ship auxiliary assembly area and relates to winding and unwinding devices, specifically a stern slide with winding and unwinding devices. The recess, which slopes downwards in the hull's stern section, includes a terminal pivot joint for the stern door. A pulling device is provided on the side wall of both sides of the recess. This pulls the slide assembly, which is sorted by line type, to be provided in the recess. The slide assembly is aligned with the stern door slide and pulls on the stern door.The utility model discloses a hull stern section that incorporates a recess and is equipped with a cutout corresponding to the stern door, thus enabling it to be inserted into the passage of a hull. Simultaneously, the traction gear, which is mounted on the recess for insertion into the boat, provides power. Its simple structure and good reliability allow it to operate in the open sea or on a mothership, performing its work without posing a potential safety hazard.

[0013] US patent 9 708 035 B1 discloses an inflatable ramp with variable length and a corresponding retrieval system.

[0014] 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 9 for receiving at least one watercraft, whereby the risk of a large quantity of water entering the receiving device when the ramp is in the receiving position and the watercraft enters the ramp is reduced. This object is achieved by a receiving device with the features specified in claim 1 and a receiving method with the features specified in claim 9. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims, the following description, and the drawings.

[0015] The solution-oriented receiving device is capable of accommodating at least one watercraft floating on the water. It comprises a stationary support device and a movable ramp.

[0016] The ramp It can be moved relative to the stationary support device into at least one recording position and comprises a frame and a deformable body.

[0017] The deformable body is attached to the ramp frame. If the ramp is in the receiving position, the deformable body points towards the watercraft in the water. The deformable body is held at least partially above the water's surface. A watercraft to be received drives onto the ramp and deforms the deformable body from above. The watercraft on the ramp is then pulled out of the water and guided onto the stationary support device.

[0018] 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 deform more than the ramp frame. The deformable body faces the vessel to be picked up when the ramp is in the loading or loading position and the vessel is floating on the water. While the ramp is in the loading or loading position, the deformable body protrudes at least partially from the water. The vessel floats towards the ramp and strikes the deformable body or strikes the free end of the frame at an acute angle and is deflected by the frame and guided against the deformable body.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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 vessel 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 vessel's draft. Nevertheless, the vessel can drive, be pulled, or pushed onto the ramp, thereby deforming the body and pushing the deformable body downwards sufficiently to allow the vessel to drive onto the ramp, ensuring that the ramp is at least partially submerged beneath the vessel.Conversely, the vessel is lifted, thus reducing its draft, as it drives onto the ramp. Particularly due to this feature, less water enters the receiving device when the vessel drives onto the ramp, compared to conventional receiving devices. This is especially advantageous when the receiving device belongs to another vessel 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.

[0021] 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 and does not need to be stopped for the pickup.

[0022] Furthermore, the deformable design of the ramp 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 the kinetic energy of the approaching vessel and slows its movement without causing damage. Because the vessel can approach the ramp faster compared to a rigid ramp, time is saved.

[0023] A vessel approaching the ramp on the water and then driving 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 picking device to successively pick up vessels with different underwater profiles. It is not necessary to know or scan the underwater profile of the vessel being picked up precisely. Furthermore, no actuator is required to adjust the picking device to the vessel being picked up. The feature of the ramp having a deformable body thus increases the interoperability of the picking device.

[0024] The deformable body is mounted on the ramp's frame. This frame can be made of a rigid material and designed to withstand environmental influences. It is arranged and positioned so that the deformable body is always, or at least temporarily, located between the frame and a floating vessel to be picked up 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 over a small area, reducing the risk of damage. Thanks to the frame, the ramp can be moved into and out of the receiving position more easily, even against gravity. It is not necessary to attach an actuator or connecting element to the deformable body itself.

[0025] 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 vessel being loaded onto the ramp. This design reduces the risk of the vessel being damaged by the ramp.

[0026] According to the solution, the deformable body faces a watercraft to be picked up when the ramp is in the picking 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.

[0027] Various configurations are possible to reduce friction between the bottom of 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 glides 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 glides 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 a high frictional force with the watercraft.

[0028] The deformable body need not be designed as a solid body according to the invention. The specific gravity of the deformable solid body is preferably less than that of water, so that the solid body can float on water. The buoyancy generated by the solid body is greater than the weight of the ramp. The solid body can be made of polystyrene or another sufficiently lightweight plastic.

[0029] According to the invention, 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 convey the gas into the cavity when a watercraft needs to be accommodated.

[0030] 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.

[0031] It is also possible for the deformable body to comprise a deformable solid body and a hollow body, with the solid body preferably being able to float on water. This design allows the deformable body to float on water even if the hollow body cannot be inflated at all or only partially, e.g., due to a leak. It is also possible for one hollow body to be filled and emptied with gas, and for another hollow body to be permanently filled with gas.

[0032] 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 to be picked up collides with the floating deformable body. This embodiment facilitates the desired process of the vessel pushing the deformable body downwards below the water's surface.

[0033] 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 brought into this buoyant state, for example by filling a cavity with gas.

[0034] 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.

[0035] In another embodiment, the deformable body can move up and down relative to the ramp frame when the ramp is in a receiving position and the deformable body is floating on the water. This embodiment makes it possible to move and hold the ramp's support frame 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 embodiment simplifies the design 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 being received.

[0036] The design with the buoyant body and the embodiment with the buoyant ramp further reduce 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] Preferably, the deformable body is transformed from another state into a floating state. In this other state, the deformable body preferably occupies less space. This transformation is preferably carried out in a time-overlapping manner with the step of moving the ramp from a parking position to a receiving position. This time-overlapping approach saves time. Similarly, the process of transforming the deformable body from the floating state to the other state is carried out in a time-overlapping manner with the process of moving the ramp from the receiving position to the parking position.

[0040] A vessel to be loaded onto the ramp can drive onto it in one direction of travel or be moved onto it when the ramp is in the loading position. When the ramp is in the loading 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 vessel. 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 the loading position. Preferably, the deformable body is wider than the vessel(s) to be loaded.The design, 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 maintains a vertical distance from the ramp frame. The deformable body dampens vibrations emanating from the frame. Conversely, the deformable body dampens vibrations exerted by the watercraft, for example, due to water waves. This damping reduces wear and tear on the watercraft being launched. Thanks to the deformable body, the watercraft on the ramp cannot tip over.

[0041] Preferably, the deformable body is mounted on a support element that forms 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 a watercraft 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 watercraft being accommodated. Preferably, the support element is also wider than the deformable body.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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. The 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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 movement is preferably 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.

[0046] According to the invention, the deformable body is moved into a receiving chamber when the ramp is moved into the parking position. Preferably, the deformable body is moved into the receiving chamber solely due to the movement of the ramp into the parking position, e.g., by gravity. An additional actuator for this movement is then not required.

[0047] 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 or in a parked position. This prevents part of the deformable body from sliding downwards in an undesirable manner and, for example, obstructing the movement of the ramp into the parked position. The deflector element may be located within the receiving chamber.

[0048] Preferably, the ramp – or even just the buoyant, deformable body – is fixed in the receiving position by at least one flexible connecting element, e.g., by two parallel ropes, to prevent lateral displacement, i.e., to prevent unwanted movement in a direction perpendicular to or oblique to the direction of travel of a watercraft onto the ramp. The flexible connecting element, or at least one of them, is at least temporarily taut or stretched when the ramp is in the receiving position.

[0049] 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 dimensions 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] In one embodiment, the ramp is movably connected to the stationary support device in such a way that a watercraft on the ramp, when in a receiving position, is able to push the ramp downwards relative to the support device.

[0053] In one embodiment, the deformable body occupies at least half of the ramp in the receiving position, both parallel and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the watercraft.

[0054] In one embodiment, the frame of the ramp has a support element, wherein the deformable body is attached to the support element and the support element has a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of a watercraft onto the ramp, which is at least as large as the dimension of the stationary support device in this direction.

[0055] In one design, the ramp is designed such that a surface of the deformable body faces a watercraft to be recorded and located in the water, and comes into contact with the watercraft at least temporarily when the ramp is in the recording position, where at least one roller is mounted on this surface.

[0056] In one embodiment, the frame of the ramp comprises at least one planar component which extends in a plane, wherein, when the ramp is in the or a parked position, the plane of the planar component forms an angle of no more than twenty degrees with the vertical.

[0057] In one embodiment, the receiving device includes a deflector element which, when the ramp is in the or a parked position, is located below the deformable body.

[0058] In one embodiment, the receiving device comprises at least one conveying unit designed to pull a watercraft located on the ramp out of the water.

[0059] In one embodiment, the dimension of the deformable body can be increased in at least one direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of a watercraft driving onto the ramp, up to a maximum dimension in which the deformable body occupies at least half the width of the ramp frame.

[0060] In one embodiment, the receiving device comprises a support structure and at least one flexible connecting element, wherein the flexible connecting element(s) is connected to the support structure and to the frame of the ramp. The deformable body is designed and arranged such that, at least when the ramp is in the receiving position, the deformable body, enlarged to its maximum dimension, tightens and / or tensions the flexible connecting element.

[0061] In another aspect, the invention relates to a ship with a receiving device according to the invention.

[0062] In one embodiment, the ship has an outer shell. The ramp is movable from the loading position to a parked position, whereby when the ramp is in the parked position, the frame of the ramp is flush with the outer shell.

[0063] In another aspect, the invention relates to the use of the inventive method for picking up a watercraft on board another watercraft.

[0064] The inventive device is explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawings. Fig. 1 in one embodiment in a side view 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; Fig. 2 in an enlarged view, area II of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 in a top view part of the arrangement of Fig. 1 ; Fig. 4 the rear area of Fig. 1 with the recording device in the parked position and the inflatable boat on the carrying device; Fig. 5 in a rear view of the rear area of Fig. 4 .

[0065] In this exemplary 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 or boats are accommodated, for example, inside or on the deck of the mothership. In this exemplary embodiment, the boat or boats 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.

[0066] Fig. 1 and Fig. 4Figure 20 shows a side view from the right of the stern section of a receiving vessel 20, also called a mothership, which has a supporting structure T. The lower part Hu and the upper part Ho of the stern of mothership 20 are shown. Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows the same inflatable boat 1, once floating on the water's surface (position 1.w) and once picked up by mothership 20 (position 1.a). The inflatable boat 1 picked up in position 1.a rests on a stationary support structure 2, which belongs to a boat garage of mothership 20 and whose upper surface, viewed in the direction of travel of mothership 20, slopes upwards, cf. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 .

[0067] 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 mounting device as described in the solution. The inflatable boat 1 to be mounted can also be designed without its own propulsion system.

[0068] A crew member M.1 of inflatable boat 1 or mothership 20 can leave the boat garage through a door (not shown) and later re-enter the boat garage in the same way. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 Two containers 30.1 and 30.2 are also shown on board the mothership 20, which do not belong to the receiving device of the exemplary embodiment.

[0069] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of area II of Fig. 1 , i.e. the front part of ramp 10 and the rear part of the support device 2. Fig. 3shows a top view of part of the arrangement of Fig. 1 .

[0070] 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. Figs. 1 to 4 The direction of travel is FR, from right to left, and in Fig. 5 It points away from the viewer.

[0071] The inflatable boat 1 to be picked up, in position 1.w, approaches the mothership 20 from behind and reaches a ramp 10, which 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, namely between at least one pickup position ( Figs. 1 to 3 ) and a parking position ( Fig. 4 and Fig. 5The 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 1.w has a draft Tg and reaches the ramp 10 in a contact position C, cf. Fig. 1 .

[0072] In one embodiment, the inflatable boat 1, in position 1.w, is grasped from below by a conveying device 6 of the ramp 10 and pulled onto the inclined 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 this 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 is in park position 1.The boat reaches position a in the boat garage when the stern of the inflatable boat 1 has passed a predetermined point, e.g., level 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] In a third embodiment, the ramp 10 has neither a conveying device 6 nor a conveyor belt. In this embodiment as well, the upper surfaces of the ramp 10 and the conveying device 3 form a continuous inclined plane. The inflatable boat 1 in position 1.w glides directly on the deformable body 5, which forms the upper surface O.5 of the ramp 10 and is described below, towards the support device 2.

[0075] 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.

[0076] It is also possible that neither the ramp 10 nor the support device 2 has its own conveying mechanism. The inflatable boat 1 glides over the upper surface O.5 of the ramp 10 and over the upper surface of the support device 2 into position 1.a. In this embodiment as well, the upper surfaces form a continuous inclined plane. Rollers can be mounted on the upper surface O.5 of the deformable body 5 and / or the stationary support device 2. The inflatable boat is pushed to the support device 2 by its own drive. In one embodiment, the inflatable boat 1 is additionally pulled onto the support device 2 by a rope (not shown).

[0077] Ramp 10 of the exemplary embodiment has the following components: a rigid frame, a deformable body 5 and in one embodiment the conveying device 6 or the treadmill which is guided around the deformable body 5.

[0078] The surface O.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.

[0079] The frame of ramp 10 includes a sufficiently thick support plate 4 with a rear part 4.h, a middle part 4.m and a front part 4.v, two preferably flexible connecting elements 9.l, 9.r and two actuators (not shown) which are articulated to the support plate 4.

[0080] Each sheet metal part 4.v, 4.m, 4.h extends in a single plane. For example, the front sheet metal part 4.v is rigidly connected to the middle sheet metal part 4.m at an angle of approximately 100 degrees along an edge perpendicular to the direction of travel FR. In the exemplary embodiment, the middle sheet metal part 4.m is rigidly connected 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.

[0081] The support plate 4 can be rotated relative to the support structure T of the mothership 20 and thus to the support device 2 about a horizontal axis of rotation DA, which is perpendicular to the drawing planes of Fig. 1 , Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 stands and in the drawing layers of Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 lies and is positioned above the water surface. The support plate 4 can be tilted by an angle W ( Fig. 2 ) between a recording position ( Fig. 1) and a parking position ( Fig. 4 ) rotate back and forth. At least one stop element (not shown) limits the rotation of the support plate 4 from the parked position downwards into the receiving position. The support structure T of the mothership 2 limits the upward movement of the ramp 10 in the opposite direction. When the ramp 10 is in the receiving position, the middle plate section 4.m and the rear plate section 4.h are completely submerged WO, cf. Fig. 1 . Of course, the support plate 4 can temporarily and partially emerge from the water due to movements made by the mothership 20 and waves.

[0082] In the parked position, the rear sheet metal part 4.h is flush with the upper rear part Ho, and the middle sheet metal part 4.m is flush with the lower rear part 4.u. The angle between sheet metal parts 4.h and 4.m is adapted to the angle between rear parts 4.o and 4.u, see figure. Fig. 4When ramp 1 is in the parked position, the deformable body 5 is located inside the mothership 20. As a result, the mothership 20 with ramp 10 in the parked position has a lower electronic signature.

[0083] 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.

[0084] A flexible right connecting element 9.r and a corresponding flexible left connecting element 9.l (not shown) are connected at two lateral fastening points to the support plate 4 and to the support structure T of the mothership 20, cf. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4. When ramp 10 is in the receiving position and therefore fully lowered, the connecting elements 9.l, 9.r are fully tensioned.

[0085] The upper surface O.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 this upper surface O.5 and is deflected. The following embodiment avoids the need to replace the entire deformable body 5 when it wears out. In this embodiment, the upper surface O.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 inflatable boat 1 to be carried comes into contact with the stable and preferably deformable protective pad and, in one embodiment, additionally with the rollers, but not with any other component of the deformable body. The protective pad wears more than the rest of the deformable body 5. In case of wear, only the stable protective pad needs to be replaced.

[0086] The deformable body 5 can be formed as a solid body made of a deformable material, e.g. rubber.

[0087] 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.l, 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 embodiment comprises a cavity that can be filled with a gas.

[0088] As in Fig. 4 As indicated, the two chambers 13.l, 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.l, 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.

[0089] 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.l, 13.r and thereby generate an overpressure in this cavity 13.l, 13.r. In another embodiment, a fluid connection is established between the cavity 13.l, 13.r and at least one source of gas under overpressure, e.g., a compressed air cylinder, and the cavity 13.l, 13.r is filled in this way.

[0090] The casing of the cavity 13.l, 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.l, 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. 3By releasing the gas 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, cf. Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 .

[0091] The deformable body 5 is attached to the support plate 4. When the ramp 10 is in the receiving 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 trailing edge HK.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment, the hollow body 5, when inflated 5.a, is able to float on the water. In one embodiment, the hollow body 5, when inflated 5.a, is even able to support the ramp 10 on the water. The buoyancy generated by the inflated hollow body 5 is, in this case, greater than the weight of the ramp 10.

[0093] 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 portion 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 Figure 1 shows an example of a connection area VB in which the deformable body 5, designed as a hollow body, is attached to the middle sheet metal part 4.m.

[0094] As already mentioned, preferably the hollow body 5 in the inflated state 5.a or the deformable body 5 designed as a solid body is able to float on the water. Several configurations of the ramp 10 in the receiving position with the preferably buoyant deformable body 5 are possible: 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. When the ramp 10 has reached the receiving position and the frame parts 4.m, 4.h are underwater, its own buoyancy lifts the deformable body 5 away from the support plate 4, e.g., outside the connection area VB. 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, e.g., due to waves or because the boat 1 is moving towards the ramp 10. In one embodiment, the flexible connecting elements 9.l, 9.r dampen the movements of the floating hollow body 5 because the inflated hollow body 5 tensions the flexible connecting elements 9.l, 9.r, or even prevent such movements of the hollow body 5.The support plate 4 can be held in a fixed position below the floating deformable body 5 at the water surface WO and preferably does not move relative to the mothership 20. 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. 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.

[0095] As already mentioned, two flexible lateral connecting elements 9.l, 9.r hold the ramp 10 in a desired centered position, in which the upper surface O.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.l and 9.r. In a preferred embodiment, the inflated hollow body 5 tensions the connecting elements 9.l, 9.r. This embodiment enables particularly good fixation of the lowered ramp 10 in the centered position. When the hollow body 5 is deflated (state 5.p), the connecting elements 9.l, 9.r are slack or partially retracted into the support structure and do not impede movement of the ramp 10.

[0096] 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 deflated 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 parked position. The deflector plate 7 is attached to the floor 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.

[0097] Fig. 4 and Fig. 5Figure 1 shows ramp 10 in the raised parking position and hollow body 5 in the emptied position 5.p. The now slack hollow body 5 is located in the 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.l, 9.r are slack or partially retracted into the support structure T.

[0098] In the exemplary embodiment, the inflatable boat 1 is moved from position 1.w onto the support device 2 as follows: Ramp 10 is deployed from the parking position ( Fig. 4 ) into the recording position ( Fig. 1) is transferred, for example, by extending two hydraulic piston-cylinder units which are supported on 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) terminates further rotation of the support plate 4. The deformable body 5 is rotated with the support plate 4 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 and thereby deflated from the empty state 5.p ( Fig. 4 ) into the inflated state 5.a ( Fig. 1) transferred. 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.The inflated hollow body 5 is located between the connecting elements 9.l and 9.r. The connecting elements 9.l and 9.r are taut or tensioned and hold the ramp 10, and in particular the deformable body 5, in the centered position. The inflatable boat in position 1.w approaches the ramp 10 from behind and contacts the ramp 10 at the contact point C. In one embodiment, the contact point C coincides with the rear edge HK of the support plate 4, see [reference]. Fig. 1 In another embodiment, the contact point C is formed by the rear end of the inflated hollow body 5, which floats on the water. The inflatable boat's own propulsion pushes it 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 in Fig. 3As can be seen, the rear end of the inflated hollow body 5 preferably has the shape of a swallowtail and is adapted to the underwater profile of the inflatable boat 1. In both cases, the inflatable boat 1 pushes the deformable body 5 downwards and underwater as it 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 O.5 of the ramp 10 lifts the inflatable boat 1 out of the water. The V-shaped or otherwise flared design of the upper surface O.5, i.e., the conveying device 6, the conveyor belt, or the deformable body 5, helps to gently lift the inflatable boat 1 out of the water onto the ramp 10. The conveying device 3 of the support device 2 pulls the inflatable boat 1 further out of the water until it reaches the parking position 1.p has been reached on the support device 2, see . Fig. 4 The drive of the conveyor device 3 is now stopped. Or the inflatable boat 1 is connected to a rope on one side, and the rope, along with the inflatable boat 1, is pulled by a winch. The actuator rotates the support plate 4 upwards about axis DA back into the park position (see figure). Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 ), for example, by retracting the piston-cylinder units. The sheet metal parts 4.m and 4.h now close 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 parked position, the front sheet metal part 4.v lies on the floor of the receiving chamber AK and the hollow body 5 is limp, i.e., in state 5.p. The now limp hollow body 5 falls into the receiving chamber AK and onto the deflector plate 7.

[0099] In the same manner, the inflatable boat 1 can be moved from position 1.a on the support device 2 to position 1.w on the water. Due to its own weight, the inflatable boat 1 glides down the inclined plane into the water. Reference sign

[0100] 1 The inflatable boat being taken in acts as the watercraft to be taken in. 1.a Position of the inflatable boat 1 when it rests on the stationary support device 2 1.w Position of the inflatable boat to be picked up 1, when it is floating on the water 2 stationary and inclined support device, carries the inflatable boat 1.a, in one embodiment includes the conveying device 3 3 The optional conveying device of the stationary support device 2 pulls the inflatable boat 1.w to be picked up out of the water. 4 The support plate, on which the hollow body 5 is mounted, is attached to the support structure T in the axis of rotation DA, comprises the sheet metal parts 4.h, 4.m and 4.v, belongs to the frame of the ramp 10, and functions as a planar support element. 4.h The rear part of the support plate 4 has the rear edge HK. 4.m middle part of the support plate 4 4.v front part of the support plate 4 5 deformable body, preferably designed as an inflatable hollow body, which is divided into chambers 13.l and 13.r 5.a inflated state of the hollow body 5, in which the hollow body 5 can float on the water 5.p Empty state of the hollow body 5, in which the now flaccid hollow body 5 can be received into the receiving chamber AK. 6 optional conveying device of ramp 10 7 Deflector plate in the receiving chamber AK prevents the emptied hollow body 5 from sliding under the support plate 4 in state 5.p. 9.l flexible left connecting element in the form of a rope 9.r flexible right connecting element in the form of a rope 10 Ramp, comprising the support plate 4 and the connecting elements 9.l, 9.r as well as the deformable body 5 10.p Ramp 10 in the parking position, in which the support plate 4 is flush with the outer hull of the mothership 20 10.w Ramp 10 in the receiving position, in which the deformable body 5 is taken from the Water protrudes, preferably floats on the water 13.l, 13.r left and right chamber of the hollow body 5 15.1, 15.2 Rollers embedded in the upper surface O.5 of the deformable body 5 20 Mothership, receiving the inflatable boat 1.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 30.1, 30.2, 30.3 Containers on board the mothership 20 AK Receiving chamber for the emptied hollow body 5 (in state 5.p) C Point of initial contact where the inflatable boat 1.w first touches ramp 10 DA horizontal axis of rotation about which the ramp can be rotated relative to the supporting structure T of the mothership 20 and relative to the support device 2 F Point at which the propulsion system of inflatable boat 1 is pulled out of the water and can no longer propel inflatable boat 1 FR Matching direction of travel of the inflatable boat 1 and the mothership 20 HK rear edge of the support plate 4, forms an edge of the rear part 4.h Ho upper part of the stern of the mothership 20, closes flush with the rear sheet metal part 4.h when the ramp 10 is in the parked position Hu lower part of the stern of the mothership 20, closes flush with the middle sheet metal part 4m when the ramp 10 is in the parked position O.5 The upper surface of the deformable body 5 comes into contact with the inflatable boat 1 and is equipped in one configuration with the rollers 15.1, 15.2, ... Slo upper part of the left side wall of the mothership 20 SIu lower part of the left side wall of the mothership 20 Sro upper part of the right side wall of the mothership 20 Sru lower part of the right side wall of the mothership 20 M.1, M.2 Crew member of vessel 1 T The supporting structure of the mothership 20 carries the ramp 10 and the support device 2 Tg Draft of inflatable boat 1 in position 1.w on the water VB Connection area in which the deformable body 5 is connected to the middle sheet metal part 4.m of the support sheet 4 W Angle between the recording position and the parking position of ramp 10 WHERE Water surface

Claims

1. A receiving device for receiving at least one watercraft (1), wherein the receiving device • comprising a stationary support structure (2) and • a ramp (10) movable relative to the stationary support device (2), wherein the support device (2) is designed to support a watercraft (1) to be received and wherein the ramp (10) is movable into at least one receiving position in which the ramp (10) is located at least partially below the water surface (WO) and a watercraft (1) to be received can drive onto the ramp (10), and wherein the receiving device is configured to lift a watercraft (1) out of the water and guide it onto the support device (2), wherein the ramp (10) • comprises a frame (4, 9.r) and • a deformable body (5) wherein the deformable body (5) is attached to the frame (4, 9.r) in such a way such that the deformable body (5) faces a watercraft (1) located in the water when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, and wherein the receiving device is designed to hold the deformable body (5) at least partially above the water surface (WO), when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position , wherein the deformable body (5) comprises at least one cavity (13.l, 13.r) capable of being filled with a gas, wherein the cavity (13.l, 13.r) is surrounded by a casing made of a deformable material, characterised in that the deformable body (5) is connected to the frame (4, 9.r) in a connection region (VB), wherein the extent of the connection region (VB) in the direction of travel (FR) of a watercraft (1) to be accommodated is less than the extent of the frame (4, 9.r) in the direction of travel (FR), and the deformable body (5) is capable of floating on water at all times or in at least one state (5.a), whereby, when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, • the deformable body (5) on floats the water, • the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) is, at least at times, completely below the water surface (WO) and • outside the connection area (VB), a vertical gap occurs between the floating deformable body (5) and the frame (4, 9.r), wherein the receiving device comprises a receiving chamber (AK), wherein the receiving chamber (AK) is configured such that the deformable body (5) can be moved into the receiving chamber (AK) when the ramp (10) is moved into a parking position, wherein the deformable body (5) is deformable from above by a watercraft (1) to be received driving onto the ramp (10).

2. A receiving device according to claim 1, characterised in that the receiving device comprises a conveying device, which is designed to convey gas under pressure into the cavity (13.l, 13.r).

3. Reception device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the cavity (13.l, 13.r) can be enlarged by filling it with gas up to a maximum volume and the deformable body (5) is buoyant on water at least when the cavity (13.l, 13.r) has reached its maximum volume, is capable of floating on water.

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

5. A mounting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the deformable body (5) comprises a coating element which • is detachably connected to the remainder of the deformable body (5) and • when the ramp (10) is in the or a receiving position, points towards a watercraft (1) located in the water and to be received.

6. A lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised 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)7. A receiving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the ramp (10) is movable from the or a receiving position into at least one parking position and the receiving device comprises a receiving chamber (AK), which is designed to accommodate to receive the deformable body (5).

8. A receiving device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised 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 the ramp (10), located in or at a receiving position, to float on the water.

9. Method for receiving at least one watercraft (1) using a receiving device comprising • a stationary support device (2) and • a ramp (10) movable relative to the stationary support device (2), wherein the method comprises the steps of • the ramp (10) is moved relative to the support device (2) into a receiving position, in which the ramp (10) is located 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), characterised in that the ramp (10) • comprises a frame (4, 9.r) and • a deformable body (5) attached to the frame (4, 9.r) wherein the deformable body (5) comprises at least one cavity (13.l, 13.r) capable of being filled with a gas, wherein the cavity (13.1, 13.r) is surrounded by a casing made of a deformable material, the deformable body (5) is connected to the frame (4, 9.r) in a connection region (VB), wherein the extent of the connection region (VB) in the direction of travel (FR) of a watercraft (1) to be carried less is than the extent of the frame (4, 9.r) in the direction of travel (FR), and the deformable body (5) is capable of floating on water at all times or in at least one state (5.a), whereby, 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 below the water surface (WO) and • outside the connection area (VB), a vertical gap between the floating occurs deformable body (5) and the frame (4, 9.r), whereby the step of moving the ramp (10) into or to a receiving position causes the deformable body (5) to face the watercraft (1) located in the water, whereby, 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. wherein the deformable body (5) is moved into a receiving chamber (AK) when the ramp (10) is moved into a parking position.

10. A method according to claim 9, characterised in that the deformable body (5) comprises at least one cavity (13.l, 13.r) capable of being filled with gas, wherein the method comprises the additional steps of conveying gas into the cavity (13.l, 13.r), and wherein the step of conveying gas into the cavity (13.l, 13.r) is completed at the latest when the watercraft (1) reaches the ramp (10).

11. A method according to claim 10, characterised in that the step of moving the ramp (10) into or to a receiving position, and the step of conveying gas into the cavity (13.l, 13.r), are carried out in a time-overlapping manner.

12. A method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterised 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 of the watercraft (1) driving onto the ramp (10) is carried out whilst the deformable body (5) floats on the water.

13. A method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterised in that the step of moving the ramp (10) into or to a receiving position additionally causes • the frame (4, 9.r) is held in a fixed position relative to the supporting structure (2) underwater and • at least part of the deformable body (5) moves upwards relative to the frame (4, 9.r) of the ramp (10) held underwater.

Images