Floating pier and its use

Abstract

To provide a floating type pier and a method of using the same that can be easily installed, stored and transported, and also is widely usable.SOLUTION: A floating type pier 1 is composed of bag-like bodies 3a and 3b formed of a flexible material, and a plate-like body 5 which is a plurality of rectangular flat plate-like members continuously arranged side by side in a length direction. The bag-like bodies 3a and 3b capable of filling or discharging gas are attached to the lower surface of the plate-like body 5, and the plate material of the plate-like body 5 is rotatable at each connecting portion. While the floating type pier 1 is in the decompressed state in which gas is discharged from the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b, the plate-like body 5 can switch the state between an unfolded state and a stored state being wound in the circumferential direction. As a result, the entire shape of the floating type pier 1 can be deformed within the range in which the plate-like body 5 can move, and the state of the floating type pier 1 can be changed between the deployed state and the stored state according to the use condition or the transportation condition. It is thus be possible to easily install, store, and transport the floating type pier 1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This invention relates to a floating pier and a method for using the same, and in particular to a floating pier that is installed on the water and used as a connecting bridge for moving people from a quay or the like to a ship or the like, and that can also be used for purposes such as rescue operations in the event of a water accident, if necessary, and a method for using the same. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been proposed technologies relating to floating piers that can be switched between a state in which they are deployed on the water to allow pedestrians and the like to pass through, and a state in which they can be folded or otherwise stored and retrieved.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a foldable and retractable floating walkway made by gluing together a rectangular frame body made of waterproof wood or synthetic resin boards, etc., and two pavement boards, which are attached with hinges so that they can be opened and closed freely, and then attaching air-inflatable floats to the underside of the boards, and connecting multiple boards in a row with mounting hardware and pins. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Microfilm of Utility Model Application No. 47-105298 (Utility Model Application No. 49-062630) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Conventional folding and retractable floating walkways such as that described in Patent Document 1 can be unfolded as needed to float on the sea, and folded up and raised onto land on days with large waves, etc. However, when setting up or pulling up the walkway, it is necessary to remove and attach the mounting hardware at the connection points of each pavement board, and each pavement board must be set up or removed one by one, which is time-consuming.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a floating pier that is easy to install, store and transport and can be widely used, and a method for using the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above objectives, Claim 1 The described invention is a floating pier that is extendable and transportable in the length direction, comprising a bag-shaped body made of a flexible material, capable of being filled with a fluid, and capable of being switched between a pressurized state filled with the fluid and a reduced pressure state in which the fluid has been discharged; Same size and shape A plate-like body formed by connecting a plurality of flat plate members in a predetermined direction so that the connecting portions of the plate members can rotate. a ring-shaped support member attached to the plate-like body; The bag-shaped body is Through the support member The bag-shaped body is attached to a plate-shaped body, and in a pressurized state, when a predetermined load is applied to the plate-shaped body, the bag-shaped body has a buoyancy that causes at least one of the upper part of the bag-shaped body and the upper surface of the plate-shaped body to float above the water, and in a depressurized state, the bag-shaped body is deformable in response to the movement of the plate-shaped body. When the bag-shaped body is in a reduced pressure state, the plate-shaped body can be freely switched between an expanded state in which all of the upper surfaces of the multiple plate materials are exposed to the outside, and a stored state in which part of the upper surfaces of the multiple plate materials are shielded from the outside, and when in the stored state, the plate-shaped body and the bag-shaped body form a cylindrical shape rolled up circumferentially.

[0010] With this configuration, it is possible to change the overall shape of the floating pier within the range in which the plate-like body can move. In addition, the floating pier can be switched between an expanded state and a stowed state depending on the usage or transportation conditions. Furthermore, the floating pier can be expanded or stowed while utilizing a rotational motion.

[0015] Claim 2 The invention described is as follows: 1 In the configuration of the described invention, the plate-like body has one end in the longitudinal direction It is a board located A first rotation center that is the center of rotation when the plate-like body rotates from the deployed state to the stored state, and a second .... It is a board located The plate-like body further includes a second center of rotation that serves as the center of rotation when the plate-like body rotates from the stored state to the deployed state.

[0016] With this configuration, the floating pier can be deployed and stored from either one end or the other end of the plate-like body in the longitudinal direction.

[0017] Claim 3 The invention described is as follows: 1 or Claim 2 In the configuration of the described invention, the plate-shaped body , board Assists the transition of the sack-shaped body and the bag-shaped body to the storage state The belt is attached to the underside of the plate-like body for The storage aid means is further provided.

[0018] This configuration makes it easier to transition the floating pier to its stowed state.

[0019] Claim 4 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 3 In the configuration of the invention described in any one of the above, the plate-like body further comprises, at a part thereof, a fixing means that enables the plate-like body to be fixed to an object.

[0020] In this way, the floating pier can be secured to an object such as a quay, a shore or a ship.

[0021] Claim 5 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 4 In the configuration of the invention described in any one of the above, the plate-like body further comprises, on a part thereof, a towable means that enables it to be towed by a ship.

[0022] With this configuration, the floating pier can be moved on the water while remaining deployed.

[0023] Claim 6 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 5 In the configuration of the invention described in any one of the above, the plate-like body further comprises a connecting means on a part thereof that enables the plate-like body to be connected to another floating pier.

[0024] Such a configuration makes it easier to connect floating piers to each other.

[0025] Claim 7 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 6A method of using a floating pier described in any one of the above, wherein the plate-like body further comprises an auxiliary bag-like body at one end in the longitudinal direction, which can be filled with a fluid, and includes the steps of fixing the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body to a ship, deforming the plate-like body to submerge below floating objects floating in the water, filling the auxiliary bag-like body with fluid to store the floating object between the one end and the other end of the plate-like body, filling the bag-like body with fluid to raise the plate-like body to the water surface and lift the floating object to the water surface, and recovering the lifted floating object.

[0026] With this configuration, it becomes easier to collect large floating objects containing water compared to doing it manually.

[0027] Claim 8 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 6 The method of using a floating pier described in any one of the above items includes a storage step of storing the plate-like body in an unfolded state from one side in its longitudinal direction to return it to a stored state, and a direction changing step of switching the orientation of the plate-like body in the stored state between the one longitudinal side and the other longitudinal side.

[0028] In this manner, the plate can be provided for redeployment to one side of its length on the same side of the floating pier. Effect of the Invention

[0030] As explained above, Claim 1 The described invention makes it possible to change the overall shape of the floating pier within the range in which the plate-like bodies can move, making it easier to install, store and transport the floating pier. In addition, since the floating pier can be switched between an expanded state and a stowed state depending on the usage or transportation situation, the installation, storage and transportation of the floating pier can be facilitated. Furthermore, since the floating pier can be expanded or stowed while utilizing a rotational motion, the installation and storage of the floating pier can be facilitated.

[0033] Claim 2 The invention described is as follows: 1 In addition to the effects of the invention described above, the floating pier can be deployed and stored from either one or the other end of the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body, making it a user-friendly floating pier.

[0034] Claim3 The invention described is as follows: 1 or Claim 2 In addition to the effects of the invention described above, the floating pier can be easily moved to a stowed state, improving usability.

[0035] Claim 4 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 3 In addition to the effects of any one of the above, the floating pier can be fixed to an object such as a quay, a shore, or a ship, thereby enabling the floating pier to be used stably.

[0036] Claim 5 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 4 In addition to the effects of any one of the above, the floating pier can be moved on the water while remaining deployed, making it easy to transport when changing the installation location of the floating pier.

[0037] Claim 6 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 5 In addition to the effects of any one of the above-described inventions, since floating piers can be easily connected to each other, it becomes possible to easily expand the usable area of ​​the floating piers.

[0038] Claim 7 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 6 In addition to the effects of any one of the above, the present invention makes it easier to recover large floating objects containing water compared to manual labor, thereby improving safety in recovering the floating objects.

[0039] Claim 8 The invention described is as follows: 1 From claims 6 In addition to the effects of any one of the above-described inventions, the present invention makes it possible to prepare for redeployment of the plate-like body to one side in the longitudinal direction on the same side of the floating pier, thereby improving the work efficiency for storing and deploying the floating pier. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a deployed state of a floating pier according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing a bag-shaped body in a pressurized state. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the bag-shaped body of the floating pier shown in FIG. 1 in a decompressed state. [Diagram 3] 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in the middle of transition of the floating pier shown in FIG. 2 from an unfolded state to a stowed state. FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a schematic perspective view showing the floating pier shown in FIG. 2 after completing the transition from the deployed state to the stored state. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a floating pier according to a second embodiment of the present invention in the middle of transition from an deployed state to a stored state, the view corresponding to FIG. 3. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which the floating pier shown in FIG. 5 has completed transition from the deployed state to the stored state, and corresponds to FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing a floating pier according to a third embodiment of the present invention in the middle of transition from an deployed state to a stored state, the view corresponding to FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which the floating pier shown in FIG. 7 has completed transition from the deployed state to the stored state, and corresponds to FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an oblique view showing a schematic diagram of a first method of using a floating pier according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which (1) shows the floating pier in an unfolded state, and (2) shows the floating pier in a stored state. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a second method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a third method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing a fourth method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13]FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a fifth method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which (1) shows the floating pier inserted under a victim floating in water, (2) shows the auxiliary bag-shaped body of the floating pier filled with gas, and (3) shows the floating pier being used to lift the victim floating in water to the surface. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a floating pier according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a floating pier according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating a deployment process of a floating pier according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of a storage process of the floating pier according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of a direction changing process of a floating pier according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] FIG. 1 is a schematic oblique view showing the deployed state of a floating pier according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the bag-shaped body in a pressurized state, and FIG. 2 is a view showing the bag-shaped body of the floating pier shown in FIG. 1 in a depressurized state.

[0042] With reference to these figures, the floating pier 1 comprises a pair of long, airtight bag-like bodies 3a, 3b formed of a flexible material such as rubber, and a plate-like body 5 in which a plurality of rectangular, flat plate-shaped boards 4a-4p made of water-resistant wood are arranged in succession in the same direction as the length of the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b. On the underside of each of the boards 4a-4p of the plate-like body 5, the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b are attached with adhesive at intervals in the width direction of the plate-like body 5. As a result, the boards 4a-4p of the plate-like body 5 are connected via the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b, and are therefore rotatable at their respective connection portions.

[0043] Moreover, injection valves 6a, 6b are provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the bag-shaped bodies 3a, 3b (the end located on the plate material 4a side of the plate-shaped body 5). And, it is possible to fill or discharge gases 8a, 8b, which are fluids, into or from the inside of the bag-shaped bodies 3a, 3b via the injection valves 6a, 6b by a fluid supply / discharge means (not shown) such as an air compressor.

[0044] Furthermore, a belt 7, which is a storage auxiliary means, is attached to the lower surface 15a of the plate material 4a of the plate-like body 5 at a position where it is sandwiched between the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b. The belt 7 extends from the plate material 4a side to the plate material 4p side so as to pass over the entire lower surface of the plate-like body 5. The effect of this configuration will be described later.

[0045] The bag-like bodies 3a, 3b of the floating pier 1 shown in Fig. 1 are filled with gases 8a, 8b and are pressurized, and have a substantially cylindrical shape. When the floating pier 1 is floated on the water in this state, the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b have a buoyancy that causes the upper surfaces 14a-14p of the plate members 4a-4p of the plate-like body 5 to float above the water when a load of people or the like is applied to the plate-like body 5, although this is not shown in the figure.

[0046] On the other hand, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b of the floating pier 1 shown in Fig. 2 have been depressurized by discharging gas from inside them, and are flattened. In this state, the plate-like body 5 can be freely switched between an expanded state in which the upper surfaces 14a-14b of the plate members 4a-4p are all exposed to the outside, as shown in Fig. 2, and a stored state in which at least some of the plate members 4a-4p of the plate-like body 5 are shielded from the outside, as described below. Also, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b can be deformed in response to the movement of the plate members 4a-4p of the plate-like body 5 at their respective connection portions.

[0047] Next, switching between the deployed state and the stored state of the floating pier 1 will be described.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing the floating pier shown in FIG. 2 in the middle of transition from the deployed state to the stored state.

[0049] Referring to the figure, the plate-like body 5 of the floating pier 1 is wound up while rotating in the circumferential direction (arrow A1 direction) from the plate material 4p side to the plate material 4a side. At this time, the winding up of the plate-like body 5 can be assisted by pulling the belt 7 stretched on the plate material 4p side of the plate-like body 5 in the direction of arrow A2. In addition, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b deform in accordance with the movement of the plate-like body 5, and are wound up together with the plate-like body 5.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the floating pier shown in FIG. 2 after completing the transition from the deployed state to the stored state.

[0051] Referring to the figure, when the above-mentioned winding is completed, the plate-like body 5 and the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b are wound in the circumferential direction, completing the transition to the stored state of the floating pier 1. In this stored state, the upper surfaces of the plate members of the plate-like body 5 except for the plate member 4a are shielded from the outside.

[0052] In addition, when the floating pier 1 is to be deployed again as shown in FIG. 2, it is sufficient to rotate the floating pier 1 in the direction opposite to the winding direction. In addition, in the transition to the deployed state, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b may be used as a deployment auxiliary means. Specifically, first, gas is injected into the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b by a fluid supply means (not shown). Then, although not shown, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b start to gradually inflate from the ends of the injection valves 6a and 6b. If the gas injection is continued, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b and the plate-like body 5 rotate in the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow A3 in FIG. 3 due to the internal pressure of each of the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b, and the deployed state in the pressurized state shown in FIG. 1 is reached, and the transition from the stored state to the deployed state and the injection of the gases 8a and 8b into the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b are completed at once.

[0053] This allows the overall shape of the floating pier 1 to be changed within the range in which the plate-like body 5 can move, and also allows the floating pier 1 to be switched between an unfolded state and a stowed state depending on the usage or transportation situation, making it easy to install, store, and transport the floating pier 1. Also, since the floating pier 1 can be unfolded or stowed while utilizing a rotational motion, it becomes even easier to install and store the floating pier 1. Furthermore, the belt 7, which is a storage auxiliary means, makes it easy to transition the floating pier 1 to a stowed state, improving usability.

[0054] Figure 5 is a schematic oblique view showing a floating pier according to the second embodiment of the present invention in the middle of transitioning from an deployed state to a stowed state, and is a figure corresponding to Figure 3. Figure 6 is a schematic oblique view showing a state in which the floating pier shown in Figure 5 has completed transitioning from the deployed state to the stowed state, and is a figure corresponding to Figure 4.

[0055] Incidentally, since the configuration of the floating pier 21 according to this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, the description will not be repeated here, but the differences will be mainly described.

[0056] 5 and 6, a floating pier 21 in this embodiment has a pair of wires 27a, 27b attached to a plate-like body 25 as storage assistance means, instead of the belt in the first embodiment.

[0057] Regarding the attachment state of the wires 27a and 27b, the wire 27b side will be specifically described. At one end side in the width direction of the plates 24a to 24p (the side where the bag-shaped body 23b is attached), first, a through hole (not shown) is provided at the corner 29a of the plate 24a on the side not adjacent to the plate 24b. Next, a through hole (not shown) is also provided at each of the corners 29b and 29c on the side where the plate 24b and the plate 24c are adjacent to each other. Then, a through hole (not shown) is also provided at each of the corners 29d and 29e on the side where the plate 24d and the plate 24e are adjacent to each other. Then, a through hole (not shown) is provided in each of the plates 24f to 24p so as to leave one space between the adjacent parts of each plate. The wire 27b is attached through this through hole (not shown).

[0058] Incidentally, the wire 27a has a similar configuration to the wire 27b at the other end side in the width direction of the plate materials 24a to 24p (the side to which the bag-shaped body 23a is attached), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] When the floating pier 21 thus formed is moved to the stored state, the plate-like body 25 is folded in an accordion-like manner in the length direction in the decompressed state of the bag-like bodies 23a and 23b so that the portions of the adjacent plate materials where the wires 27a and 27b do not pass are mountain-folded. Then, the bag-like bodies 23a and 23b are also deformed in an accordion-like manner according to the movement of the plate materials. Then, by fixing the plate material 24a side and pulling the wires 27a and 27b in the horizontal direction (arrow A3 direction), each of the plate materials 24a to 24p of the plate-like body 25 is further folded in the horizontal direction as it is, and the bag-like bodies 23a and 23b are also folded according to the movement of the plate materials. Then, by further pulling the wires 27a and 27b, the floating pier 21 becomes an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole as shown in FIG. 6, and the transition to the stored state is completed. In this state, the upper surfaces of the plate members of the plate-like body 25 except for the plate members 24a and 24p are shielded from the outside.

[0060] This allows multiple floating piers 21 to be stored in a shape that makes it easy to stack them together.

[0061] When the floating pier 21 is to be deployed again, the plate-like body 25 of the floating pier 21 may be unfolded in the opposite direction to the folded direction. In this transition to the deployed state, the bag-like bodies 23a and 23b may be used as deployment assistance means, as in the first embodiment.

[0062] Figure 7 is a schematic oblique view showing a floating pier according to the third embodiment of this invention in the middle of transitioning from an unfolded state to a stowed state, and is a figure corresponding to Figure 3. Figure 8 is a schematic oblique view showing a state in which the floating pier shown in Figure 7 has completed transitioning from the unfolded state to the stowed state, and is a figure corresponding to Figure 4.

[0063] Incidentally, since the configuration of the floating pier 31 according to this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first and second embodiments, the description will not be repeated here, but the differences will be mainly described.

[0064] 7 and 8, in a floating pier 31 in this embodiment, a belt 37 equivalent to the belt in the first embodiment is provided on an underside 38p of a plate 34p, not on an underside 38a of a plate 34a.

[0065] When the floating pier 31 thus constructed is shifted to a stored state, the belt 37 is pulled diagonally upward toward the front (in the direction of the arrow A4), and the plate 34p is lifted while folding the plate 35 so that its length in the longitudinal direction is reduced. At that time, the bag-like bodies 33a and 33b are deformed and folded according to the movement of the plate 35. Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the floating pier 31 is folded so that the upper surfaces of the plate 34a and 34p overlap each other, and the length of the plate 35 and the bag-like bodies 33a and 33b in the longitudinal direction is approximately half, completing the shift to the stored state. In this state, the upper surfaces of all the plate members of the plate 35, including the plate members 34a and 34p, are shielded from the outside.

[0066] This reduces the height of the floating pier 31, making it possible to accommodate cases where the storage space has height limitations.

[0067] When the floating pier 31 is to be deployed again, the plate-like body 35 of the floating pier 31 is unfolded in the opposite direction to the folded direction. In moving to the deployed state, the bag-like bodies 33a and 33b may be used as deployment assistance means as in the first embodiment.

[0068] Next, a method for using such a floating pier will be described.

[0069] Figure 9 is an oblique view showing a schematic diagram of a first method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention, where (1) is a diagram showing the deployed state of the floating pier, and (2) is a diagram showing the stored state of the floating pier.

[0070] Referring to (1) in the figure, the floating pier 1 in this usage method is deployed on water 47, and pier side fittings 41a, 41b and chains 42a, 42b are provided on the upper surface 14a of the plate material 4a of the plate-like body 5 as a means for fixing to a quay wall 48. It is desirable to set the length of these chains 42a, 42b to a length that can accommodate the rising and lowering distance of the floating pier 1 as the water level rises and falls.

[0071] One end of the chains 42a, 42b is attached to the pier side metal fittings 41a, 41b, and the other end is attached to the quay side metal fittings 43a, 43b which have been driven into the quay 48 in advance by the quay side metal fittings 43a, 43b.

[0072] In this way, the floating pier 1 is fixed to the quay 48, allowing for stable use of the floating pier 1. For example, safety can be easily maintained even when the floating pier 1 is used as a fishing pier, as shown in Figure (1).

[0073] Also, referring to FIG. (2), in bad weather, the floating pier 1 can be stored while still being fixed to the quay 48, and then pulled up onto the quay 48. This reduces the risk of the floating pier 1 being washed away or damaged by floating objects.

[0074] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a second method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Referring to the figure, the floating pier 1 in this usage method has a plate-like body 5 and a part of the bag-like bodies 3a, 3b deployed on a shore 49, and the other part deployed on the water 47. On the upper surface of the part of the plate-like body 5 placed on the shore 49, bolts 51a-51d having ring-shaped members as fixing means to the shore 49 and wire ropes 52a-52d connected to the ring-shaped parts of the bolts 51a-51d are attached. The other ends of the wire ropes 52a-52d are driven into the shore 49 and fixed by piles 53a-53d. The part deployed on the water 47 functions as a simple pier, and small boats 58a-58c such as leisure boats can be docked.

[0076] In this way, a part of the floating pier 1 is fixed to the shore 49, so that the floating pier 1 can be used stably even when used as a pier for getting on and off small boats 58a to 58c.

[0077] Furthermore, by extending the plate-like body 5 in the lengthwise direction and providing a ladder section 55 on its underside without attaching a bag-like body, it becomes even easier for people (not shown) to pass through.

[0078] Furthermore, although not shown, by pulling the floating pier up to the shore 49 in a stowed state during bad weather, the risk of the floating pier being washed away or damaged can be reduced.

[0079] In recent years, the number of floods caused by earthquakes, tsunamis, large typhoons, and flood damage in urban areas has been increasing. The use of floating piers in rescue operations is explained below.

[0080] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing a third method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to the figure, the floating pier 1 in this usage further comprises a ring-shaped receiving bracket 61, which is a towing means capable of engaging a wire rope 62 extending from a small boat 68, at one end in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 5. This allows the floating pier 1 to be towed by the small boat 68 or the like via the wire rope 62 as necessary.

[0082] This allows the floating pier 1 to be moved above water 47 while remaining deployed, making it easy to transport the floating pier 1 when changing its installation location.

[0083] In addition, as shown in the figure, it is possible to temporarily recover rescued victims. The rescued victims 63a to 63e can be transported to a place where they can be towed while still on the floating pier 1, so that the victims can be transported to a relief facility more quickly, improving the efficiency of rescue operations.

[0084] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view showing a fourth method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Referring to the figure, the floating pier 1 in this usage method further includes a U-shaped connecting pin 71 and a pin receiving hole 72 on the upper surface of the plate-like body 5 at one end side in the longitudinal direction (the plate material 4p side), which is a connecting means that enables connection to another floating pier. The pin receiving hole 72 is formed directly on the plate-like body of the floating pier 1. Such a floating pier 1 is transported in a stored state together with another floating pier 74e having a similar pin receiving hole 73 to the water surface 47, which is a multiple installation site, and is deployed. Thereafter, the connecting pin 71 is inserted into the pin receiving hole 72 of the floating pier 1 and the pin receiving hole 73 of the floating pier 74e so as to connect them to each other in the longitudinal direction, and connected.

[0086] This makes it easy to connect floating piers to each other, making it possible to easily expand the usable area of ​​the floating pier 1.

[0087] As shown in the figure, in addition to the floating pier 1 and the floating pier 74e, a large-scale floating scaffold 75 consisting of other floating piers 74b to 74d connected to one another can be easily installed on the water 47, and victims 79 rescued by rescue boats 78 or the like can be temporarily evacuated to the floating scaffold 75. In addition, when a large-scale flood occurs in an urban area or the like and small rescue barges cannot enter, the floating scaffold 75 can be used as a simple rescue operation site.

[0088] Moreover, by further providing a towable means such as the bracket 61 shown in Fig. 11, the floating scaffolding 75 can be towed as well. In this case, the floating scaffolding 75 can be moved to a place where it can be towed, so that victims can be transported to relief facilities more quickly, improving the efficiency of rescue operations.

[0089] When rescuing a victim who has been thrown into the water by a flood or tsunami, a rescue boat is usually pulled up alongside the victim and the victim is basically pulled into the rescue boat by human strength. However, the victim who has been thrown into the water is heavier than in normal conditions because their clothes have absorbed water, so a lot of force is required to pull them up. In addition, rescuers sometimes pull the victim up by using the edge of the rescue boat, which can cause the boat to lose balance and capsize.

[0090] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing a fifth method of using the floating pier according to the first embodiment of this invention, in which (1) shows the floating pier inserted under a victim floating in water, (2) shows the auxiliary bag-shaped body of the floating pier filled with gas, and (3) shows the floating pier being used to lift the victim floating in water to the surface.

[0091] Referring to Fig. (1), the floating pier 1 in this usage method further comprises an auxiliary bag-like body 81 extending in the width direction of the plate-like body 5 at one end in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 5. The auxiliary bag-like body 81 is made of a flexible material like the bags 3a and 3b, and although not shown, it is possible to fill or discharge the auxiliary bag-like body 81 with a fluid such as gas or liquid by a fluid supply and discharge means via an injection valve.

[0092] In this floating pier 1, first, the end of the plate-like body 5 on which the auxiliary bag-like body 81 is not provided is fixed to the rescue boat 88. Next, the floating pier 1 is submerged under the victim 83 floating in the water while deforming the entire plate-like body 5 by bending it appropriately without filling the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b with gas. Furthermore, referring to (2) of the figure, the auxiliary bag-like body 81 is filled with gas to float on the water surface so that the victim 83 fits between one end and the other end of the plate-like body 5. Furthermore, referring to (3) of the figure, the bag-like bodies 3a and 3b are filled with gas to raise the upper surface of the plate-like body 5 to the water surface 89. Then, the victim 83 is lifted above the water surface 89. After that, the rescuer 84 moves the victim 83 in the direction of the arrow and pulls him into the rescue boat 88.

[0093] This makes it easier to rescue victims 83 who have become heavy due to water compared to pulling them out of the water by human strength alone, thereby improving safety during the rescue of victims.

[0094] The same is true when collecting large floating objects that contain water other than people.

[0095] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a floating pier according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] The configuration of a floating pier 91 according to this embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore the description will not be repeated here, but the differences will be mainly described.

[0097] 14, in the floating pier 91 in this embodiment, the bag-like bodies 93a, 93b formed in the same manner as in the first embodiment are attached to the upper surface 94 of the plate-like body 95 by adhesive, not to the lower surface thereof. When the floating pier 91 is floated on the water in this state, as shown in the figure, the bag-like bodies 93a, 93b have a buoyancy that causes the upper portions 98a, 98b of the bag-like bodies 93a, 93b to float on the water (above the water surface 99) when a load of people or the like is applied to the plate-like body 95. Meanwhile, the plate-like body 95 sinks in the water. This lowers the center of gravity of the floating pier 91 compared to when the plate-like body 95 floats on the water, improving the stability of the floating pier 91.

[0098] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a floating pier according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] The configuration of the floating pier 101 according to this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, so the description will not be repeated here, but the differences will be mainly described.

[0100] 15, in the floating pier 101 in this embodiment, the bag-like bodies 103a, 103b formed in the same manner as in the first embodiment are attached to the widthwise side surfaces 106a, 106b of the plate-like body 105, not to the underside thereof, via the support members 107a, 107b made of a flexible material such as rubber and having ring-shaped parts attached so as to sandwich the plate-like body. When the floating pier 101 is floated on the water in this state, as shown in the figure, the bag-like bodies 103a, 103b have a buoyancy that causes the upper parts 108a, 108b of the bag-like bodies 103a, 103b and the upper surface 104 of the plate-like body 105 to float on the water (above the water surface 109) when a load of people or the like is applied to the plate-like body 105. When a small boat or the like is moored to such a floating pier 101, the bag-like bodies 103a, 103b act as a shock absorber, reducing damage to the small boat or the like that may result from contact with the floating pier 101.

[0101] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing the deployment process of a floating pier according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, in which (1) shows the floating pier attached to an installation boat, and (2) shows the floating pier deployed and ready for use.

[0102] Incidentally, since the configuration of the floating pier 111 according to this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, the description will not be repeated here, but the differences will be mainly described.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 16(1), the floating pier 111 has a pair of semi-annular metal fittings 123a, 123b provided on the side of one end 116 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115. Also, a pair of semi-annular metal fittings 124a, 124b is provided on the side of the other end 117 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115. Furthermore, although specific effects will be described later, the plate material located at one end 116 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115 becomes a first rotation center 118 that becomes the center of rotation when the plate-like body 115 rotates and transitions from the unfolded state to the stored state. Also, the plate material located at the other end 117 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115 becomes a second rotation center 119 that becomes the center of rotation when the plate-like body 115 rotates and transitions from the stored state to the unfolded state.

[0104] Such a floating pier 111 is attached to the installation boat 121 in a stored state in which the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a, 113b are wound in the circumferential direction. At this time, the floating pier 111 is attached in a direction such that the floating pier 111 can be deployed from one side 128 in the length direction including one end 116 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115, which is the end of the winding of the plate-like body 115, to the other side 129 in the length direction including the other end 117 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115, which is the start of the winding. There are no particular limitations on the means for attaching the floating pier 111 to the installation boat 121, but for example, a configuration in which semi-annular metal fittings 123a, 123b of the plate-like body 115 are hooked to rod-shaped protrusions 122a, 122b provided on the installation boat 121 may be used.

[0105] Next, in order to use the floating pier 111, the plate-like body 115 and the wound-up portions of the bags 113a and 113b of the floating pier 111 in the stored state are rotated in the rotation direction B1 with one end fixed. At this time, the second rotation center 119 of the plate-like body 115 becomes the center of rotation. After the plate-like body 115 and the wound-up portions of the bags 113a and 113b are rotated to the end to the deployed state, the bags 113a and 113b are filled with gas, and the floating pier 111 is ready for use as shown in FIG. 16(2).

[0106] In addition, when the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b are shifted from the stored state to the deployed state, as described in the first embodiment, gas may be gradually injected into the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b in the stored state by a fluid supplying means (not shown), and the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b may be rotated in the rotation direction B1 by the internal pressure of each of the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b to deploy. In this way, the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b can be easily deployed. In addition, the other side 129 in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 115 in the deployed state may be attached to an object such as a quay or a roof of a submerged house by using the semi-annular metal fittings 124a and 124b of the plate-like body 115 depending on the usage situation of the floating pier 111, or may be left floating on the water surface.

[0107] Next, a process for storing the floating pier 111 again after use will be described.

[0108] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the storage process of a floating pier according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, where (1) shows the floating pier attached to the winding device, and (2) shows the floating pier in the middle of being wound up by the winding device.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 17(1), the gas inside the bag-like bodies 113a, 113b of the floating pier 111 used is removed to create a reduced pressure state again, and one longitudinal end 116 of the plate-like body 115 is attached to a winding device 126 installed on a winding boat 125.

[0110] Referring also to FIG. 17(2), the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a, 113b of the floating pier 111 are wound up by rotating them in the direction of arrow B2 from one side 128 of the length of the plate-like body 115 by the winding device 126. At this time, the first rotation center 118 of the plate-like body 115 becomes the center of rotation. Also, one end 116 of the plate-like body 115 in the length direction becomes the start of winding, and the other end 117 of the plate-like body 115 in the length direction becomes the end of winding. Therefore, the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a, 113b of the floating pier 111 are stored in a state rotated 180° from those of the floating pier 111 shown in FIG. 16(1).

[0111] When the floating pier 111 is in such a state, it will be difficult to deploy it in the same direction as the deployed state shown in Figure 16(2) the next time it is used. Therefore, the following measures are taken.

[0112] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the direction-changing process of a floating pier according to the sixth embodiment of this invention, where (1) shows the state in the middle of changing the direction of the floating pier, and (2) shows the state after the direction of the floating pier has been changed.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 18(1), the floating pier 111, which has been put back into the stored state, is pulled upward (in the direction of the arrow C1) by a crane (not shown) via a wire 127 or the like, and removed from the winding device 126. Then, the floating pier 111 is rotated 180° in the direction of the arrow C2 in the air. Then, as shown in FIG. 18(2), the orientations of one end 116 in the length direction of the plate-like body 115 and the other end 117 in the length direction are mutually interchanged with those shown in FIG. 16(1). In this state, when the floating pier 111 is attached again to the installation boat 121 as shown in FIG. 16(1), the winding parts of the plate-like body 115 and the bag-like bodies 113a and 113b can be rotated in the rotation direction B1 to return to the deployed state shown in FIG. 16(2) so that it can be deployed again.

[0114] By doing this, the plate-like body 115 can be prepared for redeployment to one side 128 in the longitudinal direction on the same side of the floating pier 111, thereby improving the work efficiency for storing and deploying the floating pier 111.

[0115] Furthermore, since the floating pier 111 can be deployed and stored from either one end 116 or the other end 117 in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 115, the floating pier 111 is easy to use.

[0116] It should be noted that each of the first to fifth methods of use of this floating pier have been explained on the assumption that a floating pier according to the first embodiment is used, but this is not limited to this, and the methods according to the second to sixth embodiments may also be used.

[0117] Although not described above, the floating pier in each of the above embodiments is composed of a bag-shaped body and a plate-shaped body, but this is not limited to this. As long as it is freely expandable in the length direction, it may be composed of the following. For example, it may be equipped with a base material that corresponds to the bag-shaped body in each of the above embodiments and is expandable and contractable in the length direction, and a scaffolding material that corresponds to the plate-shaped body in each of the above embodiments and is freely deformable in the length direction as the base material expands and contracts and is attached to the base material. The attachment positions of the base material and the scaffolding material may be such that the base material is attached to the lower surface of the scaffolding material as in the first to third embodiments, or the base material is attached to the upper surface of the scaffolding material as in the fourth embodiment, or the base material and the scaffolding material are attached in the width direction as in the fifth embodiment. In this case, the buoyancy of the base material and the buoyancy of the scaffolding material are set so that at least one of the upper part of the base material and the upper part of the scaffolding material can be floated above the water when a predetermined load is applied to the scaffolding material. In other words, it is sufficient that the sum of the buoyancies of the substrate and the scaffolding material can make at least one of the upper part of the substrate and the upper part of the scaffolding material float on the water, and each of the substrate and the scaffolding material may or may not have buoyancy. For example, both the substrate and the scaffolding material may be formed of a bag-like material having airtightness made of a flexible material, so that each of the substrate and the scaffolding material has buoyancy. Also, a net (substrate) and multiple plate-shaped polystyrene foam (scaffolding material) may be used, so that the scaffolding material, not the substrate, has buoyancy.

[0118] This allows the overall shape of the floating pier to be deformed within the range in which the base material expands and contracts, making it easier to install, store and transport the floating pier.

[0119] In the above embodiments, the bag-shaped body is made of rubber, but the material is not limited to rubber and may be other materials as long as they are flexible.

[0120] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the bag-like bodies are a pair of long bodies that become cylindrical in a pressurized state with gas filled inside, but this is not limited to this. For example, in the first to fifth embodiments, a plurality of small ball-shaped bodies may be attached. Furthermore, the bag-like bodies may be attached at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the plate-like body, as long as they have enough buoyancy to float at least one of the upper part of the bag-like body and the upper surface of the plate-like body on the water when the floating pier is floated on the water surface in a pressurized state with a fluid such as gas filled inside and a predetermined load is applied to the plate-like body. Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, they may be one large bag-like body that covers the entire lower surface of the plate-like body.

[0121] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the bag-shaped body is configured to fill or discharge a gas therein, but is not limited thereto and may be configured to fill or discharge a fluid, for example, a liquid such as water.

[0122] Furthermore, in the above first to fourth and sixth embodiments, the bag-shaped body is directly attached to the bottom or top surface of the plate-shaped body with an adhesive, but this is not limited to this. It is also possible to attach a ring-shaped support member made of a flexible material such as rubber or nonwoven fabric, string or wire to the bottom or top surface of each plate of the plate-shaped body with the cross section of the ring facing the length direction of the plate-shaped body, and attach the bag-shaped body by passing it through the ring.

[0123] Furthermore, in the above fifth embodiment, the bag-shaped body is attached to the width direction side surface of the plate-shaped body via the support member, but this is not limited to this. The support member may be made of a string or wire. Also, the bag-shaped body may be directly attached to the width direction side surface of the plate-shaped body with an adhesive.

[0124] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the plate material is a rectangular flat plate, but this is not limited to this. As long as it can be used as a floating pier, it may be a series of trapezoidal, triangular, circular, or polygonal plates. It may also be a thick box-like plate.

[0125] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the board material is made of wood having water resistance, but this is not limited to this, and the board material may be made of other materials such as fiber reinforced plastic.

[0126] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the plate-like body is formed by connecting the plate members via the bag-like body, but this is not limited thereto. As long as the plate members of the plate-like body are rotatable relative to each other, the connection between the plate-like bodies may be realized by other means such as a hinge.

[0127] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the plate materials are arranged continuously in the length direction, which is a predetermined direction, but they may be arranged continuously in the width direction.

[0128] Furthermore, the number of plate members in the plate-like bodies shown in the above embodiments is merely an example, and is not limited thereto. The number may be set appropriately depending on the usage situation as long as it is at least two or more.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the deployed state is one in which the upper surfaces of the plate-like body are all aligned on the same plane, but this is not limited to this. The plate-like body may be partially folded in the length direction to be installed in a stepped manner. In this case, the shape of the bag-like body may be appropriately changed so that such a use is possible.

[0130] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the storage state is rolled up, accordion-folded, or folded in half in the length direction, but this is not limited to this.It may be folded in thirds in the length direction or in other storage states as long as a portion of the top surface of the plate material is shielded from the outside.

[0131] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the storage assistance means is attached to a specific location on the plate-like body, but this is not limited to this and it may be attached to another location on the plate-like body as long as it can be placed in a stored state.

[0132] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the wire serving as the storage assistance means is attached via a through hole, but this is not limited to this. For example, a ring-shaped guide or wire support metal fitting may be attached to the plate-like body, and the wire may be passed through this.

[0133] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the storage assistance means is a belt or a wire, but is not limited to this. For example, it may be a string or a chain. It may also be something like a winding device with a pair of wheels connected to an axis extending in the width direction of the plate-like body.

[0134] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the fastening means is a combination of a pier-side metal fitting, a quay-side metal fitting and a chain or bolt, or a wire rope and a chain, for fastening to a quay or a shore, but is not limited to this. Any other means may be used as long as it can be fastened to the object.

[0135] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the fixing means fixes the floating pier to a quay or a shore, but this is not limited to this, and the floating pier may be fixed to other objects such as a ship, the bottom of the water, a vehicle, etc.

[0136] For example, although not described in the above embodiments and methods of use, the floating pier can be attached to the outside (both sides, etc.) of a rescue boat in a stowed state, and after moving to a desired location with the rescue boat in the attached state, it can be deployed by injecting gas. In this way, the floating pier can be used as a ladder for victims who have taken refuge on the roofs of flooded buildings such as houses to evacuate into the rescue boat. In addition, after use, the floating pier can be stowed again and moved to another victim, improving the efficiency of rescue operations.

[0137] Also, a floating pier can be fixed in a stowed state to a small rescue barge in the same way as a rescue boat, and deployed as necessary to be used as a ladder for victims to evacuate to the small rescue barge. In this way, more victims can be rescued at once. In this case, taking advantage of the size of the rescue barge, the floating pier can be set to a size that allows stretchers and wheelchairs to pass through, making it easier to rescue injured people.

[0138] Furthermore, if floating piers are fixed to both sides of a rescue barge, one side can be deployed toward the building where the victims have taken refuge, and the other toward land, allowing the barge to be used as a relay point for rescue of victims. This allows more victims to be evacuated directly to land, improving the efficiency of rescue operations.

[0139] Furthermore, a floating pier can be attached to the hatch of a transport ship loaded with cargo such as relief supplies, and deployed when the hatch is opened to serve as a route for transporting the cargo. In this case, the length of the floating pier can be extended by a connecting means so that it can reach land as necessary. In this way, even in cases where it would normally be necessary to transfer cargo to a small boat or amphibious vehicle, the cargo can be transported via the floating pier, improving transportation efficiency.

[0140] Furthermore, the floating pier can be attached to the bed of a truck in a stored state, and when necessary, gas can be injected into the bag-shaped body to deploy it outside the bed of the truck like a slide (shooter). By providing a motion assisting means such as rails and rollers on the upper surface of the plate-shaped body, rescue boats, luggage, etc. can be moved while sliding on the upper surface of the plate-shaped body. Regarding the rails, by preparing multiple rails that match the length of each plate material and installing them on the plate material without connecting them to each other, it is possible to not hinder the switching of the floating pier to the stored state. In addition, by extending the length of the floating pier using a connecting means as necessary, it becomes easy to transport rescue boats and luggage to the desired location.

[0141] Furthermore, anchors may be attached to the sides or underside of the plate-like body in each of the above embodiments. This allows the floating pier to be fixed to the bottom of the water when in use, making the installation state of the floating pier more stable.

[0142] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the towed means is comprised of a metal fitting and a wire rope, but this is not limited to this, and other means may be used, such as drilling mounting holes directly into the plate-like body and tying a rope to the holes.

[0143] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the connecting means is a pin and a pin receiving hole, but it is not limited to this and may be other means, such as a chain, a string, a wire, or the like, and a metal fitting for fixing them.

[0144] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the connecting means is provided in the length direction of the plate-like body, but this is not limited to this. It may be provided in the width direction, or in both the length direction and the width direction. Also, it may be provided in multiples instead of one each.

[0145] Furthermore, the fifth method of using the floating pier described above has been explained using an example of a disaster victim floating in the water, but it can also be applied to floating objects other than humans, such as animals or household goods.

[0146] Furthermore, in the fifth method of using the floating pier, the plate-like body of the floating pier is provided with an auxiliary bag-like body, but the auxiliary bag-like body does not have to be provided. Even if gas is injected into the bag-like body while one end of the floating pier is submerged in water, it is possible to lift victims and floating objects to the water surface.

[0147] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier described above, the plate material located at one end and the other end in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body serves as the first center of rotation and the second center of rotation, respectively, but this is not limited to this, and the configuration may also be such that a separate axis, such as a cylindrical core, is provided.

[0148] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, an installation boat is used for installation and a winding boat is used for storage, but this is not limited to the above. A single boat may be used for both installation and winding. Also, the floating pier may be installed and stored at a quay or other location.

[0149] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier described above, a semi-annular metal fitting was provided on the plate-like body, but this metal fitting may be made of another material or have another shape, or the metal fitting itself may not be present.

[0150] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, the plate-like body and the bag-like body are wound up by rotating them in a specific direction (clockwise when viewed from the side of the bag-like body 113b) when storing them, but this is not limiting, and they may be rotated in the opposite direction according to the relative positions of the plate-like body and the bag-like body. In this case, depending on the state, the floating pier may be able to be deployed again without changing the direction.

[0151] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, the plate-like body and the bag-like body are wound up in the circumferential direction in the storage state, but this is not limited to this, and the present invention may be applied to other storage states such as those shown in the second and third embodiments.

[0152] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, the floating pier is deployed and retracted from the same side, but the present invention is not limited to this. The floating pier may be deployed from one side and retracted from the other side.

[0153] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, the direction of the stored floating pier is changed by using a wire and a crane, but this is not limited to this. Other means may be used, such as changing the direction of the boat itself using a small rotatable boat.

[0154] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the floating pier, the direction of the floating pier is changed to a specific direction and angle in the direction changing process, but the direction may be changed by rotating in the opposite direction. Also, the direction may be changed by a required angle depending on the next deployment destination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1, 21, 31, 91, 101, 111...Floating pier 3a, 3b, 23a, 23b, 33a, 33b, 93a, 93b, 103a, 103b, 113a, 113b...bag-like body 4a~4p, 24a~24p, 34a, 34p...Plate material 5, 25, 35, 95, 105, 115...Plate 7, 37…Belt 8a, 8b...Gas 27a, 27b…Wire 41a, 41b... Pier side fittings 42a, 42b…Chain 51a~51d…Bolts 52a~52d…Wire rope 61… Bracket 62...Wire rope 71...Connecting pin 72…Pin receiving hole 81...Auxiliary bag-like body 116...One end of the plate in the longitudinal direction 117...The other end in the longitudinal direction of the plate 118…First rotation center 119…Second rotation center 128...One side of the plate in the longitudinal direction 129...The other side of the plate in the longitudinal direction In addition, the same symbols in each drawing indicate the same or corresponding parts.

Claims

1. A transportable floating pier that is extendable in the length direction, a bag-shaped body made of a flexible material, capable of being filled with a fluid, and capable of being switched between a pressurized state in which the fluid is filled and a reduced pressure state in which the fluid is discharged; a plate-like body formed by connecting a plurality of plate members having the same size and shape in a predetermined direction so that the plate members can rotate at their connecting portions; a ring-shaped support member attached to the plate-like body, the bag-like body is attached to the plate-like body via the support member, and in the pressurized state, when a predetermined load is applied to the plate-like body, the bag-like body has a buoyancy that causes at least one of an upper portion of the bag-like body and an upper surface of the plate-like body to float above water, and in the depressurized state, the bag-like body is deformable in response to the movement of the plate-like body; In the decompressed state of the bag-shaped body, the plate-shaped body is freely switchable between an expanded state in which all upper surfaces of the plurality of plate materials are exposed to the outside and a stored state in which some of the upper surfaces of the plurality of plate materials are shielded from the outside, The plate-like body and the bag-like body form a cylindrical shape wound circumferentially in the stored state, forming a floating pier.

2. A floating pier as described in claim 1, wherein the plate-like body further comprises a first center of rotation which is a plate material located at one end in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body and which serves as the center of rotation when the plate-like body rotates and transitions from the unfolded state to the stored state, and a second center of rotation which is a plate material located at the other end in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body and which serves as the center of rotation when the plate-like body rotates and transitions from the stored state to the unfolded state.

3. A floating pier as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plate-like body further comprises a storage assistance means consisting of a belt attached to the underside of the plate-like body for assisting the plate-like body and the bag-like body in transitioning to the stored state.

4. 4. The floating pier according to claim 1, wherein the plate-like body further comprises a fixing means on a part thereof for enabling the plate-like body to be fixed to an object.

5. 5. The floating pier according to claim 1, wherein the plate-like body further comprises a towable means on a part thereof that enables the plate-like body to be towed by a ship.

6. 6. A floating pier as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plate-like body further comprises a connecting means on a part thereof for enabling connection to another floating pier.

7. A method for using the floating pier according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: The plate-like body further includes an auxiliary bag-like body that can be filled with a fluid at one end in the longitudinal direction, a step of fixing the other end side of the plate-like body in the longitudinal direction to a ship; A step of deforming the plate-like body to make it submerge below a floating object floating in water; a step of filling the auxiliary bag-shaped body with a fluid to place the floating object between the one end and the other end of the plate-shaped body; A step of filling the bag-shaped body with a fluid to cause the plate-shaped body to float to the water surface and lift the floating object to the water surface; and recovering the lifted floating object.

8. A method for using the floating pier according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: a storing step of storing the plate-like body in the unfolded state from one side in the length direction thereof to return it to the stored state; A method of using a floating pier, comprising a direction changing step of switching the orientation of the stored plate-like body between one side in its longitudinal direction and the other side in its longitudinal direction.

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