Marine surface vessel

Abstract

A landing craft having a modular structure to enable connection with at least one other like landing craft. The landing craft includes a deck platform having an upper deck surface. The landing craft is configured such that no structures of the landing craft permanently extend above a plane of the upper deck surface. The landing craft further includes one or more connection mechanisms to facilitate connection of the landing craft with the at least one other like landing craft in a plurality of configurations. In addition, the landing craft includes one or more movable structures mounted to the deck platform, each movable structure being independently movable between two or more conditions, wherein in at least one condition the movable structure is below or generally flush with the plane of the upper deck surface.

Description

Marine Surface VesselTechnical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a marine surface vessel such as a modular marine surface vessel. In some embodiments, there may be provided a modular and autonomous landing craft, although the scope of the invention may not necessarily be limited thereto.Background of Invention

[0002] Marine surface vessels are essential components of global maritime operations, encompassing a wide array of ships and boats designed to operate on the surface of water bodies. These vessels serve various purposes, ranging from commercial transportation and military defence to scientific research and recreational activities. The diversity in design and function allows marine surface vessels to meet specific operational needs in different maritime environments.

[0003] Commercial marine surface vessels, such as cargo ships and tankers are integral to international trade and logistics, enabling the efficient movement of goods across the world's oceans and waterways.

[0004] Specialised vessels, including research ships, icebreakers, and offshore supply vessels, are designed to perform unique tasks that require specific capabilities, such as conducting scientific studies, navigating ice-covered waters, and supporting offshore drilling platforms.

[0005] In the realm of defence, naval vessels such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, and landing crafts are pivotal in maintaining maritime security and executing military operations. These vessels may be equipped with advanced technologies and weaponry to address various threats and challenges at sea.

[0006] Landing crafts are typically used to transport troops, vehicles, and supplies from sea to shore in military applications. During operation, landing crafts frequently need to return to port for resupply and maintenance. Traditional landing crafts often have limitedonboard storage capacity for fuel, ammunition, and other essential supplies, necessitating regular trips back to port. This not only disrupts the continuity of operations but also extends the duration of missions and increases vulnerability to enemy action during transit.

[0007] In conflict zones, landing crafts can often be exposed to enemy fire during beach landings and while navigating coastal waters. Limited armour and defensive capabilities leave them and their crews vulnerable and susceptible to attacks, which may pose risks to personnel and compromise mission success.

[0008] Current landing crafts provide defence forces with the capability to deliver equipment or personnel to shore based locations with no port facilities. To achieve this, landing crafts generally include a hull with low deadrise angles (i.e., a flat bottom) to assist in beaching activities. Landing crafts also typically include a transport deck and a bow ramp leading to the transport deck to facilitate loading and offloading of equipment or personnel from the respective landing craft.

[0009] Additionally, traditional landing crafts often have limited capabilities in terms of speed, manoeuvrability, and payload capacity. These constraints hinder their ability to quickly and effectively transport large quantities of troops and equipment, especially in challenging sea conditions or against fortified shore defences. The slow transit times and restricted manoeuvrability may make these vessels easy targets and reduce their overall operational utility in modern amphibious warfare.

[0010] Embodiments of the invention may provide a marine surface vessel such as a landing craft which overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the disadvantages or problems described above, or which at least provides a useful choice.

[0011] A reference herein to a patent document or any other matter identified as prior art, is not to be taken as an admission that the document or other matter was known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.Summary of Invention

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a marine surface vessel, and in particular, a landing craft having a modular structure to enable connection with at least one other like landing craft, the landing craft including a deck platform having an upper deck surface, the landing craft being configured such that no structures of the landing craft permanently extend above a plane of the upper deck surface, one or more connection mechanisms to facilitate connection of the landing craft with the at least one other like landing craft in a plurality of configurations, and one or more movable structures mounted to the deck platform, each movable structure being independently movable between two or more conditions, wherein in at least one condition the movable structure is below or generally flush with the plane of the upper deck surface.

[0013] The modular structure of the landing craft and the connection mechanisms enable different landing craft assemblies and the formation of versatile configurations such as helipads, sea trains, jetties and bridges as described in further detail below. This adaptability allows for rapid deployment and reconfiguration to meet different operational needs in a flexible and timely manner. As no structures of the landing craft permanently extend above the plane of the upper deck surface, the upper deck surfaces of the connected landing crafts in the different landing craft assemblies can be aligned to provide larger usable surfaces without any intervening structures that may form obstructions or obstacles in the various configurations. Indeed, the movable structures mounted to the deck platform (such as bulwarks, hatches, ramps, masts, etc) can be moved to a condition whereby the structure is below deck (e.g. hidden) and / or flush with the plane of the upper deck surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the one or more movable structures includes one or more bulwark units, each bulwark unit being independently moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, and wherein each bulwark unit is generally below or flush with the plane of the upper deck surface in the retracted position.

[0015] The independently operable bulwark units allow for the reconstruction or removal of barriers as needed in new configurations of landing craft assemblies. For instance,in a helipad configuration, all bulwark units can be retracted to provide a flat upper deck surface for the safe landing and take-off of helicopters. In a jetty or sea train configuration, some bulwark units can be extended where barriers are desired, while other bulwark units can be retracted to avoid obstructing movement of cargo or vehicles. As such, the bulwark units can be independently and flexibly moved to suit the specific requirements of the configuration and setup.

[0016] The one or more connection mechanisms may be located anywhere on the landing craft. For example, the landing craft may include a hull and a deck platform above the hull. The one or more connection mechanisms may be located on the hull and / or the deck platform. In one embodiment, the one or more connection mechanisms may be provided on the hull. In one embodiment, the one or more connection mechanism may be provided around a periphery of the deck platform, or at peripheral portions of the deck platform.

[0017] Typically, the landing craft includes a port side and a starboard side. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of configurations may comprise a side-to-side configuration in which the port side of the landing craft is connectable to at least a portion of a port side or a starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0018] Generally, the landing craft includes a bow and a stern. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of configurations may comprise an end-to-end configuration in which the bow of the landing craft is connectable to at least a portion of a bow or stern of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0019] In some embodiments, the one of the plurality of configurations may comprise an end-to-side configuration in which the bow of the landing craft is connectable to a portion of a port side or starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0020] In some embodiments, one of the plurality of configurations may comprise an end-to-side configuration in which the stern of the landing craft is connectable to a portion of a port side or starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0021] In various configurations, the landing craft may be coupled to one or more other like landing crafts in any one or more of a side-to-side, end-to-side, side-to-end, and end-to- end configurations.

[0022] The one or more connection mechanisms may include any suitable mechanism, or a combination of different mechanisms to facilitate connection between the landing craft with another like landing craft. For example, one or more connection mechanisms may include magnetic, electromagnetic, vacuum or suction-based coupling systems, or a combination thereof.

[0023] In one embodiment, at least one of the connection mechanisms includes a suction-based coupling system to facilitate connection of the landing craft with the at least one other like landing craft via suction. The suction-based coupling system may include a vacuum pump. Moreover, the suction-based coupling system may include one or more suction ports for creating a suction force to establish a connection with a surface of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0024] One or more of the connection mechanisms may include shock absorbing portions to absorb effects of impact and to cushion the coupling of the landing craft with one or more other like landing crafts. The shock absorbing portions may include a plurality of fenders such as inflatable fenders. The plurality of fenders may be provided adjacent the suction ports. In one embodiment, the plurality of fenders may surround the suction ports. One or more fenders may be provided between the suction ports. The suction-based coupling system may include pressure sensors for detecting and monitoring an internal pressure of the inflatable fenders. The suction-based coupling system may include a gas source (e.g. via one or more compressors) for providing gas flow into an inflatable fender if internal pressure of the respective inflatable fender falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0025] Additionally, or alternatively, damping portions such as resilient members around and / or across an interface of the suction-based coupling system may be provided to further dampen the impact of two landing crafts coming into contact. Any suitable resilient materials may be used, such as various polymers and elastomers such as rubber, silicon, polyurethane, EPDM and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0026] The connection mechanisms may include one or more protrusions for alignment with one or more corresponding recesses of the at least one other like landing craft. In some embodiments, a connection mechanism may include a recess. In some embodiments, aconnection mechanism may include a protrusion. In some embodiments a connection mechanism may include one or more protrusions and / or one or more recesses.

[0027] In some embodiments, the one or more connection mechanisms may include a plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses for alignment with corresponding recesses and protrusions of the at least one other like landing craft. The plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses may be provided along a starboard or port side of the landing craft. In some embodiments, the plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses may be provided around a periphery of the landing craft. More specification, the plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses may be provided along the port side, starboard side, the bow and stern of the landing craft.

[0028] The suction-based coupling system may be located at a recess of the one or more connection mechanisms for creating a suction force to establish a connection with a surface of a corresponding protrusion of the at least one other like landing craft. In some embodiments the suction-based coupling system may be located at a protrusion of the one or more connection mechanisms. In particular, an interface of the suction-based coupling system may be mounted at a recess of the one or more connection mechanisms. A recess of the landing craft may be configured to receive a protrusion of a like landing craft. A protrusion of the landing craft may be configured to be received in a recess of a like landing craft.

[0029] In some embodiments, the landing craft may further include a plurality of suction-based coupling systems. Each suction-based coupling system may be located at a recess along a port or starboard side of the landing craft. In some embodiments, the landing craft may further include a suction-based coupling system located at a stern of the landing craft.

[0030] In some embodiments, a suction-based coupling system may include a base mounted to a body of the landing craft, and a contact member for making contact with the at least one other like landing craft. The contact member may be movable relative to the base. The base may include, form part of or be associate with an enclosure for the suction-based coupling system.

[0031] The suction-based coupling system may further include a guide for moving the contact member relative to the base between retracted and extended positions. The contact member may be at least partially located within the enclosure of the coupling system when it is in the retracted position. Moreover, the contact member may at least partially extend from and out of the enclosure of the coupling system when it is in the extended position.

[0032] The guide may be length adjustable to move the contact member between the retracted and extended positions. In one embodiment, the guide may be telescopically length adjustable. In some embodiments, the guide may include and / or be actuated by one or more pneumatic and / or hydraulic actuators. In one embodiment, the guide may be actuated by a pneumatic single action, spring return piston.

[0033] In some embodiments, the guide is movably mounted to the base so as to allow lateral movement of the contact member relative to the base when the contact member is in an extended position. In particular, the guide may be pivotally mounted to the base such that angular movement of the guide relative to the base results in lateral movement of the contact member relative to the base. During operation, the contact member may move laterally relative to the body of the landing craft (to which the base of the coupling system is mounted) to better align with, and to achieve a better contact with an adjacent like landing craft.

[0034] To stabilise movement of the guide relative to the base, the suction-based coupling system may further include one or more spring damper / suspension systems connecting the guide and the base.

[0035] In some embodiments, the contact member may be a two-part system. For example, the contact member may have an outer portion movably coupled to an inner portion such that the outer portion is movable relative to the inner portion.

[0036] Any suitable coupling mechanism may be used between the inner and outer portions of the contact member. For example, any one or more of spring isolators, resilient components and / or materials, or a combination thereof may be used between the inner and outer portions of the contact member to allow a desired degree of movement of the outer portion relative to the inner portion. During operation, a level of freedom of movement ofthe outer portion of the contact member relative to the inner portion, together with movement of the guide may provide greater flexibility and ability of the suction-based coupling system to make better quality contact with an adjacent landing craft during assembly.

[0037] In some embodiments, the suction ports may be provided on the contact member. In one embodiment, the suction ports may be provided on an outer portion of the contact member for making direct contact with an adjacent landing craft during assembly.

[0038] During operation, once secure contact between the contact member(s) and the adjacent landing craft has been made, the guide may retract to move the adjacent landing craft into position in the desired landing craft assembly.

[0039] In some embodiments, the suction-based coupling system may further include flexible bellows for coupling between the contact member and the at least one other like landing craft to accommodate relative movement between the contact member and a surface of the at least one other like landing craft.

[0040] The deck platform may have a generally rectangular body when viewed from an aerial perspective. In some embodiments, the landing craft may further include a ramp to facilitate loading and unloading of the landing craft. The ramp may extend from the deck platform. The ramp may include a single ramp section or multiple foldable ramp sections. In one embodiment, the ramp may be a bi-fold bow ramp. The ramp may be movable between deployed and stowed positions. In the stowed position, the ramp may be flush with the upper deck surface of the deck platform. Alternatively, the ramp may be positioned under an upper surface of the deck platform in the stowed position.

[0041] The ramp may be movable between the deployed (extended) and stowed (withdrawn) positions manually, autonomously or automatically via remote control.

[0042] The landing craft may further include one or more hatches to provide access to a lower deck area below the upper deck surface. The one or more hatches may have one or more hatch covers which are configured to be generally flush with the deck in a closed position. The one or more hatch covers may move between respective open and closed positions manually, autonomously or automatically via remote control.

[0043] The landing craft may further include barriers (also referred to herein as bulwarks / bulwark units) on one or more sides and / or ends of the landing craft. For example, a bulwark may be provided on the port side and starboard side of the landing craft. Each bulwark may be a single continuous barrier. Alternatively, the bulwarks may include individual and unconnected bulwark units. As mentioned, each bulwark unit may be independently controllable and movable. In some embodiments, two or more units may be controlled centrally for movement together. For example, bulwark units on a port side may be separately controlled to the bulwark units on the starboard side. In one embodiment, the landing craft may include one or more automatically extendable and retractable bulwarks / bulwark units.

[0044] In some embodiments, each bulwark / bulwark unit may be configured to be movable between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration.

[0045] In some embodiments, each bulwark / bulwark unit may include an elongate base mount and one or more supports pivotally mounted to the base mount. The one or more supports may be generally perpendicular to the elongate base mount in the expanded configuration, and the one or more supports may be generally parallel to the elongate base mount in the collapsed configuration. Moreover, each bulwark / bulwark unit may be generally flush with a deck surface of the landing craft in the collapsed configuration.

[0046] The landing craft may further include one or more storage compartments for drones. In some embodiments, the landing craft may further include an automatically retractable and extendable mast.

[0047] In some embodiments, the landing craft is a landing craft. In particular, the landing craft may have a hull with a generally flat base so as to facilitate landing on and retracing from beaches or shallow waters.

[0048] In some embodiments, the landing craft may include a control system for enabling autonomous or remote control of the landing craft. As such, the landing craft may be an uncrewed landing craft.

[0049] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a landing craft assembly including two or more connected landing crafts, each landing craft being a vessel asdescribed herein, the landing crafts being connectable in a plurality of configurations so as to form any one or more of a bridge, a sea train, a platform, a jetty, a wharf and a helicopter landing pad.

[0050] In order that the invention may be more readily understood and put into practice, one or more preferred embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.Brief Description of Drawings

[0052] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a landing craft according to one embodiments.

[0053] FIGURE 2A is a detailed partial view of a connection mechanism including a suction-based coupling system when viewed externally of the landing craft.

[0054] FIGURE 2B is a partial schematic diagram illustrating suction channels of the suction-based coupling system of Figure 2A when viewed internally of the landing craft.

[0055] FIGURE 3 is a landing craft assembly comprising three landing crafts according to one embodiment.

[0056] FIGURE 4 further illustrates the landing craft of Figure 1 in which the bulwarks are in an extended position on a starboard side of the vessel and in a retracted position in a port side.

[0057] FIGURE 5 further illustrates the landing craft of Figure 1 in which the hatch covers are in an open position.

[0058] FIGURE 6 further illustrates the landing craft of Figure 1 in which a shipping container is secured to the deck platform.

[0059] FIGURE 7 illustrates a water jet propulsion system of the landing craft of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

[0060] FIGURE 8 illustrates a landing craft assembly including a plurality of landing craft assembled together to form an example helicopter landing pad configuration according to one embodiment.

[0061] FIGURE 9 is a landing craft assembly including a plurality of landing craft assembled together to form an example sea train configuration according to one embodiment.

[0062] FIGURE 10 is a landing craft assembly including a plurality of landing craft assembled together to form an example bridge configuration according one embodiment.

[0063] FIGURE 11 is a landing craft assembly including a plurality of landing craft assembled together to form an example jetty configuration according one embodiment.

[0064] FIGURE 12A is a partial perspective view of connection mechanisms of two adjacent landing crafts prior to assembly according to another embodiment.

[0065] FIGURE 12B is a partial aerial view of connection mechanisms of two adjacent landing crafts prior to assembly as shown in Figure 12A.

[0066] FIGURE 13A is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a coupling system which forms part of the connection mechanism as shown in Figures 12A and 12B, in which the contact member and guide are in a retracted position.

[0067] FIGURE 13B is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the coupling system as shown in Figure 13A, in which the contact member and guide are in an extended position.

[0068] FIGURES 13C to 13F are schematic diagrams illustrating a cross-sectional view of the coupling system as shown in Figures 13A and 13B, in which the contact member is in contact with a surface of an adjacent landing craft.

[0069] FIGURE 14A is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a coupling system according to another embodiment, in which the contact member and guide are in a retracted position.

[0070] FIGURE 14B is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the coupling system as shown in Figure 14A, in which the contact member and guide are in an extended position.

[0071] FIGURE 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a control module for the coupling system onboard the landing craft.

[0072] FIGURE 16A is a front view of a bulwark / bulwark unit in an expanded configuration according to one embodiment.

[0073] FIGURE 16B is a front view of the bulwark / bulwark unit of Figure 16A in a partially expanded and partially collapsed configuration.

[0074] FIGURE 16C is a perspective view of the bulwark / bulwark unit shown in Figure 16B.

[0075] FIGURE 16D is a perspective view of the bulwark / bulwark unit of Figures 16A to 16C in a collapsed configuration.

[0076] FIGURE 17A is a perspective view of the bulwark / bulwark unit of Figures 16A to 16D in an expanded configuration extending from the deck platform.

[0077] FIGURE 17B is a perspective view of the bulwark / bulwark unit of Figures 16A to 16D in a collapsed configuration generally flush with the upper deck surface of the deck platform.

[0078] FIGURE 18 is a perspective view of a landing craft assembly in a jetty configuration illustrating that the bulwark units can be independently moved and configured to suit operating requirements of the particular assembly.

[0079] FIGURE 19 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a main control and navigation system of the landing craft according to one embodiment.Detailed Description

[0080] A landing craft 10 according to one embodiment is illustrated in Figures 1 to 7. As illustrated in Figure 1, the landing craft 10 has a port side 12, a starboard side 14, a bow 16and a stern 18. Moreover, the landing craft 10 has a modular structure to enable connections with one or more other landing crafts having a similar modular structure as landing craft 10 (e.g. see Figures 3, 8 to 11). In the present specification, the term "modular structure" refers to a structure (including shape and configuration) that can be easily connected with other similar or compatible modular structures to form a larger assembly or system. Each landing craft 10 having the modular structure is self-contained and performs all necessary functions of a landing craft, and when combined with other landing craft modules, contributes to the overall functionality of a larger assembly.

[0081] In the embodiment described herein, the landing craft 10 includes a plurality of connection mechanisms 20 distributed along the outer periphery of the landing craft 10 to facilitate connection of the landing craft 10 with other like landing crafts. In particular, the connection mechanisms 20 are located along the starboard side 14, port side 12, bow 16 and stern 15 of the landing craft 10, and around the deck platform 22. The connection mechanism 20 will be described in further detail below with reference to Figures 2A to 2B.

[0082] The connection mechanisms 20 provides an interface and enables coupling between the modular landing crafts 10 to form the larger assembly described herein, for example with reference to Figures 3, 8 to 11. The modular structure of the vessels 10 and their respective connection mechanisms 20 provide compatibility and interoperability between the modular vessels 10, allowing them to be connected and function together as a single unit. Moreover, the modular structure also allows the landing crafts 10 to be connected in many different configurations for form different assemblies, thereby providing flexibility, scalability and adaptability to provide the required functionalities.

[0083] As more clearly shown in Figures 1, 4, 5 and 6, the landing craft 10 has a hull 76, and a deck platform 22 above the hull 76. The hull 76 may have a generally flat base (more clearly shown in Figure 6) so as to facilitate landing on and retracing from beaches or shallow waters.

[0084] The deck platform 22 has a generally rectangular body when viewed from an aerial perspective (e.g. see Figure 4). The rectangular body of the deck platform 22 contributes to the modular structure of the landing craft 10 and more readily facilitates alignment and coupling between adjacent landing crafts 10 when two or more landing crafts10 are connected together to form an assembly in different configurations, for example as shown in Figures 3, 8 to 11.

[0085] As more clearly shown in Figures 1, 3, 6, 8, 9 and 10, the deck platform 22 has an upper deck surface 21. The landing craft 10 is configured such that no structures of the landing craft permanently extend above a plane of the upper deck surface. Whilst a number of structures such as hatch covers 26 and bulwark units 30 may be moved into a condition that extends beyond the plane of the upper deck surface (e.g. see Figure 1 in which the hatch covers 26 are in an open position), the structures are movable and can be moved into a condition whereby the structures are either below or flush with the plane of the upper deck surface 21. This provides a generally flat upper deck surface such that when two or more landing crafts 10 are connected in one or more configurations, the upper deck surfaces of each of the landing crafts 10 can be aligned to form a larger usable surface free of obstructions and obstacles.

[0086] As illustrated in Figure 6, cargo such as shipping containers 28 may be mounted to the deck platform 22 via any suitable means. For example, fasteners such as retractable twist lock systems may be used to secure shipping containers 28 to the deck platform 22.

[0087] Reverting to Figures 1 and 5, the landing craft 10 further includes hatches 24 to provide access to a lower deck area below surface of the deck platform 22. The lower deck area may be used for storage. For example, cargo storage including storage of supplies and provisions, fuel, equipment and spare parts. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 5, a plurality of shipping containers 28 may be stored in the lower deck area. In some embodiments, the shipping containers 28 may be mounted or secured to tracks and / or rollers to facilitate automatic loading, unloading and movement of the shipping containers within the lower deck area.

[0088] A plurality of hatch covers 26 are movable between an open position (as shown on Figures 1 and 5) and a closed position (as shown in Figures 4 and 6). Typically, the hatch covers 26 are configured to be flush with a surface of the deck platform 22 when the covers 26 are in a closed position. Shipping containers 28 and other cargo may be automatically loaded into, and unloaded from, the lower deck area (e.g. by helicopter, crane or the like) when the hatch covers 26 are in their respective open positions. When the hatch covers 26are in the respective closed positions, they generally align seamlessly with the surrounding surface of the deck platform 22. This configuration ensures that the overall surface of the deck platform 22 remains flat. As a result, the hatch covers 26 integrate smoothly into the deck platform 22 without protruding or creating any obstacles that could interfere with the movement of other objects or components on the surface of the deck platform 22. Specifically, the hatch covers 26 are dimensioned and configured such that, upon closing, their upper surfaces are level with the adjacent surfaces of the deck platform 22. As mentioned, this design minimises any potential disruptions or impediments to moving parts. In some embodiments, the one or more hatch covers 26 can move between respective open and closed positions autonomously or automatically via remote control. The movement of the hatch covers 26 may be driven via any suitable actuator, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, electric motors, linear or rotary actuators and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0089] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 4, the landing craft 10 further includes barriers (also referred to herein as bulwarks / bulwark units) located generally along a periphery of the deck platform 22, for example along the starboard side 14 and port side 12 of the vessel 10. Each barrier may be formed by a plurality of discrete bulwark units 30. Each of the bulwark units 30 may be independently extendable and retractable such that the overall side and length of the barrier created by the bulwark units 30 may be adjustable. As explained in further detail below with reference to Figure 18, independently movable bulwark units 30 are also useful in landing craft assembly configurations whereby individual bulwark units 30 can be configured in the extended or retracted position to meet operating requirements of the assembly.

[0090] In some embodiments, some or all of the bulwark units 30 may be movable between extended and retracted positions concurrently. For example, movement of the bulwark units 30 on the starboard side 14 may be controlled independently from the bulwark units 30 on the port side 12. Alternatively, movement of all bulwark units 30 on both sides 12, 14 of the vessel 10 may be controlled centrally such that all bulwark units 30 move between retracted and extended positions concurrently.

[0091] In the extended positions, the bulwark units 30 may provide a safety barrier for cargo from falling overboard, particularly in rough sea conditions, and serve to protect thedeck and cargo from sea spray and waves, thereby reducing the impact of harsh marine environments on the vessel's operational areas, including the deck platform 22. Space between bulwark units 30 provide efficient drainage of water from the surface of the deck platform 22. In some embodiments, the bulwarks 30 may be automatically extendable and retractable. Similarly to the hatch covers 26, movement of the bulwark units 30 may be driven via any suitable actuator, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, electric motors, linear or rotary actuators and the like, or any combination thereof. One example configuration of a bulwark unit 800 will be described in further detail below with reference to Figures 16A to 17B.

[0092] The landing craft 10 further includes storage compartments 32 for mission support systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles or drones. The storage compartments 32 may include respective covers 34. The covers 34 may be automatically movable between open and closed positions, to allow autonomous or remote-controlled deployment of drones from the storage compartments 32.

[0093] Moreover, the landing craft 10 includes an automatically retractable and extendable mast 36. In various embodiments, the mast 36 may be used for mounting communications equipment such as antennas, to facilitate effective communication with other vessels, aircrafts and command centres, which may facilitate coordination of operations and manoeuvres of the landing crafts 10. The mast 36 may support radar systems and other surveillance equipment, mounting of navigation lights, beacons, and / or other navigational aids. In some embodiments, the mast 36 may allow mounting of various sensors and detection systems, such as cameras, optical equipment, environmental sensors, weather instruments and the like. Movement of the covers 34 and mast 36 may be driven via any suitable actuator, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, electric motors, linear or rotary actuators and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0094] As illustrated in Figure 1, the landing craft 10 further includes bi-fold bow ramp 38 to facilitate loading and unloading of the landing craft 10. In some embodiments, the ramp 38 may operate autonomously or automatically via remote control. The ramp 38 may also be deployed when the landing craft 10 forms part of a landing craft assembly to form a particular structure, such as a bridge as shown in Figure 10. The ramp 38 may beautomatically foldable and withdrawn in a stowed position, for example as shown in Figure 4. In the stowed position, the ramp 38 may be flush with the upper surface of the deck platform 22 or hidden under the surface of the deck platform 22.

[0095] The landing craft 10 may include any suitable propulsion system. In one embodiment, the landing craft 10 may include a waterjet propulsion system 70 as illustrated in Figure 7. The waterjet propulsion system 700 may include two waterjet propulsion modules. Each module includes a pump 72 for drawing water from an intake (hidden) located at the bottom of the hull 76 of the landing craft 10 and expelling water through a nozzle 74 at the stern 18. The direction and angle of the nozzle 74 can be adjusted to steer the vessel 10. The pump may be a high-speed pump of any type, for example a centrifugal or axial-flow pump. Typically, the pump 72 is driven by an engine, such as a diesel, gas turbine or electric engine.

[0096] Now referring to Figures 2A and 2B, a connection mechanism 20 or a portion of a connection mechanism 20 according to one embodiment is illustrated. As shown in Figure 2A, the connection mechanism 20 includes a suction-based coupling system 50 to facilitate connection of the landing craft 10 with a surface of a like landing craft 10 via suction. More specifically, the suction-based coupling system 50 includes a plurality of suction ports 52 for creating a suction force to establish a connection with a surface of another like landing craft 10. Figure 2B illustrates a portion of the suction-based coupling system 50 when viewed from internally of the landing craft 10. As shown in Figure 2B, respective suction channels 54 provide fluid communication between the suction ports 52 and a vacuum pump (not shown) via vacuum hose 56. The vacuum hose 56 may be connected to the suction channels 54 via an adaptor 58. During operation, the vacuum pump is activated to move air from externally of the suction ports 52 into the suction channels 54 and vacuum hose 56. Typically, the air from the vacuum hose 56 flows through the vacuum pump and is expelled through an outlet valve of the vacuum pump. This movement of air creates a pressure differential which results in a suction force when an interfacing surface portion of a like landing craft 10 (e.g. protrusion 66 of a like vessel) contacts the suction-based coupling system 50. Once the interfacing surface portion of the like landing craft 10 contacts the suction-based coupling system 50, a low-pressure zone within the suction channels 52, adaptor 58 and vacuum hose 56 is created, thereby providing a sustained suction force to hold the interfacing surfaceportion in place while the vacuum pump remains activated. A motor speed of the vacuum pump may be adjusted to adjust the suction power as required. When it is desirable to separate the interfacing surface portion of the like landing craft 10 from the suction-based coupling system 50, the vacuum pump may be deactivated to remove the suction force from the suction ports 52 so that the interfacing surface portion of the like landing craft 10 easily separates from the suction-based coupling system 50.

[0097] As more clearly shown in Figure 2A, the suction-based coupling system 50 may further include one or more shock absorbers 60. In the specific embodiment shown, six inflatable fenders 60 may be provided in each suction-based coupling system 50. The inflatable fenders maybe provided between and around the suction ports 52 to provide shock absorption and cushioning effects when two vessels 10 are moving into and out of connected and assembled positions so as to reduce impact and protect respective surface portions of the vessels 10 from damage. The suction-based coupling system 50 may further include sensors such as pressure sensors to detect an internal pressure of each inflatable fender 60. The detected internal pressure values may be monitored against a predetermined pressure threshold so that a controller may determine when there is insufficient air in and / or a fault associated with an inflatable fender 60.

[0098] The suction-based coupling system 50 may include further shock absorbing features such as edge portions 62, bands, bulges, protrusions and the like made from a resilient material such as rubber or other elastomeric / polymer material. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2A, resilient edging and resilient transverse members (e.g. stripes) may be provided for additional damping and sock absorbing effects.

[0099] The connection mechanism 20 may further include a recessed portion 64 in which an interface of the suction-based coupling system 50 is mounted. The recessed portion 64 may be located between a pair of protrusions 66. As more clearly shown in Figures 1, 4 to 6, alternating recesses 64 and protrusions 66 may be provided along an entire length of the port side 12 and starboard side 14 (hidden) of the landing craft 10.

[0100] As more clearly shown in Figures 4 and 5, a protrusion 66 may be provided at the bow 16 of the landing craft 10, and a recess 64 (between two protrusions 66) may be provided at the stern 18 of the landing craft 10. Whilst hidden from view, a suction-basedcoupling system 50 may be provided at the recessed portion 64 of the stern 18 in a similar manner as shown in Figure 2A. In an alternative embodiment, a protrusion 66 may be provided at the stern 18 of the landing craft 10, and a recess 64 (between two protrusions 66) providing an interface of the suction-based coupling system 50 may be provided at the bow 16 of the landing craft 10.

[0101] When a first and a second landing crafts 10 are assembled together, any one of the protrusions 66 of the first landing craft 10 may be received in any one of the recesses 64 of the second landing craft 10 so as to create any suitably shaped larger structure. The protrusions 66 therefore interface with the suction-based coupling system 50 during assembly, and jagged structure created by the alternating recessed 64 and protrusions 66 facilitate alignment between the first and second landing crafts 10 and facilitates prevention of undesirable lateral (e.g. sliding) movement between the first and second landing crafts.

[0102] A landing craft assembly 100 including three modular landing crafts 102, 104, 106 connected together to form a platform or jetty like structure in one possible configuration is illustrated in Figure 3. Each of the modular landing crafts 102, 104, 106 is the same or similar to landing craft 10 as described with reference to Figures 1, 2A, 2B, 4 to 7, where like numerals refer to like features described herein. In the assembly 100, two landing crafts 102, 104 are assembled in a side-to-side configuration in which a port side 12 of the landing craft 102 is coupled to the starboard side 14 of landing craft 104. In the side-to-side configuration illustrated in Figure 3, the bow and stern of the vessels 102, 104 are aligned. In some embodiments, when two vessels 10 are assembled in a side-to-side configuration, the bow and stern of the respective vessels 10 may be misaligned (or staggered), for example as shown in Figure 10.

[0103] Modular landing crafts 104, 106 are assembled in an end-to-side or side-to-end configuration in which the bow of landing craft 106 is coupled to a portion of a side (in this example, a port side) of landing craft 104. In various embodiments, the bow of the landing craft 106 may couple with any suitable portion of either side (port or starboard) of another landing craft 102 or 104. More specifically, the protrusion 66 at the bow of the landing craft 106 may be received by any one of the recesses 64 on a port or starboard side of the other landing craft 102 or 104. Similarly, recess 64 of the landing craft 106 may receive any suitableprotrusion 66 on a port or starboard side of the other landing craft 102 or 104 in an end-to- side or side-to-end configuration.

[0104] In some landing craft assemblies, such as the marine surface assembly 300 as illustrated in Figure 9, modular landing crafts 302, 304, 306 are assembled in an end-to-end configuration in which the bow of landing craft 302 is coupled to the stern of landing craft 304, and the bow of landing craft 304 is coupled to stern of landing craft 306 to form a sea train assembly.

[0105] As such, any suitable number of modular landing crafts may be assembled in any suitable combination of one or more side-to-side, end-to-side, side-to-end, end-to-end configurations to form landing craft assemblies of any suitable shape and side. For example, figure 8 illustrates three modular landing crafts 202, 204, 206 in side-to-side configurations to form a helicopter landing pad.

[0106] Figure 10 illustrates four modular surface vessels 402, 404, 406, 408 in a combination of end-to-end, and staggered side-to-side configurations to form a bridge. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, respective ramps 38 of the end modular landing crafts 402, 408 are deployed to facilitate loading and unloading operations to and from the bridge assembly 400.

[0107] Figure 11 illustrates four modular surface vessels 502, 504, 506, 508 in a combination of end-to-end, and side-to-end / end-to-side configurations to form a wharf. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, ramp 38 of an end modular landing crafts 508 may be deployed to facilitate loading and unloading operations between the wharf assembly 500 and land.

[0108] Whilst the embodiments of landing crafts 10 described herein generally relate to landing crafts, it will be understood that the modular structure and flexible assembly capabilities described herein can be applied to any suitable marine surface vessel, for example barges, boats, work vessels and the like.

[0109] In some embodiments, the landing craft may include a control system for enabling autonomous or remote control of the landing craft 10. The control system may be an autonomous control system operatively configured to enable both autonomous andremote control of the landing craft 10. For example, the control system may enable autonomous and / or remote control of the trajectory (e.g. speed, direction and route) of the vessel 10. In addition, the control system may enable autonomous and / or remote control of movable components of the vessel 10, such as hatch covers 36, ramp 38 and bulwarks 30. The control system may also control alignment and assembly of a plurality of modular landing crafts as described herein. The control system may communicate with a command centre that coordinates the operation of a plurality of landing crafts 10.

[0110] In particular, the control system may include central processing unit (CPU) configured to execute algorithms for navigation, obstacle avoidance, and mission planning. It may process input from various sensors and makes real-time decisions to control the vessel's movement and operations. The control system may include a plurality of sensors including GPS, radar, LiDAR, sonar, and / or cameras and the like, or any combination thereof. These sensors provide comprehensive environmental data, enabling the CPU to assess the vessel's surroundings, detect obstacles, and determine its precise location.

[0111] The control system may also include an autonomous navigation module. The navigation module may include pre-programmed routes and dynamic pathfinding algorithms. In some instances, the vessel 10 may follow predetermined courses while adjusting in realtime based on sensor input to avoid obstacles and optimise routes.

[0112] When forming a landing craft assembly including two or more landing crafts 10 as described herein, the navigation module may be used to position and align the vessels 10 to enable a desired configuration (e.g. side-to-side, side-to-end, end-to-side, end-to-end). The vessels may initially be spaced at safe distance from one another before coupling or pairing operations begin. Sensors such as proximity sensors at the periphery of the vessels 10, such as provided at or near the connection mechanisms 20 may provide an indication of whether the vessels 10 are correctly positioned relative to one another. Once the sensors indicate that the vessels 10 are correctly positioned, the relevant suction-based coupling systems may be activated and the vessels 10 may begin to move closer to one another until contact is made between the vessels 10. The assembly of two or more landing crafts 10 in this manner may be controlled via a mission control centre or central command centre.

[0113] The control system may also include a remote communication interface for communicating with a mission control or remote / central command centre and receive remote control signals. It may use satellite, radio, cellular communication and the like, or any combination thereof to transmit data between the vessel 10 and a remote-control station, enabling operators to oversee and direct the vessel's operations when needed. Further detail of a main onboard control and navigation system 900 according to one example embodiment will be described in further detail below with reference to Figure 19.

[0114] As such, a landing craft 10 according to various embodiments as described herein may be an uncrewed landing craft 10. Such an uncrewed landing craft 10 provides enhances safety by mitigating the risk of exposing crew members severe weather or other environmental dangers, and / or hostile territories during critical missions. It also provides operational flexibility, for example in inaccessible area or extended missions without the need for crew rest or rotation providing continuous operation and / or data collection in challenging environment as required.

[0115] Now referring to Figures 12A and 12B, which illustrate connection mechanisms according to alternative embodiments. Figures 12A and 12B illustrate partial views of two adjacent landing crafts 602, 604 prior to assembly in a side-to-side configuration. A plurality of connection mechanisms 606 along respective port and starboard sides are provided and protrude laterally from a periphery of the deck platform 608. As such, the connection mechanisms 606 may be provided at spaced protrusions along the periphery of the deck platform 608 as shown in Figures 12A and 12B. Cross-sectional views of a connection mechanism 606 according to one embodiment are illustrated in Figures 13A to 13F.

[0116] As shown in Figure 13A, the connection mechanism 606 has a modular structure. In particular, the connection mechanism 606 includes an enclosure 610 (e.g. having a generally C or U-shaped cross section). The enclosure 60 may include shock absorbing features such as edge portions 618, 620 typically made from a resilient material such as rubber or other elastomeric / polymer material. The shock absorbing edge portions 618, 620 facilitate absorption of vibrations and soften the impact when adjacent landing crafts 612, 608 are brought into contact.

[0117] The enclosure 610 includes a base 612 having a guide 614 movably mounted thereto. In one embodiment, the guide 614 may be pivotally mounted to the base 612 of the enclosure 610. However, alternative mounting arrangements may be used, for example, any one or more of a hinge joint, flexible coupling, bearings, ball and socket joint and the like, or any combination thereof may be used. The guide 614 is length adjustable such that it can transition between a retracted position (see Figure 13A), and an extended position (see Figure 13B). Any suitable actuator may be used to adjust the length of the guide 614. For example, one or more pneumatic and / or hydraulic actuators may be used to move the guide 614 between retracted and extended positions. In one embodiment, the guide may be actuated by a pneumatic single action, spring return piston to facilitate extension of the guide beyond the enclosure 610 and retraction of the guide and contact member within the enclosure 610 to protect the connection mechanism 606 when not in use.

[0118] A contact member 616 may be mounted to a free end of the guide 614 as shown in Figures 13A and 13B. When the guide 614 is in the retracted position, the contact member 616 is located generally within the enclosure 610 (Figure 13A). When the guide 614 is in the extended position, the contact member 616 extends outwardly from the enclosure 610 (Figure 13B). During operation, when one landing craft 602 is preparing for coupling to an adjacent landing craft 604, the guide 614 moves to an extended position so that the contact member 616 can more readily make contact with a desired surface portion of the adjacent landing craft 604 (e.g. see Figure 13C).

[0119] Whilst not shown in the figures, in some embodiments, the guide 614 may be adjusted to any desired length. The guide 614 may be adjustable to extend at any suitable length from the base 612 of the connection mechanism 606. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be used to determine the desired length of the guide 614 for making contact with the adjacent landing craft 604. In some embodiments, a control sub-system of the landing craft 602 for controlling operations of the connection mechanisms 606 may be configured to selectively activate and extend the length of the guide 614 until a maximum length is reached and / or contact is made with the adjacent landing craft 604. Any suitable sensors such as any one or more of proximity, pressure and contact sensors may be used to determine when the contact member 616 makes contact with a surface of the adjacentlanding craft 604. Details of the control sub-system 700 according to one embodiment will be described in more detail later with reference to Figure 15.

[0120] Spring damper / suspension systems 622, 624 may be provided to stabilise movement of the guide 614. The spring damper systems 622, 624 may serve to resist and dissipate relative motion between the adjacent landing crafts 602, 604 to reduce stress on the connection mechanisms 606 and suction ports. In some embodiments, more than one guide 614 may be provided for each connection mechanism 606. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 13A and 13B, one or more upper spring damper systems 622 connect the guide 614 to an upper portion of the enclosure 610, and one or more lower spring damper systems 624 connect the guide 614 to a lower portion of the enclosure 610.

[0121] The contact member 616 may comprise two parts movably coupled together. In particular, the contact member 616 may include an outer portion 626 movably coupled to an inner portion 628. One or more spring isolators 630 may be used to couple the outer portion 626 to the inner portion 628. In some alternative embodiments, any resilient component or material may be used to flexibly / movably couple the outer portion 626 to the inner portion 628 such that a degree of movement between the outer portion 626 and inner portion 628 is permissible. As explained in more detail later and illustrated in Figures 13D and 13F, the relative movement between the outer portion 626 and the inner portion 628 provide the connection mechanism 606 with more flexibility and improves its ability to make suitable contact with a moving surface of the adjacent landing craft 604 during assembly more effectively and efficiently.

[0122] As more clearly shown in Figures 13E to 13D, to connect adjacent landing crafts 602, 604, the relevant connection mechanisms 606 are activated and the respective guides 614 are extended such that the contact member 616 extends from the enclosure 610 of the connection mechanism 606 until the outer portion 626 of the contact member 616 makes contact with a surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604.

[0123] The angular movement of the guide 614 relative to the base 612 of the enclosure 610 (Figures 13E and 13F) allows lateral movement of the contact member 616 relative to the base 612. This lateral movement of the contact member 616 combined with the mobility of the outer portion 626 relative to the inner portion 628 (Figures 13F and 13D) providesmultiple degrees of freedom in movement of the outer portion 626, which improves the probability of making suitable contact between two moving adjacent landing crafts 602, 604 during assembly in a timely manner. In the event that an initial contact between the contact member 616 and the surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604 is poor, the contact member 616 may return to its retracted position within the enclosure 610 (Figure 13A) momentarily, before reactivating the extension of the guide 614 for a subsequent connection attempt.

[0124] Once satisfactory connection at all relevant connection mechanisms 606 between the adjacent landing crafts 602, 604 are made, and each contact member 616 is securely coupled to a surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604 (e.g. see Figure 13C), the guide 614 may retract so that the adjacent landing crafts 604 are brought into contact with one another. In this arrangement, the protrusions 634 which provide the connection mechanisms 606 along the periphery of each landing craft 602 are received in corresponding recesses 636 (between adjacent protrusions 634) of the adjacent landing craft 604. The shock absorbing edge portions 618, 620 may absorb any impact from the two adjacent landing craft 604 coming into contact and protect the contact surfaces 632 from damage.

[0125] A further alternative embodiment of a connection mechanism 650 is illustrated in Figures 14A and 14B, in which like features refer to those previously described with reference to Figures 13A to 13F.

[0126] The connection mechanism 650 of Figures 14A and 14B further includes flexible bellows 652 for coupling between the contact member 616 and the surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604. The flexible bellows 652 may facilitate accommodating relative movement between the contact member 616 and a surface 632 during assembly (e.g. relative movement between two adjacent landing crafts moving into assembly).

[0127] Like the previously described connection mechanisms 20 of landing craft 10, the connection mechanisms 606 and 650 may be suction-based coupling systems in which the suction system operates in a similar manner to that previously described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B. In particular, the suction ports (not shown) may be provided through the contact member 616. The suction ports are configured for fluid communication with one ormore suction pumps so as to provide the required suction force to securely couple the surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604 to the contact member 616.

[0128] A control sub-system 700 for controlling operations of the connection mechanisms 606 according to one embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 15. The control sub-system 700 (also referred to herein as the control module 700) forms part of the main control and navigation system 900 onboard the landing craft 602, which will be described in further detail with reference to Figure 19.

[0129] As illustrated in the schematic diagram of Figure 15, the control module 700 is a control sub-system for a plurality of connection mechanisms 606 onboard a modular landing craft 602, 604 according to an embodiment. Whilst three connection mechanisms 606 are shown in Figure 15, it will be understood that the control module 700 may be configured to control the operation of any suitable number of connection mechanisms 606 on the landing craft 602, 604. Moreover, the schematic diagram of Figure 15 only shows main components of one of the connection mechanisms 606. It will be understood that all connection mechanisms 606 controlled by the control module 700 are the same or similar to the connection mechanism 606 described herein and therefore comprise the same or similar components.

[0130] Solid lines 706 in Figure 15 denote fluid conduits, whilst broken lines 708 denote electrical connection for signal transmission. The electrical connections can be wired and / or wireless connections.

[0131] Each of the connection mechanisms 606 includes a suction-based coupling system in which one or more suction ports (not shown) are provided via the respective contact member 616. To provide the required suction force, the suction ports are connected in fluid communication with one or more vacuum pumps 704.

[0132] A system pressure transducer 712 may be connected to the one or more vacuum pumps 704 to measure the overall pressure in the overall system, which includes all individual suction-based coupling systems 606 connected to the one or more vacuum pumps 704. The pressure measurement output from the system pressure transducer 712 can be transmitted to a connection mechanisms controller 714, which controls the operation of thevacuum pumps 704 to ensure that suction force in overall system 700 is maintained at desired levels.

[0133] A system flow transducer 710 may be connected to the one or more vacuum pumps 704 to measure the flow rate of the air within the overall system 700 (including all individual suction-based coupling systems 606 connected to the one or more vacuum pumps 704). The flow rate measurements from the system flow transducer 710 can be transmitted to the controller 714. The controller 714 may be configured to monitor the flow rate measurements and controls operation of the vacuum pumps 704 to maintain optimal performance. For example, the controller 714 may dynamically adjust power to any one or more of the vacuum pumps 704 to dynamically adjust the suction force so that it is maintained within desired threshold levels. The controller 714 may also be configured to monitor the flow rate measurements from the system flow transducer 710 for early detection of potential blockages or leaks.

[0134] For each connection mechanism 606, an individual device level flow transducer 718 and pressure transducer 720 may be provided in fluid communication with the suction ports of the contact member 616 to measure local pressure and flow rate at each of the connection mechanisms 606. The local flow and pressure transducers 718, 720 provide the pressure and flow rate measurements at each of the connection mechanisms 606 to the controller 714, so that the controller 714 can monitor the suction force and operation of each individual connection mechanism 606, and accordingly adjust the flow rate and pressure delivered to each connection mechanism 606 by controlling the operation of the vacuum pumps 704 and valves 722 (e.g. solenoid valves).

[0135] One or more filters 716 may be coupled to the suction ports of each connection mechanism 606 to prevent contaminants from entering the fluid conduits 706 of the suction system 700. This ensures only clean air enters the suction system 700 and thereby prevents blockages, and protects components from damage and wear, and facilitates maintaining efficiency and longevity of the system 700.

[0136] A proximity sensor 730 may be provided in or adjacent each connection mechanism 606 on the landing craft 602 to detect contact with or proximity to an adjacent landing craft 604 during assembly and disassembly.

[0137] To facilitate decoupling between a connection mechanism 606 and a surface 632 of an adjacent landing craft 604, each of the connection mechanisms 606 is also connected in fluid communication to one or more compressors 728. Flow transducer 726 coupled to the one or more compressors 728 measure the flow rate of gases delivered by the compressors 728 so that the controller 714 can operate the compressors accordingly and monitor their operation based on the flow rate measurements. The controller 714 can control whether to deliver compressor gases to each of the connection mechanisms 606, and / or control the amount of compressor gases delivered by operation of a valve (e.g. solenoid valve) 724.

[0138] In some scenarios, the controller 714 may be configured to determine whether a contact attempt between the a particular connection mechanism 606 and a surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604 has failed, for example due to excessive relative movement or misalignment, based on the various sensor feedback from any one or more of the respective proximity sensor 730 and local and system flow and pressure transducers 718, 720, 710, 712. If a failed contact attempt has been determined, the controller 714 may activate the relevant value 724 and compressors 728 to decouple the relevant contact member 616 from the surface 632 of the adjacent landing craft 604, and withdraw / shorten the respective guide 614 before commencing a subsequent contact attempt.

[0139] The one or more compressors 728 may also be used to operate the pneumatic actuator 702 associated with each length adjustable guide 614 of each connection mechanism 606.

[0140] The connection mechanisms controller 714 may receive operating instructions to assemble or disassemble from adjacent landing craft(s) 604 from a main onboard controller / computer 918, which may receive remote / external command signals via communication system 914 as described in further detail below with reference to Figure 19.

[0141] During assembly and disassembly of landing crafts one or more other structures of each of the landing crafts, such as bulwarks, masts, hatches and the like may also be moved between extended / expanded and retracted / col lapsed positions.

[0142] The configuration of a movable bulwark unit structure 800 according to one embodiment is illustrated in Figures 16A to 17B. Figure 16A illustrates a front view of abulwark unit 800 in an expanded / extended configuration. In this embodiment, the bulwark unit 800 includes two independently movable parts 802, 804 extending from an elongate base 826. As more clearly illustrated in Figures 16B and 16C, the two movable bulwark parts 802, 804 can be independently expanded and collapsed. In some embodiments, both bulwark parts 802, 804 may be moved between expanded and collapsed positions simultaneously.

[0143] The two movable bulwark parts 802, 804 may be generally symmetrical in design and configured to move in opposite directions to transition between their respective expanded and collapsed positions. For succinctness, the design of one of the two bulwark parts 802 will be described in more detail herein and it will be understood that like features of the other bulwark part 804 correspond to those described with reference to bulwark part 802.

[0144] The bulwark part 802 includes two support members 806, 808 pivotally mounted to the base 826. A plurality of cross members 810, 822, 814 extend between the two support members 806, 808 and are pivotally mounted to the support members 806, 808. Whilst three cross members 810, 822, 814 are shown, it will be understood that any suitable number of cross members (e.g. one or more cross members) can be provided in any suitable shape, size and orientation. Similarly, a single upright support, or more than two support members may be provided in alternative bulwark embodiments.

[0145] In the expanded position, the bulwark part 802 as illustrated in Figuresl6A to 16C occupies a larger volume of space and the support members 806, 808 are generally perpendicular to the elongate base 826. As the support members 806, 808 are movably mounted to the base 826, for example via pivot joints 820, 822 respectively, and the cross members 810, 822, 814 are also pivotally mounted to the support members 806, 808, the support members 806, 808 may pivot relative to the base 826 so as to move into a collapsed position as shown in Figure 16D. In the collapsed position, the support members 806, 808 are generally parallel with the elongate base 826, and all support members 806, 808 and cross members 810, 812, 814 are stacked in a compact configuration such that the bulwark unit 800 occupies a much smaller volume of space in the collapsed position. As more clearly shown in Figure 16D, both bulwark parts 802, 804 are in the collapsed position, and thecollapsed bulwark unit 800 is compact and occupies a much smaller volume of space when compared to the bulwark unit 800 in the expanded configuration.

[0146] As shown in Figures 17A and 17B, the bulwark unit 800 is installed in a section of the deck platform 22. In particular, the base 826 is mounted to a recess in the deck platform 22. When the bulwark unit 800 is in the expanded configuration, the support members 806, 816 of both bulwark parts 802, 804, together with the respective cross members 810, 818 extend from an upper deck surface 21 of the deck platform as shown in Figure 17A. When the bulwark unit 800 is in the collapsed configuration, the support members 806, 816 of both bulwark parts 802, 804, together with the respective cross members 810, 818 fit within the envelope of the recess such that the collapsed bulwark unit 800 is below or flush with the upper deck surface 21 of the deck platform as shown in Figure 17B.

[0147] Any suitable actuators may be used to move the bulwark units 800 between expanded and collapsed configurations. For example, any one or more of motors, pneumatic and / or hydraulic actuators may be used.

[0148] In the collapsed configuration, the bulwark units 800 can fit into a reduced volume of space close to the upper deck surface 21. This space saving configuration also prevents the retracted / col lapsed bulwark units 800 from interfering with other components of the landing craft, such as connection mechanisms 20, 606 which may also be provided at a periphery of the deck platform 22. In some embodiments, the connection mechanisms 606 may be installed under or near the bulwark units 800 at a periphery of the deck platform 22.

[0149] In some embodiments, the bulwark unit 800 may be moved into a partially collapsed or partially expanded position in which either one of the two bulwark parts 802, 804 is expanded and the other bulwark part 802, 804 is collapsed, for example as shown in Figures 16C and 16B.

[0150] In some embodiments, a landing craft 602, 604 includes a plurality of bulwark units 800, and each bulwark unit 800 can be independently controlled to be in a collapsed position, expanded configuration, or partially collapsed / expanded configuration.

[0151] In an example scenario shown in Figure 18, two landing crafts 602, 604 as assembled in a jetty configuration, whereby all bulwark units on one of the landing crafts 602are in the expanded configuration, to act as safety barriers, and some of the bulwark units of the adjacent connected landing craft 604 are in the expanded configuration, whilst other bulwark units of the landing craft 604 are in the collapsed configuration. When the bulwark units 800 are in the collapsed configuration, they do not protrude from the upper deck surface 21 and therefore would not act as barriers or obstacles during operation of the assembled jetty.

[0152] Now turning to Figure 19, which is a schematic block diagram illustrating a main control and navigation system 900 onboard each of the landing crafts according to one embodiment.

[0153] The system 900 provides an array of sensors electrically coupled to both the onboard computer 918 and the power supply assembly 916. Any one or more of the sensors Al may be coupled wirelessly or via a wired connection to the computer 918. Within the sensor array Al, the radar 902, sonar 910, and LiDAR 912 sensors provide depth and distance readings for mapping and obstacle detection. The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) 906 and IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) 906 estimate the landing craft's acceleration, velocity, and position in both global and local reference frames. Cameras 908 are utilised for computer-vision-based object detection and visual navigation by remote operators.

[0154] The control assembly A2 comprises the on-board computer 918 and multiple controller modules 922, 920 for thrusters and actuators, all of which are electrically coupled. The on-board computer 918 is also connected to the communication system 914 and processes remote commands and sensor readings Al to determine the desired control actions, which are then sent to individual controllers 920, 922. Actuator controllers 920 (e.g. including the connection mechanism controller 714) are electrically connected to the ramp actuators, connection mechanism actuators (also referred to herein as fender actuators) 928, bulwark actuators 930, retractable mast actuators 932, and the power supply assembly 916. Thruster controllers 922 are connected to the thrusters 924 (e.g. in the propulsion system 700 previously described with reference to Figure 7) and the power supply assembly 916. These low-level controllers 920, 922 maintain the desired outputs of the individual actuators 926, 928, 930, 932 and thrusters 924.

[0155] The power supply assembly 916 may include an interchangeable set of rechargeable batteries and may utilise a diesel generator. It typically contains fuses and voltage converters that are electrically connected to the sensor assembly Al, control assembly A2, and the communication system 914.

[0156] The communication system 914 includes transceivers and antennas and may connect the landing craft to satellite internet, a telecommunications network (e.g. 5G), and Marine VHF (Very High Frequency) radio. This system 914 enables the on-board computer 918 to communicate with remote operators and other nearby vessels (e.g. like landing crafts). When the mast 36 is retracted, reducing long-range communication and sensing capabilities during a multi-vessel formation (e.g. landing craft assembly), the landing craft can rely on short-range communication with nearby vessels (e.g. like landing crafts) whose masts 36 are not retracted to share their long-range communication and sensing capabilities.Interpretation

[0157] This specification, including the claims, is intended to be interpreted as follows:

[0158] Embodiments or examples described in the specification are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the scope of the invention is not to be limited to the exact construction and operation described or illustrated, but only by the following claims.

[0159] Moreover, any feature or element described within one embodiment may be combined with any feature or element as described with respect to any other embodiment detailed within this specification, as deemed suitable and appropriate by those skilled in the art.

[0160] The mere disclosure of a method step or product element in the specification should not be construed as being essential to the invention claimed herein, except where it is either expressly stated to be so or expressly recited in a claim.

[0161] The terms in the claims have the broadest scope of meaning they would have been given by a person of ordinary skill in the art as of the relevant date.

[0162] The terms "a" and "an" mean "one or more", unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0163] Neither the title nor the abstract of the present application is to be taken as limiting in any way as the scope of the claimed invention.

[0164] Where the preamble of a claim recites a purpose, benefit or possible use of the claimed invention, it does not limit the claimed invention to having only that purpose, benefit or possible use.

[0165] It should be noted that terms of degree such as "generally", "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree should be construed as including a deviation of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0166] In the specification, including the claims, the term "comprise", and variants of that term such as "comprises" or "comprising", are used to mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified otherwise, or unless in the context or usage an exclusive interpretation of the term is required.

[0167] Furthermore, the recitation of any numerical ranges by endpoints herein includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also to be understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are presumed to be modified by the term "about" which means a variation up to a certain amount of the number to which reference is being made if the end result is not significantly changed.

[0168] As used herein, the wording "and / or" is intended to represent an inclusive-or. That is, "X and / or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, "X, Y, and / or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0169] Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like features described herein. As such, any instance where features or components are indicated with the same references implies a direct correlation to the similar or identical features or components as previously described in the specification.

[0170] The disclosure of any document referred to herein is incorporated by reference into this patent application as part of the present disclosure, but only for purposes of written description and enablement and should in no way be used to limit, define, or otherwise construe any term of the present application where the present application, without such incorporation by reference, would not have failed to provide an ascertainable meaning. Any incorporation by reference does not, in and of itself, constitute any endorsement or ratification of any statement, opinion or argument contained in any incorporated document.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A landing craft having a modular structure to enable connection with at least one other like landing craft, the landing craft including a deck platform having an upper deck surface, the landing craft being configured such that no structures of the landing craft permanently extend above a plane of the upper deck surface, one or more connection mechanisms to facilitate connection of the landing craft with the at least one other like landing craft in a plurality of configurations, and one or more movable structures mounted to the deck platform, each movable structure being independently movable between two or more conditions, wherein in at least one condition the movable structure is below or generally flush with the plane of the upper deck surface.

2. The landing craft of claim 1, wherein the one or more movable structures includes one or more bulwark units, each bulwark unit being independently moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, and wherein each bulwark unit is generally below or flush with the plane of the upper deck surface in the retracted position.

3. The landing craft of claim 1 or 2, wherein the landing craft includes a port side, a starboard side, a bow and a stern, and one of the plurality of configurations comprises any one of a side-to-side configuration in which the port side of the landing craft is connectable to at least a portion of a port side or a starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft, an end-to-end configuration in which the bow of the landing craft is connectable to at least a portion of a bow or stern of the at least one other like landing craft, an end-to-side configuration in which the bow of the landing craft is connectable to a portion of a port side or starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft, and an end-to-side configuration in which the stern of the landing craft is connectable to a portion of a port side or starboard side of the at least one other like landing craft.

4. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the connection mechanisms includes a suction-based coupling system to facilitate connection of the landing craft with the at least one other like landing craft via suction.

5. The landing craft of claim 4, wherein the suction-based coupling system includes a base mounted to a body of the landing craft, and a contact member for making contact with the at least one other like landing craft, the contact member being movable relative to the base.

6. The landing craft of claim 5, wherein the suction-based coupling system further includes a guide for moving the contact member relative to the base between retracted and extended positions.

7. The landing craft of claim 6, wherein the guide is length adjustable to move the contact member between the retracted and extended positions.

8. The landing craft of claim 6 or 7, wherein the guide is movably mounted to the base so as to allow lateral movement of the contact member relative to the base when the contact member is in an extended position.

9. The landing craft of any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the contact member has an outer portion movably coupled to an inner portion such that the outer portion is movable relative to the inner portion.

10. The landing craft of any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the suction-based coupling system further includes flexible bellows for coupling between the contact member and the at least one other like landing craft to accommodate relative movement between the contact member and a surface of the at least one other like landing craft.

11. The landing craft of any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the suction-based coupling system further includes one or more spring damper systems connecting the guide and the base.

12. The landing craft of any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the suction-based coupling system includes one or more suction ports for creating a suction force to establish a connection with a surface of the at least one other like landing craft.

13. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more connection mechanisms include a plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses for alignment with corresponding recesses and protrusions of the at least one other like landing craft, the plurality of alternating protrusions and recesses being provided along a periphery of the deck platform.

14. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each bulwark unit is configured to be movable between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, and wherein in the collapsed configuration the bulwark unit occupies a reduced volume of space compares to the expanded configuration.

15. The landing craft of claim 14, wherein each bulwark unit includes an elongate base mount and one or more supports pivotally mounted to the base mount, and wherein the one or more supports are generally perpendicular to the elongate base mount in the expanded configuration, and the one or more supports are generally parallel to the elongate base mount in the collapsed configuration.

16. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deck platform has a generally rectangular body when viewed from an aerial perspective.

17. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a ramp to facilitate loading and unloading of the landing craft.

18. The landing craft of claim 17, wherein the ramp is a bi-fold bow ramp.

19. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more hatches to provide access to a lower deck area below the upper deck surface, the one or more hatches having one or more hatch covers which are configured to be flush with the upper deck surface in a closed position.

20. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more storage compartments for drones.

21. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, further including an automatically retractable and extendable mast.

22. The landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, including a control system for enabling autonomous or remote control of the landing craft.

23. A landing craft assembly including two or more connected landing crafts, each landing craft being a landing craft according to any one of the preceding claims, the landing crafts being connectable in a plurality of configurations so as to form any one or more of a bridge, a sea train, a platform, a jetty, a wharf and a helicopter landing pad.

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