Improved Flexible Causeway Connector ` Bill Hatch Amphibious Systems Division Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center, Port Hueneme, CA 93043-4370 1/29/02

OPERATIONS IN ELEVATED SEAS REQUIRE SUITABLE CONNECTORS 1

FLEXIBLE CONNECTOR DESIGN BASIS A flexible connector is required if lengths > 160 ft. Driven by loads and operational configurations Adapt existing NL P-8 end connector to prototype assets Pipe shear connectors Flexor tensile connectors Increase safety and efficiency Reduce crew involvement in connections Provide better alignment and engagement Provide automated flexor locking Provide automated flexor extension and retraction 1

IMPROVED SHEAR CONNECTOR GEOMETRY ALIGNMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IMPROVED SHEAR CONNECTOR GEOMETRY EXTENDED LENGTH SHEAR CONNECTOR WIDE MOUTH RECEIVER 1

IMPROVED SHEAR CONNECTOR PLAN VIEW 1

NL FLEXOR AND SEABOSS FLEXOR 1

IMPROVED FLEXOR FABRICATION 1

SHEAR AND FLEXOR CONNECTIONS 1

SHEAR AND FLEXOR CONNECTIONS 1

LOCKING AND EXTENSION METHODS Locking Methods Trigger Plate “Door Latch” guillotine Extension Methods Air motor 12/24 volt electric winch Pneumatic cylinder Hand winch Pry bar 1

LOCKING METHODS TRIGGER PLATE SIDE LATCH 1

LOCKING METHODS TRIGGER PLATE SIDE LATCH 1

EXTENSION METHODS 1

EXTENSION METHODS PNEUMATIC 1

EXTENSION METHODS PNEUMATIC CYLINDER 1

EXTENSION METHODS 1

EXTENSION METHODS ELECTRIC WINCH 1

PROTOTYPE CONCEPT EVALUATION Hardware to be delivered to Little Creek NAB Modules – AAA and USCG Flexor connectors Extension and locking mechanisms At-Sea testing in March-April timeframe Incorporate recommended design modifications in procurement of replacement Navy lighterage Platform-specific flexors Durability / reliability testing recommendations 1