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

2. OPERATIONS IN ELEVATED SEAS REQUIRE SUITABLE CONNECTORS1

3. 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

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

5. IMPROVED SHEAR CONNECTOR PLAN VIEW1

6. NL FLEXOR AND SEABOSS FLEXOR1

7. IMPROVED FLEXOR FABRICATION1

8. SHEAR AND FLEXOR CONNECTIONS1

9. SHEAR AND FLEXOR CONNECTIONS1

10. 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

11. LOCKING METHODS
TRIGGER PLATE
SIDE LATCH 1

12. LOCKING METHODS
TRIGGER PLATE
SIDE LATCH 1

13. EXTENSION METHODS 1

14. EXTENSION METHODS PNEUMATIC1

15. EXTENSION METHODS PNEUMATIC CYLINDER1

16. EXTENSION METHODS 1

17. EXTENSION METHODS ELECTRIC WINCH1

18. 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