WO2013034935A1

WO2013034935A1 - Modular marine craft

Info

Publication number: WO2013034935A1
Application number: PCT/GB2012/052225
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rob SMETTEM; Chris SHERLIKER; Ian Sanderson; Douglas URQUHART
Original assignee: Xsmg World Limited
Priority date: 2011-09-08
Filing date: 2012-09-10
Publication date: 2013-03-14

Abstract

A modular craft (1) that includes a hull (2), a control system and a plurality of modules (3, 4, 103, 104, 203, 6, 7, 8) removably connectable to the hull (2). The control system is configured to recognise and identify, in use, the hull (2) and the modules (3, 4, 103, 104, 203, 6, 7, 8) and to configure the operating parameters based on the combination.

Description

MODULAR MARINE CRAFT

This invention relates generally to a vehicle, in particular a marine craft. More specifically, although not exclusively, to a modular marine craft having a reconfigurable layout.

Marine crafts are generally designed and built to serve a specific purpose, for example fishing, waterskiing, utility applications, search and rescue, assault or some other specific application. Each of these configurations is adapted specifically for the application for which they are designed, but are not adaptable where requirements change.

There have been attempts at producing boats that are adaptable, wherein their configuration can be modified. Examples of such arrangements are disclosed in DE202006013675, US6739281 and WO201 1073689.

DE202006013675 discloses a leisure vessel with a hull having longitudinal profiles to which functional units are releasably attached in one of a number of different positions.

US6739281 discloses a reconfigurable leisure boat with mating elements incorporated in the deck of the boat that cooperate with deck components to removably attach the deck components to the deck. The boat also includes utility attachment points for wiring, control cables and piping. The steering console is connected to the boat via one of the utility attachments.

WO201 1073689 discloses a reconfigurable boat for servicing offshore structures such as wind turbines. The boat has a plurality of fixing points in the deck for releasably securing a wheelhouse and one or more other modular deck structures at different positions on the deck.

One issue that the applicants have observed with all of the above boat designs is that they fail to account for variations in performance and limitations of the boat when its configuration is altered.

It is therefore a first non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a marine craft that mitigates the issues associated with prior art crafts. It is a further non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a vehicle or marine craft that is versatile and/or easily and/or repeatably reconfigurable while providing optimal performance and/or safety. It is a yet further, more general non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a marine craft that offers one or more advantages over known designs.

Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a vehicle or marine craft comprising a frame or base or hull, a control system and one or more modules removably connectable, e.g. by a connector, to the frame or base or hull, wherein the control system is configured or operable to recognise or identify, e.g. automatically, the frame or base or hull and/or the one or more modules and to configure, adapt or alter one or more control or operating parameters based thereon.

The term 'hull' used hereinafter may also apply to a frame or base, e.g. a base frame, of the vehicle.

By configuring the control system to recognise one or more of the components of the craft, the control system is able to adapt one or more control or operating parameters relating to the performance and/or safety of the resulting craft configuration.

The hull and/or at least one of the modules may comprise an identifier, for example an encoded identifier, e.g. wherein the control system is configured or operable to recognise or read or interpret the identifier. The identifier is preferably an electronic identifier and may be comprised or programmed within a tag or controller of the hull or module. In some embodiments, the identifier is comprised or programmed within a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, but at least one, preferably each, of the hull and module or modules may comprise a controller, e.g. a respective controller, that comprises or incorporates or in which is programmed the identifier.

The control system may be configured or operable to enable the control of one or more control or operating features or variables or parameters associated with the hull and/or the one or more modules if it or its identifier is recognised or read or interpreted and/or to prevent or disable the control of one or more control or operating features or variables or parameters associated with the hull and/or the one or more modules if it is not recognised. For example, the control system may be configured or operable to enable one of the modules to control a propulsion, e.g. craft propulsion, means or system or engine of the craft or hull only if the hull and/or the one module or one or more of the other modules and/or its or their identifier is or are recognised or read or interpreted. In some embodiments, at least part of the control system is comprised in one of the one or more modules, for example a command module, which may comprise a cockpit or standalone or unmanned module or control station, which may be controlled or controllable remotely, for example by radio frequency control or satellite control, or may be programmable or programmed with specific route or guidance system. In a preferred embodiment, the command module comprises a master program, e.g. a master software program, and/or is configured or operable to recognise or read or interpret the hull/module(s)/identifier and/or to configure, adapt or alter one or more control or operating parameters and/or to enable the control of one or more control or operating features or variables or parameters associated with the hull and/or the one or more modules, for example based on the presence or absence or configuration thereof or of the craft or resulting craft configuration.

Additionally or alternatively, the control system may be configured to interpret the combination of modules, e.g. to determine which of any number of predetermined configurations of marine craft is present. The one or more control or operating parameters may comprise one or more or any combination of the speed or power, for example the top speed or maximum power, e.g. provided by the propulsion means or system or engine, and/or the minimum turning radius or angle of the rudder or propulsion means or system or engine, and/or the operation or use or non-use of a turbocharger or supercharger and/or the responsiveness of the controls and/or one or more control or operating parameters, such as inflation or position, of one or more stabilisation aids or devices, such as side mounted tubes or inflatable members.

In some embodiments, the control system is configured or programmed to control one or more groups of control or operating parameters, e.g. control or operating features or variables or parameters of the propulsion means or system or engine and/or one or more of the aforementioned parameters, to alter, optimise or reduce fuel or energy consumption or to maximise comfort or to provide a balance, for example a predetermined and/or configurable and/or selectable balance, between fuel or energy consumption and/or comfort and/or performance.

The one or more modules may comprise an assault or weapon or safety module that may be controllable, in use, remotely by the control system.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a marine craft comprising a hull with a connector, a removable assault or weapon or safety module and a control system, wherein the removable weapon module is releasably securable to the hull by the connector and controllable, in use, remotely by the control system.

The assault or weapon or safety module may comprise a lock and/or a mount, e.g. a retractable mount, that may be resiliency mounted to the hull and/or to a frame and/or movable between retracted and/or deployed positions. The lock may be operable to secure rigidly, in use, the retractable mount to the hull or frame in the deployed position.

A third aspect of the invention provides a vehicle, e.g. a marine craft, comprising a hull, a lock and a retractable mount resiliency mounted to the hull and movable between retracted and deployed positions, wherein the lock is operable to secure rigidly, in use, the retractable mount to the hull in the deployed position.

A more general variation of the third aspect of the invention provides a marine craft module comprising a frame or housing, a lock and a retractable mount resiliency mounted to the frame or housing and movable between retracted and deployed positions, wherein the lock is operable to secure rigidly, in use, the retractable mount to the frame or housing in the deployed position.

Resiliency mounting the retractable mount to the hull or frame or housing mitigates the vibrations and/or shocks experienced during high speed travel through challenging environments, while the provision of a lock that secures rigidly the retractable mount to the hull or frame or housing in the deployed position ensures reliable and accurate positioning of the mount.

The module, e.g. the assault or weapon or safety module, may comprise or incorporate a weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device that may be secured to the retractable mount. The retractable mount may be movable between a retracted position, e.g. in which the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located within the module or hull, and/or a deployed position, e.g. in which the propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located above or external to the module or hull for use and/or locked. The module may comprise a stop that may be operable to stop and/or lock, in use, one or more, e.g. two or more, preferably three or more such as four, portions of the retractable mount in the deployed position, for example simultaneously by a common actuator. A fourth aspect of the invention provides a marine craft comprising a hull, a stop or lock and a weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device movably secured to the hull by a retractable mount, the retractable mount being movable between a retracted position in which the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located within the hull and a deployed position in which the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located above the hull for use, wherein the stop or lock is operable to stop and/or lock, in use, two or more, for example three or more, e.g. four, portions of the retractable mount in the deployed position, for example simultaneously by a common actuator.

This arrangement provides a more stable mounting for the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device when in the deployed position.

It will be appreciated that the centre of gravity of the craft is lower when the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is in the retracted position and not in use and may also be concealed, e.g. to reduce environmental effects of the sea and/or sun, and/or to ease civilian concerns, for example when in normal harbour.

The craft according to the second, third and/or fourth aspects of the invention may comprise one or more modules, one of which may comprise an assault or weapon or safety module that may be controllable, in use, remotely by the control system, which module or modules may be removably connectable, e.g. by a connector, to the hull and/or the control system may be configured or operable to recognise, e.g. automatically, the hull and/or the one or more modules and/or to configure, adapt or alter one or more control or operating parameters based thereon.

The retractable mount may be mounted to the hull or frame or housing by one or more resilient elements that may be secured, e.g. by one or more or a plurality of fasteners, to adjacent portions of each of the retractable mount and the hull or frame or housing. Preferably, however, the retractable mount is securely mounted to a first and/or upper part of the hull or frame or housing that is resiliency mounted to a second and/or lower part of the hull or frame or housing by one or more resilient members. The one or more resilient elements may comprise a resilient gasket or seal that may be tubular and/or may include a first and/or upper portion secured to the first and/or upper part of the hull or frame or housing and a second and/or lower portion secured to the second and/or lower part of the hull or frame or housing. The first and/or upper part of the hull or frame or housing preferably comprises a portion configured to be contiguous, in use, with an upper skin of the hull. The second and/or lower part may comprise a shell, e.g. within which is housed the mount and/or the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device.

The lock may comprise any suitable arrangement such as a projection or pin mounted on, to or in one of the retractable mount and the frame or housing or hull, which projection or pin may engage a recess or aperture or hole in or associated with the other of the retractable mount or frame or housing or hull.

A particularly preferred embodiment of the lock comprises a clamp, e.g. that is configured to clamp an element or portion secured to or associated with or comprised or incorporated in the frame or housing or hull. The lock more preferably comprises two or more, e.g. three or more, most preferably four, clamps. Each clamp may be configured to clamp a respective element or portion, e.g. a clamp plate portion, secured to or associated with or comprised or incorporated in the frame or housing or hull. The lock may also include a respective actuator for each clamp or an actuator for each pair of clamps, but the lock preferably includes a common actuator that operates all of the clamps simultaneously. The lock or actuator may comprise a linear actuator and/or a link element or member or plate that may be movably or rotatably mounted or secured to the retractable mount and/or operatively connected to the actuator and/or to one of or each pair of or each of the clamps, for example by a respective tie rod.

The or each clamp may include a first part that may be secured to the retractable mount and/or a second part that may be pivotable relative to the first part, e.g. pivotably mounted thereto, for example to clamp the element or portion, e.g. the clamp plate portion, secured to or associated with or comprised or incorporated in the frame or housing or hull.

The craft or assault or weapon or safety module may further comprise a drive or drive means or device or mechanism, e.g. for causing the retractable mount to move between the retracted and deployed positions. The drive or drive means or device or mechanism may comprise a cable or strap or strapping that may be driven by a motor. Additionally or alternatively, the drive or drive means or device or mechanism may comprise a linear actuator or screw or rack and pinion arrangement in which the pinion may be driven by a motor and/or the rack may be connected or fixed or secured to the retractable mount.

Preferably, the drive or drive means or device or mechanism comprises a lead screw, e.g. that cooperates with a nut, which nut is preferably secured to or incorporated in the retractable mount. The lead screw may be rotatably mounted to the module or frame or hull and/or may be driven by a motor, for example via a pulley and/or drive belt and/or via a gear assembly or train, for example a planetary gear system or a gear assembly or train that includes a central or sun gear and an outer or planet gear associated with each lead screw and/or one or more intermediate gears, e.g. between the central or sun gear and each outer or planet gear. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the drive or drive means or device or mechanism comprises two or more, for example three or more, preferably four, such lead screws, e.g. each of which preferably cooperates with a respective such nut.

The weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device may comprise a gun, e.g. an anti-aircraft gun or cannon or rifle or missile launcher, or safety device, e.g. a water nozzle or hose or gun for fire control and/or prevention and/or any other device and/or use.

The connector for removably connecting the one or more modules to the hull preferably comprises a quick release and/or adjustable connector or connection means and/or includes a release means. In one preferred embodiment, the connector comprises one or more of a latch, e.g. an overcentre latch or latching means or arrangement, a clamp, e.g. a bolt actuated clamp that may cooperate with a guide, and a strap or cable, which may be adjustable in length and/or position. The connector may comprise one or more guides, e.g. the hull may comprise one or more, for example a plurality of, guides, which may be elongate and/or may run longitudinally and/or laterally along the hull. The guide or guides or one or more slots may cooperate with one or more of the latch and/or clamp and/or strap. One of the slots may receive a seal element, for example in conjunction with the latch and/or clamp, which seal element may comprise be elongate with a necked central portion, e.g. wherein an enlarged first or lower portion may be received within one of the slots and/or an enlarged second or upper portion may be configured to create a seal, for example a substantially hermetic seal, between the module and the hull. In some embodiments, the enlarged first or lower portion is substantially circular in cross-section and/or the enlarged second or upper portion a substantially mushroom-shaped.

The latch preferably includes a catch or hook on one of the module or hull and/or a lever actuated linkage or rod or arm that may be pivotably mounted, e.g. by a mounting element or member, to the other of the module or hull. The lever actuated linkage or rod or arm may be arranged or configured to cooperate or receive or be received by or in or within the catch or hook. The latch may comprise a lock or locking means, e.g. by which the latch or lever or linkage or rod or arm is locked in an engaged or latched condition or position. The lock or locking means may comprise a locking element or member that may be movably or pivotably mounted to one of the lever or linkage or rod or arm and the module or hull or mounting element or member and/or may be movable into and/or out of engagement with a recess or depression in the other of the lever or linkage or rod or arm and the module or hull or mounting element or member.

The clamp preferably includes a clamping member that may be threadedly engaged with a bolt, which bolt may be pivotably or rotatably received in a hole or aperture of one of the module or hull. The clamping member may be received within a guide of or in or on the other of the module or hull, e.g. within a slot of a guide such as a first slot, and/or configured to engage the guide when the bolt is rotatated or tightened or untightened. The clamping member may comprise a complementary shape to the slot, for example a dovetail or triangular shape. The clamp may be configured or arranged such that tightening of the bolt causes the clamping member to move toward the one of the module or hull, e.g. thereby engaging or clamping the guide or slot. The complementary shape of the clamping member and the slot may prevent rotation of the clamping member when the bolt is rotated.

The strap connector may comprise a strap with a loop formed at or adjacent one end, which loop or end may receive a connector element that may be cylindrical and/or may be received within a slot in one of the module or hull, e.g. the second slot of the guide. The strap may comprise a second loop formed at or adjacent its other end, which loop or end may also receive a connector element that may be cylindrical and/or may be received within a slot in the other of the module or hull or a guide thereof. Alternatively, the other end of the strap may be secured or fixed or attached, e.g. by some other means, to the other of the module or hull. The strap may comprise an adjustment means or connector or buckle intermediate its ends. For example, the strap may comprise two or more pieces or lengths of strap or material that may be connected together by the adjustment means or connector or buckle and/or strap may be adjustable in length such as by sliding the adjustment means or connector or buckle along one of the pieces or lengths of strap or material and/or by pulling one of the pieces or lengths of strap or matierial.

The one or more modules may comprise or further comprise any one or more of a cockpit module, e.g. a twin or tandem cockpit module in which two or more seats are side by side or one in front of the other and/or which may be asymmetric and/or which may include a weapon station such as a gun rack or the like, and/or a radar and/or arch and/or lift or crane module that may be foldable or collapsible, a torpedo and/or sonar module, and/or one or more passenger or transport or troop transport seats or modules, e.g. each module having one or more such as a plurality of seats associated therewith, and/or a scope or surveillance module, e.g. having a telescopic post or mast on which surveillance equipment is mounted such as a camera or video camera or radar or sonar or radio frequency transmitter or receiver or transceiver, and/or a mine detonator module and/or a ramp unit or module and/or a raft or safety raft that may be inflatable and/or a ladder or boarding ladder that may be extendable. At least part of the one or more modules may comprise a protective material, e.g. configured to resist against ballistic impact and/or heat or fire, for example seat backs and/or an external, internal or intermediate layer of the one or more modules. The craft or the one or more modules may further comprise a boarding device or module, which may comprise a grappling hook that may be positioned or propelled from a telescopic pole or mast and/or may comprise a rope ladder.

The propulsion, e.g. craft propulsion, means or system or engine may comprise one or more engines that may power two propellers, for example wherein each propeller may be coupled to the or a respective engine by a drive shaft, e.g. a twin propeller or propulsion system, which engine or engines may be positioned between the drive shafts, for example to lower the centre of gravity of the hull or craft.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a marine craft comprising an engine and two propellers coupled to the engine by respective drive shafts, wherein the engine is positioned between the drive shafts.

Thus, the engine is positioned lower within or in relation to the hull, thereby permitting the craft to be configured with a greater useable load area with a lower deck, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing rotational inertia, which should improve the handling characteristics of the craft.

The engine may comprise a twin engine, for example the engine may comprise two engines arranged in line or in series with each other or side by side.

Preferably, the engine comprises two engines, e.g. a twin engine, that are in line or in series and/or the drive shafts are separated horizontally and the engine is more preferably positioned within the space between and/or substantially in alignment with the drive shafts. Both engines may be positioned on the centreline of the hull or craft, for example with the output shaft of each engine pointing towards the other. In some embodiments, the output shaft of each engine may be connected to one or both of the drive shafts, for example by two 90° bevel boxes or an arrangement of cogs that provide a transverse offset, e.g. of approximately 700 to 1000 mm.

The drive shafts may be coupled to a respective one of the two engines and/or both drive shafts may be coupled to both engines. Preferably, the craft or engine comprises a drive train or transmission or gearbox that enables the changing, e.g. the selective changing, between two or more drive configurations. The transmission or gearbox is preferably between the first and second engines, for example in the space between the first and second engines.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a marine craft comprising two engines and two propellers with respective drive shafts coupled to the engines via a gearbox, e.g. that enables the changing or selective changing between two or more drive configurations, wherein the gearbox is positioned between the drive shafts.

The craft or engine may comprise a first drive configuration in which a first drive shaft is coupled to a first engine and/or a second drive shaft is coupled to a second engine. Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. second, drive configuration in which the first and second drive shafts are connected to the first engine. Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. third, drive configuration in which the first and second drive shafts are connected to the second engine.

Thus, the drive configuration of the craft may be optimised for the particular situation. For example, the first configuration may be employed when maximum performance is required, while the second or third configuration may be employed to conserve fuel. One of the advantages of driving both drive shafts by the active engine is to avoid the drag forces that would result from a static propeller. One of the advantages associated with the ability to selectively drive both shafts by either of the first or second engines is that wear may be balanced over time.

Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. fourth, drive configuration in which both the first and second drive shafts are driven by both the first and second engines, e.g. simultaneously. Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. fifth, drive configuration in which the first drive shaft is connected to the second engine and/or the second drive shaft is connected to the first engine. Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. sixth, drive configuration in which the first drive shaft is connected to the first and second engines, e.g. simultaneously, and/or the second drive shaft is disconnected from both engines. Additionally or alternatively, the craft or engine may comprise another, e.g. seventh, drive configuration in which the second drive shaft is connected to the first and second engines, e.g. simultaneously, and/or the first drive shaft is disconnected from both engines.

The craft may further comprise a power takeoff or power takeoff means or mechanism or device, which may be selectively couplable, e.g. by the or a further gearbox, to the first and/or second engines. The power takeoff or power takeoff means or mechanism or device may be used to power, e.g. mechanical and/or rotational power, to an auxiliary device such as a generator or weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device.

In some embodiments, the gearbox or further gearbox is operable or configured to couple the power takeoff or power takeoff means or mechanism or device to the second engine in the second drive configuration and/or to the first engine in the third drive configuration.

The craft may comprise a control system, which control system is a yet further aspect of the invention, which control system comprises a processor and a memory, the control system being configured or programmed to record in or on the memory one or more parameters relating to the use of each engine, e.g. the run time and/or engine speed and/or load or torque and/or fuel consumption, and to select, e.g. automatically select, the drive configuration based at least in part on the recorded use of the engines.

The craft according to the any one of the previous aspects of the invention may further comprise one or more, e.g. any combination, of the features of any of the other aspects of the invention.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a kit of parts for assembly into a marine craft as described above. The kit may comprise a hull and/or one or more, e.g. two or more such as a plurality of, modules, e.g. any one or more of the modules described above.

A eight aspect of the invention provides a method of making, operating, assembling or reconfiguring a marine craft, e.g. as described above. The method may comprise any number of steps of making, operating, assembling or reconfiguring a marine craft as described above that would be understood to be beneficial by the skilled person.

For example, the method may comprise removably connecting one or more modules to a hull, recognising or identifying the module or modules or hull and configuring, adapting or altering one or more control or operating parameters based thereon or based on the configuration of the craft.

Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise removably connecting a weapon module to a hull using a connector and controlling the weapon module remotely, e.g. using a control system.

Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise providing a marine craft with a hull and a weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device movably secured to the hull by a retractable mount, moving the retractable mount from a retracted position in which the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located within the hull to the deployed position in which the weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device is at least partially located above the hull for use.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a marine craft system comprising a command marine craft and one or more slave marine crafts, wherein the command marine craft comprises operational controls that are operable to control the operation of both the command marine craft and the one or more slave marine crafts simultaneously such that the slave marine craft mimics substantially the operation of the command marine craft.

One or both of the command marine craft and slave marine craft may comprise one or more features of any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention. For example, the command marine craft may comprise one of the cockpit configurations described above and/or the slave marine craft may comprise the standalone or unmanned module or control station that is controlled remotely. The one or more slave marine crafts may comprise a single slave marine craft, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more or a plurality of slave marine crafts, which may be autonomously synchronised with the command marine craft. Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a marine craft according to one embodiment of the invention in a first configuration;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the base or hull of the craft of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cockpit module of the craft of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of the weapon module of the craft of Figure 1 with its hatch doors omitted;

Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of a combined latch and guide bolt fixing arrangement for fixing a module to a corner of the hull of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a partial section view of the latch part of the fixing arrangement of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a partial section view of the guide bolt part of the fixing arrangement of Figure 5;

Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of an alternative, strap fixing arrangement for fixing a module to a corner of the hull of Figure 2;

Figure 9 is a partial section view of the fixing arrangement of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is a partial section view of a guide bolt fixing arrangement for fixing a module to the base of the hull of Figure 2;

Figure 1 1 is a partial section view of a strap fixing arrangement for fixing a module to the base of the hull of Figure 2;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of an alternative, twin cockpit module; Figure 13 is a perspective view of the marine craft in a second configuration; Figure 14 is a perspective view of the tandem cockpit module of the configuration of Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a torpedo and sonar module;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of an unmanned control station module;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a radar arch and lift frame module;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of an alternative weapon module with its gun in a fully deployed position;

Figure 19 is a similar view to that of Figure 18 with the gun in an intermediate deployed position;

Figure 20 is a similar view to those of Figure 18 and 19 with the gun in a fully retracted position;

Figure 21 is a schematic section view showing the platform of the weapon module of Figures 18 to 20 in a deployed position and in the intermediate deployed position;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the lock arrangement of the weapon module of Figures 18 to 21 with the clamps shown in a clamped condition;

Figures 23 and 24 illustrate a hull according to one embodiment of the invention having a twin engine arranged in series;

Figures 25 and 26 illustrate a hull according to a further embodiment of the invention having a twin engine arranged in a side-by-side configuration.

Referring now to Figures 1 to 4, there is shown a marine craft 1 that includes a hull 2, a cockpit module 3, a weapon module 4 and a plurality of connectors 5. The cockpit module 3 and weapon module 4 are releasably secured to the hull 2 by quick release connections. The cockpit module 3 incorporates a controller that communicates with controllers of the hull 2 and weapon module 4. The controller of the cockpit module 3 is configured to recognise automatically the configuration of the hull 2 and any other modules present, in this case the weapon module 4, and to adapt the control and operating parameters of the marine craft 1 accordingly.

In this embodiment, the controller of each of the hull 2 and the weapon module 4 includes an encoded identifier that is incorporated within software stored within the controller. The controller of the cockpit module 3 includes a software program, e.g. a master software program, that reads the identifier and adapts the control and operating parameters of the marine craft 1 based on that identifier.

The hull 2 in this embodiment, shown more clearly in Figure 2, includes a base 20, a bow 21 , side walls 22, stabilisation devices 23, a bumper 24, and an engine 25 that drives twin propellers 26 each of which is coupled to the engine 25 by a respective drive shaft 27. The drive shafts 27 are separated horizontally and the engine 25 is positioned between and substantially in alignment with the drive shafts 27 to lower the centre of gravity of the hull 2. The base 20 includes three fixing guides 50 that run longitudinally and four fixing guides 50 (only three of which are shown in Figure 2) that run transversely of the hull 2. The side walls 22 are extensions of the bow 21 that extend longitudinally along the peripheral sides of the hull 2. Each side wall 22 includes a fixing guide 50 extending along an internal portion of the top surface thereof. Each stabilisation device 23 is in the form of a selectively inflatable tube 23 mounted to a respective side of the hull 2 immediately underneath the side wall 22 and inflation of the tube 23 is controlled by the control system. The bumper 24 is mounted on an external surface of the hull 2 about upper peripheral portions of the sidewalls 22 and bow 21 .

The cockpit module 3 in this embodiment is an asymmetric and includes four seats (not shown), two of which are on each side of a front portion 30 thereof, and two gun racks, one on each side 31 a, 31 b of a rear portion 31 thereof. As illustrated in Figure 3, the cockpit module 3 is secured to the hull 2 by module connector elements 51 that cooperate with the fixing guides 50 of the hull 2, which module connector elements 51 are described in more detail below. The asymmetric layout of the cockpit module 3 provides high levels of functionality on deck as expected in an open boat configuration while maintaining the multiple benefits of an enclosed cockpit operation including, for example, climate control, enhanced safety in rough seas and lower fatigue levels.

The weapon module 4 in this embodiment includes a housing 40 within which is housed a gun 41 that is movable between a retracted position, shown in Figure 1 and in which the gun 41 is located within the housing 40, and a deployed position, shown in Figure 4 and in which the gun 41 is located above the housing 40 for use. As with the cockpit module 3 and as illustrated in Figure 4, the weapon module 4 is secured to the hull 2 by module connector elements 51 that cooperate with the fixing guides 50 of the hull 2, which module connector elements 51 are described in more detail below. The weapon module 4 is also controllable, in use, remotely by the control system.

The connectors 5 in this embodiment include the fixing guides 50 mentioned above together with any combination of one or more latching and/or guided bolt and/or strap fixing arrangements shown in Figures 5 to 1 1.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the latching arrangement 52 includes a hook 53 on the module 3, 4 and a lever 54 that actuates an arm 55 pivotably mounted to the hull 2. The arm 55 includes a cylindrical flange 55a at its free end that is received by and cooperates with the hook 53. The latching arrangement 52 also includes a lock 52a by which the lever 54 is locked in an engaged or latched condition. The lock 52a is a locking element that is pivotably mounted to the hull 2 and is movable into or out of engagement with a recess in the lever 54.

As shown in Figures 5, 7 and 9, the guided bolt arrangement 56 includes a clamping member 57a that is threadedly engaged with a bolt 57b rotatably received in a hole in a flange of the module 3, 4. The clamping member 57a is received within a slot 50a of one of the guides 50 of the hull 2 and is configured to engage the guide 50 when the bolt 57b is rotatated or tightened. The clamping member 57a and the slot 50a have a complementary dovetail or triangular shape. The guided bolt arrangement 56 is configured such that tightening of the bolt 57b causes the clamping member 57a to move toward the module 3, 4, thereby engaging or clamping the guide 50. The complementary shape of the clamping member 57a and the slot 50a prevents rotation of the clamping member 57a when the bolt 57b is rotated.

The guides 50 in this embodiment include a second slot 50b that receives a seal element 50c when the latching and/or guided bolt arrangements 52, 56 are used. The seal element 50c has a substantially mushroom shaped cross-section with an enlarged circular base that is received within the second slot 50b.

As shown in Figures 8, 9 and 1 1 , the strap fixing arrangement 58 includes a two-part strap 59a, 59b with a loop formed at or adjacent one end of a first of the straps 59a. The loop receives a cylindrical connector element 59c that is received within the second slot 50b of the guide 50 and the seal element 50c is omitted. The second strap 59b may also include a loop formed at or adjacent its free with a further cylindrical connector element 59c received within a slot in the other of the module 3, 4 or may simply be secured to the module 3, 4 by some other means. It is also envisaged that the strap 59a, 59b may be used to strap down cargo and the like, wherein the second end is simply secured to a further guide 50 of the hull 2. The strap fixing arrangement 58 also includes an adjustment buckle 59d that interconnects the straps 59a, 59b for adjusting the length thereof.

Figure 12 illustrates a twin cockpit module 103 that is similar to the cockpit module 3 described above, wherein like features are depicted with like reference numbers with a prefix numeral 1 . The twin cockpit module 103 differs from the cockpit module 3 in that it is symmetrical, the rear is open, only two seats 132 are included and its overall length is shorter.

Figure 13 illustrates a second, passenger transport configuration of the marine craft 100 in which a tandem cockpit 203 is mounted at one side of the hull 2 and a plurality of individual passenger seats 232 are mounted directly to the hull both to the rear and front of the tandem cockpit 203. The tandem cockpit 203 is also shown in Figure 14 and includes two seats (not shown) one in front of the other.

Figure 15 illustrates a further optional torpedo and sonar module 6 that incorporates a housing 60 with a ramp 61 that carries a pair of torpedoes 62 and a dipping sonar element 63 that extends downwardly from the centre of the housing 60. Figure 16 illustrates an unmanned control station module 7 that is an alternative to the cockpit modules 3, 103, 203, which is controllable via radio frequency signals or by satellite. Figure 17 shows a module 8 that incorporates a radar arch 80 and a lift frame 81 for hoisting cargo and/or life rafts or inflatable speed boats and the like.

Figures 18 to 22 show a weapon module 104 according to a second embodiment, which is similar to the weapon module 4 described above, wherein like features are depicted with like reference numbers with a prefix numeral 1 . The weapon module 104 according to this embodiment includes a gun 141 that is movably secured to a housing 140 by a retractable mount 142 between retracted and deployed positions as described above in relation to the first embodiment of weapon module 4. The module 104 also includes a pair of doors connected to the retractable mount 142 by linkage rods pivotably connected to each in order to cause the doors to open and close in response to the movement of the retractable mount 142.

In this embodiment and as shown in Figure 21 , the gun 141 and retractable mount 142 are resiliently mounted to the hull by a resilient tubular gasket element 142a having an upper portion secured to an upper part 140a of the housing 140 and a lower portion secured to a lower part 140b of the housing 140 by spaced fasteners (not shown). The upper part 140a of the housing 140 is designed to be contiguous with the upper skin of the hull 2. The lower part 140b of the housing 140 comprises a shell within which is housed the mount 142 and gun 141 when in the retracted position.

The weapon module 104 according to this embodiment also incorporates a lock mechanism that is operable to selectively lock to rigidly secure the retractable mount 142 in the deployed position. The lock mechanism includes four clamps 143, each of which is mounted to one of four corners of a base plate 142b of the retractable mount 142 and operable to lock the retractable mount 142 by clamping a respective clamp plate portion 144 of the housing 140. Each clamp 143 includes a first part 143a fixed to the base plate 142b and a second part 143b pivotable relative to the first part 143a.

The retractable mount 142 also includes a hydraulic cylinder 142c that drives a link plate 142d pivotably mounted to the base plate 142b by a slew ring 142e. Each of the four corners of the base plate 142b is connected to a respective one of the second clamp parts 143b by a tie rod 142f. Thus, when the cylinder 142c is actuated, the second clamp parts 143b are forced to pivot relative to their respective first clamp parts 143a to selectively clamp a respective clamp plate portion 144 therebetween.

Movement of the mount 142 is effected by a drive mechanism, which includes three equispaced lead screws 145 rotatably mounted in a vertical orientation within the lower part 140b of the housing 140, which are driven by respective belts 146 coupled to and driven by a motor 147. Each lead screw 145 threadedly engages and cooperates with a respective lead screw nut 148 fixed to the mount 142 to cause the mount 142 to move vertically between the retracted and deployed positions.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that rotation of the drive motor 147 will cause the belts 146 to rotate the lead screws 145, thereby driving the mount 142 up or down (depending on the direction of the motor 147) and raising or lowering the platform. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a series of gears may be employed to drive the mount 142 up or down without departing from the scope of the present invention.

When the mount 142 reaches the fully deployed position shown in Figure 18, the cylinder 142c then actuates the clamps 143 simultaneously to clamp the clamp plate portions 144 to lock the retractable mount 142 securely in the deployed position. This provides a simple means of moving and stably and reliably making safe the mount 142 in the deployed position for improving the weapon's accuracy, which can be particularly useful in combat situations, while mitigating shocks and vibrations through the resilient mounting when the mount 142 is in the retracted position and/or as it is raised or lowered between the retracted and deployed positions.

In use and when the cockpit module 3, 103, 203 or unmanned control station module 7 is mounted to the hull 2, the control system, preferably the controller of the cockpit module 3, 103, 203 or unmanned control station module 7, reads an identifier incorporated within the controller or a tag associated with the hull 2 and each of the other modules present. On recognition of the identifier, the control system is operable to enable the control of the engine 25, the steering of the craft 1 , 100 and the control of any number of onboard control or operating parameters associated with the hull 2 and/or any one or all of the modules described above. If the identifier is not recognised, the control system is operable to disable the control of any and all control or operating parameters.

A further advantageous feature of the invention is that the control system, preferably the controller of the cockpit module 3, 103, 203 or unmanned control station module 7, incorporates a master software program that not only recognises the identifiers of each module mounted to the hull 2, but also interprets the combination of modules to determine which of any number of predetermined configurations of marine craft 1 , 100 is present. The control and operating parameters can thereby be controlled, altered or limited based on the detected configuration the marine craft 1 , 100.

For example, the control or operating parameters may include one or more or any combination of the speed and/or power and/or turning radius, for example a speed and/or power and/or rudder angle limit may be imposed, and/or one or more control or operating parameters, such as inflation or position, of one or more stabilisation aids or devices, such as side mounted tubes or inflatable members. This may be advantageous in the passenger configuration of the marine craft 100. Additionally or alternatively, the control or operating parameters may include or be related to engine performance, such as fuel and air mixture, the operation or use or non-use of a turbocharger or supercharger and/or the responsiveness of the controls. This may be advantageous when distinguishing between an assault configuration, in which maximum performance is required, and a long haul or endurance configuration, in which fuel consumption is to be minimised.

Referring now to Figures 23 and 24, there is shown a hull 102 according to a second embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the hull 2 according to the first embodiment, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further. The hull 102 of this embodiment differs from the hull 2 of the first embodiment in that the engine 25 is replaced with a twin engine 125 made up of a pair of engines 125a, 125b arranged in line with each other with their output shafts extending toward one another. Both of the engines 125a, 125b are located in the lower central section of the boat between the propeller drive shafts 27a, 27b and each is coupled to a respective input of a power sharing gearbox 126 located between them. Each propeller drive shaft 27a, 27b is connected to a respective output of the gearbox 126 by a 90° bevel box 127a, 127b. The inputs of the gearbox 126 are at the front and rear thereof, while the outputs are on either side.

The gearbox 126 is controlled via the control system and enables the selective changing between drive configurations. More particularly, the gearbox 126 includes a first drive configuration in which a first drive shaft 27a is coupled to a first engine 125a and a second drive shaft 27b is coupled to a second engine 125b, a second drive configuration in which the first and second drive shafts 27a, 27b are both connected to the first engine 125a and a third drive configuration in which the first and second drive shafts 27a, 27b are connected to the second engine.

This arrangement is particularly advantageous for switching between maximum performance (e.g. the first configuration) and minimum fuel consumption (e.g. the second and third configurations). As mentioned above, driving both drive shafts 27a, 27b by the active engine 125a, 125b avoids the drag forces of a static propeller and selectively driving both drive shafts 27a, 27b by either of the first or second engines 125a, 125b is that wear may be balanced over time.

In this embodiment, the gearbox 126 also includes a fourth drive configuration in which both the first and second drive shafts 27a, 27b are driven by both the first and second engines 125a, 125b simultaneously. According to an optional feature of this embodiment of the invention, the gearbox 126 may also include one or more of a fifth drive configuration in which the first drive shaft 27a is connected to the second engine 125b and the second drive shaft 27b is connected to the first engine 125a, a sixth drive configuration in which the first drive shaft 27a is connected to the first and second engines 125b simultaneously and the second drive shaft 27b is disconnected from both engines 125a, 125b and a seventh drive configuration in which the second drive shaft 27b is connected to the first and second engines 125a, 125b simultaneously and the first drive shaft 27a is disconnected from both engines 125a, 125b.

Referring now to Figures 25 and 26, there is shown a hull 202 according to a third embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the hull 102 of to the second embodiment, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further. The hull 202 of this embodiment differs from the hull 102 of the second embodiment in that the engines 225a, 225b are arranged in a side-by-side configuration and each is coupled to a respective one of the propeller drive shafts 27a, 27b via a respective one of two interconnected gearboxes 226a, 226b. The gearboxes 226a, 226b are interconnected by a Cardan shaft 227 and are configured and controllable to selectively change between first to third and, optionally, any further one of the fourth to seventh drive configurations described above.

The advantages associated with the twin engine 125, 225 configurations will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. It will also be understood that the in line twin engine 125 configuration is further advantageous as the engines may be mounted lower within the hull 102, thereby lowering the centre of gravity of the craft and improving performance.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the specific embodiments disclosed herein are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the identifier of the hull 2 and/or of any one or more of the modules may take any form, for example a tag, e.g. an RFID tag, or any other suitable identifying means. The retractable gun and/or mount need not be provided as a module and/or need not be removably secured to the hull, for example it may be incorporated within or as part of the hull. The stop mechanism may be provided by a channel shaped guide within which the braking elements 143a, 143b may be received and operable to be forced apart to frictionally engage the channel. The drive mechanism 145 may be replaced by any suitable means such as a gear assembly or train, for example a planetary gear system or a gear assembly or train that includes a central or sun gear and an outer or planet gear associated with each lead screw and/or one or more intermediate gears, e.g. between the central or sun gear and each outer or planet gear or a rack and pinion arrangement in which the pinion may be driven by a motor 147 and/or the rack may be connected or fixed or secured to the retractable mount 142.

Moreover, the gun may be an anti-aircraft gun or cannon or rifle or may be replaced with any other weapon or propelling or expelling or launching or firing means or device, for example a missile launcher, or safety device, e.g. a water nozzle or hose or gun for fire control and/or prevention and/or any other device and/or use.

It will be understood that the configuration of the hull 2, 102, 202 or any other module or component may vary considerably without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the side walls 22 may be omitted or of an entirely different configuration or design.

The marine craft or kit may include one or more other modules not described above and/or shown in the Figures. For example, other modules might include a scope or surveillance module, e.g. having a telescopic post or mast on which surveillance equipment is mounted such as a camera or video camera or radar or sonar or radio frequency transmitter or receiver or transceiver, and/or a mine detonator module and/or a ramp unit or module and/or a raft or safety raft that may be inflatable and/or a ladder or boarding ladder that may be extendable. At least part of any one of the modules may also include a protective material, e.g. configured to resist against ballistic impact and/or heat or fire, for example seat backs and/or an external, internal or intermediate layer of the one or more modules. The craft or modules may also include a boarding device or module, which may include a grappling hook that may be positioned or propelled from a telescopic pole or mast and/or may comprise a rope ladder.

Whilst this invention is particularly concerned with marine crafts, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the any one of the arts of automobiles or other land or air or space vehicles or aircrafts or spacecrafts, whether they be military vehicles, leisure vehicles or utility vehicles, that many of the aforementioned aspects and/or features of the invention may be applicable to such applications.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

1 . A marine craft comprising a hull, a control system and one or more modules removably connectable to the hull, wherein the control system is configured to recognise or identify, in use, the hull and/or the one or more modules and to configure, adapt or alter one or more control or operating parameters based thereon.

2. Craft according to claim 1 , wherein each of the hull and the modules comprises an identifier, wherein the control system is configured to recognise or read or interpret the identifier.

3. Craft according to claim 2, wherein the control system is configured to enable the control of operating variables or parameters associated with the hull if the identifier or identifiers is or are recognised and to prevent or disable the control of the operating variables or parameters if the identifier or identifiers is or are not recognised.

4. Craft according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more modules comprise a command module with a controller comprising at least part of the control system.

5. Craft according to claim 4, wherein the command module is configured to interpret the combination of modules present and to adapt or limit one or more control or operating parameters based on the combination.

6. Craft according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the command module comprises a cockpit module or an unmanned control station.

7. Craft according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more modules are removably connectable to the hull by one or more quick release fixing arrangements.

8. Craft according to claim 7, wherein the or at least one of the quick release fixing arrangements comprises a guide mounted to the hull to which a connector is removably connected in use.

9. Craft according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more modules comprises a weapon or safety module that is controllable, in use, remotely by the control system.

10. A marine craft comprising a hull with a connector, a removable assault or weapon or safety module and a control system, wherein the removable weapon module is releasably securable to the hull by the connector and controllable, in use, remotely by the control system.

1 1 . Craft according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the weapon or safety module comprises a frame or housing, a lock, a retractable mount resiliency mounted to the frame or housing and movable between retracted and deployed positions and a propelling device secured to the retractable mount, wherein the lock is operable to secure rigidly, in use, the retractable mount to the frame or housing in the deployed position.

12. A marine craft module comprising a frame or housing, a lock and a retractable mount resiliency mounted to the frame or housing and movable between retracted and deployed positions, wherein the lock is operable to secure rigidly, in use, the retractable mount to the frame or housing in the deployed position.

13. Craft according to claim 1 1 or claim 12, wherein the retractable mount is securely mounted to a first part of the frame or housing that is resiliency mounted to a second part of the frame or housing by one or more resilient members.

14. Craft according to any one of claims 1 1 to 13, wherein the lock comprises one or more clamps each mounted to a respective portion of the retractable mount and configured to clamp, in use, a respective portion of the frame or housing .

15. Craft according to claim 14, wherein the lock comprises an actuator and two or more clamps each mounted to a respective portion of the retractable mount, the actuator being configured to actuate simultaneously the two or more clamps.

16. Craft according to claim 15, wherein the lock comprises a link plate pivotably mounted to the retractable mount and interconnecting the actuator with the two or more clamps.

17. Craft according to any one of claims 1 1 to 16, wherein the retractable mount is movable by a drive mechanism between the retracted and deployed positions.

18. Craft according to any preceding claim further comprising an engine that powers two propellers each of which is coupled to the engine by a drive shaft, wherein the engine is positioned between the drive shafts.

19. A marine craft comprising an engine and two propellers coupled to the engine by respective drive shafts, wherein the engine is positioned between the drive shafts.

20. Craft according to claim 19, wherein the engine comprises a twin engine comprising two engines arranged in line or in series with each other.

21 . Craft according to claim 20, wherein each drive shaft is couplable either to a respective one of the engines or both engines.

22. Craft according to claim 20 or claim 21 further comprising a transmission that enables the selective changing between two or more drive configurations by which each drive shaft is selectively coupled to both or a respective one of the engines.

23. A hull specifically adapted for use in a craft according to any preceding claim.

24. A module adapted for use in a craft according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

25. A control system specifically adapted for use in a craft according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

26. A kit of parts kit of parts for assembly into a marine craft according to any preceding claim, the kit comprising a hull, a control system and one or more modules that are releasably securable to the hull, wherein the control system is configured to recognise or identify, in use, the hull and/or the one or more modules and to configure, adapt or alter one or more control or operating parameters based thereon.