Michael M Willis

US Patent:

6513449, Feb 4, 2003

Filed:

Dec 21, 2001

Appl. No.:

10/028206

Inventors:

Robert E. Stewart - Union MI
Keith Schrader - Sturgis MI
Michael J. Willis - Plainwell MI

Assignee:

Buoyant Solutions, Inc. - Sturgis MI

International Classification:

B63B 5902

US Classification:

114219, 405212, 405214

Abstract:

A marine docking device according to the present invention includes a fender having a first end coupled to a first arm by a first attachment member and a second end coupled to a second arm by a second attachment member. The first attachment member and the second attachment member are configured to prevent the fender from rotating about a longitudinal axis that passes through the first end and the second end. The first arm includes a compression assembly that facilitates movement of the first end between a first position and a second position. The compression assembly includes a tubular member that is slidable within a sleeve. A spring is compressed between a first spring abutment provided on the sleeve and a second spring abutment provided on the tubular member. The first spring abutment is continuously urged toward an advanced position by the spring.