Advanced Modular Lighterage/Platform Technology Development.

This report documents a conceptual design effort for the Amphibious Cargo Beaching ACB Lighter, a modular barge system which is being developed to replace the Navy Lighter NL pontoon causeway system. The ACB Lighter will be rapidly deployed from an auxiliary crane ship and be assembled and operated in sea conditions through sea state three to support Joint Logistics Over the Shore JLOTS operations. The primary objectives of this Phase I effort were 1 the review of pertinent code and non-code hull design procedures for applicability to the development of an acceptable and practical design criteria for the ACB Lighter structure 2 preliminary structural design of the module to verify the feasibility of developing a light but durable hull structure within the 30 long ton handling weight limit set for each lighter module 3 selection and arrangement of lighter fittings for handling, stacking, cargo tie-down, and mooring 4 development of intermodal requirements for module stowage, stacking and handling and 5 development of a preliminary arrangement for the modular ACB Lighter.