Episode: Introduction

This is series of episodes will be about the features and updates of the SSMBC (Tampa Bay Area, Florida) Portable Dock System (PDS) I will post information on the original design and build of the PDS as well as requirements of have a PDS for the SSMBC.

First is why. Operating (R/C) model boats are fun to build and run. But take that to the next level. How do we improve that? We have a pond, OK? We have a floating dock for launching and retrieval; Nice. Every once and a while we have a few buoys (markers); Getting a little better. Now comes docks! Wow, how many of you "captains" out there would like to maneuver through a docking system? I know I like it. (Think it we ignite some of our casual members to come or entice new members to join?)

In March of 2014 I built most of the PDS with my son's help. There we no videos or even instructions on how to build a PDS back then. Only a few photos and videos that showed little to no detail on they were built.

It was fun to operate the boats but what a headache to setup for our two hour meets. Trudging through thick mud on the ponds bottom was very difficult. Trying to flat the sections out and attach them together while leaning over the docks edge was still an issue. ("No swimming".)

Thought: Why not assemble them on land gradually pushing them into the pond? How about a better way to attach them to the shore? I already made them stackable to ease storage and transport.

And that folks is where I am today. Most of the thinking was done. Now I am in the update phase. For two days (I'm 81, not as fast as I used to be) I have been not only updating the PDS but doing some badly need maintenance and strengthening.

The photos I am posting now are the original build of the PDS. They are simplistic, no additional details. (Some details may be added later.) You can see that the sections can be positioned for a variety of configurations.

In upcoming episodes I will add more information and photos. so others can see what we have done. Nothing hidden, all information. And, of course, suggestions are welcomed.

Lew
SSMBC event coordinator

Ronald, good question and an eye for details.

The Wiesel and LCM were pre-tied when I was setting up the docks. Didn't need to run them that day.

Lew

Jump... I live about 5 miles from where the Hulk (RIP) lived.

Lew

Connecting the dock sections are simple: Elastic bands. Each dock section has multiple posts, one on each corner and several along the length. Spacing is about the same so that any section can connect to other sections, not only at the ends but anywhere where there are posts. Example "L", "T", "X" layouts and more configurations can be made.

Why elastic bands? Waves make the docks ride up and down and sometimes collisions happen as well. This reduces damage to both the dock sections and the boats as well. They afford flexibility when the dock sections are assembled on land and slid into the water.

The dock sections were originally a little high with tall posts. That made stacking them too tall. Each were cut down so the bottom on one will fit flush with the deck of the one below it. (Stack height reduced.)

The phase I am currently in is replacing the posts with shorter fittings. They are 3D printed eyelets or spools with a screw running down through each one. I have the screws, and also have the eyelets printed. I have the posts cut down and need to drill holes for the screws.

Back to work!

Lew