Technical analysis of "Ship-to-Ship Transfer" (STST) for Trimaran Foils. Enabling communities beyond the shoreline.
> STRUCTURE: Triangular truss, 7ft high internal clearance. Front apex, 35ft rear width.
> HYDRODYNAMICS: 3x Parallel NACA 0030 foils (19ft L, 10ft C), 50% submersion. SWATH stability with low drag.
> PROPULSION: 6x RIM Drive Thrusters (1.5ft dia) integrated into foil assemblies.
> ACTIVE STABILIZATION: 3x Underwater servo-tabbed "airplane" fins at rear of legs (12ft span).
> POWER: Full roof solar array.
Connecting two mobile platforms dynamically to allow human and cargo transfer without returning to land.
The "Follower" approaches the "Leader" from directly astern. Computer systems sync GPS coordinates and heading vector.
Using robotic manipulators or net capture systems, a physical high-tensile line is established between the two structures.
Personnel or cargo traverse the active connection. Software maintains station-keeping tension to minimize sway.
Beyond existing sensors, thrusters, and cameras. Software handles the heavy lifting, but mechanical interfaces are required.
Mechanical arm or "shot line" launcher at the follower vessel.
LiDAR or Stereoscopic Camera array on the bow.
Secure harness point or small cargo net.
Because of the SWATH design and active fins, pitch is minimal. STST is viable in most Caribbean afternoon conditions.
Only 1 in 5 vessels may need physical capture gear, but all need software compatibility.
By leveraging the existing high-precision thruster array and computational vision, the cost to enable STST is minimal compared to the vessel cost. The "Harbor at Sea" concept transforms seasteading from isolation into a networked community.
The method is reliable in calm-to-moderate seas. For heavier weather, the "trailer" mode with stretchy bridles provides a passive safe alternative.