TM-5-5420-279-10
Basic Operational Sequence (Retrieval)
1.1.5.1
The retrieval operation is essentially a reversal of the deployment procedure. However,
because of the passage of vehicles across the bridge, the modules must be cleaned prior
to bridge retrieval. This important procedure ensures any debris is removed which may
otherwise damage bridge parallel panels during stowing operations or cause injury to
personnel as the modules close.
1.1.5.2
The launch vehicle is positioned on the centerline of the bridge. The A-frame stabilizer
legs are then extended and the launcher deployed in readiness for construction of the
launch beam.
1.1.5.3
The flatracks are positioned, to reload retrieved bridge modules. The home bank
approach ramp frames are placed on the right-hand side flatrack "pallet" (V1) near to the
bridge. The home bank approach ramps are stowed and strapped into their frames.
1.1.5.4
The approach ramp frames are placed on the far bank ramp module and the approach
ramps are stowed and strapped into the frames.
1.1.5.5
With the launch beam deployed, the bridge is connected to the carriages, and then raised
from the ground until the carriages can be locked by the insertion of shootbolt pins. The
bridge stops emergency are raised so that the bridge can be drawn onto the A-frame by
the operation of the carriages from the launch chest pack. The home bank end of the
bridge is then lowered until it is supported on the A-frame rollers. The bridge stops
emergency are then lowered to retain the bridge on the A-frame prior to the home bank
carriage being disconnected.
1.1.5.6
The home bank carriage is disconnected from the bridge and the bridge drawn rearwards
to the correct position for the removal of the home bank ramp module. The crane operator
positions the module lifting beam, which is then attached to the opening sling positions on
the ramp module. The bridge connecting pins are then removed and the weight of the
module taken by the crane. Once the shootbolts have been retracted the module can be
placed on the end beam guides and removable rollers attached to the slide frame for end
beam removal.
1.1.5.7
To remove the end beam the ramp module has to be re-slung to account for the change in
center of gravity. The end beam pins are removed, the module lifted and then lowered
across flatrack T1 at 90 degrees. Once on the flatrack the module lifting beam is
reconfigured for closing and attached to the closing cables located between the deck
units. As the module is raised, it will fold to its transportation configuration for re-loading
onto the flatrack. The end beam may now be craned from the end beam guides. The end
beam guides and removable rollers are removed from the slide frame and stowed
alongside the vehicle.
1.1.5.8
A similar sequence is repeated for all modules until the bridge is fully recovered from the
gap. The launch beam retrieval and vehicle stowage sequences being direct reversals of
the build procedure.
