TRIOFIX TR is a coupler of hydraulically operated, 3-pin supported rigid connection type of multi-step tooth-engagement principle, specially designed for simultaneous realization of excellent seaworthiness, high speed and low cost of small- and medium-sized pusher-barges. Connection can take place at any arbitrary draught relationship in short time by remote-control from the bridge of pusher and time-and manpower-saving combined with excellent seaworthyness and expectable high speed can assure the high operational economy of the pusher-barges in rough sea.    Couplers of TRIOFIX TR-Series comprises two side couplers and a bow coupler, all fixed to the structure under the superstructure deck of the pusher in general practice, while small units can be designed as deck-mountable ones. Bow coupler of same design is used in TRIOFIX TK and TRF.    The Connecting Pin supported by the Main Bearing, fixed to the hull, of the Side Coupler is extended out by the function of a hydraulic cylinder in its inside so that the Tip at its outer end may engage into the Rack at the bottom of Connecting Slot formed in the side wall of stern notch of the barge. Then, the Connecting Pin supported by the Main Bearing of the Bow Coupler is extended out by the function of a hydraulic cylinder in its inside so that the Tip at its outer end will engage into the Rack fixed to the barge notch wall at the centerline, and, then, push back the hull of the pusher aft until the side Connecting Pins may come into tight contact with the rearward walls of Connecting Slots and press them thereon. The pusher's hull is fixed to the barge by co-operative function of three Pins and connection is finished.

---Triofix TR can assure an excellent seaworthiness equivalent to ordinary cargo ships in open sea service. The models can be selected to comply with the required sea states. ---Triofix TR realizes a rigidly connected pusher-barge combination which will move as a single vessel in waves. The crew on board are free from shocks, vibrations and noises during connected navigation, and can enjoy a same level of comfortableness as on board of ordinary cargo ships. ---Because of absence of relative motions between the pusher and barge, the clearance between two hulls can be reduced to the minimum to suppress the generation of eddies and attain a high speed which was unexpectable with conventional pusher-barges. ---Triofix TR can connect the pusher to the barge without previously adjusting the draught, at any point within the whole range of change of draught relationship. ---For connection an disconnection, Triofix TR is remote-controlled by the captain's finger-tip from the bridge of pusher and no muscle work is needed. The time needed for connection and disconnection is very short. ---Connection and disconnection works are made from the pusher only and crew members have no need of visiting the barge. ---Triofix TR contains practically no wearing parts needing periodical replacement.