Floating/tensioned production system with caisson
US4913238A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 18, 1989 |
| Grant date | Apr 3, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/01
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A floating/tensioned production system for use in deepwater drilling and production operations generally combining a relatively small tension leg platform with a semisubmersible platform. The semisubmersible platform is provided with a working deck supported above the water surface so that an air gap exists between the working deck and the water surface. The tension leg platform provides a heave-restrained production deck for near-surface wellhead equipment. The production deck is supported above the drill site but beneath the water surface by buoyancy members and held in place by one or more tethers. Most other drilling and production equipment is located on the semisubmersible working deck. A caisson, surrounding the production deck, is used to provide a substantially dry working area. In one embodiment, the caisson is retractably attached to the production deck. In an alternative embodiment, the caisson is attached to the bottom of the working deck, extending downwardly to sealingly engage with the production deck.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.