TLP and detachable derrick vessel
US5542783A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 1994 |
| Grant date | Aug 6, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B77/00
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An offshore production system of the type that includes a TLP (tension leg platform) (12) and a derrick vessel (14) which moves to the TLP platform (16) whenever the derrick is required. The vessel carries fastener assemblies (131) that rigidly fix the vessel to the platform so they move vertically and horizontally as a single unit, which avoids any need to separately anchor the vessel and which facilitates operation of the derrick in more adverse weather. The vessel preferably has thruster equipment (88) which not only allows it to self-propel itself to the platform, but which also allows the vessel to propel itself and the platform sidewardly, to avoid drift of the platform during drilling. The vessel includes a vessel deck (70) which lies above the platform and a pair of vessel sides (72, 74) with pontoons (76, 78), that lie on opposite sides of the platform. After the vessel moves to a position around the platform and is fixed to the platform, the buoyancy of the vessel is increased to add tension to the TLP tendons.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.