System and method for deck-to-column connection for extendable draft offshore platforms
US8430050B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2011 |
| Grant date | Apr 30, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE02B2017/0086
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The disclosure provides a system and method for locking and unlocking an extendable column to a deck. A deck-to-column connection assembly includes a pawl and shim used in a sequential de-ballasting and ballasting of the column to the deck that can easily lock and unlock the column with the deck. Generally, the locking method includes ballasting the column to insert a pawl between the column and the deck, de-ballasting the column to raise the column relative to the deck and create a vertical gap between the column and the deck, inserting a shim to fill the gap and secure the pawl in a deployed position, and further de-ballasting the column to raise the deck connected to the column. Generally, the unlocking method lowering the deck to float on water, de-ballasting the column to remove compressive stress on the shim, removing the shim, ballasting the column, and retracting the pawl.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.