WO2003086852A1 - Navire submersible - Google Patents

Navire submersible Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2003086852A1
WO2003086852A1 PCT/NL2003/000274 NL0300274W WO03086852A1 WO 2003086852 A1 WO2003086852 A1 WO 2003086852A1 NL 0300274 W NL0300274 W NL 0300274W WO 03086852 A1 WO03086852 A1 WO 03086852A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
catamaran
submersible
load supporting
float
vessel
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NL2003/000274
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Joop Roodenburg
Original Assignee
Itrec B.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Itrec B.V. filed Critical Itrec B.V.
Priority to AU2003224498A priority Critical patent/AU2003224498A1/en
Priority to EP03721147A priority patent/EP1492699B1/fr
Priority to DE60315276T priority patent/DE60315276D1/de
Publication of WO2003086852A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003086852A1/fr
Priority to NO20043671A priority patent/NO330075B1/no

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B35/00—Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for
    • B63B35/003—Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for for transporting very large loads, e.g. offshore structure modules
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B77/00—Transporting or installing offshore structures on site using buoyancy forces, e.g. using semi-submersible barges, ballasting the structure or transporting of oil-and-gas platforms
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
    • B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
    • B66C23/36—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes
    • B66C23/52—Floating cranes

Definitions

  • a first aspect of the present invention relates to a method for erecting an object, in particular a lifting frame, wherein a submersible vessel is employed.
  • the first object of the invention also relates to a combination of a submersible vessel and the object to be erected.
  • the present invention was developed to enable the transport of rigs and drilling platforms even in rough sea conditions by submerging to one of two levels, while retaining the option to operate in a normal draft.
  • German Offenlegungsschrift 23 56 537 discloses a catamaran surface vessel having a submersible gondola located between the two hulls of the catamaran.
  • the catamaran remains afloat when the gondola is lowered for underwater travel.
  • the submersible gondola has a torpedo-like shape widely used for self-propelled underwater craft because of its low resistance to motion for the volume of water displaced, relative to other shapes.
  • the catamaran by virtue of the form stability provided by its two spaced-apart hulls, has a high resistance to capsizing, it is nonetheless susceptible to bad weather and rough seas as are other surface vessels .
  • U.S. Pat. No. 1,757,174 to Douglas discloses a seagoing vessel having five pontoons: a cabin pontoon, two waterline pontoons, and two power pontoons .
  • the two waterline pontoons are disposed below and to either side of the cabin pontoon.
  • a power pontoon is disposed below each waterline pontoon.
  • the vessel of U.S. Pat. No. 1,757,174 is a surface vessel. Only the power pontoons, located beneath the waterline pontoons, are submerged when the vessel is under way. Consequently, the vessel is also affected by heavy seas .
  • the first aspect of the invention relates to a method according to claim 1.
  • Dependent claims disclose preferred embodiments of the method.
  • the first aspect of the invention also relates to the combination of claim 10.
  • Dependent claims disclose preferred embodiments of the combination.
  • the first aspect of the present invention relates in a preferred embodiment to the erection of a lifting frame, such as an A frame, to be used in offshore operations, such as well maintenance, drilling, or other maritime operations, such as bridge construction.
  • the vessel employed in the first aspect of the invention is a submersible catamaran having two floats disposed generally parallel to and spaced apart from each other.
  • a second aspect of the invention relates to a gantry system on a catamaran and in particular to a method for constructing the gantry system at sea on said catamaran according to claim 18.
  • the second aspect of the invention also relates to the catamaran of claim 19 which includes a gantry to be constructed according to the method of claim 18.
  • the third aspect of the present invention relates to a method to the commission and decommission of a topsides using a submersible catamaran.
  • This method involves submerging the catamaran under the intended topsides to be installed then rising by deballasting, to lift the topsides, then while either partially submerged or at normal draft, to transport that topsides to a new position, then by ballasting and positioning to depositing that topsides on the new structure.
  • the third aspect of the invention also relates to a method for picking up a topsides for decommissioning using a load lifting system which is integral to the vessel, carrying the topsides and redepositing the topsides using the same lifting system.
  • a method has long been needed for moving large topsides in one piece, in less than stable seas.
  • the third aspect of the present invention was developed to enable the transport of rigs and drilling platforms even in rough seas by providing a vessel, which can move while submerged at one or more drafts, or to transport at normal draft.
  • the third aspect of the invention provides methods according to claims 20-33.
  • a fourth aspect relates to a vessel, preferably a catamaran, comprising a crane for lifting objects.
  • the fourth aspect of the invention provides, according to claim 34, a submersible vessel having a submersible vessel hull and a crane supported on said hull for lifting objects, wherein the crane is adapted to be floatable, such that when the hull of the vessel is submerged the crane floats with respect to the vessel hull and wherein the hull provides multiple crane positions for supporting the crane on the said hull, such that the floating crane is displaceable from one crane position to another crane position.
  • the vessel has one or more associated buoyancy members releasably attachable the crane so that the crane is rendered floatable.
  • the vessel is a catamaran having spaced parallel floats and a support surface across the top of the floats and spanning the gap between the floats, wherein said support surface in the area of the gap is partly formed by a buoyant hatch, which is hatch is removable from the support surface and is adapted to be secured to said crane to render the crane floating.
  • a fifth aspect of the present invention relates to method according to claim 37 for operating a catamaran which is adapted for lifting loads.
  • FIG 1 is a top view of the catamaran with ballast systems.
  • FIG 2 is a starboard view of the catamaran with two moveable columns .
  • FIG 3 is a bow on view of the catamaran showing the air gap.
  • FIG 4 is a top view of the catamaran showing the bow structure as rounded triangular shapes .
  • FIG 5 shows three typical drafts for the catamaran.
  • FIG 6 shows a vertical positioning system usable on the catamaran disposed in a moveable column.
  • FIG 7 shows the catamaran from the stern view using the vertical positioning system on an object at sea.
  • FIG 8 is a top view of the catamaran using the horizontal positioning system.
  • FIG 9 shows the catamaran wherein two of the moveable columns have been moved from positions on extreme ends of the submersible floats to a center area of the solid support structure.
  • FIG 10 is a top view of the catamaran with the hatch disposed across the bow.
  • FIG 11 is a stern view of the catamaran with a lift operation occurring.
  • FIG 12 shows an A-frame with floating devices mounted, positioned on the catamaran at normal draft.
  • FIG 13 shows the catamaran being ballasted down into the water and the A-frame floating over the solid support surface.
  • FIG 14 shows the A-frame of FIG 12 floated off of the catamaran.
  • FIG 15 shows the floating A-frame secured to the stern of the catamaran .
  • FIG 16 shows a luffing tackle secured from one end of the A-frame to a winch on the catamaran.
  • FIG 17 shows an erected A-frame with a semi-submerged catamaran.
  • FIG 18 is a view of the self-erecting gantry as erected on a catamaran .
  • FIG 19 shows the first step of erecting the self-erecting gantry.
  • FIG 20 shows the second step of erecting the self-erecting gantry.
  • FIG 21 shows the third step of erecting the self-erecting gantry.
  • FIG 22 is a view of the catamaran with a barge carrying a topsides prior to load transfer.
  • FIG 23 is a view of the catamaran carrying topsides on the detachable, moveable support columns while semi submerged.
  • FIG 24 shows a crane disposed on the catamaran.
  • FIG 25 shows displacing the crane of FIG 24 on the catamaran.
  • FIG 1 a catamaran (2) is shown having a bow (4) and a stern
  • the catamaran has a first submersible float (8) and a second submersible float (10) .
  • the first and second submersible floats (8) and (10) each have a similar construction of bow, midsection and stern section, the latter being referred to hereafter as the tail.
  • the first submersible float has a first float rounded triangular bow (50) , a first float midsection (54) , a first float tail (58), and first float stern (62).
  • the second submersible float (10) has a second float rounded triangular bow (52) , second float midsection (56) , second float tail (60) and second float stern (64) .
  • the first and second submersible floats (8) and (10) are disposed in a parallel relation to each other along a center line (158) .
  • the first float tail (58) and the second float tail (60) have a tapered shape. Alternatively they can be of a rectangular design, however the tapered shape enables easier positioning of the catamaran when engaging objects at sea.
  • FIG 1 also shows that each submersible float has a ballast system.
  • First submersible float (8) has ballast tank (34) and second submersible float (10) has ballast tank (35) .
  • An air gap (13) which is shown in better detail in later Figures, is present between the first and second submersible floats and the solid support surface (12) .
  • a slot opening (15) is disposed between first and second submersible float tails.
  • the slot opening in a preferred embodiment is between 10 and 80 meters in width and 10-80 meters in length. In a most preferred embodiment the slot opening (15) is 50 meters in width.
  • the slot opening (15) has a U-shape.
  • the slot opening (15) is sized to position at least partially around a structure in a marine environment, such as around a jacket or a spar or similar deep draft floating caisson structure as shown in more detail in FIG 7.
  • Other structures which could be positioned in slot opening (15) include a floating platform, a fixed leg platform or another floating vessel.
  • FIG 2 is a starboard view of the catamaran, shows that the support surface (12) forms a top on the first and second submersible floats.
  • This solid support surface (12) can support very heavy loads.
  • the catamaran has two towers or columns which are disposed generally above the hulls approximately in a longitudinal symmetry plane.
  • the two hulls and the columns are rigidly interconnected by the support surface (12) .
  • the towers or columns can contain propulsion and control mechanisms, crew accommodation and other equipment, such as ROV's, diver work chambers, pipeline repair gear or other operating equipment .
  • the catamaran has load supporting moveable columns (14,16) and (17,19) which are disposed on the support surface (12). Additional moveable columns are also contemplated as usable on this catamaran. These load supporting moveable columns can support very heavy loads, such as a top sides, or objects, such as plates of steel or a hatch can be placed on the load supporting moveable columns and then a load placed on the hatch. These load supporting moveable columns can also be used as a lifting device in combination with a hatch of the catamaran.
  • load supporting moveable columns are shown, as (14) , (16) , (17) and (19) .
  • four moveable support columns are contemplated, two disposed on the first submersible float and two disposed on the second submersible float.
  • load supporting moveable columns could be used on a catamaran. These columns can be skiddable on the support surface (12) . Alternatively, these columns can be detachable from the support surface .
  • the support columns are detachably fitted on the floats .
  • This has the advantage that the support columns can be removed from the vessel at the point in time when they are not needed. This makes a difference in weight and, furthermore, space is made free on the deck in this way.
  • the construction of the catamaran is so rigid and so strong that the position of the support columns on the floats can be freely chosen.
  • the support columns can be placed in an optimum position, depending on the load that has to be transported.
  • the support columns can be positioned close to the stern of the catamaran.
  • the one or more fixed columns, with the crew accommodation etc. therein, are preferably located at the bow of the catamaran.
  • Two fixed columns can also be disposed on the submersible floats, preferably one on each float.
  • the open space between the two floats is filled by hatches in order to increase the effective surface area of the deck. Provision is made that these hatches can be fixed to the side of the floats. In this case the volume of the vessel is appreciably increased at this location. As a result the lifting capacity of the catamaran will be increased at the location of the hatches.
  • FIG 2 shows one of the two fixed columns, the first fixed column (18) disposed on the submersible float (8).
  • FIG 3 shows the second fixed column (20) disposed on the second submersible float (10) .
  • These fixed columns are contemplated to be single hulled or double hulled. Double hulling is helpful if the columns should contain a fluid that is harmful to the environment. This construction helps to create an environmental friendly vessel.
  • the ballast system (34) is shown disposed in the submersible float (8) . It is contemplated that at least two ballast systems are used, one for each submersible float.
  • FIG 1 shows the preferred positioning of each of the two ballast tanks which would be used in this vessel. These ballast systems are used to raise and lower the catamaran with respect to the waterline.
  • the ballast systems can be used to keep the catamaran at first, a normal draft, or second, a slightly submerged draft, wherein water fills the air gap (13) between the first and second submersible floats (8) and (10) and the solid support surface (12) is above the water level, or third, a lower draft, wherein between 1 and 16 meters of water covers the solid support surface (12) .
  • first and second ballast systems (34) and (35) can be used to raise and lower the catamaran between 10 and 90 percent of the overall height of the catamaran.
  • an optional propulsion system comprised of rotatable propellers and bow thrusters is shown for one of the two submersible floats.
  • reference number 38 is a rotatable propeller connected to an engine (37)
  • reference numeral (39) is a thruster as is reference numeral 42.
  • At least three propulsion devices can be located in each submersible float as an option. The equipment for operating these devices can be contained in the fixed column (18) and (20) or located in the floats.
  • FIG 3 provides additional detail that the fixed columns (18) can contain crew accommodations (92) and/or a bridge command center, such as a navigational bridge (74) for piloting and commanding the vessel.
  • the fixed column can contain catamaran operational equipment (93) .
  • the fixed columns can also support a helipad or second deck (72) as shown in this Figure. It is contemplated as an option that each fixed column could support different structures. (74) .Also notable in FIG 3 is the air gap (13) disposed between the two submersible floats.
  • FIG 4 shows a top view of the catamaran with the airgap (13) and the slot (15) as well as the support deck (12) in a position where the slot (15) is not covered by hatches.
  • the two fixed columns (20) and (18) are shown disposed on the submersible floats .
  • Figure 4 shows the bow structure having the unique rounded triangular shape for each submersible float. The edges are shown as reference numeral 200 for float (8) and reference numeral (202) for float (10) .
  • FIG 5 shows the way in which the catamaran can be submerged to at least 3 different draft depths.
  • the first depth is shown as reference numeral (180)
  • the second depth is shown as reference numeral (182)
  • the third depth is shown at reference numeral
  • the vessel can move at any of these depths .
  • Figure 6 shows one element of the vertical positioning system (24) which is installed in at least two of the moveable columns and used for securing the catamaran to an object at sea.
  • a first line (134) connects to an object at sea (1000) .
  • One end of this line (134) is secured substantially vertically to an object at sea (1000) .
  • the angle of attachment is usually not more than between 5 and 30 degrees from the vertical.
  • a second line (135) is used, as shown in FIG 7 and is also secured on one end, substantially vertically, no more than between 5 and 30 degrees from the vertical, to the same object at sea.
  • FIG 7 shows the object at sea secured in the opening slot (15) .
  • FIG 7 is a stern view of the catamaran wherein, the submersible hull (8) and the submersible hull (10) can be seen, as well as two moveable columns (14) and (16) each containing a vertical positioning device with motion compensation system.
  • moveable column (14) contains the first vertical positioning device (24)
  • moveable column (16) contains the second vertical positioning device (200) .
  • the vertical positioning system is a motion compensation system (138) disposed in the first load supporting moveable column (14) .
  • the other end of first line (134) engages this motion compensation system.
  • an identical second motion compensation system is located and connected to the other end of the second line (135) (shown in FIG 7) .
  • the first and second motion compensation systems each comprises the same elements, which are shown in detail in FIG 6.
  • the systems include a winch (77), the line (134 or 135) connected to the winch and vertically connectable to the object at sea (1000) , a tension measuring device (79) connected to the line; a motion control device (80) connected to the line and winch for monitoring and controlling tension on the line.
  • Sheaves or rollers or wheels 104a and 104b can be used to assist in the tensioning of the line. These rollers are preferably mounted at the top of the moveable columns, and the tensioning devices are mounted at the bottom of the device.
  • the motion compensation systems also each comprise at least one pressurized cylinder (81) containing pressurized gas to control the system and assisting in the tensioning. Between 1 and 8 or more winches can be used in each motion compensation system.
  • a horizontal positioning system is also used on the vessel.
  • This horizontal positioning can be a dynamic positioning system.
  • FIG 8 shows the horizontal positioning system holding a spar or floating deep draft cassion vessel in the opening slot (15) .
  • the horizontal positioning system preferably consists of at least three maneuvering lines (25, 26, and 28) although four are shown in FIG 8, with the fourth maneuvering line having reference numeral (33) .
  • Each line is connected on one end to a maneuvering winch.
  • Line (26) connects to winch (19)
  • line (25) connects to winch (30) line (28) connected to winch (23) .
  • the other end of each line connects to the object at sea (1000) .
  • the fourth line (33) it would be connected to a maneuvering winch (31) .
  • Each winch is disposed in a load supporting column. Winch (23) is in column (17)
  • winch (19) is in column (29)
  • winch (30) is in column (16)
  • optional winch (31) is in column (14) .
  • a controller (130) for orienting the catamaran relative to the object at sea (1000) is electrically connected to the winches and the motion compensation systems .
  • the controller monitors the tension on the maneuvering lines and the controller initiates winch pay out of the maneuvering line when load on any one of the maneuvering lines exceeds a first preset limit.
  • the controller initiates the maneuvering winch tensioning of the maneuvering lines when tension on any one of the maneuvering lines falls below a second preset limit.
  • All winches are used to reduce the relative motion between the two bodies. When the bodies move away from each other, the winches go to a high preset tension. When the bodies move towards each other, the winches go to a low preset tension.
  • the vessel can include a propulsion system.
  • this vessel may be propulsion-less, and simply be towable and work within the scope of the invention for lifting, transport and maintenance of objects at sea.
  • FIG 9 shows one embodiment of a propulsion system usable on the vessel.
  • a mirror image for the port side of the vessel is contemplated for this propulsion system.
  • This starboard side has a first engine (37) in the first submersible float (8) driving a first rotatable propeller (38) .
  • a second engine is the second submersible float for driving a second rotatable propeller also disposed on the stern of the second submersible float.
  • the propulsion system can optionally comprises a first bow thruster (42) disposed in the bow of the first submersible float (8) connected to the propulsion system, and a second bow thruster (44) disposed in the float connected to the propulsion system.
  • the propulsion system further can comprises a first stern thruster (46) disposed in submersible float (10) connected to the propulsion system and a second stern thruster (48) can be disposed in the second submersible float (8) .
  • These two thrusters can be used with the two rotatable propellers previously described.
  • two stern thrusters can be used in each submersible float.
  • Figure 7 shows the 4 stern thruster embodiment with the additional stern thrusters noted at 46a and 48a.
  • the catamaran can comprise a propulsion system consisting of a plurality of bow and stern thrusters.
  • the present invention is contemplated to include one or more load supporting hatches.
  • the support surface (12) can comprises at least one removable hatch.
  • the hatch can float.
  • FIG 1 shows removable hatch (21, 152, 154 and 156) disposed over the opening slot (15) .
  • the removable hatch can be placed between the bows of the first and second submersible floats to prevent water from coming over the solid support surface (12) .
  • FIG 10 shows the hatch 21 disposed across the bows of the vessel.
  • FIG 11 shows one of the lifting embodiments for the vessel, which can be used to lift a small structure from a jacket.
  • a hatch (21) is disposed over the two load support columns (16) and (14) for carrying a load (400) using the two winches and two motion compensation systems and the vertical compensation system previously described.
  • Other lifting devices can also be used, such as an A-frame, a gantry, or a crane.
  • Figures 12-17 show how an A-frame (300) can be erected on the catamaran e.g. for use in installing structures at sea or for decommissioning a topsides or jacket.
  • the A-frame (300) is placed on the catamaran (2) .
  • removable floats (302) , (303) (304) and (305) are secured to the A-frame (300) .
  • the A - frame (300) is loaded such as using a land based crane, directly on the support surface (12) .
  • the catamaran (2) is submerged to a draft wherein the A-frame (300) floats over the vessel, as shown in FIG 13.
  • the A-frame has a top (308) and a base (306) .
  • the vessel (2) has a connection point (312) to engage the base (306) of the A-frame.
  • the A-frame (300) is then floated off of it's position over the support surface (12) in proximity to the vessel while slightly submerged, wherein water comes on deck, as shown in FIG 14.
  • FIG 15 shows that the vessel (2) is deballasted to a normal draft and the base (306) engages the connection point (312) to obtain a pivot connection between the two.
  • FIG 16 shows that a luffing tackle (314) is used to engage the A- frame (300) . Also a winch (316) disposed on the deck of the vessel (2) and a hoist line (317) connects the top (308) with the winch (316) .
  • FIG 17 shows that the vessel (2) is ballasted in the bow so that the weight of the vessel permits the A-frame to have a position where the top (308) is erect while connected at the base (306) to the connection point (312) .
  • the vessel then can be ballasted to a normal draft and the A-frame (300) used to decommission a topsides or provide lifting for a large object at sea.
  • this A-frame could be another type of frame, and that the floating or floatable hatches are secured only on one side of the frame. It is further contemplated that the lifting frame or A-Frame could instead be an oil derrick.
  • This method contemplates that the catamaran can be moved not only while at a normal draft, but also while semi-submersed with the erected lifting frame in the upright position.
  • the lifting frame (300) can be modular in construction or alternatively, a one-piece construction.
  • the catamaran can be moved by self propulsion or by towing.
  • FIG 18 shows a constructed gantry.
  • the gantry (428) has a first leg (500) and a second leg (502) , which support a top (21) , which is in the preferred embodiment, a floatable hatch that is usually disposed over the opening slot (15) .
  • the top (21) supports a hoist system, which can include in one embodiment, a first lift (416) and a second lift (504) which can be secured to a jacket or other object at sea (1000) using at least lines 506 and 508 respectively.
  • Two lines per lift are the preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG 18 with lift 416 having lines 506 and 507 and lift 504 having lines 508 and 509.
  • the gantry 428 can utilize the vertical and horizontal motion compensation systems of the catamaran vessel, as shown in FIG 18 to stabilize the object at sea (1000) while the gantry lifts the object at sea from the sea bed or other installation.
  • each system can include a winch, a line and sheaves mounted in the load supporting column.
  • FIG 18 shows column 14 having a winch 404, line 456 and sheave 446 wherein line 456 secures to the object at sea (1000) .
  • Column 16 has a winch 406, line 454 and sheave 448 for securing the line 454 to the jacket or object at sea (1000) .
  • the other two columns (not shown) have identical structures and features for securing to the object at sea. It is preferred that the legs of the gantry are supported between the four load supporting moveable columns of the catamaran. Detail in the construction of the gantry at sea is provided in more detail in the following figures.
  • FIG 18 shows the catamaran at a normal draft for transport of the jacket (1000) ; however, the catamaran can submerge slightly in order that the deballasting of the vessel and the structure of the gantry to minimize vessel movements.
  • One specific method of using the erected gantry contemplates submerging the catamaran while positioned around the jacket or object at sea, attaching the lifts to the top most portion of the jacket. Tensioning the lifting lines. Attaching to the object at sea, the horizontal and vertical positioning lines which are secured to the motion compensation systems located in each of the moveable load supporting columns .
  • FIG 19, 20 and 21 shows the steps for the method for constructing the gantry at sea.
  • First a top (21) is formed as shown in FIG 18 between two load supporting moveable columns (14) and (16) .
  • a first lift (416) and a second lift (504) are secured to the top (21) , which is here formed of a first floatable hatch of the vessel (2) .
  • Sheaves, pulleys and lines are used to secure the lifts to the top (21) and each lift is secured to a moveable load supporting column.
  • lift (416) is secured to column (14) and lift (504) is secured to column (16) .
  • FIG 19 shows a plate or similar support structure (510) disposed between two of the load supporting moveable columns (16) and (19) forming a lifting support structure.
  • Lifting systems are secured to this lifting support structure, specifically; first and second lines second lifting support structure (not shown) is disposed between the remaining two load supporting moveable columns (14) and (17) to create a second lifting support structure and two lifting systems from these two columns are secured to this second lifting support structure.
  • the third and fourth lifting systems are identical to the first and second lifting systems.
  • first, second, third and fourth moveable columns each have a fastener disposed near the top of the column.
  • columns 16, and 19 have first fastener 442, second fastener 420 and as shown in FIGURE 19.
  • the remaining columns have similar fasteners positioning in a similar place which are not shown.
  • the gantry top (21) is raised by the first and second lifting support structures and fastened to the top of the four moveable support columns.
  • FIG 20 shows the first gantry leg being raised by the lifting support structure 510.
  • the first and second lifting support structures are first down on the level of the solid support surface (12) forming a first space (428) between the load supporting movable columns (16) and (19) .
  • a first gantry leg piece (432) is placed in the first space (428) and on that first lifting support structure.
  • a second gantry leg piece is placed in the second space on the second lifting support structure, between the third and fourth load supporting moveable columns.
  • the leg pieces are raised.
  • FIG 21 shows the first gantry leg (432) fastened to the top of the columns (16) and (19) using the fasteners (422) and (420) after raising, and the first lifting support structure (510) lowered forming a space (428) for insertion of the next gantry leg piece.
  • the gantry top is lowered onto the first and second gantry leg pieces and locked to the first and second gantry leg pieces forming a first segment.
  • the first segment is lifted with the first and second plates and the first and second gantry leg pieces are fastened to the fasteners on the top of the first, second, third and fourth load supporting moveable columns.
  • the third and fourth gantry legs are lifted and locked on to the first and second gantry legs fastened to the top of the movable columns forming the first segments.
  • the segment is then lifted and locked on the top columns .
  • first and second plates are lowered creating again the first space and the second space.
  • first and second spaces are disposed third and fourth gantry leg pieces.
  • the first segment is lowered down to the top of the third and fourth gantry leg pieces and locked to the third and fourth gantry leg pieces forming a second segment
  • the second segment is lifted with the first and second plates and the second segment is locked to the fasteners disposed on the top of the first, second, third and fourth load supporting movable columns .
  • the 3 rd and 4 th gantry legs are lifted and locked to the first segment forming a second segment.
  • the second segment is than lifted and fastened to the top of the columns.
  • the first and second plates are again lowered forming the first and second spaces and the process is repeated until the gantry is built.
  • the gantry is adapted to be displaceable over the support surface of the vessel.
  • the third aspect of the invention relates to a method for installing topsides to form an offshore platform, with the topside initially at a wharf and then at an intended installation at a location remote from the topside.
  • the method comprises a series of steps, which can include placing a topside on a transport wagon; rolling the transport wagon onto a barge and positioning the topsides on the barge wherein a portion of the topsides extends out over opposing sides of the barge.
  • topsides support structures can be placed on the barge.
  • the topsides are then lowered onto topside support structures enabling the wagon to be rolled from under the topsides and off of the barge.
  • the barge is then moved near to a submersible catamaran comprising having a bow (4) and a stern (6) as shown in FIG 1.
  • FIG 22 shows some of the features of the method for lifting and transporting a topsides.
  • FIG 22 shows a topsides already placed on a barge.
  • the first step consists of: placing a topsides (301) on a barge (302) .
  • the barge (302) is then maneuvered near the catamaran (2) .
  • the catamaran has positioned the first and second moveable columns (14) and (16) at the stern of the vessel opposite the opening slot (15) .
  • Two additional moveable columns, not viewable with this FIG, are disposed in front of the first and second columns, forming a four-column square or rectangle around the slot opening (15) .
  • One or more removable hatches are taken off of a position covering the opening slot (15) thereby forming an unobstructed opening and placed on the solid support surface (12) .
  • Each of the four corners of a hatch is connected to the vertical positioning system lines and winches disposed in each of the columns.
  • lines (134 and 136) are only viewable, but it is contemplated that all four lines are used.
  • the catamaran is then ballasted to a position below the water's surface (303) .
  • the barge (302) is sailed into the opening over the hatch (21) .
  • the first and second ballast systems are then used to raise the catamaran with respect to the waterline.
  • the base (304) of the topsides is positioned over the tops of the four load supporting moveable columns (14,16,17,19).
  • the vertical positioning system used for this method is essentially a securing system for securing the catamaran to a topsides or other object, and it comprises : (i) tensioning lines; (ii) a winch; (iii) a motion compensation system (25) disposed in each load supporting moveable column.
  • a control means is used to. enable the securing systems to cooperatively tension the lines.
  • the catamaran is then raised further, enough to transfer load from the barge to the load supporting moveable columns.
  • the hatch (21) is then lowered with the securing system without the topsides.
  • the catamaran is then lowered permitting the barge to float freely.
  • the barge is then sailed away from the catamaran.
  • the catamaran then transports the topsides either at normal draft or in a semi-submersed state to minimize motions on the catamaran.
  • FIG 23 shows the catamaran transporting the topsides (301) while at a semi-submerged draft.
  • An alternative embodiment of this invention involves moving the topsides using a wagon onto the barge, keeping the topsides on the wagon, and removing the topsides from the wagon onto the catamaran.
  • the method can also comprise using an element between said topsides and the topsides supporting moveable columns to dampen movement between the topsides and the catamaran.
  • the element can be a rubber disc or elastomeric material.
  • subsea equipment such as subsea hoisting systems, moorings, suction piles
  • FIG 24 shows a crane (430) secured to the center of the catamaran (2) for lifting objects at sea.
  • FIG 25 shows how that same crane (430) can be moved to a different position on the catamaran using the floatable hatches.
  • two floatable hatches can be used, (438) and (440) to slightly elevate the crane while the catamaran is semi-submerged.
  • the waterline is shown as 600.
  • the buoyancy of the hatches can raise the crane so it can be moved from anywhere on the vessel.
  • FIG 25 A preferred moveable crane lifting system is shown in FIG 25 wherein the crane (430) has a base (432) , midsection (434) and top (436) .
  • This crane can be a modular crane with the segments connected together or it can be a one-piece unit, preassembled on land prior to installation on the catamaran.
  • a first buoyant hatch (438) is secured to the base of the crane with two attachment devices, (446) and (448) .
  • a second buoyant hatch (440) is secured to the midsection using a third and fourth attachment device (444), and (450) on the opposite side from the first hatch.
  • the first hatch and the second hatch are secured to the base at a point such that when the catamaran is submerged, the crane floats slightly from the support surface (12) and the crane is movable around the catamaran support surface.
  • the fifth aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a catamaran adapted for lifting loads, wherein said catamaran comprises a bow and a stern; a first submersible float; a second submersible float, wherein said second submersible float is disposed in a parallel relation to said first submersible float; a support surface forming a top to said first and second submersible floats and a slot opening disposed between the first and second submersible floats; a first load supporting movable column disposed on said solid support surface having a first motion compensator system with winch; a second load supporting movable column disposed on said solid support surface having a second motion compensator system with winch; a first ballast system disposed in said first submersible float; a second ballast system disposed in said second submersible float, and a hatch disposed in said support surface; wherein said method comprises: disposing the hatch on top of and between said first and second load supporting move

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Cleaning Or Clearing Of The Surface Of Open Water (AREA)
  • Addition Polymer Or Copolymer, Post-Treatments, Or Chemical Modifications (AREA)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
  • Stacking Of Articles And Auxiliary Devices (AREA)
  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
  • Medicines Containing Material From Animals Or Micro-Organisms (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un procédé destiné à ériger un objet, et notamment une structure de levage, et consistant à utiliser un objet flottant comprenant une base et une partie supérieure, à utiliser un navire submersible, à placer l'objet flottant sur ce navire, à transporter le navire avec l'objet flottant jusqu'à un emplacement souhaité, à ballaster le navire en vue de permettre à l'objet flottant de flotter, à fixer la base de l'objet flottant au navire, à fixer un câble de levage entre l'objet flottant et un treuil sur ledit navire, puis à enrouler le câble de levage sur le treuil de façon à élever la partie supérieure de l'objet flottant au-dessus de l'eau, la base restant fixée au navire. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, l'objet flottant est une structure de levage, et notamment une structure en A, le navire étant de préférence un catamaran.
PCT/NL2003/000274 2002-04-10 2003-04-10 Navire submersible WO2003086852A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2003224498A AU2003224498A1 (en) 2002-04-10 2003-04-10 Submersible watercraft
EP03721147A EP1492699B1 (fr) 2002-04-10 2003-04-10 Navire submersible
DE60315276T DE60315276D1 (de) 2002-04-10 2003-04-10 Eintauchbares wasserfahrzeug
NO20043671A NO330075B1 (no) 2002-04-10 2004-09-02 Fremgangsmate for lofting, laring og transport av et objekt til sjos

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US37137202P 2002-04-10 2002-04-10
US37155802P 2002-04-10 2002-04-10
US37132602P 2002-04-10 2002-04-10
US60/371,558 2002-04-10
US60/371,372 2002-04-10
US60/371,326 2002-04-10

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2003086852A1 true WO2003086852A1 (fr) 2003-10-23

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PCT/NL2003/000274 WO2003086852A1 (fr) 2002-04-10 2003-04-10 Navire submersible

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EP (1) EP1492699B1 (fr)
AT (1) ATE368611T1 (fr)
AU (1) AU2003224498A1 (fr)
DE (1) DE60315276D1 (fr)
NO (1) NO330075B1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2003086852A1 (fr)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1993902A1 (fr) * 2006-03-01 2008-11-26 Technische Universiteit Delft Navire, plate-forme de mouvement, méthode de compensation des mouvements d'un navire et utilisation d'une plate-forme de stewart
NL2005054C2 (en) * 2010-07-08 2012-01-10 Dockwise Shipping B V Self-propelled submersible transport vessel.
EP2383219A3 (fr) * 2010-04-29 2013-10-23 AREVA Energietechnik GmbH Procédé de préparation d'un dispositif de levage sur une plate-forme
WO2013160768A1 (fr) * 2012-04-28 2013-10-31 Dockwise Shipping B.V. Procédé de passage en cale sèche d'une unité flottante
CN107150765A (zh) * 2016-03-03 2017-09-12 天津市海王星海上工程技术股份有限公司 一种吊挂式潜水驳及其使用方法
WO2022207048A1 (fr) * 2021-03-30 2022-10-06 Maersk Supply Service A/S Navire de service semi-submersible pour une installation flottante et procédé d'entretien d'une installation flottante

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US1757174A (en) 1929-03-15 1930-05-06 Homer C Douglas Vessel
DE2356537A1 (de) 1973-11-13 1975-05-15 Laukien Guenther Schiff zur unterwasserbeobachtung
FR2508410A1 (fr) * 1981-06-26 1982-12-31 Wijsmuller Bv Navire de transport d'objets flottants ou non avec emplacement de lest et stabilisateurs mobiles pour faciliter le chargement
EP0137625A1 (fr) * 1983-08-10 1985-04-17 Mcdermott International, Inc. Transport de structures offshore préfabriquées
NL8500920A (nl) * 1985-03-28 1986-10-16 Wijsmuller Eng Gedeeltelijk afzinkbaar transportvaartuig.
NL8700076A (nl) * 1987-01-14 1988-08-01 Allseas Eng Bv Werkwijze voor het manoeuvreren van een opbouwelement ten opzichte van een in water aangebrachte vaste constructie, werkwijze voor het bouwen van een bouwwerk en bouwwerk gebouwd volgens een dergelijke werkwijze.
US5829919A (en) * 1995-11-03 1998-11-03 Allseas Group S. A. Method and installation for removing a superstructure
WO2000038976A1 (fr) * 1998-12-23 2000-07-06 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Cargo pour marchandises lourdes semi-immersible
WO2001064507A1 (fr) * 2000-03-02 2001-09-07 Workships Contractors B.V. Catamaran de levage de submersible lourd
WO2001072582A1 (fr) * 2000-03-29 2001-10-04 Excalibur Engineering B.V. Dispositif de levage d'une structure maritime, notamment un appareil de forage, pourvu d'elements de levage paralleles
WO2003057556A1 (fr) * 2002-01-09 2003-07-17 Itrec B.V. Vehicule multifonctions en forme de catamaran

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US1757174A (en) 1929-03-15 1930-05-06 Homer C Douglas Vessel
DE2356537A1 (de) 1973-11-13 1975-05-15 Laukien Guenther Schiff zur unterwasserbeobachtung
FR2508410A1 (fr) * 1981-06-26 1982-12-31 Wijsmuller Bv Navire de transport d'objets flottants ou non avec emplacement de lest et stabilisateurs mobiles pour faciliter le chargement
EP0137625A1 (fr) * 1983-08-10 1985-04-17 Mcdermott International, Inc. Transport de structures offshore préfabriquées
NL8500920A (nl) * 1985-03-28 1986-10-16 Wijsmuller Eng Gedeeltelijk afzinkbaar transportvaartuig.
NL8700076A (nl) * 1987-01-14 1988-08-01 Allseas Eng Bv Werkwijze voor het manoeuvreren van een opbouwelement ten opzichte van een in water aangebrachte vaste constructie, werkwijze voor het bouwen van een bouwwerk en bouwwerk gebouwd volgens een dergelijke werkwijze.
US5829919A (en) * 1995-11-03 1998-11-03 Allseas Group S. A. Method and installation for removing a superstructure
WO2000038976A1 (fr) * 1998-12-23 2000-07-06 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Cargo pour marchandises lourdes semi-immersible
WO2001064507A1 (fr) * 2000-03-02 2001-09-07 Workships Contractors B.V. Catamaran de levage de submersible lourd
WO2001072582A1 (fr) * 2000-03-29 2001-10-04 Excalibur Engineering B.V. Dispositif de levage d'une structure maritime, notamment un appareil de forage, pourvu d'elements de levage paralleles
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Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1993902A1 (fr) * 2006-03-01 2008-11-26 Technische Universiteit Delft Navire, plate-forme de mouvement, méthode de compensation des mouvements d'un navire et utilisation d'une plate-forme de stewart
EP2383219A3 (fr) * 2010-04-29 2013-10-23 AREVA Energietechnik GmbH Procédé de préparation d'un dispositif de levage sur une plate-forme
NL2005054C2 (en) * 2010-07-08 2012-01-10 Dockwise Shipping B V Self-propelled submersible transport vessel.
WO2013160768A1 (fr) * 2012-04-28 2013-10-31 Dockwise Shipping B.V. Procédé de passage en cale sèche d'une unité flottante
US9061749B2 (en) 2012-04-28 2015-06-23 Dockwise Shipping B.V. Method for dry-docking a floating unit
CN107150765A (zh) * 2016-03-03 2017-09-12 天津市海王星海上工程技术股份有限公司 一种吊挂式潜水驳及其使用方法
WO2022207048A1 (fr) * 2021-03-30 2022-10-06 Maersk Supply Service A/S Navire de service semi-submersible pour une installation flottante et procédé d'entretien d'une installation flottante

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
NO330075B1 (no) 2011-02-14
DE60315276D1 (de) 2007-09-13
EP1492699A1 (fr) 2005-01-05
NO20043671L (no) 2005-01-10
ATE368611T1 (de) 2007-08-15
AU2003224498A1 (en) 2003-10-27
EP1492699B1 (fr) 2007-08-01

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