Modular Pontoon Vessel for Offshore Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore hydrocarbon exploration and production require specialized vessels for precise positioning of heavy loads in unstable environments, leading to high costs and inefficient project scheduling due to limited vessel capabilities and high downtime caused by weather and sea-state sensitivities, with large general-purpose vessels being underutilized and expensive float-over procedures for topsides installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular, configurable vessel system comprising first and second pontoon barges with interconnecting barges and a connection system allowing for various configurations to support multiple installation operations, including float-over installations and subsea equipment support, enabling efficient use of resources and reducing project delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If large general-purpose vessels are used to perform multiple installation operations, then the vessels can handle a variety of jobs, but the daily rental rates are high and utilization rates are low due to weather and sea-state sensitivities
Solution Approach 1:
The installation system is divided into separate specialized vessels, each optimized for specific operations (e.g., derrick barge for topsides lifts, float-over barge for topsides installation). This segmentation allows each vessel to be highly efficient at its designated task while reducing the need for large general-purpose vessels that sit idle during weather delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates specialized vessels that can perform multiple functions within their specific operational domain. For example, the float-over barge can transport topsides and facilitate installation, while the derrick barge can perform various lifting operations. This targeted multi-functionality reduces downtime compared to general-purpose vessels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If large general-purpose vessels are selected to cover all installation operations, then the full range of jobs can be performed, but the capital costs and daily rental rates are high
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments installation operations into distinct functional vessels (derrick barge, float-over barge, support vessels). Each vessel is sized and equipped appropriately for its specific function, eliminating the need to deploy oversized general-purpose vessels for every operation, thereby reducing fuel consumption, crew requirements, and daily rental rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs specialized barges and support vessels that are cost-effective for their specific purposes. Rather than relying on expensive general-purpose installation vessels for all operations, the system uses more economical specialized vessels (e.g., float-over barge for topsides installation) that can be deployed only when their specific function is required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If float-over procedure is used for topsides installation to eliminate the need for large derrick barge, then the need for expensive specialized vessels is reduced, but the barges must be specially constructed for each project
Solution Approach 1:
The float-over barge is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple topsides installation projects without requiring custom construction for each. The barge incorporates standardized features (e.g., adjustable ballast systems, modular deck configurations) that allow it to accommodate different topsides weights and dimensions, eliminating the need for project-specific barge construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The float-over barge employs dynamic ballast control systems that allow the barge to adjust its draft and stability characteristics in real-time during operations. This dynamic capability enables a single barge design to handle varying topsides loads and installation conditions, replacing the need for static, project-specific barge constructions.
4Productivity
If specialized vessels are built for specific operations, then the operations can be performed more efficiently, but the utility of these vessels is limited and economics are difficult to justify
Solution Approach 1:
Each specialized vessel is designed with multi-functional capabilities within its operational domain. The derrick barge can perform various lifting operations (topside installation, equipment deployment, structure assembly), while the float-over barge can handle different topsides installation scenarios. This targeted versatility ensures high utilization rates and justifies the investment in specialized vessels.
Solution Approach 2:
The fleet is segmented into specialized vessels that work together as an integrated system. Each vessel's limited but highly optimized capability complements the others, creating overall system versatility. For example, the derrick barge handles lifting operations while the float-over barge handles topsides installation, and support vessels provide additional specialized functions, achieving high productivity across the entire installation operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable, multi-function vessel that comprises first and second pontoon barges and a plurality of interconnecting barges. The first and second pontoon barges have a plurality of connection members disposed on the inboard sides thereof. The plurality of interconnecting barges are disposable between the inboard sides of the first and second pontoon barges so that a plurality of connection members disposed on opposite sides of the interconnecting barges are adjacent to the connection members on either said first or second pontoon barge. A plurality of connectors releasably couple adjacent connection members so that the pontoon barges and the interconnecting barges form a unitary, oceangoing vessel.