Offshore Platform Boom Lifting via Subplatform Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing equipment from offshore platforms during well abandonment operations are inefficient and costly, particularly when using mobile offshore drilling units, which incur high mobilization costs due to the need for specialized lifting vessels.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a boom pivotally mounted to a mobile offshore platform with a boom extension line that changes effective length by moving a subplatform or supporting device, allowing the boom to transition between extended and retracted positions for efficient load lifting, incorporating a load lift line and winch system for precise load management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mobile offshore drilling unit is used for equipment removal, then lifting capability is provided, but mobilization cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lifting function from a specialized mobile offshore drilling unit and integrates it directly onto the production platform. By taking out only the necessary lifting capability and combining it with the existing platform structure, the system eliminates the need to mobilize expensive specialized vessels while maintaining reliable lifting capability for equipment removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the lifting system with the production platform structure itself. The boom is pivotally coupled to the platform, and the jacking legs are positioned on the platform deck, creating an integrated system that combines the platform's structural support with lifting functionality, thereby eliminating the need for separate specialized lifting vessels
2Reliability
If a mobile offshore drilling unit is used for equipment removal, then lifting operations can be performed, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lifting function from a distant specialized vessel and places it directly on the production platform. This extraction eliminates the need for the platform to be moved or for complex coordination with external vessels, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency while maintaining lifting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system is pre-installed and integrated onto the production platform before abandonment operations begin. The jacking legs are positioned on the platform deck and the boom is ready for operation, eliminating the time-consuming mobilization and setup that would be required if a separate mobile drilling unit were deployed
Data Source
AI summary
A system for lifting loads from a mobile offshore platform includes a boom pivotally at one longitudinal end mounted to the platform. A boom extension line is coupled at one end to the boom to cause rotational movement thereof about the pivotally mounted end of the boom. Another end of the boom extension line is either (i) coupled to a movable subplatform on the platform or (ii) supported by a device coupled to the movable subplatform. Movement of the subplatform causes change in effective length of the boom extension line so as to move the boom between an extended position and a retracted position.