Patent ID: 6632112
Filing Date: 2003-10-14
Classification: B63B,E21B

Abstract:
A buoyancy system configured to be couplable to a riser to provide buoyancy for the riser, the system comprising:a) a rigid ecto-skeleton, configured to be couplable to the riser, defining an interior cavity configured to receive the riser therethrough; and b) a vessel, disposed in the interior cavity of the ecto-skeleton, configured to contain a buoyant material to provide buoyancy for the riser; e) the ecto-skeleton including a plurality of longitudinal and lateral members forming an external truss framework configured to withstand forces between the riser and a floating platform and to protect the vessel; f) a plurality of gaps, formed between proximal members of the framework; and g) a plurality of cladding members, each disposed in one of the plurality of gaps around the interior cavity, the cladding members including a buoyant material.