Patent ID: 6299385
Filing Date: 2001-10-09
Classification: E02B,E02D

Abstract:
A method for providing a support system for an offshore drilling platform deck, comprising the steps of:(a) providing a caisson that has its bottom end secured in the ocean floor and its top end above the water surface;(b) providing a structural frame that includes a caisson sleeve within its perimeter and a plurality of pile sleeves, the structural frame having a height that is less than the water depth at the point where the caisson is installed and the caisson sleeve including at least one caisson-engaging member configured to allow passage of well equipment therethrough;(c) lifting the structural frame over the caisson and lowering it so that the caisson sleeve engages the top of the caisson and slides along the caisson until the at least one caisson-engaging member engages the caisson;(d) installing a pile in the ocean floor through each of said plurality of pile sleeves and affixing each pile to its sleeve.