Patent ID: 8708604
Filing Date: 2014-04-29
Classification: B63B,E02B

Abstract:
1. A method of loading a topsides onto an offshore platform, comprising: positioning a topsides having a weight in proximity to one or more barges having a grillage system and the grillage system having at least one attachment point for the topsides; transferring at least a portion of the weight of the topsides to the one or more barges and vertically supporting the weight of the topsides with the grillage system; laterally coupling the topsides to the at least one attachment point on the grillage system on the one or more barges; vertically restraining the topsides to the grillage system with at least one quick release system by applying a tension force to the topsides independently of the vertical supporting of the weight of the topsides with the grillage system; transporting the topsides and the one or more barges to the offshore platform; adjusting a relative elevation between the topsides and the offshore platform; transferring at least a portion of the weight of the topsides to the offshore platform; laterally uncoupling the topsides from the at least one attachment point on the grillage system on each barge; and vertically uncoupling the topsides from the grillage system by actuating the at least one quick release system.