Patent ID: 6213045
Filing Date: 2001-04-10
Classification: B63B,E21B

Abstract:
A flotation assembly adapted to be positioned in a body of water having a water surface, said assembly comprising:a) a load bearing structure adapted to be positioned in an operating position at a support location at said body of water, said load bearing structure having a support portion to support a load and a flotation support region at which a flotation lifting force or forces can be applied;b) a flotation section comprising:i) a plurality of flotation tubes, each having an upper end portion, a lower end portion, and a longitudinal axis which is aligned so as to have a substantial vertical alignment component;ii) each flotation tube comprising a surrounding side wall defining an elongate pressure chamber and an upper end closure portion having a downwardly facing pressure surface exposed to pressure in the pressure chamber;iii) said tubes being positioned at laterally spaced locations and arranged relative to the load bearing structure in a manner that each upper end closure portion of at least some of the flotation tubes operatively directs flotation forces to the load bearing structure to create an upwardly directed bearing force against the load bearing structure;c) a source of pressurized gaseous fluid to pressurize the flotation tubes to a level where gas pressure within each tube creates a force against said side wall to alleviate at least in part compressive force of surrounding water pressing inwardly against the side walls of the flotation tubes.