Patent ID: 7854570
Filing Date: 2010-12-21
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
1. A tension leg platform comprising: a plurality of buoyant columns, each of said columns comprising a first section having a first cross-sectional area and a second section having a second cross-sectional area larger than the first cross-sectional area; at least one, substantially vertical tendon per column, said tendon attached to the column at a first end and attached to an anchor in the seafloor at a second end such that when the platform is installed in its operating condition the tendons hold the platform below its free-floating draft; a deck support structure connecting each buoyant column to at least two adjacent columns, the deck support structure attached to the buoyant columns such that the deck support structure is above the waterline of the tension leg platform when the tension leg platform is installed in its operating condition; an unobstructed opening between each pair of adjacent columns which extends at least from the waterline of the tension leg platform when the tension leg platform is installed in its operating condition to the base of each column of the pair of adjacent columns.