Patent ID: 6125780
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
An offshore barge-platform for use in producing and/or processing of hydrocarbons comprising:a buoyant vessel having an outer periphery and having an opening through the center thereof, said opening having a cross-sectional area equal to at least 6% of the total cross-sectional area of said barge-platform to thereby increase the draft of said vessel and decrease the wave force applied to the bottom of said vessel;a plurality of grid plates spaced vertically and affixed within said opening through said barge-platform for dampening wave action within said opening;a deck on said vessel adapted to support equipment used in said producing and/or processing said hydrocarbons, said deck covering said opening;means through said deck for ventilating said opening to the atmosphere; andat least one tank positioned within said buoyant vessel for storing said hydrocarbons.