Patent ID: 8070389

Claim:
A modular topsides for an offshore structure, comprising: a module support frame constructed separately from the offshore structure, comprising: a plurality of frame members extending laterally and adapted to receive a plurality of production modules that can be loaded thereon; a plurality of frame members extending uprightly and configured to form an upright framework to laterally restrain one or more of the production modules loaded therein; at least one angular brace coupled between the frame members extending laterally and the frame members extending uprightly; and a plurality of support interfaces coupled to the frame members and adapted to be coupled to the offshore structure after the offshore structure is installed at an installation site; at least one production module coupled with the module support frame, the at least one production module being adapted to extract or process hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon well in an offshore location; and wherein the at least one production module includes a pocket formed in the module and is configured to be coupled to the module support frame with the at least one angular brace at least partially disposed within the pocket.