MODULAR FLOATING LIFT SYSTEMS WITH GRAVITY BASED SYSTEMS

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/198,944, filed on May 5, 2025 (pending), and entitled “FLOATING LIFT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LAUNCHING AND RECOVERING STRUCUTRES IN A MARINE ENVIRONMENT”, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, which itself claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/642,463 (expired), filed on May 3, 2024, and entitled “LIFT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LAUNCHING AND RECOVERING STRUCTURES IN A MARINE ENVIRONMENT”, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to floating systems and methods for launching and recovering structures in a marine environment.

BACKGROUND

Deployment of vessels and equipment at shoreside facilities for delivery to and from offshore sites is often required in the construction, maintenance, and decommissioning of various types of industrial marine, maritime and offshore installations (e.g., legacy oil and gas platforms), including offshore wind farms, oil and gas modules, hydrogen modules, subsea energy storage systems, and other industrial modules that are large enough to require special consideration when moving from a fabrication and assembly site to an operational site (e.g., when transported by sea). Additionally, large blocks (e.g., prefabricated ship sections) are sometimes made at a tier 2 shipyard and then require transport for supply to a tier 1 shipyard for final assembly to create large ships.

The offshore market faces challenges in optimizing supply chain to ensure timely project execution, cost-effectiveness, and minimal environmental impact. For example, the assembly, deployment, ongoing maintenance, and replacement of components of an offshore installation can suffer from supply chain issues, including the availability and proximity of equipment capable of lifting offshore components. While some technologies exist for the launch of floating large offshore vessels and equipment, existing technologies are not capable of a sufficient rate of launch and recovery of large offshore vessels and equipment.

Shiplifts are used to deploy ships. Such lifts typically do not exceed 35 meters in span, as they are designed to handle vessels that are much longer than they are wide. Also, shiplifts include a platform supported on plate girders, which are suitable for use at spans only up to about 40 meters, and only under moderate loading conditions. These limitations render existing shiplifts incapable of launching and recovering large offshore vessels and equipment, such as fully assembled floating wind foundations.

A need exists for the ability to streamline the assembly, deployment, maintenance, and replacement of large offshore components and vessels. There is need for technologies capable of launch and recovery large and heavy marine structures.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The system includes a floating dock. The floating dock includes a plurality of floating modules coupled together. Cavities of the floating modules include buoyant concrete. A plurality of hoists are coupled with the floating dock. The system includes a lift platform. The plurality of hoists are coupled with the lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the floating dock.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method of launching and recovering marine equipment. The method includes providing a floating dock. The floating dock includes a plurality of floating modules coupled together. Cavities of the floating modules include buoyant concrete. The method includes providing a lift platform coupled with the floating dock. The method includes deploying marine equipment into water by positioning the marine equipment on the lift platform and lowering the lift platform, relative to the floating dock, into the water; retrieving marine equipment from water by lowering the lift platform, relative to the floating dock, into the water, positioning the marine equipment on the lift platform, and raising the lift platform, relative to the floating dock, out of the water; or combinations thereof.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The system include a quayside dock and a floating dock moored adjacent the quayside dock. The floating dock includes a plurality of floating modules coupled together with cavities of the floating modules containing buoyant concrete. A plurality of hoists are coupled with the floating dock. The system includes a lift platform. The plurality of hoists are coupled with the lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the floating dock.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The system includes a dock, a plurality of hoists coupled with the dock, and a lift platform. The plurality of hoists are coupled with the lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the dock. A ballasting system is coupled with the dock. The ballasting system is adjustable to a floating configuration wherein the dock is positively buoyant and floats in water, and a sunken configuration wherein the dock is negatively buoyant and the dock is engaged with and supported on the seabed (also referred to as a “grounded” position on a grounding bed).

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for launching and recovering marine equipment The method includes providing a hub including a dock, a plurality of hoists coupled with the dock, and a lift platform. The plurality of hoists are coupled with the lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the dock. The method includes floating the hub in water to a site. During the floating the hub is positively buoyant and floats in the water. At the site, the method includes adjusting buoyancy of the hub until the hub is negatively buoyant and sinks until the dock is engaged with and supported on the seabed (also referred to as a “grounded” position on a grounding bed). The method includes launching and recovering marine equipment at the site including raising and lowering the lift platform.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a modular system for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The modular system includes a modular dock. The modular dock includes a plurality of modules coupled together. A plurality of hoists are coupled with the dock, The plurality of hoists are coupled with a lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the dock.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method of making a modular dock for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The method includes coupling a plurality of modules together to form a modular dock, coupling a plurality of hoists with the modular dock, and coupling a lift platform with the modular dock and the plurality of hoists. The plurality of hoists are configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the modular dock. Modules can be added to and removed from the dock to increase and decrease the size and/or capacity of the dock.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The system includes a dock including a body at a first longitudinal end of the dock, a first arm extending from the body to a second longitudinal end of the dock, and a second arm extending from the body to the second longitudinal end of the dock. Space is defined between the first and second arms, and an opening into the space is positioned at the second longitudinal end of the dock. A plurality of hoists are coupled with the dock and with a lift platform. The hoists are configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the dock. A structural member is selectively attachable to and detachable from the first and second arms at or proximate the second longitudinal end of the dock across the opening.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for launch and recovery of marine equipment. The method includes providing a dock including a body at a first longitudinal end of the dock, a first arm extending from the body to a second longitudinal end of the dock, and a second arm extending from the body to the second longitudinal end of the dock. Space is defined between the first and second arms, and an opening into the space is positioned at the second longitudinal end of the dock. The method includes providing a plurality of hoists coupled with the dock, and providing a lift platform. The plurality of hoists are coupled with the lift platform and configured to raise and lower the lift platform relative to the dock. The method includes launching and recovering marine equipment onto and from the dock, including raising and lowering the lift platform.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the features and advantages of the systems and methods of the present disclosure may be understood in more detail, a more particular description briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings that form a part of this specification.

FIG. 1 depicts a floating hub having a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 depicts a foundation for a wind turbine being transported on a floating hub toward a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a foundation for a wind turbine positioned on a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 depicts a foundation for a wind turbine being deployed into the water by a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 depicts a wind farm in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 depicts a wind turbine being towed toward a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 depicts a wind turbine being lifted by a lift platform onto a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 depicts a wind turbine after being lifted by a lift platform onto a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A depicts a lift platform of a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a detail view of FIG. 9A showing a chain jack in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a top view of a lift platform of a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a front view of a lift platform of a floating hub in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10C is a detail view showing how a chain jack connects with a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10D is a front view of a lift platform in a raised position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10E is a front view of a lift platform in a lowered position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11A is a top view of a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a side view of a lift platform in a lowered position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11C is a front view of a lift platform in a lowered position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a support structure of a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12B is a top view of a support structure of a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12C is a front view of a support structure of a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12D is a side view of a support structure of a lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13A is a top view of a support structure of a lift platform having a buoyancy tank in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13B is a front view of a support structure of a lift platform having a buoyancy tank in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 depicts a floating hub positioned offshore or nearshore in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 depicts a floating hub positioned at quayside with the lift platform opposite the quayside in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 depicts a floating hub positioned at quayside with the lift platform adjacent the quayside in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 depicts a floating hub including the lift platform secured to the floating dock in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18A depicts a floating hub including a pin for securing the lift platform to the dock in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18B depicts a locking pin system for securing the lift platform to the floating dock.

FIG. 19A depicts a floating hub with a structural gate in a closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19B depicts a floating hub with a structural gate in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20A depicts a floating hub having a second, transfer lift platform rained into alignment with the quayside dock in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20B depicts the floating hub of FIG. 20B with the primary lift platform raised into alignment with the transfer lift platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a partial view, in cross section, of an exemplary embodiment of a floating module.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the floating module illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a detail view, in cross section, in the area of a first longitudinal termination of the floating module illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate partial views, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of an exemplary embodiment of a first floating module and a second floating module designed to be joined together to form a floating structure.

FIG. 26 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of a first floating module and a second floating module during the assembly process.

FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate partial views, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of the first floating module and the second floating module visible in FIG. 26.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate partial views, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of an exemplary embodiment of a floating structure.

FIGS. 31A and 31B illustrate a first mode of assembly and a second mode of assembly, respectively, of a first floating module and a second floating module designed to form a floating structure.

FIGS. 32A-32E illustrate exemplary embodiments of a floating structure.

FIG. 33A depicts a hub in a floating configuration.

FIG. 33B is another view of the hub of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 33C depicts the hub of FIG. 33A but in a partially sunken configuration and with the lift platform in a raised position.

FIG. 33D is another view of the hub of FIG. 33C.

FIG. 33E depicts that hub of FIG. 33C but with the lift platform in a lowered position.

FIG. 34A depicts a hub with a stabilizing structure coupled with an open end of the hub.

FIG. 34B depicts the hub of FIG. 34A without the stabilizing structure.

Systems and methods according to present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate various exemplary embodiments. Concepts according to the present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited by the illustrated embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough as well as complete and will fully convey the scope of the various concepts to those skilled in the art and the best and preferred modes of practice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain aspects of the present disclosure include floating systems and methods for launching and recovering vessels and structures in a marine environment. In some embodiments, the systems and methods are configured for launch and recovery of relatively large and heavy marine vessels and equipment, such as offshore wind turbines, foundations thereof, and components thereof. In one particular embodiment, the systems and methods are configured for launch and recovery of foundations (also referred to as “floating wind foundations”) for offshore wind turbines. The floating wind foundations can be semisubmersible floating wind foundations or tension leg platform (TLP) floating wind foundations. While the embodiments shown in the Figures of the present disclosure illustrate the systems and methods used to launch and recover floating wind foundations for offshore wind turbines, the systems and methods disclosed herein are not limited to this particular application and may be used for launch and recovery of other marine vessels and equipment. For example, the systems and methods may be configured for launch and recovery of commercial and military ships, submarines, yachts, or other relatively large and heavy marine vessels and equipment.

Embodiments disclosed herein include systems and methods for assembling, launching, retrieving, and maintaining marine vessels, structures, renewables and equipment. The systems can include floating docks or fixed bottom docks. The docks can be modular such that the size/capacity of the docks can be increased or decreased, or monolithic. The docks, or poritons thereof, can be made of steel, concrete, or combinations thereof. The docks can include a lift platform that can be locked to the dock to create a combined structure. The docks can also be supported on the seabed.

Floating Dock

The present disclosure includes floating hubs that can be moored at a site, in proximity to a wind farm, for use during the installation, maintenance, and decommissioning of wind farm equipment, including for use as a dry dock for storage of components used for construction and maintenance of wind farms. Exemplary operations of embodiments of a floating hub in the maintenance of a wind farm are illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1-8.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary floating system for assembly, launch, recovery, and maintenance of wind turbines, including floating wind foundations for offshore wind turbines. System 1000 is in the form of a floating hub that includes a dock 100. The dock 100 can be a floating dock that is moored at the site 101. The site 101 can be in proximity to a wind farm, such that the system 1000 is positioned to provide for the ongoing launch and recovery functions related to the installation, maintenance, and decommissioning of the wind farm. The dock 100 also functions as a dry dock for storage of components and tools related to the assembly and maintenance of the components of the wind farm. For example, the dock 100 includes assembly area 104. The assembly area 104 functions, at least in part, as a staging area for floating wind foundation components 106 that are used in the assembly and/or maintenance of floating wind foundations and other components of wind turbines. The components 106 can be assembled together on the dock 100 (e.g., at assembly area 104) to construct a floating wind foundation 108, as shown in FIG. 2, or to construct a fully assembled wind turbine. In some embodiments, the dock 100 is sufficient in size to simultaneously assemble multiple floating wind foundations. While not shown, tower, nacelle and/or blade installation onto the floating wind foundation 108 can also be performed on the dock 100 prior to deployment of the floating wind foundation.

The dock 100 includes two lift platforms 102. The systems disclosed herein are not limited to including two lift platforms, and may include only one lift platform or more than two lift platforms. The lift platforms 102 are used for the launch of wind turbine components (or fully assembled wind turbines), as well as for the recovery of wind turbine components (or fully assembled wind turbines), such as for repair, maintenance, or decommissioning.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the transport of an assembled floating wind foundation 108 on the dock 100. After assembly, the floating wind foundation 108 is transported on the dock 100 from the assembly area 104 to one of the lift platforms 102. The floating wind foundation 108 is transferred on the dock 100 via bogies 110 moving on rails 112 and 114 on the dock 100. The lift platforms 102 are positioned adjacent the dock 100 within a space defined, at least partially, by the dock 100. The lift platforms 102 include rails 113 and 115 that align with the rails 112 and 114 on the dock 100, such that the bogies 110 transport the floating wind foundation 108 onto the lift platform 102.

The lift platforms 102 are supported by a plurality of girders 116. The dock 100 includes a plurality of chain jacks 118 positioned along both sides of each lift platform 102. The chain jacks 118 are coupled with the lift platform 102 and configured to raise and lower the lift platform 102 relative to the dock 100. While chain jacks are illustrated, the systems disclosed herein are not limited to chain jacks and may include other lifts or lifting systems capable of raising and lowering the lift platforms. In FIG. 3, the lift platform 102 is shown in a raised position relative to the dock 100.

After placement of the floating wind foundation 108 on the lift platform 102, the bogies 110 are disconnected from the floating wind foundation 108 and moved from the lift platform 102 back onto the dock 100. To deploy the floating wind foundation 108, the lift platform 102 is lowered, using the chain jacks 118, from the raised position shown in FIG. 3 to a lowered position as shown in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, the lift platform 102 is not visible as it is positioned below a level of the water 121. With the floating wind foundation 108 in the water 121, tug boats 120 are tethered to the floating wind foundation 108 via lines 122. The tug boats 120 tow the floating wind foundation 108 from the dock 100 to the desired location, wind farm 126, as shown in FIG. 5. At the wind farm 126 the remaining components (e.g., a tower 125, nacelle 127 and/or blades 129) are assembled onto the floating wind foundation 108 to form a wind turbine 124. In other embodiments, the tower 125, nacelle 127 and/or bladed 129 are already assembled onto the floating wind foundation 108 at the dock 100 and are towed to the wind farm 126. The steps of assembly, transport, and installation of a wind turbine, described in references to FIGS. 1-5, can be repeated to provide the wind farm with the desired number of wind turbines. Furthermore, the assembly, transport, and installation of a wind turbine is not limited to the particular steps or order of steps as shown in FIGS. 1-5. One skilled in the art would understand that some steps may be eliminated, added, or combined, and that the order of the steps may be modified.

With the wind farm installed, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the system 1000 can remain in place for ongoing maintenance of the wind farm 126, as well as for decommissioning of the wind farm 126. That is, the dock 100 can remain moored at the site 101 in proximity to the wind farm 126. The dock 100 can function as both a dry dock storing components for repair of the wind turbines 124, as well as a work site for repair and maintenance operations to be performed. With reference to FIG. 6, when a wind turbine 124 of the wind farm 126 requires maintenance, repair, or decommissioning, tug boats 120 can be tethered to the wind turbine 124 via lines 122 for towing of the wind turbine 124 back to the dock 100 for the maintenance, repair, or decommissioning. While FIG. 6 shows a fully assembled wind turbine 124 being towed back to the dock 100, in other embodiments, less than an entirety of the wind turbine 124 may be in need of maintenance, repair, or decommissioning, such that only those components (e.g., the blades 129) requiring maintenance, repair, or decommissioning are towed back to the dock 100.

The tug boats 120 transport the wind turbine 124 from the wind farm 126 and into the space 103 of the dock 100 where the lift platform 102 is positioned. In FIG. 7, the lift platform is not visible in the space 103 as it is positioned below a level of the water 121. The wind turbine 124 is positioned above the lift platform 102. With the wind turbine 124 positioned above the lift platform 102, the lift platform 102 is raised by the chain jacks 118 from the lowered position shown in FIG. 7 to the raised position shown in FIG. 8. The wind turbine 124 can then be moved on the rails of the lift platform 102 and dock 100 to the assembly area 104 or another area on the dock 100 for repair, maintenance, and/or disassembly (e.g., in the case of decommissioning). After repair or maintenance is performed, the wind turbine 124 can be transported back to the wind farm for installation in the same or similar manner as described with reference to FIGS. 1-5. If the wind turbine 124 is decommissioned, then a replacement wind turbine can be transported to the wind farm 126 for installation.

Lift Platform

The lift platforms disclosed herein are configured for lifting and lowering of floating wind foundations and fully assembled wind turbines. The lift platforms have spans that are sufficiently sized to fit floating wind foundations and fully assembled wind turbines, and the platforms are sufficiently supported by girders capable of supporting the weight of floating wind foundations and fully assembled wind turbines. The lift platforms and components thereof are shown and described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 9A-12D.

FIG. 9A depicts lift platform 102 installed on dock 100 with a plurality of chain jacks 118 arranged along the lateral side edges of the lift platform 102, and FIG. 9B is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 9A. In FIGS. 9A and 9B, the top platform of the lift platform 102 is not shown, revealing the underling plurality of girders 116 that support the top platform.

Each chain jack 118 includes a jack 123 (e.g., a cylinder jack) coupled with a chain 137 and a support structure 117 to support the components of the chain jack 118 on the dock 100. The chain 137 is coupled with the jack 123 and with the lift platform 102, and is engaged on a chainwheel 171. When actuated, the jack 123 lets out the chain 137 to lower the lift platform 102 or hauls in the chain 137 to lift the lift platform 102. The actuation of the plurality of chain jacks 118, to raise or lower the lift platform, can be controlled by a hydraulic power unit 119 on the dock 100. The plurality of the chain jacks 118 can be operated synchronously. In some embodiments, the operation of the chain jacks 118 to raise and lower the lift platform 102 is the same or substantially the same as the operation of the chain jacks to raise and lower the shiplift platforms as is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/817,876 (the '876 application), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. The lift platforms 102 and chain jacks 118 disclosed herein are capable of raising and lowering floating wind foundations and wind turbines for wet tow, dry dock, repair, maintenance, and/or replacement, such as to extend the life of the floating wind foundation and associated wind turbines.

FIG. 10A is a top view of the dock 100 with the lift platform 102 and a plurality of chain jacks 118. FIGS. 10B and 10C show the lift platform 102 in the raised position above the level of water 121. The chains 137 of each chain jack 118 are coupled with the lift platform 102. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, each chain 137 is coupled with a chain plate 105, and each chain plate 105 is coupled (e.g., bolted) with a platform plate 107. The platform plate 107 may be coupled with the lift platform 102 or be an integral part of the lift platform 102. With the chains 137 coupled with the lift platform 102, the chain jacks 118 can be actuated to raise and lower the lift platform 102 relative to the level of the water 121.

The lift platform 102 has a width span 134 and a length span 136 that is of sufficient size to accommodate floating wind foundations and wind turbines. In some embodiments, the top surface of the lift platform 102 has a square-shaped top surface to accommodate floating wind foundations for wind turbines that have triangular cross-sections. The top surface of the lift platforms disclosed herein are not limited to having square-shaped top surfaces. In some embodiments, the width span 134 ranges from 60 meters to 120 meters, or from 70 meters to 105 meters, or any range or discrete value therebetween. In some embodiments, the length span 136 ranges from 60 meters to 120 meters, or from 70 meters to 105 meters, or any range or discrete value therebetween. The width span 134 may be equal to, greater than, or less than the length span 136. The width span 134 and length span are at least 60 meters, or at least 70 meters.

FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view showing the lift platform 102 in the raised position with a top of the lift platform 102 positioned above the level of the water 121. FIG. 10E is a cross-sectional view of the lift platform 102 identical to FIG. 10D, but showing the lift platform 102 in the lowered position with a top of the lift platform positioned below the level of the water 121.

FIG. 11A is a top view of the lift platform 102, and FIGS. 11B and 11C are cross-sectional views of the lift platform. FIGS. 11A-11C show the lift platform 102 in the lowered position, below the level of the water 121. Lift platform 102 includes top platform 130 (also referred to as upper deck) supported by a plurality of girders 116. The top platform 130 is configured to receive floating wind foundations and fully assembled wind turbines. The girders 116 are positioned beneath the top platform 130.

FIG. 12A depicts the support structure of the lift platform 102 in isolation from the dock and chain jacks. FIG. 12B is a top view of the support structure of FIG. 12A, and FIGS. 12C and 12D are front and side views of FIG. 12B. The lift platform 102 includes a plurality of girders 116. Each girder 116 includes a lower chord (truss) 135 and top chord (truss) 133. Extending between and connecting the lower chord 135 and top chord 133 are a plurality of members that form a web, including inner vertical web truss 141, inner diagonal web trusses 143, outer diagonal web trusses 145, and outer diagonal bracing 151. The support structure of the lift platform 102 also includes lower chord bracing 153, top chord bracing 155, inner truss diagonal bracing 157, cap plats 159, knuckle clevis 161 (serving as the platform plate), and runway 163 and runway girder 165. The girders disclosed herein are not limited to the particular shape and configuration shown in the drawings. The girders 116 can be in the form of box truss girders capable of spanning the width span and supporting the load of a floating wind foundation, with or without the remaining components of the wind turbine attached thereto. The girders 116 are made of a material capable of supporting the load of the floating wind foundations and wind turbines at such width spans. For example, and without limitation, the girders 116 can be made of steel. In some embodiments, the components of the support structure of the lift platform 102 are coupled together such that the support structure of the lift platform 102 forms a unitary structure capable of supporting the lift platform 102 and any load thereon.

Buoyancy Tanks

In some embodiments, one or more buoyancy tanks are incorporated into the lift platform. With reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B an embodiment of the lift platform including a buoyancy tank is shown. Lift platform 102 is identical to the one shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C with the exception that a buoyancy tank 1300 is incorporated into the lift platform 102. The buoyancy tank 1300 (e.g., floatation tank) in attached to or otherwise incorporated into the support structure of the lift platform 102. The buoyancy tank 1300 can be configured to provide the lift platform 102 with a negative buoyancy or positive buoyancy. By providing the lift platform 102 with a negative buoyancy, the depth of the truss structure of the lift platform 102 can reduced; thereby, reducing the excavation depth that is required for installation of the lift platform 102 at the site. This reduction in excavation can reduce the cost of installing the lift platform 102 by saving dredging and excavation costs. The incorporation of the buoyancy tank 1300 can, in some embodiments, improve the efficiency of the lift system by from 17% to 20%, for example. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the buoyancy tank 1300 is positioned along a center axis (i.e., along a center of the span 134) of the lift platform 102. With the buoyancy tank 1300 positioned along the center axis of the lift platform 102, the buoyancy tank 1300 offsets dead load of the lift platform 102 and reduces the depth the truss (girders 116) required to support any payload on the span of the lift platform 102. While shown as including a single buoyancy tank, the lift platforms disclosed herein can include more than one buoyancy tank. While the buoyancy tank is shown along the central axis of the lift platform, in other embodiments, the lift platform includes buoyancy tanks posited at other locations on the lift platform.

Floating Module Structures

In some embodiments one or more portions of the floating lift platforms, floating docks, and/or floating hubs disclosed herein include, at least partially, a buoyant, floatable material that floats in water. For example, and without limitation, one or more portions of the systems disclosed herein may be composed, at least partially, of a buoyant material (e.g., a buoyant concrete) in accordance with the material and floating structures disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,932,359 ('359 patent), the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference and made a part of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include floating modules joined to form floating structures as described in the '359 patent. The system can include a floating structure having multiple floating modules assembled together and joined by a material cast in a hollow between the floating modules, the hollow having a thickness configured to ensure a mechanical continuity between the floating modules. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include one or more floating modules or floating structures as shown in any of FIGS. 1-12e of the '359 patent. As the floating modules and structures, and the assembly thereof, of the '359 patent are described in detail in the '359 patent, the present disclosure will only briefly describe such structures and the assembly thereof.

The systems disclosed herein can include a floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent that includes at least one first floating module and at least one second floating module. Each floating module of the floating structure includes a plurality of walls extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. Each floating module includes a first partition and a second partition connecting each wall of the plurality of walls, defining with the plurality of walls an internal volume of the respective floating module. Each floating module includes at least one extension emerging from an external face of a respective wall of the plurality of walls. The at least one extension extends longitudinally in projection from the first longitudinal end or from the second longitudinal end. The at least one extension and the respective wall from which the at least one extension emerges is materially integral. A sealing device is located between the at least one first floating module and the at least one second floating module. The sealing device is inserted between the at least one extension of the at least one first floating module and the at least one extension of the at least one second floating module. A hollow bounded by a first cavity of the at least one first floating module and by a second cavity of the at least one second floating module is filled with concrete.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent at least one of the first floating module and the second floating module includes an edge of one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of a first wall of the plurality of walls and the at least one extension extending from the first wall. The edge at least partly bounds one of the first cavity and the second cavity.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, a thickness of the first cavity or the second cavity is equal to or greater than a thickness of the first wall from which the at least one extension emerges.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, at least one of the first floating module and the second floating module includes an external face of a first wall of the plurality of walls and an internal face of the at least one extension extending from the first wall. The external and internal faces lie in the same plane.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, at least one of the first floating module and the second floating module includes a first extension situated on each of at least two lateral walls of the plurality of walls of the respective floating module and on a bottom wall of the plurality of walls of the respective floating module.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, at least one of the first floating module and the second floating module includes a first wall of the plurality of walls comprising a first extension of the at least one extension of the first wall situated in a region of the first longitudinal end and a second extension situated in a region of the second longitudinal end.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, at least one of the first floating module and the second floating module includes the plurality of walls, the first partition, the second partition and the at least one extension formed of an integral material, with the material being concrete.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, a metal reinforcement extends inside at least one wall of the plurality of walls and emerges into at least one of the first cavity and the second cavity.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, a prestressing sheath extends inside one wall of the plurality of walls and emerges into at least one of the first cavity and the second cavity.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, a continuity between a metal reinforcement of the at least one first floating module and a metal reinforcement of the at least one of the second floating module, and/or a continuity between a prestressing sheath of the at least one first floating module and a prestressing sheath of the at least one second floating module is located in the hollow.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent, a thickness of a first wall of the plurality of walls of the at least one first floating module is equal to a thickness of a second wall of the plurality of walls of the at least one second floating module. The thickness of the first wall of the at least one first floating module and the thickness of the second wall of the at least one second floating module being equal to a thickness of the hollow.

In some embodiments of the floating structure in accordance with the '359 patent are assembled by a method that includes a step of alignment of the at least one first floating module relative to the at least one second floating module, a step of removably coupling the at least one first floating module to the at least one second floating module, and a step of casting the concrete in the hollow. The method can include a step of emptying a space bounded by the first and second partitions, by the at least one extension of the at least one first floating module and by the at least one extension of the at least one second floating module. The method can include a step of providing a mechanical connection between a metal reinforcement of the at least one first floating module and a metal reinforcement of the at least one second floating module. The method can include, after casting the concrete, a step of installation of at least one prestressing cable laid in a prestressing sheath of the at least one first floating module and in a prestressing sheath of the at least one second floating module, and a step of application of a traction force to the prestressing cable.

One skilled in the art would readily understand the floating modular structures disclosed herein as such structures are shown and described in detail in reference to FIGS. 1-12e of the '359 patent which has been incorporated herein in its entirety and made a part of the present disclosure. As used herein, the terms “floating structure” and “floating module” have the same meaning as used in the '359 patent.

In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include a composite of materials, including buoyant concrete and steel. For example, in one embodiment the lift platforms (e.g., shiplift platforms) include steel and the floating docks include buoyant concrete caissons. es, generally that is the base case. In some embodiments, a base of the floating dock is concrete and a top surface of the floating dock is steel, with the lift platform being steel.

Floating Hubs

In embodiments the floating docks with lift platforms of the present disclosure can function as floating hubs for use in deploying, maintaining, and decommissioning wind farms. With reference to FIG. 14, a floating hub 1400 is deployed at a site away from shore. Floating hub 1400 includes floating dock 1410. The floating dock 1410 has rails 1460 for facilitating the movement of wind turbine components 1420a-1420c thereon. The wind turbines 1420 can be at least partially assembled on the floating dock 1410 from the wind turbine components 1420a-1420c. The floating dock 1410 includes one or more lift platforms 1404 with lifting equipment 1450 (e.g., rotary chain jacks), allowing for deployment of the assembled wind turbines 1420 into the water by lowering the lift platform 1404 using the lifting equipment 1450. In some embodiments, the floating hub 1400 is at least partially made of a floating structure, including floating modules, in accordance with the '359 patent. For example, the floating dock 1410 and/or the lift platform 1404 can be made of a floating structure, including floating modules, in accordance with the '359 patent. In some embodiments, the floating dock 1410 includes a control and power house (not shown) configured for controlling and powering the operations of the lift platform 1404, such as controlling the flow of power and/or hydraulic fluid to the lifting equipment 1450. The top surface of the floating dock 1410 can include space for assembly and storing vessels (e.g., wind turbines). The floating dock 1410 can be moored at the site, such as via mooring lines and anchors (not shown). In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the floating dock 1410 includes four lift platforms 1404, only one of which is visible in the view. The floating hubs may include more or less than four lift platforms.

FIG. 15 depicts two floating hubs 1500a and 1500b docked at a quayside dock 1540. Each floating hub 1500a and 1500b includes a floating dock 1510, rails 1560 that mate with rails 1570 on the quayside dock 1540, a lift platform 1504, and lifting equipment 1550. A wind turbine 1520 is positioned on each lift platform 1504. The floating hubs 1500a and 1500b are positioned and docked at the quayside dock 1540 for deployment or retrieval of the wind turbines 1520, with the lift platforms 1504 positioned opposite the quayside dock 1540.

FIG. 16 depicts two floating hubs 1600a and 1600b. Floating hub 1600a is docked at a quayside dock 1640. Floating hub 1600b is approaching (or leaving) the quayside dock 1640. Each floating hub 1600a and 1600b includes a floating dock 1610, rails 1660 configured to mate with rails 1670 on the quayside dock 1640, a lift platform 1604, and lifting equipment 1650. A wind turbine 1620 is positioned on each lift platform 1604. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 15, when docked at the quayside dock 1640 the lift platforms 1604 are positioned adjacent the quayside dock 1640. The lift platform 1604 of floating hub 1600a is docked at the quayside dock 1640 in a raised position above the hull of the floating dock 1610. The lift platform 1604 of the floating hub 1600b is in a lowered position below the hull of the floating dock 1610.

Thus, the floating hubs disclosed herein are capable of being floated (e.g., towed) to and from the shore at quayside. The floating hubs can be tied-off to the quayside docks when at shore such that loads (e.g., wind turbines) can be transferred onto and off of the lift platform. The lift platforms are raised and lowered using the lifting equipment, such as chain jacks, hoists, winches, and/or other lifting systems. The ability to lift the lift platforms at and above the deck level of the floating docks allows the lift platforms to be maneuvered up or down depending on tide, such as to align with the height of a quayside dock for transferring vessels or other loads on and off the lift platform and dry land. The raising and lowering of the lift platforms can be performed manually by an operator or automatically, such as by using sensors and automated motion controls that detect tide level relative to platform level.

While the floating hubs are described in reference to receiving, transporting, deploying, and retrieving wind turbines, the floating hubs are not limited to this particular application, and may be used to handle other equipment and vessels. For example, the floating hubs can be used to decommission an oil rig by transporting components to shore. Also, the floating hubs can be used to transport large modules for greenfield plants, such as hydrogen or natural gas.

Secured Lift Platform

In some embodiments the lift platforms are secured to the floating dock. For example, during towing of the systems disclosed herein it may be desirable to secure the lift platforms to the floating dock. Also, during rough water conditions, such as during a storm (e.g., hurricane or typhoon), it may be desirable to secure the lift platforms to the floating dock. In one embodiment, the lift platforms are secured to the floating docks via pinning the lift platforms to the floating docks (e.g., a concrete base of the floating dock). With reference to FIG. 17, a floating hub 1700 is depicted. Floating hub 1700 includes floating dock 1710 made of buoyant concrete caissons. The buoyant concrete caissons can be the same or similar to the floating structures, including floating modules, of the '359 patent. Floating hub 1700 includes lift platform 1704. Lift platform 1704 can be a steel lift platform. Thus, floating hub 1700 includes a composite of materials, including concrete and steel. The lift platform 1704 can be secured (e.g., locked) to the floating dock 1710 with the lift platform 1704 in the raised position. For example, removable pins 1799 can be pinned to both the lift platform 1704 and the floating dock 1710, thus securing the lift platform 1704 to the floating dock 1710. Pinning, locking, or otherwise securing the lift platform 1704 to the floating dock 1710 stiffens the floating hub 1700 by reducing relative movement between the lift platform 1704 and floating dock 1710. Securing the lift platform 1704 to the floating dock 1710 can increase the strength of the floating hub 1700. By including both steel and concrete, the floating hub 1700 has the advantages of both materials, such when towing in adverse environmental conditions. Also, the amount of concrete used can be optimized, lowering the overall cost of the floating hub. The floating dock 1710 includes a main body 1705 and arms 1706, with the lift platform 1704 positioned between the arms 1706. With the steel lift platform 1704 secured to the concrete floating dock 1710, vertical and horizontal relative deflections between arms 1706 of the floating dock 1710 are reduced, increasing ability to operate in high wave conditions.

FIG. 18A is a side view illustrating one embodiment of pinning the lift platform to the floating dock. Floating hub 1800 includes floating dock 1810 and lift platform 1804. Lift platform 1804 is shown in both the raised and lowered (in broken line) positions. The lift platform 1804 is moved between lowered and raised positions vial lift systems 1850 (e.g., rotary chain jacks) and chains 1830. In the raised position, the lift platform 1804 is pinned to the support frame of the lift system 1850 via a lock pin 1811. The lock pin 1811 extends through the pin receiver 1813. FIG. 18B shows a portion of the support frame 1851 of the lift system 1850, showing the lock pin 1811a in a disengaged position and the lock pin 1811b in an engaged position. The pin receiver 1813 slides into the locking slot 1815 for receipt of the pin 1815. With the pin receiver 1813 in the locking slot 1815, the locking pins 1811a and 1811b can be actuated (e.g., hydraulically) to engage through the pin receiver 1813 and locking slot 1815 to lock the lift platform to the floating dock.

Structural Arms

In some embodiments, the floating hubs can include one or more structural arms or gates that extend between the arms of the floating dock. With reference to FIGS. 19A and 19B, floating hub 1900 includes floating dock 1910 with main body 1905 and dock arms 1906, defining a generally U-shaped floating dock 1910. Coupled between the dock arms 1906 is are structural arms 1997. The structural arms 1997 can be in the form of gates, for example. When closed, as shown in FIG. 19A, the structural arms extend between the dock arms 1906 at the open end of the floating dock 1910 where vessels enter onto and exit off of the lift platform 1904. The generally U-shaped structure of the floating dock 1910 with the dock arms 1906 can, in some environments (e.g., rough waters, storms), be insufficiently stiff. The structural arms 1997 provide a structural connection between the dock arms 1906 opposite main dock body 1905 which can reduce deflection in the dock arms 1906 both during environmental events and during the lifting of the lift platform 1904 to lift a vessel. The structural arms 1997 can swing or otherwise open (as showing in FIG. 19B) and close (as shown in FIG. 19A) to allow vessels onto and off of the lift platform 1904. In some embodiments, instead of two structural arms extending from each dock arm, the floating dock can include one structural arm that extends from one dock arm to the other. When in the closed position, the structural arms can be locked to each other and/or to the dock arms and, thereby, secured in place.

Transfer Lift Platform

In some applications the floating hub is positioned adjacent a quayside dock for onloading or offloading a vessel or other equipment. For example, FIG. 15 depicts floating hubs 1500a and 1500b positioned adjacent quayside dock 1540 for onloading or offloading of wind turbines 1520. As shown in FIG. 15, the lift platforms 1504 are positioned opposite the quayside dock 1540. In some conditions, such as low tide or rough waters, it can be challenging to maintain the rails 1560 on the dock 1510 in alignment with the rails 1570 on the quayside dock 1540, reducing or eliminating the ability to on-or off-load vessels or equipment. One approach to addressing this issue is illustrated in FIG. 16. In FIG. 16, the lift platforms 1604 are positioned adjacent the quayside dock 1640. Thus, in conditions such as low tide or rough waters, the height of the lift platform 1604 can be adjusted to maintain the rails 1660 on the dock 1610 in alignment with the rails 1670 on the quayside dock 1640, facilitating the ability to on-or off-load vessels or equipment.

Another approach to addressing this issue involves using active ballasting to adjust the height of the lift platform and or dock. For example, ballasting tanks can be incorporated into the lift platform and/or dock and be adjusted as needed depending on the conditions.

Another approach to addressing this issue involves including a second, transfer lift platform in addition to the primary lift platform. FIG. 20A depicts a floating hub having both a primary lift platform and a secondary, transfer lift platform. Floating hub 2000 includes floating dock 2010. Floating dock 2010 is in the form of a floating structure that includes multiple floating modules 2011 the same or similar as disclosed in the '359 patent. Each floating module 2011 includes a plurality of walls 2012 extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end of the floating module 2011. The floating modules 2011 can include partitions connecting the walls 2012, defining an internal volume of the floating modules 2011, as shown in FIGS. 21-32E. Each floating module 2011 can include at least one extension emerging from an external face of a respective wall 2012 and extending longitudinally in projection from the first longitudinal end or from the second longitudinal end, as shown in FIGS. 21-32E. The at least one extension and the respective wall from which the at least one extension emerges can be materially integral. The floating modules 2011 include sealing devices 2013 positioned between adjacent floating modules 2011. The sealing devices 2011 can be inserted between the extensions of the adjacent floating modules 2011. The interior cavities within each of the floating modules 2011 can mutually define a hollow space that is filled with a buoyant concrete.

The floating hub 2000 includes a primary lift platform 2004 for retrieving and deploying vessels and equipment from and into the water. The floating hub 2000 includes a plurality of lifting devices 2050 (e.g., rotary chain jacks) positioned to lift and lower the lift platform 2004. The floating hub 2000 also includes a secondary, transfer lift platform 2014. The transfer lift platform 2014 is positioned on or above a portion of the floating dock 2010. The transfer lift platform 2014 includes a transfer lift system 2051 (e.g., hydraulic cylinders or jack) positioned to lift and lower the transfer lift platform 2014 relative to the floating dock 2010. The transfer lift platform is not limited to being lifted by a hydraulic jack, and may be lifted via other methods. In operation, the floating hub 2000 can be positioned adjacent a quayside dock 2091. The lift platform 2004 includes rails 2061, the transfer lift platform 2014 includes rails 2071, and the quayside dock 2091 includes rails 2081. With the floating hub 2000 positioned adjacent the quayside dock 2091, the transfer lift platform 2014 can be lifted vial the transfer lift system 2051 such that the rails 2071 are aligned with the rails 2081. Also, the lift platform 2004 can be lifted via the lifting devices 2050 such that the rails 2061 are aligned with the rails 2071. With all three sets of rails 2061, 2071, and 2081 aligned, vessels or equipment can be transferred off of and onto the floating hub 2000. In some embodiments, the floating hub 2000 includes two side walls 2088 positioned on or above the floating dock 2010 with the lift platform 2004 and transfer lift platform 2014 positioned, generally, there-between. The side walls 2088 can provide guidance and/or support to the lift platform 2004 and transfer lift platform 2014 when raised above the floating dock 2010.

Applications

As the dock is a floating dock that is moored at the site, the services provided at the dock can be integrated into a port without sacrificing valuable laydown area, supporting industrialization and operational efficiencies. The dock can operate as a drydock that is positioned in close geographic proximity to the wind farm to provide for deployment, retrieval and maintenance of that wind farm. As services are routinely needed for wind farms, the close proximity of the present system reduced the time, cost, and environmental impacts (e.g., emissions can be reduced by shortening travel distances for maintenance) to of providing such services.

The lift systems disclosed herein provide for a relatively simple, safe, and controlled solution to the assembly, deployment, and retrieval of floating wind foundations. For example, embodiments of the present systems are subject to less health, safety, and environmental (HSE) variables in comparison to methods that use a semi-submersible barge, such as wave height and quayside mooring. Embodiments of the present system do not require ballasting operations to support load-out, do not require offshore tugs for stability, and are tide independent. In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein can lower a floating wind foundation for wet storage in about an hour, without being limited by status of the tides or weather conditions. Additionally, the usefulness of the system does not end with deployment, as the system can remain in place for ongoing maintenance of the wind farm and vessels operating in the region.

The ability to assemble, deploy, retrieve, repair, and replace floating wind foundations and wind turbines on the systems disclosed herein can improve and streamline the supply chain process for such structures. The assembly process can be configured for serial production of floating wind foundations. In some embodiments, the system includes an integrated extension to an existing quayside including an additional assembly area. The systems disclosed herein provide for the assembly of large floating offshore wind platforms, such as semisubmersibles and TLPs, on a stable surface of the dock. After assembly, the assembled structures can be directly lowered for wet tow, reducing health and safety risks in comparison to methods that involve floating such assembled structures.

The systems disclosed herein can also reduce or eliminate bottlenecks resulting from supply chain issues, such as the need for large ringer cranes that are of limited global availability. For example, alternative lifting devices, such as stiff leg derrick cranes, are less costly, more straightforward, and quicker to construct, maintain, and operate than large ringer cranes. Thus, the present systems can reduce risk to projects arising from both supply chain issues and safety-related issues.

It is clear from the foregoing that embodiments of the present system and method can provide for various benefits relative to current technologies including, but not limited to, a reduction of CO₂ footprint, a streamlined assembly process for serial production, accommodation for a variety of hull designs, elimination of ballast water pollution, elimination of contaminants in water form hull build out, and elimination of the need for tide-dependent submersibles to load out and float.

While the systems and methods are described in relation to assembly, deployment, retrieval, and maintenance of floating wind foundations, the systems and methods are not limited to this application and may be used to assemble, deploy, retrieve, and/or maintain other marine structures.

Floating Structures and Modules

While FIGS. 1-12E of the '359 patent and the descriptions thereof have been incorporated by reference above, the figures and descriptions are reproduced, at least in part, herein. FIGS. 21-32E herein correspond with FIGS. 1-12E of the '359 patent. All the variants and all the embodiments described can be combined with each other, if nothing prevents such a combination in technical respects. The floating hubs disclosed herein can be made at least partially of the floating structures and floating modules disclosed in reference to FIGS. 21-32E. In some embodiments, only the floating dock portion of the floating hubs are composed, at least partially, of the floating structures and floating modules disclosed in reference to FIGS. 21-32E.

FIG. 21 illustrates a partial view, in cross section, of an exemplary embodiment of a floating module 1. Thus, the floating module 1 extends primarily along a longitudinal axis X between a first termination 26 and a second termination 28. The floating module likewise extends along a vertical axis Z perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, the longitudinal axis X and the vertical axis Z forming a plane D, illustrated in FIG. 21. Thus, FIG. 21 illustrates a side view in cross section of the floating module 1. The floating module 1, finally, extends along the transverse axis Y perpendicular to the plane D.

The floating module 1 comprises a plurality of walls, each wall 2 extending along the longitudinal axis X between a first longitudinal end 4 and a second longitudinal end 6. The walls 2 are joined together by a first partition 8 and a second partition 10 situated respectively in proximity to the first longitudinal end 4 and the second longitudinal end 6. Thus, the plurality of walls, the first partition 8 and the second partition 10 define an internal volume 12, substantially closed, which is designed to be filled with a material having a specific gravity less than that of water, in order to ensure the floatation of the floating module 1. Hence, a first portion 41 of the floating module 1 is submerged, that is, situated beneath a water line 43, while a second portion 42 situated at the opposite side of the floating module in regard to the first portion 41 along the vertical axis Z is emerged, that is, situated above the water line, in the air.

In the embodiment illustrated, the internal volume 12 is traversed by an intermediate wall 2′extending primarily in the longitudinal axis between the first partition 8 and the second partition 10, the internal volume 12 thus forming a first chamber 13 and a second chamber 15. The intermediate wall 2′makes it possible to reinforce the structure of the floating module 1.

Thus, each wall 2 comprises an internal face 17 and an external face 16 situated on the opposite side of the wall 2 in regard to the internal face, said internal face 17 being oriented toward the internal volume 12.

A plurality of metal reinforcements 22 extend longitudinally through the floating module, each metal reinforcement 22 being designed to be connected to a metal reinforcement 22 of a second floating module. Thus, the metal reinforcements 22 make it possible to join together multiple floating modules. On the other hand, the metal reinforcements 22 make it possible to ensure the resistance of the floating module 1 and the floating structure to mechanical forces, more particularly to mechanical traction forces, especially in the case when the walls 2, the first partition 8 and the second partition 10 of the floating module are made of a material such as concrete, which is highly resistant to mechanical compression forces but little resistant to mechanical traction forces. It will be noted that, in the exemplary embodiment illustrated, a metal reinforcement 22 extends inside the intermediate wall 2′.

In a similar manner, the floating module 1 comprises a plurality of prestressing sheaths 24 extending longitudinally through the floating module 1, each prestressing sheath 24 being designed to be connected to a prestressing sheath 24 of a second floating module. Each prestressing sheath 24 is configured to receive, once all of the floating modules have been joined together and aligned along the same axis, a prestressing cable passing through the prestressing sheath 24. Once the prestressing cable is laid through the prestressing sheath of each of the floating modules aligned on the same axis, a traction force is applied to the prestressing cable, making it possible to exert a compression force corresponding to said floating modules. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, a prestressing sheath 24 extends inside each wall 2, said prestressing sheath being arranged through the material making up the wall, between the internal face 17 and the external face 16. It should be noted that a metal reinforcement 22 and/or a prestressing sheath 24 may be situated in any place of the floating module, in particular inside a wall 2, the metal reinforcement 22 and/or the prestressing sheath 24 extending primarily longitudinally.

An extension 14 emerges from the external face 16 of the first longitudinal end 4. Another extension 14 emerges likewise from the second longitudinal end 6 of each wall 2. In other words, each wall 2 comprises a first extension 29 in the area of its first longitudinal end 4 and a second extension 31 in the area of its second longitudinal end 6. Thus, the extension 14 and the wall 2 are made of integral material.

Each extension 14 extends longitudinally in projection from the longitudinal end 4, 6 of the wall 2 from which said extension 14 extends, that is, the extension 14 extends longitudinally beyond an edge 11 of the wall formed by the first longitudinal end 4 or the second longitudinal end 6 of said wall, the extension 14 and the edge 11 of the wall thus bounding a cavity 18. The cavity 18 is designed to be filled with a material such as concrete, making it possible to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module.

The floating module 1 comprises two first end stops 33 each extending longitudinally from the first partition 8 in a direction opposite the internal volume 12. In a similar manner, the floating module 1 comprises two second end stops 35 each extending longitudinally from the second partition 10 in a direction opposite the internal volume 12. Thus, the first end stops 33 and the second end stops 35 are designed to make contact with end stops present on a second floating module which is going to be joined to the floating module 1, the first end stops 33 and the second end stops 35 thus making it possible to define, when the floating module 1 is brought closer to the second floating module in order to form a floating structure, the moment at which the floating module 1 and the second floating module are sufficiently close to each other.

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the floating module illustrated in FIG. 21. It is thus seen that the floating module 1 extends likewise in a plane E, the so-called second plane E, comprising the transverse axis Y and the vertical axis Z, the second plane E being thus perpendicular to the longitudinal and vertical plane D, the so-called first plane D.

The floating module 1 comprises an upper portion 50 designed to be oriented vertically upward when the floating module 1 is constructed on a body of water. The floating module thus also comprises a lower portion 51 situated at the opposite side of the floating module 1 in relation to the upper portion 50 along the vertical axis Z, the lower portion being designed to be submerged when the floating module 1 is constructed on a body of water.

The upper portion 50 comprises an upper wall 52 extending primarily in a third plane F comprising the transverse axis Y and the longitudinal axis X. In a similar manner, the lower portion 51 comprises a lower wall 53 extending primarily in the third plane F.

The floating module 1 comprises a first lateral wall 54 and a second lateral wall 55 extending primarily in the first plane D. The first lateral wall 54, the second lateral wall 55, the upper wall 52 and the lower wall 53 are arranged so that the first lateral wall 54 and the second lateral wall 55 are joined together by the upper wall 52 and the lower wall 53, the upper wall 52 and the lower wall 53 being joined together by the first lateral wall 54 and the second lateral wall 55. The upper wall 52, the lower wall 53, the first lateral wall 54 and the second lateral wall 55 in particular may each form a wall 2 in the sense of the invention.

It will be noted that, in the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the lower wall 53, the first lateral wall 54 and the second lateral wall 55 each comprise an extension 14. On the other hand, the upper wall 52 is lacking in an extension, the upper wall 52 thus forming a passage 56, in particular allowing easier access of a technician to a space located between the floating module and a second floating module which is going to be attached in order to form a floating structure.

FIG. 23 is a detail view, in cross section, in the area of the first longitudinal termination 26 of the floating module 1 illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22.

Thus, one may see that the extension 14 and the edge 11 of the wall are arranged so that the external face 16 of the wall and an internal face 20 of the extension 14, said internal face 20 of the extension being oriented toward the cavity 18, lie in the same plane P. More particularly, the cavity 18 extends along a first dimension 30, measured between the internal face 20 of the extension and a plane P formed by the internal face 17 of the wall 2 from which the extension 14 emerges. In a similar manner, the wall 2 extends along a second dimension 32, measured between its external face 17 and its internal face 16, the second dimension 32 thus corresponding to the thickness of the wall 2, the first dimension 30 being equal to the second dimension 32. It should be noted that the internal face of the extension and the external face of the wall are considered to lie in the same plane P if the difference between the first dimension 30 and the second dimension 32 is not more than 5% of the second dimension 32.

In one alternative of the invention, it is considered that the first dimension 30 is greater than the second dimension 32. In such a case, the extension reaches further peripherally and the minimum thickness needed to ensure the material continuity between two adjacent floating modules is assured.

Thus, the material designed to fill the cavity 18 makes it possible to prolong the wall 2 longitudinally along the entire second dimension of the wall 2, in other words, along the entire thickness of the wall. Thus, this configuration, when the floating module 1, so-called first floating module, is joined to an adjacent floating module, so-called second floating module, to form a floating structure according to the second aspect of the invention, makes it possible to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module to withstand the mechanical forces, especially the compression forces, by the material filling the cavity, and more particularly the entire cavity 18, along the first dimension 30 of said cavity.

A sealing device 102 is situated at one longitudinal end 111 of the first extension 29. The sealing device 102 is in particular a gasket designed to be compressed between a first floating module and a second floating module in order to ensure the tightness of a space located between the first floating module and the second floating module. This sealing device 102 may be integrated with the first floating module or the second floating module.

The metal reinforcement 22 extends longitudinally in projection from the first longitudinal end 4 of the wall. In a similar manner, the prestressing sheath 24 extends longitudinally in projection from the first longitudinal end 4 of the wall, and in particular inside the wall, the prestressing sheath thus emerging into the cavity 18.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a partial view, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of an exemplary embodiment of a first floating module 3 and a second floating module 5 designed to be joined together in order to form a floating structure. Thus, FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the step of alignment in the assembly process.

The first floating module and the second floating module are represented in FIG. 24 in a third plane F comprising the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y. In other words, FIG. 24 is a top view, in cross section, of the first floating module and the second floating module.

Thus, a first longitudinal termination 26 of the first floating module is placed opposite a second longitudinal termination 28 of the second floating module. In this way, a cavity of the first floating module, called the first cavity 19, faces toward a cavity of the second floating module, called the second cavity 21. In a similar manner, the first extension 29 of the first floating module 3 is placed opposite the second extension 31 of the second floating module 5.

The first end stops 33 of the first floating module 3 face toward the second end stops 35 of the second floating module 5, the first end stops 33 being at a distance from the second end stops 35 of the second floating module 5.

On the other hand, each prestressing sheath 24 emerging from the first floating module 3, called the first prestressing sheath, faces toward a prestressing sheath 24 emerging from the second floating module 5, called the second prestressing sheath, to which it is going to be coupled. In a similar manner, each metal reinforcement 22 emerging from the first floating module 3, called the first metal reinforcement, faces toward a metal reinforcement 22 emerging from the second floating module 5, called the second metal reinforcement, to which it is going to be coupled.

FIG. 26 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of a first floating module 3 and a second floating module 5 in the process of assembly. Thus, FIG. 26 illustrates the step of removable coupling in the assembly process. The first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 are illustrated in the first longitudinal and vertical plane D, FIG. 26 thus representing a side view of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5.

Thus, a connecting frame 110 ensures the position of the first floating module 3 relative to the second floating module 5. More particularly, the connecting frame 110, being a rigid structure, in particular one formed by a structure which is at least partly metallic, is secured on one wall 2, more particularly on an external face 16 of a wall, of the first floating module 3, and on one wall, more particularly on an external face 16 of a wall, of the second floating module 5. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the connecting frame 110 is secured on the upper wall 52 of the first floating module 3 and on the upper wall 52 of the second floating module 5. The securing of the connecting frame 110 on the second floating module 5 may be done prior to the securing of the connecting frame 110 on the first floating module 3. Thus, the second floating module 5 is brought closer to the first floating module 3 in order to become flush with the latter, so that the proximity between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 is sufficient. The connecting frame 110 is then secured on the second floating module 5, thus assuring the relative position of the second floating module 5 with respect to the first floating module 3. Alternatively, the connecting frame 110 may be secured on the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 in a simultaneous, or nearly simultaneous, manner, once the proximity between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 has been achieved.

When the proximity between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 has been achieved, the sealing device 102 located in the area of the first longitudinal end 26 of the first floating module 3 and inserted between the first extension 29 of the first floating module 3 and the second extension 31 of the second floating module 5, said sealing device 102 is compressed between the first extension 29 and the second extension 31. Thus, the first cavity 19 and the second cavity 21 form a hollow 104, transversely bounded by the first extension and the second extension, the hollow being bounded longitudinally by the edge 11 of a wall of the first floating module 3 and the edge 11 of a wall of the second floating module 5. Moreover, the sealing device 102 likewise ensures the tightness of a space 106 bounded transversely by the first extension 29 and the second extension 31, the space 106 being bounded longitudinally by the first partition 8 of the first floating module 3 and by the second partition 10 of the second floating module 5.

It will thus be understood that the hollow 104 corresponds to the sum of the first cavity 19 and the second cavity 21, whereas the space 106 corresponds to the volume bounded vertically by the extensions 14 and longitudinally by the partitions 8,10 of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5.

The upper wall 52 of the first floating module 3 and the upper wall 52 of the second floating module 5 being both free of an extension, they thus form the passage 56 enabling access to the space 106, especially for the later steps of the joining together of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5, such as the step of emptying the space 106, or the step of mechanical connection between the metal reinforcements of the first floating module 3 and the metal reinforcements of the second floating module 5.

Hence, since the sealing device 102 ensures the tightness of the space 106, especially in the area of the lateral walls and the lower wall of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5, it is possible to carry out a step of emptying of that space 106. In fact, as the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 are assembled on a body of water, and thus each of them is partly submerged, water is therefore present inside the space 106 when the first floating module 3 and the second floating module are brought closer to each other. The step of emptying the space 106 thus allows a removal of the water present in the space 106, in order to carry out or facilitate the further steps in the joining together of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5.

The first end stops 33 of the first floating module 3, even though having been brought closer to the second end stops 35 of the second floating module 5, are still separated from the second end stops 35 of the second floating module 5, thus indicating that the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 need to be further brought closer in order to complete their assembly.

FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a view, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 visible in FIG. 26. FIG. 27 illustrates the first floating module and the second floating module 5 in the third plane F, FIG. 27 being thus a top view. More particularly, FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a step of mechanical connection between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5. For better comprehension, the connecting frame 110 is not shown. FIG. 27 illustrates a top view, that is, in the first plane.

The first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 are joined together by a mechanical connection step between the first metal reinforcement and the second metal reinforcement. The mechanical connection between the first metal reinforcement and the second metal reinforcement is provided by a coupler 34, thus ensuring that the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 remain abutting against each other. Moreover, the connection between the first metal reinforcement and the second metal reinforcement assures the transmission of mechanical forces, especially traction forces, between the first floating module and the second floating module.

In a similar manner, each first prestressing sheath is connected to a second prestressing sheath by a hollow sleeve 36, ensuring the tightness of the interior of each prestressing sheath 24 while allowing a communication between the interior of the first prestressing sheath and the interior of the second prestressing sheath, thus enabling the passing of the prestressing cable through said first prestressing sheath and said second prestressing sheath.

The mechanical connection step also allows one to ensure that the proximity between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 is sufficient. In fact, the first floating module 3 is brought closer to the second floating module 5, in particular thanks to the connection between the first metal reinforcements and the second metal reinforcements by way of the coupler 34, so that the first end stops 33 of the first floating module 3 come to bear against the second end stops 35 of the second floating module 5. Thus, the first end stops 33 and second end stops 35 make it possible to identify when the proximity between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 is sufficient, in particular to ensure a sufficient compression of the sealing device 102 inserted between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5, so as to assure the tightness of the space 106.

The mechanical connection step, that is, the connection of the first metal reinforcement to the second metal reinforcement by way of the coupler 34, as well as the connection between the first prestressing sheath and the second prestressing sheath by way of the sleeve 36, is facilitated if the emptying step has been performed previously, in the case when the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 are assembled on a body of water.

One may see in FIG. 27 that, in the embodiment illustrated, the thickness of the hollow 104, corresponding to the first dimension 30 of the cavity of the first floating module 3 as well as the first dimension 30 of the cavity of the second floating module 5, is equal to the second dimension 32 of the wall 2 of the first floating module 3. In a similar manner, the thickness of the hollow 104 is equal to a third dimension 32′ of the wall of the second floating module 5, the third dimension 32′ being measured between the external face 16 and the internal face 17 of the wall 2 of the second floating module 5. Thus, this configuration makes it possible to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module, the floating structure thus having a continuity of material along the entire second dimension 32 and third dimension 32′ between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 by way of the hollow 104, the hollow being designed to be filled with concrete, and the thickness of the hollow 104 being equal to the second dimension 32 and to the third dimension 32′. On the other hand, the hollow is aligned along the vertical axis Z with the wall 2 of the first floating module and the wall 2 of the second floating module. More particularly, the external face 16 of the wall of the first floating module 3 and the external face 16 of the wall 2 of the second floating module 5 lie in the same plane, said plane being likewise the plane of extension of the internal face 20 of the first extension 29 of the first floating module 3 and of the internal face 20 of the second extension 31 of the second floating module 5. In a similar manner, the internal face 17 of the wall of the first floating module 3 and the internal face 17 of the wall 2 of the second floating module 5 lie in the same plane. This configuration makes it possible to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module, in order to withstand the mechanical forces due to the floating structure between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate a partial view, respectively in cross section and in perspective, of an exemplary embodiment of a floating structure 100. FIG. 29 illustrates the floating structure 100 in the third plane F, FIG. 29 being thus a top view. More particularly, the floating structure 100 illustrated is formed by at least the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 visible in FIGS. 27 and 28.

Thus, once the coupler 34 and the sleeve 36 have been installed, as illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, thereby realizing the mechanical connection between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5, a material, especially concrete, is poured in the hollow 104 so that the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5 form a monolithic assemblage. More particularly, the first longitudinal end 4 of the first floating module 3 is connected by way of the concrete poured in the hollow 104 to the second longitudinal end 6 of the second floating module 5. Thus, the hollow 104 formed by the first cavity 19 and the second cavity 21 extends along the first dimension 30. Hence, since the first dimension 30 is equal to the second dimension 32 corresponding to the thickness of the wall 2, this configuration allows the concrete present in the hollow 104 to transmit mechanical forces, especially compression forces, since it allows one to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module, unlike a known configuration in which the first dimension of the hollow represents only a portion of the thickness of the wall.

It is also noted that the prestressing sheath 24 emerging into the hollow 104 is thus covered by the concrete present in the hollow. Thus, the prestressing cable 25 inserted inside the prestressing sheath 24 extends in the longitudinal axis of the wall of the first floating module 3 and the wall of the second floating module 5, inside said walls, thus allowing the compression force exerted by the traction force applied to the prestressing cable to be centered with respect to the wall of the first floating module 3 and the wall of the second floating module 5, especially as compared to a known configuration in which the prestressing cable extends longitudinally on the external face or on the internal face of the wall of the first floating module and the wall of the second floating module, so that the compression force exerted by the traction force applied to the prestressing cable is off-center.

Thus, a floating structure 100 having advantageously an extension 14 defining a cavity 18 on each of its walls presents an elevated resistance to the mechanical forces of compression, assured by the concrete poured in each cavity 18, which makes it possible to assure a total mechanical continuity between the first floating module and a second floating module, and to obtain a modular floating structure which behaves like a monolithic structure having the same mechanical strength as the standard section of a floating module. On the other hand, each wall 2 of the first floating module 3 is joined to a wall 2 of the second floating module 5 by a hollow 104 of concrete, traversed by a metal reinforcement 22 and/or a prestressing sheath 24, inside which is located a taut prestressing cable 25, so that the floating structure 100 presents an elevated resistance to the shearing and flexural movement exerted between the first floating module 3 and the second floating module 5, especially due to the motions caused by waves on the body of water where the floating structure 100 is situated.

FIGS. 31A and 31B illustrate a first mode of assembly and a second mode of assembly, respectively, of a first floating module 3 and a second floating module 5 designed to be connected to form a floating structure 100. FIGS. 31A and 31B illustrate top views, in the third plane F, of the first floating module 3, the second floating module 5 and the floating structure 100.

More particularly, FIG. 31A illustrates a basically rectangular floating structure 100 formed by a first floating module 3 and a second floating module 5 which are similar to each other and which extend primarily in the same direction.

FIG. 31B illustrates a floating structure 100 having an angle 57. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the angle 57 formed is a right angle, that is, the value is equal to 90°, measuring the angle between the principal axis of extension of the first floating module 3 and the principal axis of extension of the second floating module 5 to which the first floating module 3 is attached in order to form the floating structure 100. More particularly, the floating structure is formed by a first floating module 3 and a second floating module 5, the first floating module 3 having the angle 57, and the second floating module 5 being substantially rectilinear. The first floating module 3 thus comprises a prolongation 58 extending perpendicularly to the principal axis of extension of the first floating module 3. The second floating module 5 is joined to the prolongation 58 of the first floating module 3, thus enabling the formation of the floating structure 100 having the angle 57. This configuration thus allows one to obtain a great diversity of conformations of floating structure, the angle not being limited to the value of 90°, but able to take on any value, especially one between 90° and 180°, with an angle of 180° then forming a rectilinear floating module.

FIGS. 32A to 32E illustrate exemplary embodiments of a floating structure 100. More particularly, FIGS. 32A to 32W each illustrate a possible shape for a floating structure, in the third plane F. In other words, FIGS. 32A to 32E are top views of the floating structure 100 illustrated in each of these figures, each floating structure 100 comprising in particular multiple floating modules 1.

The floating structures illustrated in FIGS. 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D and 32E form, respectively, a square, a rectangle, a regular hexagon, a circle, and a floating structure having a basically V-shape. It will be understood that the floating structure 100 may assume others shapes.

Gravity Based Systems

In some embodiments, the floating hubs disclosed herein include a gravity based system (GBS). With references to FIGS. 33A-33E, a floating hub 3300 is deployed at a site away from shore. Floating hub 3300 includes floating dock 3310. The floating dock 3310 can have rails (not shown) for facilitating the movement of wind turbine or other equipment (not shown) thereon. The floating hub 3300 includes a lift platform 3304. Lifting equipment, including a plurality of rotary chain jacks 3350, is positioned on the floating dock 3310. The chains (not shown) of the rotary chain jacks 3350 are coupled with the lift platform 3304 for raising and lowering the lift platform 3304 relative to the floating dock 3310 for retrieval and deployment of equipment into and out of the water 3301. In some embodiments, the floating hub 3300 is at least partially made of a floating structure, including floating modules, in accordance with the '359 patent. For example, the floating dock 3310 and/or the lift platform 3304 can be made of a floating structure, including floating modules, in accordance with the '359 patent. In some embodiments, the floating dock 3310 includes a control and power house (not shown) configured for controlling and powering the operations of the lift platform 3304, such as controlling the flow of power and/or hydraulic fluid to the lifting equipment 3350. The top surface 3311 of the floating dock 3310 can include space for assembly and storing vessels (e.g., wind turbines). Additionally, the floating hub 3300 is equipped with fenders 3397 such that vessels can tie-up to the floating hub 3300.

The floating hub 3300 is equipped with a GBS such that the floating hub 3300 can enter at least two configurations including a floating configuration as shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B and a partially sunken configuration as shown in FIGS. 33C-33E. In the floating configuration, the floating hub 3300 is positioned to float on the surface of the water 3301. The floating hub 3300 can be constructed and/or maneuvered to a desired site while in the floating configuration.

The GBS can include ballast tanks 3399 that can be filled to partially sink the floating hub 3300. While GBS is shown and described in FIGS. 33A-33E as including ballast tanks, the GBS is not limited to this particular configuration, and may include other structures capable of causing the floating hub 3300 to sink. With the floating hub 3300 at the desired site, the ballast tanks 3399 can be filled (e.g., with fresh water, sea water, or another substance) until the floating hub 3300 sinks. The floating hub 3300 can be sunk until the floating hub 3300 is engaged with and supported on the seabed 3303. For example, the floating hub 3300 can be sunk until the bottom surface 3313 of the floating dock 3310 is engaged with and supported on the seabed 3303. The ballast tanks 3399 can be in fluid communication, such as via piping 3395, allowing for fluid to be distributed amongst and between the ballast tanks 3399, such as during floating of the floating hub 3310 to stabilize a position of the floating hub 3310.

The floating hub 3310 can be at least partially sunk (e.g., sunk to the seabed 3303) as shown in FIGS. 33C-33E. In some embodiments, the floating hub 3300 can be constructed in a floating position, as shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B. After being constructed, the floating hub 3300 can be maneuvered (e.g., floated, tugged) into place at a desired site. With the floating hub 3300 positioned at the site, the floating hub 3300 can then be lowered down to the seabed 3303 into a sunken position, as shown in FIGS. 33C-33E. With the floating hub lowered down to the seabed 3303, the bottom surface 3313 of the floating dock 3310 is engaged with the seabed 3303 such that the seabed 3303 supports the floating hub 3300. The lowering and raising of the floating hub 3300 can be performed by ballasting the floating hub 3300. The sinking of the floating hub 3300 can be performed in water that is sufficiently shallow such that, in the partially sunken position, a base of the floating hub 3300 (e.g., the bottom surface 3313) is engaged with and supported by the seabed 3303 while the top of the floating hub 3300 (e.g., the top surface 3311) is positioned above the level of the water 3301 (e.g., above sea level). In the partially sunken position, the top of the floating hub 3300 (e.g., the top surface 3311) can be level with the quay. By ballasting the floating hub 3300 onto the seabed 3303, the GBS stabilizes the floating hub 3300. In some such embodiments, the floating hub 3300 does not include, and is stabilized without, any additional mooring structures, such as mooring lines and/or anchors. While referred to as a “floating” hub, the floating hubs disclosed herein are not required to be floating at all times and can enter configurations in which the floating hub is not floating, as illustrated by the sunken position.

With the floating hub 3300 in the sunken position, the lift platform 3304 can be used for lifting and transferring of payloads on and off of the floating hub 3300. The lift platform 3304 is shown in the raised position in FIG. 33D with a top surface 3305 of the lift platform at or above the level of the water 3301. The lift platform 3304 is shown in the lowered position in FIG. 33E with the top surface 3305 of the lift platform 3304 below the level of the water 3301. In the lowered position, the bottom surface 3307 of the lift platform 3304 can remain above the seabed 3303. While shown as positioned to receive and deploy equipment in and from the sea, the floating hubs with GBS may be used at or adjacent a dock to receive and deploy equipment in and from the sea, with platform positioned quayside or opposite quayside, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The ballast amount of the floating hub 3300 can be adjusted (e.g., by adjusting the amount of water in the ballast tanks 3399) to minimize load on the seabed 3303 when lifting a payload with the lift platform 3304. Also, the amount of water in any of the particular ballast tanks 3399 can be adjusted (e.g., using piping 3395) during lifting and lowering operations to facilitate stability and balance of the floating hub 3310. In some embodiments, the floating hub 3300 is neutrally ballasted or nearly neutrally ballasted with a slightly negative buoyancy such that the floating hub 3300 is landed on the seabed 3303, while also reducing the amount of load exerted at the interface between the structure (e.g., concrete/steel structure) of the floating hub 3300 and the seabed 3303.

To move the floating hub 3300 from the site (e.g., to another site), the floating hub 3300 can be de-ballasted by pumping or otherwise releasing the water (or other substance) from the ballast tanks 3399 (e.g., into the sea). For example, pumps can installed (permanently or temporarily) on the floating hub 3300. With the floating hub 3300 de-ballasted, the floating hub 3300 re-enters the floating configuration such that it can be floated to another location. In some embodiments, when in the floating configuration, water can be pumped between and amongst the ballast tanks 3399 (e.g., via piping 3395) to facilitate maintaining pitch and trim during floating operations.

Ballasting the floating hub 3300 to the seabed 3303 using the GBS provides stability to the floating hub 3300, facilitating the transfer of heavy objects onto and off of the lift platform 3304, allowing the floating hub 3300 to launch and receive heavy objects without pitching (or excessive pitching) under unbalanced loads on one end of the floating hub 3300 as the object is loaded onto or off of the lift platform 3304.

Ballasting the floating hub 3300 to the seabed 3303 using the GBS eliminates the need for mooring lines to stabilize the floating hub 3300, including eliminated the costs and safety risks associated with use of mooring lines. For example, mooring lines under tension can snap and injure people, presenting a safety risk. Also, the equipment required to haul in and tension mooring lines often include high pressure hydraulics which is accompanied with risk of mechanical failure and electrical shock. Also, sea states can vary from what is assumed in the design phase of the floating hub 3300. The GBS provides for quick adjustments to varying sea conditions, whereas, re-mooring a moored vessel is time consuming.

The floating hub 3300 can be ballasted precisely such that the floating hub 3300 is positioned and stabilized on the seabed 3303, but with minimal ground pressure.

Additionally, as the floating hub 3300 does not need to float under load, the amount of material (e.g., concrete/steel) required to construct the floating hub 3310 is reduced, reducing costs.

In some embodiments, instead of a GBS, the floating hub is moored with traditional anchors and mooring lines, mooring dolphins, or other mooring structures. The GBS system described with references to FIGS. 33A-33E can be combined with any of the other concepts disclosed herein. For example, the GBS system can be incorporated into the system 1000 of FIG. 1, the dock 100 and lift platform 102 of FIGS. 9A-13B, the floating hub 1400 of FIG. 14, the floating hubs 1500a and 1500b of FIG. 15, the floating hubs 1600a and 1600b of FIG. 16, the floating hub 1700 of FIG. 17, the floating hub 1800 of FIGS. 18A and 18B, the floating hub 1900 of FIGS. 19A and 19B, the floating hub 2000 of FIG. 20, and the floating hubs 3400 of FIGS. 34A and 34B.

Modularity

The floating hubs disclosed herein can be modular, such that additional sections (e.g., additional caissons/steel sections) can be added to floating hub to increase the size, capacity, and usability of the floating hub. Also, the modularity of the floating hubs allows sections (e.g., caissons/steel sections) to be removed from the floating hub to decrease the size of the floating hub. The modularity of the floating hub allows for adjustments, such as if the scope of a project increase or decreases. The floating hubs disclosed herein may be made of concrete, steel, or combinations thereof. For example, with reference to FIGS. 20A and 20B, the size of the floating dock 2010 can be increased by attaching additional floating modules 2011 thereto. Also, the size of the floating dock 2010 can be decreased by removing existing floating modules 2011 therefrom. In some embodiments, the size of the floating dock 2010 can be increased sufficiently to add an additional lift platform to the floating dock 2010 to increase the capacity for retrieving and deploying vessels and equipment from and into the water. The modularity of the floating hubs can be applied to and combined with any of the other concepts disclosed herein. For example, each of the system 1000 of FIG. 1, the dock 100 and lift platform 102 of FIGS. 9A-13B, the floating hub 1400 of FIG. 14, the floating hubs 1500a and 1500b of FIG. 15, the floating hubs 1600a and 1600b of FIG. 16, the floating hub 1700 of FIG. 17, the floating hub 1800 of FIGS. 18A and 18B, the floating hub 1900 of FIGS. 19A and 19B, the floating hub 2000 of FIG. 20, the floating hub 3300 of FIGS. 33A-33E, and the floating hubs 3400 of FIGS. 34A and 34B can be modular as described herein.

Structural Member

In some embodiments, the floating hubs can include one or more structural members that extend between the arms of the floating dock. With reference to FIGS. 34A and 34B, floating hub 3400 includes floating dock 3410 with main body 3405 and dock arms 3406, defining a generally U-shaped floating dock 3410. In FIG. 34A, structural member 3497 is coupled between the dock arms 3406. The structural member 3497 can be the same or substantially the same of the remainder of the floating dock 3410, but be removable to allow for access to the lift platform 3404. Thus, the structural member 3497 may be a temporary and removable portion of the floating hub 3400 that, when attached, provides stability to the floating hub 3400 and, when detached, allows for access to the lift platform 3404. When attached, the structural member 3497 extends between the dock arms 3406 at the open end of the floating dock 3410 where vessels enter onto and exit off of the lift platform 3404. The generally U-shaped structure of the floating dock 3410 with the dock arms 3406 can, in some environments (e.g., rough waters, storms), be insufficiently stiff. The structural arms 3497 provide a structural connection between the dock arms 3406 opposite main dock body 3405 which can reduce deflection in the dock arms 3406 both during environmental events and during the lifting of the lift platform 3404 to lift a vessel. The structural arms 3497 be removed (as showing in FIG. 34B) to allow vessels onto and off of the lift platform 3404. The structural members described with references to FIGS. 34A and 34B can be combined with any of the other concepts disclosed herein. For example, the structural members can be incorporated into the system 1000 of FIG. 1, the dock 100 and lift platform 102 of FIGS. 9A-13B, the floating hub 1400 of FIG. 14, the floating hubs 1500a and 1500b of FIG. 15, the floating hubs 1600a and 1600b of FIG. 16, the floating hub 1700 of FIG. 17, the floating hub 1800 of FIGS. 18A and 18B, the floating hub 1900 of FIGS. 19A and 19B, the floating hub 2000 of FIG. 20, and the floating hub 3300 of FIGS. 33A-33E.

Any of the features and embodiments shown in each of FIGS. 1-34B can be combined into a single embodiment.

Any information in any material (e.g., a United States patent, United States patent application, book, article, etc.) that has been incorporated by reference herein, is only incorporated by reference to the extent that no conflict exists between such information and the other statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of such conflict, including a conflict that would render invalid any claim herein or seeking priority hereto, then any such conflicting information in such incorporated by reference material is specifically not incorporated by reference herein. All patent applications, patents, and printed publications cited incorporated herein by reference are incorporated in their entireties, except for any definitions, subject matter disclaimers or disavowals, and except to the extent that the incorporated material is inconsistent with the express disclosure herein, in which case the language in this disclosure controls.

Although the present embodiments and advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present disclosure. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.