EP0959182B1 - Self-rising offshore platform and installation process of same - Google Patents

Self-rising offshore platform and installation process of same Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0959182B1
EP0959182B1 EP19990401196 EP99401196A EP0959182B1 EP 0959182 B1 EP0959182 B1 EP 0959182B1 EP 19990401196 EP19990401196 EP 19990401196 EP 99401196 A EP99401196 A EP 99401196A EP 0959182 B1 EP0959182 B1 EP 0959182B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
deck
columns
platform according
platform
floats
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
EP19990401196
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0959182A1 (en
Inventor
Dominique Michel
Philippe André Dumas
Vincent Frédéric Paul Foglia
Stanislas Jean Cyran
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
DORIS ENGINEERING
Original Assignee
DORIS ENGINEERING
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by DORIS ENGINEERING filed Critical DORIS ENGINEERING
Publication of EP0959182A1 publication Critical patent/EP0959182A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0959182B1 publication Critical patent/EP0959182B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B17/02—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor placed by lowering the supporting construction to the bottom, e.g. with subsequent fixing thereto
    • E02B17/021—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor placed by lowering the supporting construction to the bottom, e.g. with subsequent fixing thereto with relative movement between supporting construction and platform
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B2017/0039—Methods for placing the offshore structure
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B2017/0056—Platforms with supporting legs
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B2017/0056—Platforms with supporting legs
    • E02B2017/006—Platforms with supporting legs with lattice style supporting legs
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B2017/0056—Platforms with supporting legs
    • E02B2017/0073—Details of sea bottom engaging footing
    • E02B2017/0082—Spudcans, skirts or extended feet
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
    • E02B2017/0056—Platforms with supporting legs
    • E02B2017/0073—Details of sea bottom engaging footing
    • E02B2017/0086—Large footings connecting several legs or serving as a reservoir for the storage of oil or gas

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a platform self-elevating marine as defined in the preamble of claim 1.
  • this bridge To reassemble the bridge on the support columns this bridge, from a position in which the bridge is floating on the surface of the water, and while the columns are supported on the seabed, we have between the bridge and the columns of mechanical means, of the type pinion / rack for example, powered by motors. We understand that, given the very high weight of the bridge and of the equipment he wears, these mechanical means must be very powerful and therefore burden the cost of construction of such a platform.
  • the object of the present invention is precisely to build a self-elevating marine platform of the type described in the preamble to this description, the construction cost is not heavily burdened by the presence of expensive mechanical lifting means.
  • the present invention also aims to achieve such a platform that can be fully deployed on its final installation site, so without step intermediary in another place, and which can be transported and reinstalled on another site, the bottom marine is possibly located at a different depth.
  • the present invention also aims to provide a installation process for this platform.
  • a self-elevating marine platform of the type which comprises a) a bridge supporting equipment, b) at least three columns vertically movable across the bridge and leaning on the seabed to support the bridge over the water surface, c) means for vertically move the bridge over the surface of water and d) means for blocking the vertical position of the bridge when it is placed at a height predetermined by said displacement means, this platform being remarkable in that said bridge is a buoyant hull deck and in that said means of displacement are flotation means arranged for transmit the buoyancy buoyancy to said hull deck is applied to them, so as to raise said hull deck from a float position to said height predetermined.
  • the columns are each made up of first and second telescopically sliding elements, one in the other and in solidarity with the bridge and the seabed respectively.
  • the flotation means are made up by a plurality of movable floats each sliding in the second element of a telescopic column.
  • the flotation means are constituted by a plurality of floats each mounted to slide vertical on one of the columns of the bridge support, said floats which can be detached from said deck after installation.
  • the floats are toroidal and each crossed by one of said columns.
  • a method is provided according to which a) tows the floating platform to its site final installation, raised columns, b) we do descend the lower end of each of said columns to across the bridge to the seabed, this process being remarkable in that c) we unballast the means of flotation so that these transmit to the bridge the Archimedes' push they undergo until this thrust brings the bridge to said predetermined height above of the surface of the water and d) the bridge is blocked on its support columns at said predetermined height.
  • the embodiment shown of the platform according to the invention comprises a bridge 1 and at least three, and preferably four, support columns 2 i (i from 1 to 4).
  • Deck 1 is of the "hull deck” type having positive buoyancy, raised columns, as will be seen below.
  • the platform is shown deployed on its final installation site, the columns 2 i being supported by their lower ends on a seabed 3, while the bridge 1 is fixed on the upper ends of these columns, at a height predetermined H above the surface 4 of the water, guaranteeing a suitable freeboard for equipment located on the deck, such as a derrick 5, a crane 6 and a structure 7 comprising the usual equipment of a platform form of exploration or exploitation of an oil field located on the seabed 3, unit for processing products extracted from the field, living quarters, helicopter landing platform, etc.
  • the anchoring of the feet, or bases, of the columns 2 i in the seabed 3 can be reinforced by any means known for this purpose, such as stability floors 8 1 , 8 2 , spades, etc.
  • the columns 2 i of the platform can slide in respective complementary cylindrical openings 9 i with a vertical axis, provided at the four corners of the bridge 1 (see FIG. 2).
  • This vertical sliding capacity of the columns is used in the process according to the invention for installing the platform, as will be seen below.
  • the bridge is fixed to the upper ends of the columns 2 i by any means known for this purpose in the art, such as welding, bolting, cementing of the ring finger, etc.
  • the columns 2 i are telescopic, each comprising first (10 i ) and second (11 i ) cylindrical and coaxial elements sliding one inside the other.
  • the elements 10 i and 11 i are respectively integral with the bridge 1 and the bottom 3, the elements 10 i sliding in the elements 11 i .
  • the upper element 10 i of each column takes the form of a float, that is to say of a sealed compartment, cylindrical in this case, capable of being ballasted or deballasted with sea water by conventional ballasting / deballasting means (not shown) constituted by pumps and suitably arranged water intake / discharge conduits.
  • each column is, on the contrary, in communication with sea water through openings (not shown). It follows that an Archimedes thrust is exerted on the floats 10 i , equal to the weight of the volume of water displaced by the floats, these floats thus constituting means for moving the bridge upwards, under the effect of Archimedes' thrust which they transmit to the bridge.
  • the height H of the bridge 1 can be adjusted above the surface of the water, to a predetermined value guaranteeing a suitable draft for the bridge.
  • This adjustment is obtained by adjusting the ballasting of the floats 10 i , as described below in conjunction with FIGS. 3A to 3F to which reference is now made to describe the method of installing the platform according to invention.
  • the invention makes it possible to achieve the announced objectives, namely to ensure an economic deployment of a jack-up platform, the economy being obtained thanks to the implementation of the applied Archimedes thrust to floats 10 i arranged to lift said bridge, said floats 10 i themselves forming part of the support columns 2 i of the platform and thus fulfilling a double function of lifting and definitive support of the bridge.
  • This avoids having to have between the bridge and each of the columns expensive motor and transmission devices, pinion / rack for example, to raise the bridge to its final working position.
  • the deployment of the platform according to the invention takes place entirely on the final installation site.
  • the platform can be easily transported from one site to another and reinstalled on the latter, even if the depth of the bottom of this site would be different, the height of the columns can be easily modified by changing the level of connection between elements 10 i and 11 i , by adding an element complementary to element 11 i , or by other known means.
  • FIG. 4 a variant of the platform of FIGS. 1 and 2 has been shown, in which the lower element 11 i is no longer of solid cylindrical shape, but has a structure in metallic mesh , possible structure since this lower element does not have to be sealed and only acts as a guide for the upper element 10 i .
  • the variant of FIG. 5 differs from the platform of FIG. 1 in that the part 10 ′ i of an upper column element 10 i which projects from the surface 4 of the water in the final position of the platform, has a cross section smaller than that of the part of the element 10 i which is below the surface of the water and which acts as a float. This reduces the swell effect on these columns.
  • the part of the upper column element 10 i which projects beyond the surface of the water can be made of wire mesh, just as the lower element 11 i could also be.
  • FIG. 7 The variant of FIG. 7 is similar to that of FIG. 5, from which it is distinguished in that means 17 i are formed at the top of the lower elements 11 i of the columns for stopping the floats 10 i during their ascent, this blocking determining the height H of deck 1 above the water.
  • These stop means 17 i are constituted by conformal conical skirts formed respectively on each float 10 i and at the top of the upper column element 11 i in which the float slides.
  • the outlet for the skirts can be located under the surface 4 of the water, as shown for column 2 1 or, preferably, above this surface, as shown for column 2 2 .
  • the columns 2 i are not telescopic.
  • the floats 10 i for raising the deck 1 are toroidal in shape, elongated vertically, and each crossed by one of the columns. They are movable between a high position, reached by deballasting and suitable for bringing the deck 1 to the height H above the water, as shown for the float 10 1 , and a low position bearing on the foot of the column. , as shown for float 10 2 . In this last position the float releases the upper part of the column and thus reduces its size, and therefore its grip in the swell.
  • floats 18 1 , 18 2 , .. are mounted to slide vertically on a barge 19 installed between the columns 2 i .
  • This barge can then be used to ensure the buoyancy of deck 1 during the towing of the platform to its installation site. It is not necessary, then, that the deck 1 be of the buoyant "hull deck” type.
  • the deballasting of the floats 18 i makes it possible to raise the bridge to the height H.
  • the barge 19 and the floats 18 i can then be evacuated from the installation site.
  • a base secures the column bases, which are also type of those shown in Figures 1 to 7. This base improves platform stability when this is made necessary due to poorer characteristics from the seabed.
  • the base 20 is constituted by a beam trellis.
  • the base 21 takes the form of a compartment that can accommodate ballast material. This compartment can also be used to store products extracted by the platform.

Description

La présente invention est relative à une plate-forme marine auto-élévatrice telle que definie dans le préambule de la revendication 1.The present invention relates to a platform self-elevating marine as defined in the preamble of claim 1.

On connaít de telles plates-formes, construites à sec puis mises en place sur leur site final d'installation par un procédé suivant lequel a) on remorque la plate-forme en flottaison sur ce site final, colonnes relevées, b) on fait descendre l'extrémité basse de chacune desdites colonnes jusqu'au fond marin, c) on remonte le pont au-dessus de la surface de l'eau jusqu'à une hauteur prédéterminée garantissant un tirant d'air convenable et d) on bloque le pont sur les colonnes à ladite hauteur.We know such platforms, built dry then set up on their final installation site by a process according to which a) the platform is towed flotation on this final site, raised columns, b) we do descend the lower end of each of said columns to the seabed, c) we climb the bridge over the water surface up to a predetermined height ensuring a suitable draft and d) blocking the bridge over the columns at said height.

Pour remonter le pont sur les colonnes de support de ce pont, à partir d'une position dans laquelle le pont est en flottaison à la surface de l'eau, et alors que les colonnes sont en appui sur le fond marin, on dispose entre le pont et les colonnes des moyens mécaniques, du type pignon/crémaillère par exemple, actionnés par des moteurs. On comprend que, compte-tenu du poids très élevé du pont et des équipements qu'il porte, ces moyens mécaniques doivent être très puissants et grèvent donc lourdement le coût de construction d'une telle plate-forme.To reassemble the bridge on the support columns this bridge, from a position in which the bridge is floating on the surface of the water, and while the columns are supported on the seabed, we have between the bridge and the columns of mechanical means, of the type pinion / rack for example, powered by motors. We understand that, given the very high weight of the bridge and of the equipment he wears, these mechanical means must be very powerful and therefore burden the cost of construction of such a platform.

On connaít du document US-A-3.001.370 une plate-forme dont le pont, flottable, est relevé jusqu'à sa position finale par des moyens de flottaison. We know from document US-A-3.001.370 a platform whose bridge, buoyant, is raised to its final position by means waterline.

La présente invention a précisément pour but de réaliser une plate-forme marine auto-élévatrice du type décrit en préambule de la présente description, dont le coût de construction n'est pas lourdement grevé par la présence de moyens mécaniques élévateurs coûteux.The object of the present invention is precisely to build a self-elevating marine platform of the type described in the preamble to this description, the construction cost is not heavily burdened by the presence of expensive mechanical lifting means.

La présente invention a aussi pour but de réaliser une telle plate-forme qui puisse être déployée complètement sur son site final d'installation, donc sans étape intermédiaire en un autre lieu, et qui puisse être transportée et réinstallée sur un autre site, dont le fond marin est éventuellement situé à une profondeur différente.The present invention also aims to achieve such a platform that can be fully deployed on its final installation site, so without step intermediary in another place, and which can be transported and reinstalled on another site, the bottom marine is possibly located at a different depth.

La présente invention a aussi pour but de fournir un procédé d'installation de cette plate-forme.The present invention also aims to provide a installation process for this platform.

On atteint ces buts de l'invention, ainsi que d'autres qui apparaítront à la lecture de la présente description, avec une plate-forme marine auto-élévatrice, du type qui comprend a) un pont supportant des équipements, b) au moins trois colonnes mobiles verticalement à travers le pont et s'appuyant sur le fond marin pour supporter le pont au-dessus de la surface de l'eau, c) des moyens pour déplacer verticalement le pont au-dessus de la surface de l'eau et d) des moyens pour bloquer la position verticale du pont quand celui-ci est placé à une hauteur prédéterminée par lesdits moyens de déplacement, cette plate-forme étant remarquable en ce que ledit pont est un pont-coque flottable et en ce que lesdits moyens de déplacement sont des moyens de flottaison disposés pour transmettre audit pont-coque la poussée d'Archimède qui leur est appliquée, de manière à relever ledit pont-coque depuis une position de flottaison jusqu'à ladite hauteur prédéterminée.These objects of the invention are achieved, as well as others which will appear on reading this description, with a self-elevating marine platform, of the type which comprises a) a bridge supporting equipment, b) at least three columns vertically movable across the bridge and leaning on the seabed to support the bridge over the water surface, c) means for vertically move the bridge over the surface of water and d) means for blocking the vertical position of the bridge when it is placed at a height predetermined by said displacement means, this platform being remarkable in that said bridge is a buoyant hull deck and in that said means of displacement are flotation means arranged for transmit the buoyancy buoyancy to said hull deck is applied to them, so as to raise said hull deck from a float position to said height predetermined.

Comme on le verra plus loin, l'installation d'une telle plate-forme fait appel au ballastage et au déballastage de ces moyens de flottaison, les coûts de mise en place et de mise en oeuvre de ces moyens de flottaison et des moyens de ballastage/déballastage de ces moyens de flottaison pouvant être sensiblement réduits par rapport à ceux des moyens mécaniques élévateurs classiquement utilisés.As will be seen below, the installation of a such a platform calls for ballasting and deballasting of these flotation means, setting costs in place and implementation of these flotation means and ballasting / deballasting means of these means buoyancy can be significantly reduced compared to those of mechanical lifting means conventionally used.

Suivant un mode de réalisation de la présente invention, les colonnes sont constituées chacune de premier et deuxième éléments coulissant télescopiquement l'un dans l'autre et solidaires du pont et du fond marin respectivement. Les moyens de flottaison sont constitués par une pluralité de flotteurs mobiles coulissant chacun dans le deuxième élément d'une colonne télescopique.According to an embodiment of the present invention, the columns are each made up of first and second telescopically sliding elements, one in the other and in solidarity with the bridge and the seabed respectively. The flotation means are made up by a plurality of movable floats each sliding in the second element of a telescopic column.

Suivant un autre mode de réalisation de la présente invention, les moyens de flottaison sont constitués par une pluralité de flotteurs montés chacun à coulissement vertical sur une des colonnes du support du pont, lesdits flotteurs pouvant être désolidarisés dudit pont après installation.According to another embodiment of the present invention, the flotation means are constituted by a plurality of floats each mounted to slide vertical on one of the columns of the bridge support, said floats which can be detached from said deck after installation.

Suivant encore un autre mode de réalisation de la présente invention, les flotteurs sont de forme torique et traversés chacun par une desdites colonnes.According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the floats are toroidal and each crossed by one of said columns.

Pour l'installation de la plate-forme suivant l'invention, on fournit un procédé suivant lequel a) on remorque la plate-forme en flottaison jusqu'à son site final d'installation, colonnes relevées, b) on fait descendre l'extrémité basse de chacune desdites colonnes à travers le pont jusqu'au fond marin, ce procédé étant remarquable en ce que c) on déballaste les moyens de flottaison de manière que ceux-ci transmettent au pont la poussée d'Archimède qu'ils subissent jusqu'à ce que cette poussée amène le pont à ladite hauteur prédéterminée au-dessus de la surface de l'eau et d) on bloque le pont sur ses colonnes de support à ladite hauteur prédéterminée. For the installation of the following platform the invention, a method is provided according to which a) tows the floating platform to its site final installation, raised columns, b) we do descend the lower end of each of said columns to across the bridge to the seabed, this process being remarkable in that c) we unballast the means of flotation so that these transmit to the bridge the Archimedes' push they undergo until this thrust brings the bridge to said predetermined height above of the surface of the water and d) the bridge is blocked on its support columns at said predetermined height.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaítront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre et à l'examen du dessin annexé dans lequel :

  • les figures 1 et 2 sont des vues schématiques, en élévation et en plan respectivement, d'un premier mode de réalisation de la plate-forme suivant l'invention,
  • les figures 3A à 3F illustrent les différentes phases successives d'un procédé d'installation suivant l'invention de la plate-forme des figures 1 et 2, et
  • les figures 4 à 11 représentent diverses variantes de la plate-forme suivant l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the description which follows and on examining the appended drawing in which:
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are schematic views, in elevation and in plan respectively, of a first embodiment of the platform according to the invention,
  • FIGS. 3A to 3F illustrate the different successive phases of an installation method according to the invention of the platform of FIGS. 1 and 2, and
  • Figures 4 to 11 show various variants of the platform according to the invention.

On se réfère aux figures 1 et 2 du dessin annexé où il apparaít que le mode de réalisation représenté de la plate-forme suivant l'invention comprend un pont 1 et au moins trois, et de préférence quatre, colonnes de support 2i (i de 1 à 4). Le pont 1 est du type "pont-coque" présentant une flottabilité positive, colonnes relevées, comme on le verra plus loin.Referring to Figures 1 and 2 of the accompanying drawing where it appears that the embodiment shown of the platform according to the invention comprises a bridge 1 and at least three, and preferably four, support columns 2 i (i from 1 to 4). Deck 1 is of the "hull deck" type having positive buoyancy, raised columns, as will be seen below.

La plate-forme est représentée déployée sur son site final d'installation, les colonnes 2i étant en appui par leurs extrémités basses sur un fond marin 3, alors que le pont 1 est fixé sur les extrémités hautes de ces colonnes, à une hauteur prédéterminée H au-dessus de la surface 4 de l'eau, garantissant un franc bord convenable pour des équipement situés sur le pont, tels qu'un derrick 5, une grue 6 et une structure 7 comportant les équipements usuels d'une plate-forme d'exploration ou d'exploitation d'un champ pétrolier situé sur le fond marin 3, unité de traitement des produits extraits du champ, quartiers d'habitation, plate-forme d'atterrissage d'hélicoptères, etc...The platform is shown deployed on its final installation site, the columns 2 i being supported by their lower ends on a seabed 3, while the bridge 1 is fixed on the upper ends of these columns, at a height predetermined H above the surface 4 of the water, guaranteeing a suitable freeboard for equipment located on the deck, such as a derrick 5, a crane 6 and a structure 7 comprising the usual equipment of a platform form of exploration or exploitation of an oil field located on the seabed 3, unit for processing products extracted from the field, living quarters, helicopter landing platform, etc.

L'ancrage des pieds, ou bases, des colonnes 2i dans le fond marin 3 peut être renforcé par tout moyen connu à cet effet, tel que des planchers de stabilité 81, 82, des bêches, etc...The anchoring of the feet, or bases, of the columns 2 i in the seabed 3 can be reinforced by any means known for this purpose, such as stability floors 8 1 , 8 2 , spades, etc.

Les colonnes 2i de la plate-forme peuvent coulisser dans des ouvertures complémentaires respectives 9i cylindriques et d'axe vertical, prévues aux quatre coins du pont 1 (voir figure 2). Cette capacité de coulissement vertical des colonnes est utilisée dans le procédé suivant l'invention d'installation de la plate-forme, comme on le verra plus loin.The columns 2 i of the platform can slide in respective complementary cylindrical openings 9 i with a vertical axis, provided at the four corners of the bridge 1 (see FIG. 2). This vertical sliding capacity of the columns is used in the process according to the invention for installing the platform, as will be seen below.

Dans la plate-forme représentée à la figure 1 le pont est fixé aux extrémités supérieures des colonnes 2i par tous moyens connus à cet effet dans la technique, tels que soudure, boulonnage, cimentation de l'annulaire, etc.In the platform shown in FIG. 1, the bridge is fixed to the upper ends of the columns 2 i by any means known for this purpose in the art, such as welding, bolting, cementing of the ring finger, etc.

Les colonnes 2i sont télescopiques, comportant chacune des premier (10i) et deuxième (11i) éléments cylindriques et coaxiaux coulissant l'un dans l'autre. A la figure 1 les éléments 10i et 11i sont respectivement solidaires du pont 1 et du fond 3, les éléments 10i coulissant dans les éléments 11i.The columns 2 i are telescopic, each comprising first (10 i ) and second (11 i ) cylindrical and coaxial elements sliding one inside the other. In FIG. 1, the elements 10 i and 11 i are respectively integral with the bridge 1 and the bottom 3, the elements 10 i sliding in the elements 11 i .

Suivant la présente invention l'élément supérieur 10i de chaque colonne prend la forme d'un flotteur, c'est-à-dire d'un compartiment étanche, cylindrique en l'occurrence, susceptible d'être ballasté ou déballasté à l'eau de mer par des moyens de ballastage/déballastage classiques (non représentés) constitués par des pompes et des conduits d'admission/refoulement d'eau convenablement disposés.According to the present invention, the upper element 10 i of each column takes the form of a float, that is to say of a sealed compartment, cylindrical in this case, capable of being ballasted or deballasted with sea water by conventional ballasting / deballasting means (not shown) constituted by pumps and suitably arranged water intake / discharge conduits.

L'élément inférieur 11i de chaque colonne, est, au contraire, en communication avec l'eau de mer par des ouvertures (non représentées). Il s'ensuit qu'une poussée d'Archimède s'exerce sur les flotteurs 10i, égale au poids du volume d'eau déplacée par les flotteurs, ces flotteurs constituant ainsi des moyens de déplacement du pont vers le haut, sous l'effet de la poussée d'Archimède qu'ils transmettent au pont.The lower element 11 i of each column, is, on the contrary, in communication with sea water through openings (not shown). It follows that an Archimedes thrust is exerted on the floats 10 i , equal to the weight of the volume of water displaced by the floats, these floats thus constituting means for moving the bridge upwards, under the effect of Archimedes' thrust which they transmit to the bridge.

On comprend qu'en ajustant cette poussée d'Archimède, on peut régler la hauteur H du pont 1 au-dessus de la surface de l'eau, à une valeur prédéterminée garantissant un tirant d'air convenable pour le pont. Cet ajustement s'obtient par le réglage du ballastage des flotteurs 10i, comme on le décrit dans la suite en liaison avec les figures 3A à 3F auxquelles on se réfère maintenant pour décrire le procédé d'installation de la plate-forme suivant l'invention.It is understood that by adjusting this Archimedes thrust, the height H of the bridge 1 can be adjusted above the surface of the water, to a predetermined value guaranteeing a suitable draft for the bridge. This adjustment is obtained by adjusting the ballasting of the floats 10 i , as described below in conjunction with FIGS. 3A to 3F to which reference is now made to describe the method of installing the platform according to invention.

La plate-forme étant construite en cale sèche 12 ou à quai, colonnes relevées (figure 3A), la cale est mise en eau (figure 3B) pour mettre le pont 1 en flottaison, et permettre le remorquage de la plate-forme ainsi configurée jusqu'à son site d'installation finale (figure 3C). Sur ce site les colonnes sont descendues vers le fond sous l'effet de leurs poids, en ce qui concerne les éléments de colonnes inférieurs 11i, et d'un ballastage approprié à l'eau de mer en ce qui concerne les flotteurs 10i (figure 3D). Le pont 1 est ensuite bloqué sur les têtes des colonnes. Les bases des colonnes 2i étant solidement ancrées sur le fond marin, on déballaste les flotteurs 10i, le niveau initial 13 de l'eau dans ces flotteurs (figure 3E) s'abaissant alors au niveau 14 (voir figure 3F) qui est ajusté pour que la poussée d'Archimède transmise au pont 1 par les flotteurs 10i stabilisent la hauteur du pont 1 à la hauteur H recherchée. On bloque alors le déploiement des colonnes 2i en solidarisant les élément 10i et 11i de chaque colonne de préférence à un niveau 15 situé au-dessus de la surface de l'eau pour faciliter les opérations d'assemblage (par soudure, par exemple).The platform being built in dry dock 12 or at the quay, raised columns (Figure 3A), the hold is put in water (Figure 3B) to put the deck 1 in waterline, and allow the towing of the platform thus configured to its final installation site (Figure 3C). On this site the columns are lowered to the bottom under the effect of their weights, with regard to the lower column elements 11 i , and with ballasting suitable for seawater with regard to the floats 10 i (Figure 3D). Bridge 1 is then blocked on the heads of the columns. The bases of the columns 2 i being firmly anchored on the seabed, the floats 10 i are deballasted, the initial level 13 of the water in these floats (FIG. 3E) then lowering to level 14 (see FIG. 3F) which is adjusted so that the Archimedes thrust transmitted to deck 1 by floats 10 i stabilize the height of deck 1 at the desired height H. The deployment of the columns 2 i is then blocked by securing the elements 10 i and 11 i of each column preferably at a level 15 situated above the surface of the water to facilitate assembly operations (by welding, by example).

Il apparaít maintenant que l'invention permet bien d'atteindre les objectifs annoncés, à savoir assurer un déploiement économique d'une plate-forme auto-élévatrice, l'économie étant obtenue grâce à la mise en oeuvre de la poussée d'Archimède appliquée à des flotteurs 10i disposés pour lever ledit pont, lesdits flotteurs 10i formant eux-mêmes partie des colonnes de support 2i de la plate-forme et remplissant ainsi une double fonction de relevage et de support définitif du pont. On évite ainsi d'avoir à disposer entre le pont et chacune des colonnes de coûteux dispositifs à moteurs et transmission, à pignon/crémaillère par exemple, pour relever le pont jusqu'à sa position finale de travail.It now appears that the invention makes it possible to achieve the announced objectives, namely to ensure an economic deployment of a jack-up platform, the economy being obtained thanks to the implementation of the applied Archimedes thrust to floats 10 i arranged to lift said bridge, said floats 10 i themselves forming part of the support columns 2 i of the platform and thus fulfilling a double function of lifting and definitive support of the bridge. This avoids having to have between the bridge and each of the columns expensive motor and transmission devices, pinion / rack for example, to raise the bridge to its final working position.

On remarquera en outre que le déploiement de la plate-forme suivant l'invention s'opère entièrement sur le site final d'installation. En outre la plate-forme peut être facilement transportée d'un site à un autre et réinstallée sur ce dernier, quand bien même la profondeur du fond de ce site serait différente, la hauteur des colonnes pouvant être facilement modifiée par le changement de niveau de connexion entre les éléments 10i et 11i, par l'ajout d'un élément complémentaire de l'élément 11i, ou par d'autres moyens connus.It will also be noted that the deployment of the platform according to the invention takes place entirely on the final installation site. In addition, the platform can be easily transported from one site to another and reinstalled on the latter, even if the depth of the bottom of this site would be different, the height of the columns can be easily modified by changing the level of connection between elements 10 i and 11 i , by adding an element complementary to element 11 i , or by other known means.

Bien entendu la présente invention n'est pas limitée au mode de réalisation de la plate-forme représenté aux figures 1 et 2 et au procédé d'installation illustré aux figures 3A à 3F. D'autres modes de réalisation ou variantes de cette plate-forme sont représentés aux figures 4 à 11, à titre d'exemples illustratifs et non limitatifs seulement. Sur ces figures des éléments ou organes référencés par des repères identiques à des repères utilisés sur les figures 1 et 2 désignent des éléments ou organes identiques ou analogues. On ne décrit dans la suite que les particularités des plate-formes représentées, qui sont pour le reste semblables à celle des figures 1 et 2. Of course the present invention is not limited to the embodiment of the platform shown in Figures 1 and 2 and the installation process illustrated in Figures 3A to 3F. Other embodiments or variants of this platform are shown in Figures 4 to 11, title of illustrative and nonlimiting examples only. In these figures, elements or bodies referenced by marks identical to marks used in Figures 1 and 2 denote identical elements or bodies, or like. We only describe below the particularities of the platforms represented, which are for the rest similar to that of Figures 1 and 2.

C'est ainsi qu'on a représenté à la figure 4 une variante de la plate-forme des figures 1 et 2, dans laquelle l'élément inférieur 11i n'est plus de forme cylindrique pleine, mais présente une structure en treillis métallique, structure possible puisque cet élément inférieur n'a pas à être étanche et joue seulement un rôle de guide pour l'élément supérieur 10i.Thus, in FIG. 4, a variant of the platform of FIGS. 1 and 2 has been shown, in which the lower element 11 i is no longer of solid cylindrical shape, but has a structure in metallic mesh , possible structure since this lower element does not have to be sealed and only acts as a guide for the upper element 10 i .

La variante de la figure 5 se distingue de la plate-forme de la figure 1 en ce que la partie 10'i d'un élément supérieur de colonne 10i qui déborde de la surface 4 de l'eau dans la position finale de la plate-forme, présente une section droite plus petite que celle de la partie de l'élément 10i qui se trouve en-dessous de la surface de l'eau et qui joue le rôle de flotteur. On réduit ainsi l'effet de la houle sur ces colonnes. Bien entendu la partie de l'élément supérieur de colonne 10i qui déborde de la surface de l'eau peut être réalisée en treillis métallique, tout comme pourrait l'être aussi l'élément inférieur 11i.The variant of FIG. 5 differs from the platform of FIG. 1 in that the part 10 ′ i of an upper column element 10 i which projects from the surface 4 of the water in the final position of the platform, has a cross section smaller than that of the part of the element 10 i which is below the surface of the water and which acts as a float. This reduces the swell effect on these columns. Of course, the part of the upper column element 10 i which projects beyond the surface of the water can be made of wire mesh, just as the lower element 11 i could also be.

C'est le cas sur la variante de plate-forme suivant l'invention représentée à la figure 6. Seuls les flotteurs 10i proprement dits sont étanches. Ceux-ci sont d'ailleurs mobiles aussi bien par rapport aux éléments inférieurs 11i des colonnes, qu'aux parties 10'i des éléments supérieurs qui, en position finale, émergent au-dessus de la surface de l'eau. Ainsi, après avoir été déballastés, comme représenté pour le flotteur 101, pour remonter le pont 1 à la hauteur H au-dessus de la surface de l'eau, on peut ballaster à nouveau les flotteurs pour les désolidariser du pont et les descendre ou couler sur le fond marin 3, comme représenté pour le flotteur 102 et réduire par conséquent l'effet de la houle sur les colonnes. Cette opération peut être assistée avec des treuils et des cables 16 par exemple. This is the case on the variant platform according to the invention shown in FIG. 6. Only the floats 10 i proper are waterproof. These are also movable both with respect to the lower elements 11 i of the columns, and to the parts 10 ' i of the upper elements which, in the final position, emerge above the surface of the water. Thus, after having been deballasted, as shown for the float 10 1 , to raise the deck 1 to the height H above the surface of the water, the floats can be ballasted again to separate them from the deck and lower them or sink on the seabed 3, as shown for the float 10 2 and consequently reduce the effect of the swell on the columns. This operation can be assisted with winches and cables 16 for example.

La variante de la figure 7 est voisine de celle de la figure 5, dont elle se distingue en ce que des moyens 17i sont formés en haut des éléments inférieurs 11i des colonnes pour arrêter les flotteurs 10i lors de leur remontée, ce blocage déterminant la hauteur H du pont 1 au-dessus de l'eau. Ces moyens d'arrêt 17i sont constitués par des jupes coniques conformes formées respectivement sur chaque flotteur 10i et en haut de l'élément supérieur de colonne 11i dans lequel coulisse le flotteur. Le débouché des jupes peut être situé sous la surface 4 de l'eau, comme représenté pour la colonne 21 ou, de préférence, au-dessus de cette surface, comme représenté pour la colonne 22.The variant of FIG. 7 is similar to that of FIG. 5, from which it is distinguished in that means 17 i are formed at the top of the lower elements 11 i of the columns for stopping the floats 10 i during their ascent, this blocking determining the height H of deck 1 above the water. These stop means 17 i are constituted by conformal conical skirts formed respectively on each float 10 i and at the top of the upper column element 11 i in which the float slides. The outlet for the skirts can be located under the surface 4 of the water, as shown for column 2 1 or, preferably, above this surface, as shown for column 2 2 .

Sur les variantes des figures 8 et 9, les colonnes 2i ne sont pas télescopiques. A la figure 8 les flotteurs 10i de remontée du pont 1 sont de forme torique, allongée verticalement, et traversés chacun par une des colonnes. Ils sont mobiles entre une position haute, atteinte par déballastage et propre à amener le pont 1 à la hauteur H au-dessus de l'eau, comme représenté pour le flotteur 101, et une position basse en appui sur le pied de la colonne, comme représenté pour le flotteur 102. Dans cette dernière position le flotteur dégage la partie haute de la colonne et diminue ainsi son encombrement, et donc sa prise à la houle.In the variants of FIGS. 8 and 9, the columns 2 i are not telescopic. In FIG. 8, the floats 10 i for raising the deck 1 are toroidal in shape, elongated vertically, and each crossed by one of the columns. They are movable between a high position, reached by deballasting and suitable for bringing the deck 1 to the height H above the water, as shown for the float 10 1 , and a low position bearing on the foot of the column. , as shown for float 10 2 . In this last position the float releases the upper part of the column and thus reduces its size, and therefore its grip in the swell.

A la figure 9, des flotteurs 181, 182,.. sont montés à coulissement vertical sur une barge 19 installée entre les colonnes 2i. Cette barge peut alors servir à assurer la flottabilité du pont 1 pendant le remorquage de la plate-forme jusqu'à son site d'installation. Il n'est pas nécessaire, alors, que le pont 1 soit du type "pont-coque" flottable. Le déballastage des flotteurs 18i permet de remonter le pont à la hauteur H. La barge 19 et les flotteurs 18i peuvent ensuite être évacués du site d'installation. In Figure 9, floats 18 1 , 18 2 , .. are mounted to slide vertically on a barge 19 installed between the columns 2 i . This barge can then be used to ensure the buoyancy of deck 1 during the towing of the platform to its installation site. It is not necessary, then, that the deck 1 be of the buoyant "hull deck" type. The deballasting of the floats 18 i makes it possible to raise the bridge to the height H. The barge 19 and the floats 18 i can then be evacuated from the installation site.

Sur les variantes des figures 10 et 11, une embase solidarise les pieds de colonnes, qui sont par ailleurs du type de celles représentées aux figures 1 à 7. Cette embase améliore la stabilité de la plate-forme quand cela est rendu nécessaire du fait de moins bonnes caractéristiques du fond marin.In the variants of FIGS. 10 and 11, a base secures the column bases, which are also type of those shown in Figures 1 to 7. This base improves platform stability when this is made necessary due to poorer characteristics from the seabed.

A la figure 10, l'embase 20 est constituée par un treillis de poutrelles.In FIG. 10, the base 20 is constituted by a beam trellis.

A la figure 11, l'embase 21 prend la forme d'un compartiment pouvant accueillir un matériau de ballastage. Ce compartiment peut aussi servir au stockage de produits extraits par la plate-forme.In FIG. 11, the base 21 takes the form of a compartment that can accommodate ballast material. This compartment can also be used to store products extracted by the platform.

Claims (17)

  1. A self-lifting offshore platform of the type which includes a) a buoyant hull-deck (1) supporting plant (5, 6, 7), b) at least three columns (2i) mobile vertically through the deck (1) and resting on the seabed (3) to support the deck (1) above the surface (4) of the water, c) flotation means (10i, 18i) disposed to transmit to said hull-deck (1) the Archimedian thrust that is applied to them, so as to raise said hull-deck (1) vertically from a floating position to a predetermined height above the surface (4) of the water, and d) means for locking the vertical position of the deck (1) when it is placed at said predetermined height by said flotation means, which platform is characterized in that the buoyancy of said hull-deck (1) is such that it enables said platform to float with the columns (2i) raised.
  2. A platform according to claim 1, characterized in that each of said columns (2i) comprises a first member (10i) and a second member (11i) sliding telescopically one within the other and respectively fastened to the deck (1) and to the seabed (3).
  3. A platform according to claim 2, characterized in that the flotation means comprise a plurality of floats (10i) each mobile in the second member (11i) of a telescopic column.
  4. A platform according to claim 3, characterized in that said floats (10i) are each fastened to the first member of said column.
  5. A platform according to claim 1, characterized in that said flotation means comprise a plurality of floats (10i) each sliding vertically on one of the columns (2i) for supporting the deck, said floats (10i) being adapted to be detached from said deck (1) after installation thereof (figures 6, 8).
  6. A platform according to claim 5, characterized in that said floats (10i) are of toroidal shape and one of said columns (2i) passes through each of them (figure 8).
  7. A platform according to claim 1, characterized in that said flotation means comprise at least one float (18i) sliding vertically on a barge (19) for temporarily supporting the deck (figure 9).
  8. A platform according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said flotation means (10i; 18i) are equipped with ballasting/deballasting means.
  9. A platform according to claim 2, characterized in that said telescopic columns (2i) incorporate stopping means (17i) for stopping their deployment.
  10. A platform according to claim 2, characterized in that the portion (10'i) of the first member (10i) of a telescopic column (2i) that emerges above the surface of the water has a smaller cross section than the second member (11i) (figures 5, 6).
  11. A platform according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least a portion of said columns (2i) takes the form of a metal truss structure.
  12. A platform according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it includes a base (20; 21) for fastening the columns together at the seabed (3).
  13. A platform according to claim 12, characterized in that it includes a ballasting and/or product storage compartment formed in said base (21).
  14. Application of the platform according to any of claims 1 to 13 to offshore oil field exploration or operation.
  15. A method of installing a platform according to any of claims 1 to 13, wherein:
    a) thanks to the buoyancy of the deck, the floating platform is towed to a final installation site with the columns (2i) raised, and b) the bottom end of said columns (2i) is lowered through the deck (1) as far as the seabed (3), which method is characterized in that: c) the flotation means (10i; 18i) are deballasted so that they transmit to the deck (1) the Archimedian upthrust acting on them until that upthrust raises the deck (1) to said predetermined height (H) above the surface (4) of the water, and d) the deck (1) is locked to the support columns (2i) at said predetermined height (H).
  16. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that, after locking the deck (1), the flotation means are sunk by ballasting them (figures 6, 8).
  17. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that, after locking the deck (1), the flotation means (18i) are taken away (figure 9).
EP19990401196 1998-05-20 1999-05-18 Self-rising offshore platform and installation process of same Expired - Fee Related EP0959182B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9806402A FR2778931B1 (en) 1998-05-20 1998-05-20 SELF-LIFTING MARINE PLATFORM AND ITS INSTALLATION METHOD
FR9806402 1998-05-20

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0959182A1 EP0959182A1 (en) 1999-11-24
EP0959182B1 true EP0959182B1 (en) 2003-04-02

Family

ID=9526566

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19990401196 Expired - Fee Related EP0959182B1 (en) 1998-05-20 1999-05-18 Self-rising offshore platform and installation process of same

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0959182B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2778931B1 (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009014427A1 (en) 2009-03-26 2010-09-30 Areva Energietechnik Gmbh Seegebundenes electrical substation especially for a wind turbine
EP2237384A2 (en) 2009-04-03 2010-10-06 AREVA Energietechnik GmbH Cooling system for an electrical transformer, in particular for a wind power system
DE102010019908A1 (en) 2010-05-04 2011-11-10 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Basic framework for a self-erecting marine platform
US10196114B2 (en) 2015-05-13 2019-02-05 Crondall Energy Consultants Ltd. Floating production unit and method of installing a floating production unit

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
RU2478752C2 (en) * 2011-05-13 2013-04-10 Российская Федерация, от имени которой выступает Министерство промышленности и торговли Российской Федерации (Минпромторг России) Shallow-draught self-lifting floating plant
CN106043611A (en) * 2016-06-08 2016-10-26 中铁建大桥工程局集团第工程有限公司 Floating reef explosion platform
US11293154B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2022-04-05 Sea Top Homes Ltd. Habitable structure for marine environments
CN114019130A (en) * 2021-11-12 2022-02-08 浙江大京生态环境科技有限公司 Sea area giving-out early-stage surveying platform and using method
NL2031193B1 (en) * 2022-03-09 2023-09-18 Deawoo Eng & Construction Co Ltd Marine structure and method

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3001370A (en) * 1954-09-23 1961-09-26 John B Templeton Marine drilling methods and apparatus
US2960833A (en) * 1955-11-10 1960-11-22 John T Hayward Marine foundation structure
GB2314576B (en) * 1996-06-27 2000-08-16 Kvaerner Oil & Gas Ltd Offshore platform assembly

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009014427A1 (en) 2009-03-26 2010-09-30 Areva Energietechnik Gmbh Seegebundenes electrical substation especially for a wind turbine
EP2236815A2 (en) 2009-03-26 2010-10-06 AREVA Energietechnik GmbH Sea-based electrical transformer, in particular for a wind power system
EP2237384A2 (en) 2009-04-03 2010-10-06 AREVA Energietechnik GmbH Cooling system for an electrical transformer, in particular for a wind power system
DE102009017468A1 (en) 2009-04-03 2010-10-07 Areva Energietechnik Gmbh Cooling system for an electrical substation, in particular for a wind power plant
DE102010019908A1 (en) 2010-05-04 2011-11-10 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Basic framework for a self-erecting marine platform
WO2011138195A1 (en) 2010-05-04 2011-11-10 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Base frame for a self-erecting marine platform
US10196114B2 (en) 2015-05-13 2019-02-05 Crondall Energy Consultants Ltd. Floating production unit and method of installing a floating production unit

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0959182A1 (en) 1999-11-24
FR2778931A1 (en) 1999-11-26
FR2778931B1 (en) 2000-07-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0979923B1 (en) Installation for the exploitation of an offshore oil deposit and method for mounting a riser
EP3717343B1 (en) Floating support structure for offshore wind turbine and method for installing a wind turbine provided with such a support structure
EP1716293B1 (en) Method and Device for dismanteling an oil platform
CA1305370C (en) Modular system for the production, storage and loading of hydrocarbons at sea
EP2441893B1 (en) Support device for a wind turbine for producing electric power at sea, corresponding facility for producing electric power at sea.
FR2559808A1 (en) COMPOSITE PLATFORM FOR OIL OPERATIONS IN POLAR SEAS
FR3053020A1 (en) PLATFORM FOR A FLOATING WIND TURBINE, FLOATING WIND TURBINE EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A PLATFORM.
EP0959182B1 (en) Self-rising offshore platform and installation process of same
AU2005226752A1 (en) Single column extendable draft offshore platform
EP2647767A1 (en) Off shore foundation of a wind motor.
EP2495162A1 (en) Transport vessel of a wind turbine to an offshore site and method for its implementation
FR2772336A1 (en) SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE PLATFORM FOR OPERATING AN OIL FIELD AT SEA AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SUCH A PLATFORM
FR2536456A1 (en) DRILLING SYSTEM FROM A WATER PLAN, INSENSITIVE TO THE COOL
EP0142408B1 (en) Method of creating a modular system for floating constructions, especially for use in coastal regions
EP0231134B1 (en) Method for precisely positioning a prefabricated structure by sinking into the sea or into a river, and maritime or fluvial construction obtained by said method
FR2970748A1 (en) Method for realizing maintenance operations i.e. replacement of heavier parts, of floating wind turbine device of off-shore wind energy production system, involves positioning floating wind turbine device on maintenance device
FR3072643A1 (en) FLOATING WIND TURBINES WITH REDUCED PILLARS
CA1281555C (en) Semi-submersible platform, namely for subseau deposit exploration and/or exploitation in cold waters
FR2713588A1 (en) Self-elevating floating platform
BE887882A (en) STRUCTURE FOR SUPPORTING APPARATUS ABOVE THE BOTTOM OF A MASS OF WATER
FR2572049A1 (en) SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE INSTALLATION, IN PARTICULAR FOR DRILLING PLATFORM
EP0963906B1 (en) Method for the installation of a gravity, self-elevating oil production platform at sea
FR2486561A1 (en) METHOD FOR MOUNTING RELATIVELY SHALLOW, OR MEDIUM DEPTH WATER, AND FOR INSTALLING ON THE OPERATING SITE, A DRILLING AND OIL PRODUCTION PLATFORM WITH A WEIGHT BASE
WO2021094191A1 (en) Installation for supporting a self-raising platform
WO2018189084A1 (en) Floater, in particular for an offshore wind turbine

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): DK FR GB IE NL

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20000214

AKX Designation fees paid

Free format text: DK FR GB IE NL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8566

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20011120

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Designated state(s): DK FR GB IE NL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Payment date: 20030410

Year of fee payment: 5

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20030429

Year of fee payment: 5

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: FRENCH

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20030513

Year of fee payment: 5

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20030528

Year of fee payment: 5

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 20030514

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20030702

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20040105

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040518

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040518

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20041201

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20040518

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20050131

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

Effective date: 20041201

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST