EP1781536B1 - Procede d'acces entre des structure marines et appareil associe - Google Patents

Procede d'acces entre des structure marines et appareil associe Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1781536B1
EP1781536B1 EP05769434A EP05769434A EP1781536B1 EP 1781536 B1 EP1781536 B1 EP 1781536B1 EP 05769434 A EP05769434 A EP 05769434A EP 05769434 A EP05769434 A EP 05769434A EP 1781536 B1 EP1781536 B1 EP 1781536B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
gangway
vessel
runway
guide wire
inflatable
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.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP05769434A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP1781536A1 (fr
Inventor
Michael John The Old Coach House WATCHORN
Timothy William Grinsted
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.)
IHC ENGINEERING Business Ltd
Original Assignee
IHC ENGINEERING BUSINESS Ltd
IHC Engineering Business Ltd
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
Priority claimed from GBGB0417279.7A external-priority patent/GB0417279D0/en
Application filed by IHC ENGINEERING BUSINESS Ltd, IHC Engineering Business Ltd filed Critical IHC ENGINEERING BUSINESS Ltd
Publication of EP1781536A1 publication Critical patent/EP1781536A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1781536B1 publication Critical patent/EP1781536B1/fr
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B21/00—Tying-up; Shifting, towing, or pushing equipment; Anchoring
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B27/00—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers
    • B63B27/14—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers of ramps, gangways or outboard ladders ; Pilot lifts
    • B63B27/143—Ramps

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to method and apparatus for providing access between marine structures, and more especially for providing access from a vessel, such as a relatively small vessel, to a relatively larger vessel or to a fixed offshore structure, or between two vessels of comparable size, especially larger vessels.
  • a vessel such as a relatively small vessel
  • a vessel such as a relatively larger vessel or to a fixed offshore structure
  • two vessels of comparable size especially larger vessels.
  • the invention is particularly advantageous when the vessels are in open water and/or under way.
  • Said access may be, or may include, the transfer of personnel and/or the transfer of goods and equipment.
  • marine structure refers to: each of two vessels of preferably of broadly similar size between which transfer is effected; or to each of a relatively small boat employed to carry personnel and equipment to a worksite and the worksite itself.
  • the worksite might be a larger vessel, such as when a pilot needs to board the larger vessel from a pilot boat, or a fixed offshore structure such as an oil or gas rig, wind turbine or the like where maintenance workers need access from time to time.
  • Most preferably one of the marine structures between which transfer is effected is a vessel navigable under its own power.
  • RIB refers to a "rigid inflatable boat” also known as “RHIB” or "rigid hull inflatable boat”.
  • safety regulations limit the transfer of personnel from a vessel to a fixed structure to times when the sea conditions are within certain parameters, typically to circumstances where the wave height is less than about 0.7m to 1 m.
  • the consequence of this is that many working days are lost when wave conditions are such that access to the fixed structure is not possible. This can represent a major expense for those involved in the construction and maintenance of offshore facilities.
  • the present invention seeks to alleviate these problems by providing a method and apparatus which allow safe access from a vessel to a fixed structure (an offshore structure or a larger vessel), or between vessels typically of generally similar size, in particular between larger vessels, especially in a greater range of sea conditions.
  • GB 2175860 teaches an apparatus for linking a floating structure with a second structure.
  • the apparatus comprises a telescopic gangway mounted on rails on the floating structure.
  • the gangway is held in a raised position by means of a crane.
  • a wire extends from a leading end of the telescopic gangway around a pulley block on the second structure and returns to a winch on the floating structure. Taking up of the wire by the winch extends the telescopic gangway.
  • a method of providing access between first and second marine structures comprising:
  • the step of positioning the first and second marine structures proximate one another comprises positioning the first marine structure with respect to the second marine structure.
  • the step of controlling and, where necessary, adjusting the position of one or both of the first and second marine structures so that they are maintained in spaced apart relation to one another comprises controlling and where necessary adjusting the position of the first marine structure with respect to the second marine structure.
  • the runway is inclined with respect to the horizontal such that the gangway apparatus moves downwardly when moving from the stored condition to the use condition.
  • At least one end portion of the gangway apparatus remains connected to the runway when the gangway apparatus is in its use condition.
  • the first marine structure is a vessel and the second marine structure is a fixed structure.
  • first and second marine structures are vessels.
  • the step or steps of adjusting the position of the marine structures may, if desired, comprise the step of adjusting the position of the first marine structure, adjusting the position of the second marine structure or adjusting the positions of the first and second marine structures.
  • the gangway apparatus comprises at least one inflatable member attached to a said guide wire by said slidable fixings and transformable by inflation thereof from a compact state to an extended state, the method further comprising inflating the inflatable member with an inflating fluid before said gangway apparatus is moved along said runway.
  • the gangway apparatus comprises at least one inflatable member attached to a said guide wire by said slidable fixings and transformable by inflation thereof from a compact state to an extended state, the method further comprising inflating the inflatable member with an inflating fluid after said gangway apparatus is moved along said runway.
  • the gangway apparatus slides along the runway contemporaneously with the step of sliding the gangway apparatus along the guide wire(s).
  • One embodiment of this aspect of the invention comprises providing a gangway apparatus comprising a single inflatable member.
  • Another preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention comprises providing a gangway apparatus including a plurality of inflatable members.
  • the inflatable member comprises an outer skin enclosing a plurality of inflatable tubes
  • apparatus for providing a bridge structure for the transfer of personnel, goods or equipment from a first marine structure to a second marine structure comprising:
  • the runway is inclined to horizontal.
  • the means for maintaining a desired tension in the at least one guide wire is mounted in use on the first marine structure.
  • the runway comprises at least one rigid rail.
  • the runway comprises a pair of substantially parallel rails.
  • the or each rail is rectilinear.
  • the linkage comprises a skate, truck, bogie, carriage or the like disposed between the gangway apparatus and the or each rail and adapted to slide, roll or otherwise move along each rail.
  • the runway comprises one or more tensioned cables.
  • the runway is mounted in use to extend from a highest point towards a central region of the vessel to a lowest point near the stem or side of the vessel.
  • At least an end portion of the gangway apparatus remains attached to the runway in the use condition.
  • the gangway apparatus comprises at least one inflatable member.
  • the gangway apparatus comprises a plurality of inflatable members which are independently inflatable and more especially that the gangway apparatus comprises an outer skin enclosing a plurality of inflatable tubes.
  • At least one inflatable portion of the gangway apparatus in its expanded state, has an upper surface which operatively forms a walkway for personnel using the bridge structure.
  • the apparatus comprises means for joining two or more inflatable members together to form said walkway.
  • said two or more inflatable members are joined in side-by-side relation.
  • the apparatus further comprises inflatable members defining in their expanded state side walls of the bridge.
  • Means are preferably provided for joining two or more inflatable members together to form said side walls.
  • Preferably said two or more inflatable members are joined in side-by-side relation.
  • an upper surface of an inflatable portion of said gangway apparatus includes a non-slip surface.
  • the apparatus of this aspect of the invention further comprises a plurality of upright posts attached at intervals to said gangway apparatus and safety ropes or nets attached to said posts.
  • the apparatus of this aspect of the invention also comprises at least one safety rope extending lengthwise of the apparatus to which a user's safety harness is operatively attachable.
  • the at least one inflatable member is, in its expanded state, operatively suspended below a single guide wire.
  • the at least one inflatable member is, in its expanded state, operatively mounted above a single guide wire.
  • the at least one inflatable member is, in its expanded state, operatively mounted on a pair of substantially parallel guide wires.
  • the first marine structure is a vessel and the second marine structure is a fixed structure.
  • first and second marine structures are first and second vessels respectively.
  • a third aspect of the invention provides apparatus for carrying out the method of the first aspect of the invention.
  • a fourth aspect of the invention provides a vessel having mounted thereon apparatus as defined in the second or third aspect of the invention.
  • the vessel comprises an inflatable boat, in particular an RIB.
  • an apparatus 10 which provides a bridge, including a gangway apparatus 102, for personnel to transfer on foot from a vessel 50 to a fixed structure 70 (typically an offshore structure) and vice versa.
  • the resulting bridge is also suitable for the transfer of goods and equipment between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70.
  • the fixed offshore structure 70 is a part of a wind turbine or an offshore oil or gas rig, but the fixed offshore structure could equally be a larger vessel (in relation to the vessel 50), a coastal structure such as a sea wall, breakwater or jetty, or a vessel of similar size to the vessel 50.
  • the apparatus can be used to effect transfer of personnel and/or equipment between larger vessels typically of generally similar size such as cargo vessels or supply vessels.
  • the apparatus 10 typically has broadly the same construction as apparatus 10 for use between a vessel 50 and a fixed structure 70, but may be on a larger scale to provide a higher carrying capacity.
  • a typical carrying capacity for transfer of equipment between vessels is about 6 tonnes and a typical span is from about 20 to 40m.
  • the apparatus 10 comprises, in general terms, a gangway apparatus 102, a runway 110, at least one guide wire 12, 120, a first winch and associated cable for moving the gangway apparatus 102 up and down the runway 110 on deployment and recovery respectively, and a constant tension winch for maintaining a desired tension in the guide wire 12, 120.
  • the gangway apparatus part 102 of the apparatus 10 When installed between the vessel 50 and the fixed offshore structure 70, the gangway apparatus part 102 of the apparatus 10 provides a means by which personnel such as commissioning or maintenance personnel for a wind turbine can step between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70 with greater safety and in a wider range of sea conditions and also a means by which maintenance or repair equipment can be transferred from the vessel 50 to the fixed structure 70.
  • the relative motion of the gangway apparatus 102 with respect to the fixed structure 70 is slight, or even negligible, and similarly the relative motion between the gangway apparatus 102 and the vessel 50 at the point where the gangway apparatus 102 meets the vessel is minimised, despite the fact that the vessel may be pitching, rolling or moving back and forth by action of the waves on the vessel 50.
  • the health and safety risks associated with stepping from a vessel 50, moving unpredictably because of wave motion, to the fixed structure 70 are much reduced or eliminated.
  • the apparatus 10 uses one or more tensioned ropes 12, 120 extending between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70 by which the gangway apparatus 102 is supported.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 most preferably comprises one or more inflatable members. When the inflatable members 14 are inflated, the gangway apparatus 102 can extend from the vessel 50 to the fixed structure 70 and provide a safe "bridge" for the transfer of personnel. Also, the vessel 50 is allowed considerable freedom of movement in maintaining its station with respect to the fixed structure 70, which allows the vessel operator to adjust the position and/or heading of the vessel to accommodate prevailing weather conditions. Further, in the unlikely event that the apparatus 10 should fail, and the gangway apparatus 102 falls into the water and, because of the inflatable member(s) 14, the gangway apparatus 102 floats, so providing a safe refuge for personnel until rescue can be effected.
  • the apparatus 10 may initially be provided in its compact (non-inflated) state on the vessel 50.
  • the vessel 50 is brought a location proximate the fixed structure 70 and at least one guide wire is connected between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70 at a suitable location 74 of entry onto the structure, such as a ladder or platform 72 on the fixed structure 70.
  • the location 70 is most preferably at a point which is above the maximum wave height in the prevailing conditions.
  • the wire 12 is attached to means for maintaining a substantially constant tension in the wire 12. Suitable means include one or more winches (not shown in Figures 3 to 10 ) fitted with constant tension devices. Such winches are known in the art.
  • the vessel When connection by means of guide wire 12 between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70 has been established, the vessel may adjust its location to a chosen position relative to the fixed structure 70. In the chosen location, the vessel 70 thrusts away from the fixed structure 70 but is restrained from moving away by the wire 12 and the action of the constant tension winch. Thus the desired tension is maintained in the wire 12.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 comprises a plurality of slidable fixings 18 through which a guide wire 12 passes.
  • the slidable fixings 18 connect the gangway apparatus 102 to the guide wire(s) 12, whereby the gangway apparatus 102 may be supported by the wire(s) 12.
  • the slidable fixings 18 may conveniently include rings through which a guide wire 12 passes.
  • the (or each) inflatable member 14 of the gangway apparatus 102 is inflated with a suitable inflation fluid which is most conveniently air.
  • the air may be pumped into the inflatable member 14, or may be supplied form an air storage source such as compressed air cylinders. Inflation of the inflatable member 14 may be effected each time the inflatable member 14 is used but more preferably the inflatable member 14 is inflated once and maintained in its inflated condition throughout the use of the gangway apparatus 102 at a number of different locations.
  • the inflatable member 14 takes the form of one or more longitudinally extensive tubes which, when extended, span the gap between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70 or between respective vessels.
  • the tubes are preferably independently inflatable, so that any inflation failure of one tube does not cause failure of others of the inflatable tubes 14 or of the whole gangway apparatus 102.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 of the invention extends from the vessel to the point of entry 74 to the fixed structure 70 or to the second vessel.
  • the apparatus 10 of the invention is constructed to allow the gangway apparatus 102 to be maintained in its inflated state for all or part of its working or operational period, that is, in addition to the specific time when the apparatus is disposed between a vessel 50 and a fixed structure 70.
  • a work site where the apparatus 100 of this embodiment of the invention is deployed may include a number of fixed structures 70, such as wind turbines, to or from which personnel and equipment are transferred at various times during the operational period.
  • transfer may be required on one occasion to a fixed structure 70 and on a subsequent occasion to a second vessel. In this case it is inconvenient to deflate and re-inflate the inflatable member 14 the gangway apparatus 102 each time it is moved between one fixed structure 70 or vessel and another.
  • the invention allows the gangway apparatus 102 to be maintained in its inflated state at least for movement of the apparatus 100 from one fixed structure 70 to another fixed structure 70.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 may or may not be in its deflated state.
  • This construction of the invention is also applicable to apparatus of fixed construction, that is, apparatus which in which the gangway apparatus 102is not inflatable/deflatable or otherwise changeable between expanded and compact states.
  • the gangway apparatus may be filled with a foam material which provides required rigidity and is also buoyant.
  • the vessel 50 is provided with at least one runway or slider 110 on which one part, preferably an end portion, of the gangway apparatus 102 is mounted.
  • the runway 110 is preferably a rigid rail or, more preferably, a pair of rails, on which the gangway apparatus 102 is mounted.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is mounted on the runway 110 such that, in use, it is free to move along the length of the runway 110.
  • the rails are preferably rectilinear, but may, if appropriate, be curved.
  • the runway may be, for example, one or more tensioned wires or cables.
  • a pair of rails 111, 112 is shown.
  • Rails 111, 112 are fixedly mounted on the vessel 50.
  • the rails 111, 112 extend in parallel from a highest point towards the central region of the vessel 50 to a lowest point near the stem of the vessel 50.
  • the rails 111, 112 may extend from a highest point towards a central region the vessel 50 to a lowest point near the side of the vessel 50.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is carried during movement of the vessel between fixed structures 70 (and during any other movements, as required) on the rails 111, 112 so that one end 114 of the apparatus 102 is towards the upper end 114 of the rails 111, 112 and one end 116 of the apparatus 102 is towards the lower end of the rails 111, 112.
  • the end 114 of the gangway apparatus 102 is preferably permanently attached to the rails 111, 112 and most preferably remains so attached when the bridge member is deployed, that is, in its condition of use ( Figures 8, 9 and 16 ). However, a releasable attachment is not precluded.
  • the end 114 is attached by suitable means (not specifically shown) such as wheels, casters, low friction pads or the like, which allow the end 114 to slide up and down the rails 111, 112 when required to do so.
  • suitable means such as wheels, casters, low friction pads or the like, which allow the end 114 to slide up and down the rails 111, 112 when required to do so.
  • the end 114 is attached to a skate, truck, bogie, carriage or the like 204.
  • the skate 204 is arranged to traverse the rails 111, 112 as will be discussed in more detail below
  • the end 116 may be (but need not be) releasably secured to the rails 111, 112.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is mounted on a runway 110. This represents a stored condition of the gangway apparatus 102, in particular for movement between different worksites.
  • a cable (not shown) is attached to the gangway apparatus 102 preferably at its upper end (when on the runway), and the other end of the cable is attached to a first winch.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is preferably fixedly retained on the runway by suitable locking or braking means intended to secure the gangway apparatus 102 in position during transit.
  • the first winch is used to take slack out of the cable and the locking means are released.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is thereby retained in its position on the runway 110 by the cable and the first winch.
  • a cable 200 extends from the fixed structure 70 to a moored buoy 202.
  • the buoy 202 is retained by mooring cable 205, which is, in turn, typically attached by suitable means to the seabed.
  • the vessel 50 approaches the buoy stem first and the cable 200 is retrieved, the cable 200 then providing at least a part of the guide wire 12 for the gangway apparatus 102.
  • the cable may paid out directly from the fixed structure to the vessel 50, or vice versa.
  • the guide wire 12 is fed through guides (slidable fixings 18) on the gangway apparatus 102, and then attached to a constant tension winch on the vessel 50.
  • the constant tension winch is used to take up the tension in the guide wire 12, while the vessel 50 thrusts gently ahead (that is, away from the fixed structure 70).
  • the gangway apparatus 102 which is mounted on a skate 204, is caused to slide down the rails 111, 112 of runway 110 so that it extends beyond the stem of the vessel 50.
  • wire is paid out from the first winch ( Figures 6 and 7 ).
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is preferably fully extended from the vessel 50 and is supported on the guide wire 12, which extends between the vessel 50 and the fixed structure 70.
  • the forward thrust of the vessel 50 is then reduced, and by the action of the constant tension winch, the vessel 50 is pulled towards the fixed structure 70 until the leading end 116 of the gangway apparatus 102 meets the location of entry 74 of the fixed structure 70 ( Figure 8 ).
  • the gangway apparatus 102 may be secured at its leading end 116 to the fixed structure 70 by suitable means but this may be neither essential nor desirable, for reasons outlined below.
  • the vessel 50 then moves further aft (towards the fixed structure 70) ( Figure 9 ), with the tension in the guide wire 12 being taken up by the constant tension winch.
  • the skate 204 thus moves along runway 110 and most preferably the aftward movement of the vessel 50 is continued until the skate 204 reaches a mid position with respect to the length of the runway 110.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is then ready for the transfer of personnel, goods or equipment.
  • a walkway 206 is provided parallel to the runway 110 to facilitate the transfer of personnel, goods or equipment from the vessel 50 onto the gangway apparatus 102.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 While in use, the gangway apparatus 102 is free to move with respect to the vessel 50. Specifically, as the vessel 50 moves fore and aft of the skate 204 makes a corresponding movement up and down the runway 110 ( Figure 10 ).
  • the vessel 50 is free to move, and no attempt is made to make a "fixed mooring" of the vessel 50 to the fixed structure 70.
  • anyone who is on the gangway apparatus 102 in the event of such an unfortunate occurrence is still able to return to the vessel 50 by walking up the gangway apparatus 102 and/or by using the first winch to pull the gangway apparatus 102 back up the runway 110.
  • the constant tension winch is able to pay out cable (guide wire 12).
  • This allows the gangway apparatus 102 to move away from the fixed structure 70 (as the vessel 50 moves away) and so, of course, a gap is opened between the end of the gangway apparatus 102 and the fixed structure 70, and passage from the gangway apparatus 102 to the fixed structure 70 is prevented. Nevertheless, personnel on the gangway apparatus 102 at the time can still safely return to the vessel 50 until the vessel 50 regains its station.
  • the constant tension winch pays out all of the guide wire 12. This allows the leading end 116 of the gangway apparatus 102 to fall into the water, where, being buoyant, it floats. Personnel may return to the vessel 50 by climbing up the gangway apparatus 102 and the gangway apparatus 102 may be returned to the vessel by action of the first winch.
  • the tension in the guide wire 12 is released and the gangway apparatus 102 is pulled back onto the runway 110 using the first winch and attached cable.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is then secured to the runway 110.
  • the guide wire 12 is then released from the constant tension winch and re-secured to the buoy 202 for future use.
  • the skate 204, and the runway 110 provide means to accommodate fore and aft movement of the vessel 50.
  • a mounting arrangement 208 is also provided between the gangway apparatus 102 and the skate 204 (the skate being shown only schematically) to accommodate lateral movements of the vessel with respect to the fixed structure, such as changes in the heading of the vessel and movement of the vessel 50 due to wind, tides, currents etc.
  • the mounting arrangement 208 includes a first coupling 210 which accommodates relative movement between the skate and the gangway apparatus about a nominally horizontal axis and a second coupling 212 which accommodates relative movement about an upright axis, the orientation of which tends towards, or may be, vertical.
  • the inflatable nature of the gangway apparatus 102 provides it with a degree of flexibility so that it can accommodate torsional loadings, at least to some extent.
  • the mounting means provided between the gangway apparatus 102 and the skate 204 restrict the torsional movement of the gangway apparatus 102, with respect to the vessel 50. This is important for the stability of the gangway apparatus 102 during transfer of personnel, goods and equipment.
  • one or more safety ropes may be provided substantially co-extensive with the gangway apparatus 102 to which safety harnesses worn by personnel may be attached during transfer across the apparatus 10.
  • gangway apparatus 102 of the invention may comprise a plurality of inflatable members 14a, 14b and 14c.
  • principal inflatable members 14a are attached to the slidable fixings 18 which in turn are supported on a pair of guide wires 12.
  • Inflatable members 14b define the surface on which personnel 54 may walk across the gangway apparatus 102 and inflatable members 14c define side walls which assist in preventing personnel 54 from falling from the structure.
  • the construction of the embodiment in Figure 2 is similar, except that the inflatable members are suspended via slidable fixings 18 from a single guide wire 12.
  • the individual inflatable members 14 may be joined one to another, but each is most preferably independently inflatable.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 comprises a plurality of parallel inflatable tubes 140 enclosed in an outer skin 142.
  • the inflatable tubes 140 are arranged within the outer skin 142, such that the outer skin 142 is substantially cylindrical.
  • the inflatable tubes 142 need not all be of the same diameter.
  • the outer skin may contain about 10 to 20, preferably about 15, inflatable tubes 140, each having a nominal diameter of about 250 to 300mm, preferably about 280mm.
  • the diameter of the outer skin 142 when the tubes 140 are inflated is then about 0.8 to 1.2m, preferably about 1 m. If one or two of the inflatable tubes 142 are punctured the remaining tubes 142 can expand to fill the space so created. Although the - pressure in the remaining intact inflatable tubes 142 falls slightly, the gangway apparatus 102 remains sufficiently rigid for it to be crossed in safety.
  • an upper part of one or more of the inflatable members provides a surface on which personnel 54 may traverse the gangway apparatus 102.
  • an upper part of the inflatable skin provides a surface on which personnel 54 may traverse the gangway apparatus 102.
  • this upper surface may be provided with a non-slip surface, such as a non-slip layer or coating.
  • a surface 58 on which personnel 54 walk may be supported by an upper surface of one or more of inflatable members.
  • a plurality of upright posts 56 attached at intervals to gangway apparatus 102 is preferably provided and ropes or nets 57 are attached to said posts 56.
  • the upright posts 56 may, for example, be attached in fixed relation to some of the slidable fixings 18, for example to every third fixing 18. In this way, when the gangway apparatus 102 is in its compacted state, the upright posts 56 lie in close proximity to one another and become spaced apart as the inflatable member(s) achieves its (their) expanded state. Alternatively, the upright posts 56 may be separately attachable to the gangway apparatus 102 after its expanded state has been reached.
  • Ropes or nets 57 extending between the upright posts 56 assist in preventing personnel 54 from falling from the gangway apparatus 102 when traversing it, and a safety rope may be provided, attached for example to first and last upright posts 56, to which a safety harness be clipped.
  • Cross members 60 may be provided which extend laterally between respective pairs of upright posts 56 for assisting in retaining the upright posts 56 in their desired position.
  • FIGs 14 to 16 illustrate an alternative version of the apparatus 100 of the invention mounted on a relatively small boat 150.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is mounted on a runway 110, which slopes from a high point towards the centre of the vessel 150 to a low point at the stern.
  • one or more guide wires 120 may be retrieved from a moored buoy and subsequently connected to the constant tension winch 122.
  • the guide wire 120 (12) may be entirely mounted on the vessel 150 (50) and paid out from the vessel for attachment to the fixed structure 70or mounted on the fixed structure and paid out therefrom for attachment to the vessel.
  • the vessel 150 may be provided with a foldable or collapsible ladder 130 which is stowed below the line of rails 111, 112 when not required for use, so as not to interfere with the deployment of the gangway apparatus 102.
  • the ladder 130 is in two parts 131, 132 which are pivoted with respect to one another and are connected by a linkage 134.
  • Linkage 134 is connected to a pivoting post 136 which pivots about an axis at 138 to move the ladder 130 from its stowed to its deployed position.
  • FIGs 11 to 13 illustrate in particular mounting means 80 for use with certain embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention (in particular the apparatus of Figures 14 to 16 ) which provides compliant freedom for the vessel 50 with respect to the gangway apparatus 102, so that the vessel 50 can surge, traverse back and forth, pitch and roll with respect to the gangway apparatus 102, in response to wave movement to which the vessel 50 is subject, without adversely affecting the gangway apparatus 102, its mountings or the fixed structure 70 and, more especially in the case of smaller vessels 50 such as RIBs, without allowing the gangway apparatus 102 to adversely affect the vessel 50.
  • the mounting means 80 assists in accommodating relative movement between first and second vessels when the apparatus of the invention is used for transfer between vessels.
  • the mounting means 80 comprises a first mounting element 82 which provides the vessel 50 and the gangway apparatus 102 with rotational freedom with respect to one another.
  • the first mounting element 82 comprises a first mounting component 84 which is fixedly attached with respect to the deck of the vessel 50 or with respect to the runway 110 and a second mounting component 86, attached to the first mounting component and which also is (indirectly) attached to the gangway apparatus 102.
  • the mounting components 84, 86 have rotational freedom with respect to each other.
  • a preferred form of the first mounting element 82 is a slew ring bearing.
  • the vessel 50 is free to adopt a suitable heading, during the transfer of personnel 54, or goods or equipment, to favour the weather or sea conditions.
  • the heading is typically determined by weather, waves, currents or obstructions the transfer site.
  • the arrangement in relation to use of the apparatus of the invention for transfer between vessels is similar.
  • the first and second mounting components 84, 86 accommodate differences in the course or heading of the vessels and also accommodate relative forward and back motion between the vessels.
  • the first frame element 88 Attached to the second mounting component 86 is a first frame element 88.
  • the first frame element includes first and second parts 88a, 88b which are slidably mounted with respect to one another. Specifically, part 88a is mounted in fixed relation to second mounting component 86 and part 88b is free to execute translational movement with respect to part 88a. The translation freedom of the part 88b with respect to part 88a accommodates some back and forth movement of the vessel 50 with respect to the gangway apparatus 102. Similarly, for transfer between two vessels using the apparatus of the invention, the second mounting component 86 and frame element 88 accommodate some relative motion of the vessels towards and away from one another. The provision of the runway 110 may obviate the need for the first frame element 88.
  • a bias is applied to the second frame element part 88b, most preferably to urge the part 88b towards the mid point of its permitted translational motion.
  • Suitable biasing means include elastic cord (e.g. shock cord) or rate controlled damping systems.
  • One important objective of the biasing means is to provide a method of force limitation to assist in preventing excessive force being applied to the vessel.
  • the bias forces applied to the part 88b may be symmetrical or asymmetrical with regard to the two opposed direction of permitted movement of the part 88b.
  • Locking means may be provided to independently lock the first mounting element 82 to prevent rotational movement and/or to lock the part 88b with respect to part 88a to prevent translational movement, as may be desirable for transport storage or stowage of the gangway apparatus 102.
  • An upper part of the component 88a may preferably define a surface 88c on which personnel may stand before stepping onto the gangway apparatus 102.
  • the surface 88c may itself be subject to translational and or rotational movement, there is little, if any, movement with respect to the gangway apparatus 102.
  • stepping from the deck 52 onto the surface 88c is simple, as is stepping from the surface 88c onto the gangway apparatus 102.
  • a second frame element 90 is attached to the end of the gangway apparatus 102 to support the gangway apparatus 102 in use.
  • the second frame element 90 is also pivotally connected at 92 to the first frame element part 88b, so that the second frame element 90 and the first frame element part 88b pivot with respect to one another about an axis E-E which is nominally horizontal and which is substantially perpendicular in use to the longitudinal axis of the gangway apparatus 102 and inflatable member(s) 14.
  • "Nominally horizontal” is used in the sense that the pivot axis would be substantially horizontal when the vessel 50 (or first vessel) is on a flat calm sea. Of course, in more usual sea conditions, some variation from the true horizontal is inevitable.
  • the pivotal connection 92 accommodates pitch and roll of the vessel 50 caused by wave motion.
  • the pivotal connection 92 accommodates relative upward and downward movement of the respective vessels and rolling motion of the first vessel.
  • pivotal connection 92 may allow the gangway apparatus 102, in its compact state, to be retained in a safe stowage position.
  • the gangway apparatus 102, supported in second frame element 90 may be pivoted about axis E-E to its use position, prior to inflation of the inflatable member(s) 14.
  • the attachment between the end of the gangway apparatus 102 and the second frame element 90 may desirably be designed to fail in the event of excessive force, thereby to allow the vessel to move away from the gangway apparatus 102 (or the first and second vessels to move apart), for example in severe weather conditions.
  • mounting means 80 has been primarily described in relation to a gangway apparatus 102 comprising a single inflatable member 14d, the mounting means are also suitable for use with gangway apparatus 102 including a plurality of inflatable members 14.
  • FIGs 17, 18 and 19 illustrate one alternative (and currently less preferred) method by which guide wires 120 are attached to fixed structure 70.
  • the vessel 50 is shown approaching the fixed structure 70, with its bow 151 leading.
  • guide wires 120 are attached to suitable attachment points on the fixed structure 70.
  • the attachment points are so located that when the gangway as 102 is deployed, personnel may transfer safely from the gangway apparatus 102 onto the fixed structure 70.
  • the attachment points will normally be so located that the leading end 116 of the deployed gangway apparatus 102 is above the maximum wave height.
  • two guide wires 120 extend in parallel from the vessel 50 to the fixed structure 70.
  • Each guide wire 120 includes a loop 124 at its end which is simply placed over, on or around an appropriate attachment point 172 on the fixed structure 70.
  • the attachment point 172 may, for example include a locking or latching means which secures the loop 124 from becoming unintentionally detached.
  • the vessel 50 is turned and manoeuvred into its desired alignment and position with respect to the fixed structure 70.
  • the alignment of the vessel will depend on factors such as wind and sea conditions.
  • the apparatus 10, 100 is then deployed as described with respect to Figures 14 to 16 , 20 and 21 .
  • FIG. 22 An alternative arrangement is shown in Figure 22 in which only one guide wire 120 is used.
  • the guide wire 120 includes a single loop 124a at its end which is placed over, on or around one or more suitable attachment means 172.
  • FIG. 23 A further alternative arrangement is shown in Figure 23 in which a single guide wire 120 is also used.
  • the guide wire has no loop 124. Rather, the leading end of the guide wire 120 is passed through suitable attachment means 172 on the fixed structure 70 and then returned to the vessel where it is preferably connected to a winch 122.
  • the apparatus 10 is also suitable for use in transferring personnel and/or equipment between vessels at sea.
  • the apparatus 10 is mounted on a first of the vessels.
  • the runway 190 (with rails 111,112) need not be arranged in a fore-and-aft alignment with respect to the first vessel.
  • the runway 110 may be in an alignment abeam of the vessel to facilitate transfer between vessels located side by side.
  • the guide wire or wires 12, 120 are secured between the vessels, preferably using one of the arrangements described above (where the second vessel takes the place of fixed structure 70), and the gangway apparatus 102 is caused to slide along the runway 110 and the guide wire(s) 12, 120 thereby to span the gap between the vessels.
  • movement of the gangway apparatus 102 is preferably by means of a winch and cable arrangement.
  • constant tension winches are used to maintain the guide wire or wires 12, 120 at a desired tension.
  • the gangway apparatus 102 is inflatable and deflatable to minimise its volume when stowed.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
  • Road Paving Structures (AREA)

Abstract

L’invention concerne des moyens d’accès permettant d’accéder à une structure en mer fixe telle qu’une éolienne (70), ou un vaisseau plus grand ou similaire à partir d’un vaisseau de transfert plus petit (50), ou permettant d’effectuer un transfert entre les vaisseaux. Un ou plusieurs câbles (12) sont connectés à partir du vaisseau (50) à la structure fixe (70) ou au second vaisseau et placés sous tension par exemple en éloignant le vaisseau de transfert loin de la structure fixe. Dans un mode de réalisation de cette invention, des éléments gonflables (14) peuvent être suspendus à partir des câbles guides et le gonflement de ces éléments gonflables provoque leur extension le long des câbles guides pour former une surface d’accès à travers laquelle le personnel peut marcher pour accéder à la structure fixe ou au second vaisseau à partir du premier vaisseau. Des moyens d’assemblage permettent un mouvement relatif de rotation, de translation et tangage de l'appareil et du vaisseau provoqué par le mouvement des vagues. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, un élément de pont est retenu sur une coursive du premier navire et déployé grâce aux câbles guides mentionnés ci-dessus.

Claims (42)

  1. Un procédé pour réaliser un accès entre des première et seconde structures marines (50, 70) consistant :
    à munir la première structure marine d'une piste (110),
    à réaliser un appareillage de passerelle (102) monté en état d'attente sur la piste ;
    à positionner les première et seconde structures marines (50, 70) à proximité l'une de l'autre ;
    caractérisé en ce que le procédé consiste en outre :
    à prévoir au moins un câble de guidage (12, 120), l'appareillage de passerelle (102) étant attaché ou pouvant être attaché au dit câble de guidage (12, 120) au moyen d'une ou de plusieurs fixations coulissantes (18) ;
    à relier le au moins câble de guidage (12, 120) entre un endroit sur la première structure marine (50) et un endroit d'attache (74) sur la seconde structure marine (70) à proximité de l'endroit de l'entrée de la seconde structure marine (70) ;
    à contrôler et, en cas de besoin, ajuster la position de l'une des première et seconde structures marines (50, 70), ou des deux, de sorte qu'elles soient maintenues espacées l'une de l'autre, et à maintenir le au moins câble de guidage (12, 120) à une tension désirée ;
    à déplacer l'appareillage de passerelle (102) de l'état d'attente à un état d'utilisation en déplaçant l'appareillage de passerelle (102) le long de la piste (110) et en faisant coulisser la (les) fixation(s) coulissante(s) (18) le long du dit câble de guidage (12, 120) et, en cas de besoin, en ajusteant la position de la première structure marine (50) jusqu'à ce que l'appareillage de passerelle (102) enjambe l'espace entre la première structure marine (50) et l'endroit de l'entrée (74) de la seconde structure marine (70).
  2. Un procédé selon la revendication 1 dans lequel l'étape du positionnement des première et seconde structures marines (50, 70) à proximité l'une de l'autre consiste à positionner la première structure marine (50) par rapport à la seconde structure marine (70).
  3. Un procédé selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2 dans lequel l'étape du contrôle et, en cas de besoin, de l'ajustement de la position des première et seconde structures marines (50, 70), ou des deux, de sorte qu'elles soient maintenues espacées l'une de l'autre consiste à contrôler et, en cas de besoin, ajuster la position de la première structure marine (50) par rapport à la seconde structure marine (70).
  4. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 dans lequel la piste (110) est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale de façon que l'appareillage de passerelle (102) descende en se déplaçant de l'état d'attente à l'état d'utilisation.
  5. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes dans lequel au moins une partie d'extrémité de l'appareillage de passerelle (102) reste reliée à la piste (110) quand l'appareillage de passerelle (102) est en état d'utilisation.
  6. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes dans lequel la première structure marine (50) est un navire et la seconde structure marine (70) est une structure fixe.
  7. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5 dans lequel les première et seconde structures marines (50, 70) sont des navires.
  8. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) comprend au moins un élément gonflable (14) attaché au dit câble de guidage (12, 120) par lesdites fixations coulissantes (18) et pouvant passer par gonflage d'un état compact à un état dilaté, le procédé consistant en outre à gonfler l'élément gonflable (14) avec un fluide de gonflage avant que ledit appareillage de passerelle (102) soit déplacé le long de ladite piste (110).
  9. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7 dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) comporte au moins un élément gonflable (14) attaché au dit câble de guidage (12, 120) par lesdites fixations coulissantes (18) et pouvant être transformé par gonflement d'un état compact à un état dilaté, le procédé consistant en outre à gonfler l'élément gonflable (14) avec un fluide de gonflage après que ledit appareillage de passerelle (102) ait été déplacé le long de ladite piste (110).
  10. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8 dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) glisse le long de la piste (110) simultanément avec l'étape de glissement de l'appareillage de passerelle (102) le long du (des) câble(s) de guidage (12, 120).
  11. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 8 à 10 consistant à réaliser un appareillage de passerelle (102) comprenant un seul élément gonflable (14).
  12. Un procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 8 à 10 consistant à prévoir une pluralité d'éléments gonflables (14).
  13. Un procédé selon la revendication 12 dans lequel l'élément gonflable (14) comporte une peau extérieure (140) enfermant une pluralité de tubes gonflables (142).
  14. Appareil (10) pour réaliser une structure de pont pour le transfert de personnel, de marchandises ou d'équipement d'une première structure marine (50) à une seconde structure marine (70), l'appareil (10) comprenant:
    un appareillage de passerelle (102) opérationnellement déplaçable d'un état d'attente à un état d'utilisation;
    une piste (110) montée opérationnellement sur la première structure marine (50) et sur laquelle l'appareillage de passerelle (102) est monté dans son état d'attente;
    une ou plusieurs tringles attachées au dit appareillage de passerelle (102) au moyen desquelles l'appareillage de passerelle (102) peut être déplacé le long de la piste (110) de l'état d'attente à, ou vers, l'état d'utilisation;
    caractérisé en ce que l'appareil comprend en outre :
    au moins un câble de guidage (12, 120) et des moyens pour attacher le câble de guidage à la première structure marine (50) et à un endroit d'attache (74) sur la seconde structure marine (70) à proximité de l'endroit de l'entrée de la seconde structure marine (70);
    des moyens montés en utilisation sur la première structure marine (50) pour maintenir une tension désirée sur le au moins un câble de guidage (12, 120);
    une ou plusieurs fixations coulissantes (18) attachées à l'appareillage de passerelle (102) et coulissantes le long du dit câble de guidage (12, 120) lors du déploiement de l'appareillage de passerelle (102), au moyen desquelles fixations (18) l'appareillage de passerelle (102) peut être supporté opérationnellement par le au moins un câble de guidage (12, 120) pour enjamber l'espace entre les première et seconde structures marines (50, 70).
  15. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 14 dans lequel la piste (110) est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale.
  16. Appareil (10) selon l'une des revendications 14 et 15 dans lequel la piste (110) comporte au moins un rail rigide (111, 112).
  17. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 16 dans lequel la piste (110) comporte une paire de rails sensiblement parallèles (111, 112).
  18. Appareil (10) selon l'une des revendications 16 et 17 dans lequel le ou chaque rail (111, 112) est rectiligne.
  19. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 16 à 18 dans lequel la tringle comprend un patin, wagonnet, bogie, chariot, ou analogue disposé entre l'appareillage de passerelle (102) et le ou chaque rail (111, 112).
  20. Appareil (10) selon l'une des revendications 14 et 15 dans lequel la piste (110) comprend un ou plusieurs câbles tendus.
  21. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 15 ou l'une quelconque des revendications qui en dépendent dans lequel la piste (110) est montée en utilisation pour s'étendre d'un point le plus haut vers une région centrale du navire (50) à un point le plus bas à proximité de la poupe ou d'un bord du navire (50).
  22. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 21 dans lequel au moins une partie d'extrémité de l'appareillage de passerelle (102) reste attachée à la piste dans son état d'utilisation.
  23. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 22 dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) comporte au moins un élément gonflable (14).
  24. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 22 dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) comporte une pluralité d'éléments gonflables (14) qui sont gonflables de façon indépendante.
  25. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 24 dans lequel l'appareillage de passerelle (102) comprend une peau extérieure (140) enfermant une pluralité de tubes gonflables (142).
  26. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 23 à 25 dans lequel au moins une portion gonflable de l'appareillage de passerelle (102), dans son état dilaté, a une surface supérieure qui forme opérationnellement un passage piétonnier pour le personnel utilisant la structure de pont.
  27. Appareil (10) selon l'une des revendications 24, 25 ou la revendication 26 quand elle dépend de la revendication 24 comprenant des moyens pour relier ensemble deux ou plus éléments gonflables (14) pour former le passage piétonnier.
  28. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 27 dans lequel lesdits deux ou plus éléments gonflables (14) sont reliés côte-à-côte.
  29. Appareils (10) selon la revendication 24 ou l'une quelconque des revendications qui en dépendent comprenant en outre des éléments gonflables (14) définissant, dans leur état dilaté, les parapets de la structure de pont.
  30. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 29 comprenant des moyens pour relier ensemble deux ou plus éléments gonflables (14) pour former lesdits parapets.
  31. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 30 dans lequel lesdits deux ou plus éléments gonflables (14) sont reliés côte-à-côte.
  32. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 26 dans lequel ladite surface supérieure comprend une surface antidérapante.
  33. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 32 comprenant une pluralité de poteaux droits (56) fixés à intervalles sur ledit appareillage de passerelle (102) et des cordes ou filets de sécurité (57) attachés aux dits poteaux.
  34. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 33 comprenant en outre au moins une corde de sécurité (57) s'étendant le long de l'appareillage de passerelle à laquelle peut être opérationnellement attaché un harnais de sécurité pour un utilisateur.
  35. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 23 ou l'une quelconque des revendications qui en dépendent dans lequel le au moins un élément gonflable (14) est, dans son état dilaté, suspendu opérationnellement en dessous d'un seul câble de guidage (12, 120).
  36. Appareil selon la revendication 23 ou l'une quelconque des revendications 24 à 34 qui en dépendent dans lequel le au moins un élément gonflable (14) est, dans son état dilaté, monté opérationnellement au-dessus d'un seul câble de guidage (12, 120).
  37. Appareil (10) selon la revendication 23 ou l'une quelconque des revendications 24 à 34 qui en dépendent dans lequel le au moins un élément gonflable (14) est, dans son état dilaté, monté opérationnellement sur une paire de câbles de guidage (12, 120) sensiblement parallèles.
  38. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 37 dans lequel la première structure marine (50) est un navire et la seconde structure marine (70) est une structure fixe.
  39. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 37 dans lequel les première et seconde structures marines (50, 70) sont des premier et second navires.
  40. Appareil (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 37 pour mettre en oeuvre le procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13.
  41. Un navire (50) sur lequel est monté un appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 38.
  42. Un navire (50) selon la revendication 41 comprenant un bateau gonflable, en particulier un RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat/bateau gonflable rigide).
EP05769434A 2004-08-03 2005-08-01 Procede d'acces entre des structure marines et appareil associe Not-in-force EP1781536B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB0417279.7A GB0417279D0 (en) 2003-11-10 2004-08-03 Access methods and apparatus
PCT/GB2004/004716 WO2005047097A1 (fr) 2003-11-10 2004-11-09 Procede d'acces entre des structures marines et appareil associe
PCT/GB2005/003010 WO2006013342A1 (fr) 2004-08-03 2005-08-01 Procédé d’accès entre des structures marines et appareil associé

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EP1781536A1 EP1781536A1 (fr) 2007-05-09
EP1781536B1 true EP1781536B1 (fr) 2008-11-12

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GB2428656B (en) * 2005-08-01 2009-08-05 Engineering Business Ltd Gangway apparatus
EP2151375B1 (fr) * 2008-08-01 2011-11-09 XEMC Darwind B.V. Systèmes de transfert d'une personne ou d'une charge entre une cuve et une structure en mer
NO330279B1 (no) 2009-06-15 2011-03-21 Brothers As Anordning og fremgangsmate for overforing av mannskap og personell mellom marine fartoy og offshorekonstruksjoner
GB2473490A (en) * 2009-09-15 2011-03-16 William Jonathan Aldiss Progressive bow transfer apparatus and method
WO2011091854A1 (fr) 2010-01-29 2011-08-04 Xemc Darwind B.V. Système pour transférer une personne ou une charge entre un navire et une structure offshore
WO2011095316A1 (fr) 2010-02-02 2011-08-11 Xemc Darwind B.V. Procédé permettant de transférer une charge entre un navire et une éolienne, et éolienne
NL2008207C2 (en) 2012-01-31 2013-08-01 Sea Maester B V A method of providing access between a floating vessel and a marine structure.
NL2010104C2 (en) * 2013-01-10 2014-07-15 Ampelmann Operations B V A vessel, a motion platform, a control system, a method for compensating motions of a vessel and a computer program product.
NL2012069C2 (en) 2014-01-09 2015-07-13 Ampelmann Operations B V A vessel, a motion platform, a control system, a method for compensating motions of a vessel and a computer program product.
CN114852260B (zh) * 2022-04-06 2023-04-28 大连海事大学 一种具有补偿和起重功能的柔性海上可伸缩廊桥

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GB2175860B (en) * 1985-05-28 1988-07-27 Linkleters Patent Ship Fitting Connection bridge to floating structure
GB2225753A (en) * 1988-12-02 1990-06-13 Offshore Design Engineering Li Abandonment systems for structures surrounded by water
GB2246992B (en) * 1991-09-20 1995-09-13 Alan Cundall Gangway
NL1016111C2 (nl) * 2000-09-06 2002-03-07 P & R Systems Werkwijze voor het betreden van een in zee geplaatste paal, alsmede daarbij te gebruiken inrichting.
US6435795B1 (en) * 2000-10-26 2002-08-20 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy Cargo load retractable receiver

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WO2006013342A1 (fr) 2006-02-09

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