US3007317A - System for erecting a marine platform - Google Patents

Description

Nov. 7, 1961 G. E. SUDEROW SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM 9 Sheets-Sheet 1 Filed Oct. 1, 1957 INVENTOR GEORGE E. SUDEROW BY fl fllwa ATTORNEYS Nov. 7, 1961 G. E. SUDEROW SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM 9 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Oct. 1, 1957 m V m GEORGE E. SUDEROW BY Mun/n M f Mm ATTORNEYS Nov. 7, 1961 :5.v E. SUDEROW 3,007,317

SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM Filed Oct. 1, 1957 9 Sheets-Sheet 5 F104. MENTOR GEORGE E. SUDEROW BYM M%M ATToRNEYs (3. E. SUDEROW SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM 9 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed Oct. 1, 1957 GEORGE E. SUDEROW ATTORNEYS 1951 G. E SUDEROW 3,007,31

SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM Filed Oct. 1, 1957 9 Sheets-Sheet 6 roa g4 f f [912 2 go A 1 it 380 Pm Q f" A 1 E i Woe 7s INVENTOR I07, GEORGE asuosnow g BY My, Q11? r M ATTORNEYfi Nov. 7, 1961 G. E. SUDEROW SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM 9 Sheets-Sheet 7 Filed Oct. 1, 1957 INVENTOR GEORGE E. SUDE ROW BY 44m, 4w? MM ATTORNEYS Nov. '7, 1961 G. E. SUDEROW 3,007,317

SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM Filed 001;. 1, 1957 9 Sheets-Sheet s INVENT OR WNN @NK 2 N n m GEORGE E.SUDEROW ATTORNEYS Nov. 7, 1961 G. E. SUDEROW 3,007,317

SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM Filed Oct. 1, 1957 9 Sheets-Sheet 9 INVENTOR fh2l3 GEORGE E.SUDEROW ATTORNEYS United States Patent 3,007,317 SYSTEM FOR ERECTING A MARINE PLATFORM George E. Suderow, New York, N.Y.,- assignor to De Long Corporation, New York, N.Y., a corporation of Delaware Filed Oct. 1, 1957, Ser. No. 687,453 25 Claims. (Cl. 6146.5)

This invention relates to marine platforms and more particularly to an improved system for erecting a marine pl tform above the water level of a marine site a desired of wells or vertical openings through which a corresponding series of elongated supporting legs are arranged to be extended. In order to lower the supporting legs into engagement with the marine bottom and subsequently raise the platform thereon, there is provided in the Pointer arrangement a pneumatic jack capable of elfecting such movement through a series of relatively short strokes. One of the main advantages of this type of arrangement is that the jacking mechanism may also be utilized to lower the platform .back down on thewater and to subsequentlyraise the supporting legs from their embedded condition within the marine bottom so that, the barge or platform may be transported to another marine site for operations, therein.

The pneumatic jacking mechanism disclosed. in the Pointer patent is quite satisfactory in operation. HQW' ever, since the same provides a frictional engagement with the smooth surface of a cylindrically-shaped supporting leg, there some danger in slippage. Accordingly, in my application Serial No. 378,103, filed September 2,, 1953., now Patent No. 2,822,670, there is dis-. closed an improved iacking mechanism embodying a plurality of horizontally reciprocable bolts or pins arranged to e gagev within. a selected one of a series of longitudinally spaced openings, or other transverse sur-. face providing means on the supporting legs, 7 Q

Also, in the Pointer. arrangement, the supporting legs are of one-piece construction being disclosed as cylindrical columns or tubes of substantial length. In many opcrations, it. is highly desirable that the upper surface of the, platform after erection be unobstructed, as by the upper ends of the columns or cylindrical supporting legs. This problem was solved by the provision of telescopic supporting legs, such, as disclosed in my copending application Serial No. 478,627, filed December 3, 1954.

With the above in mind, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved means for extending and. retracting a telescopic supporting leg of the type described.

Another object of the present invention is the provision of an improved jacking mechanism arrangement operable to alternatively efiect relative longitudinal movement between any one .of 1 plurality of supporting leg sections and a marine platform.

A further object of the present invention is the provision of an improved hydraulic system for actuating a jacking mechanism of the type described embodying means for actuating the same at different operating pres.- fsurcs from a constant high pressure source.

vision of an improved control system for efiecting semiautomatic operation of a'jacking mechanism of the type described.- y

A still further object of the present invention is the provision of a control system for a jacking mechanism of the type described having improved means therein for selectively effecting operation'of any one of a plurality of supporting leg sections.

Still'another object of theprcsent invention is the pro= vision of a control system for a jacking mechanism vof the type described having improved means for selectively effecting either a manualoperation thereof or a semiautomaticoperation thereof. e

A still further object of the present invention is the provision of an improved jacking mechanism operable to selectively effect movement of any one of a plurality of supporting leg sections by the operation of a single jacking hydraulic motor means.

Still another object of the present invention is the provision of animproved jacking mechanism of the type described which is simple in construction, easy to operate and economical to manufacture-and maintain.

Still another object of the present invention is the provision of an improved telescopicsupporting leg construction ofthe type described which is simple in construction, easy to operate and economical to. manufac ture and maintain.

Still another object of the present invention is the provision of a telescopic supportingleg of the. type described having improved means for mounting the. upper end thereof'in-fiush relationship with the uppersurface of the platform deck. I 7 These and other objects 'of the present invention will become more apparent during the course of the following detailed description and appended claims.

a The invention may best beunderstood with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein an illustrative embodiment is shown I In the drawings: p

FIGURE 1' is afra'gmentary vertical sectional'view showing-a portion of a marine platform provided with a jacking mechanism and a supporting leg assembly, the latter being illustrated in a lowered or extended position;

FIGU E s a i sm nt ry s de sl vati flia the-structure Sh n in IGURE" 1,. with'certaiu Parts broken away, illustrating t e supporting l g ass mbly iu a raised r. r t ac e position; 3

FIGURE 3 is enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line 3-3 of GURE 2.} 1 i FIGURE 4 isv a cross-sectional view taken alongthe line 4-4 of FIGURE, 3;

F G E 5 is a op la vi w of. th arm n l ssem l w t pa t ro en away for Pu poses of cle rer illustration; i

FIGURE 6 s .a' ert cal. cro sction e of the top cover plate construction of the supporting leg assembly;

FIGURE! is a 912 plan view of the intermediate sup: porting leg section with the guide plate removed; 7

G RE 8 s a ical .cr ss-sect onalew of. the t ucre illustrated. in FIGURE 7 show ng, t e pin in xte de positi n within the outer supporting leg secti n.

FIGURE 9 is an enlarged. cross-sect onal vi w taken a ng th line 99 of FIGURES; v

FIGURE 10 is an enlarge cross-se tional vie taken 7 along the line 1cm of mouse 5;

FIGU E .11 is a schematic f ow diag am at the .hyaul c syst m is? o a ng th "su por he ssembl and lacking mechanism; and

FIGURE .12 is a schematic wiring diagram 015 thesis;-

1 trical control system fo actuating the hydr ulic sys em,

r 3 the diagram being shown in two sections, designated FIG- URE 12A and FIGURE 128 respectively, which can be placed together to form the entire diagram.

General construction As best shown in FIGURESI and 2, the present inven-. tion contemplates a marine erection system which embodies a buoyant platform or the like, generally indicated at'10, which may. be of any suitable construction.- In general, the platform isprovided with a series of guide means intheform of vertical openings or wells 12 and each well has a telescopic supporting leg assembly 14 mounted therein for longitudinal movement in either direction relative to the platform. In order to effect the relative vertical movement of the supporting leg assembly 14, a jacking mechanism, generally indicated at716, is suitably mounted within each w'ell112 and operatively connected with the associated supporting leg assembly 14.

While the drawings-illustrate only a single supporting leg assembly 14 and jacking mechanism 16 therefor, it will be understood that a series of such supporting leg assemblies and jacking mechanisms are provided on the platform and are. operated simultaneously or sequentially during the operation of the system. The platform 10 is of buoyant construction capable of supporting the supporting leg assemblies 14 and' associated jacking mechanisms on the surface of a bodyof water. a

In theoperation of the system, the platform is towed, as by a tugboat or the like (not shown), or otherwise propelled to a desired marine site where operations are to be carried on. At the marine site, the jacking mechanisms are operable to extend the supporting leg assemblies so that their lower ends engage the marine bottom until they reach a firm foundation therein. Subsequently, the jacking mechanisms 16 are operable to effect a raising of the platform on the embedded supportingleg assemblies and to maintain the platform at a desired level above the surface of the water. Afterthe operations at the marine site have been completed, the jackingmechanisms are operable to again lower the platform back onto the surface of the water andto subsequently retract the supporting legs from their embedded engagement with the marine bottom and to raise the same to anelevated transporting position with respect to the platform so that the platform may be transported to a new marine site of operation. T lacking mechanism As best shown in FIGURES 1-3, the platform includes an upper deck plate 18 and a lower horizontal bottom plate 20 rigidly interconnected by a plurality of transverse bulkheads or walls 22. The construction of the platform which provides the wells 12 is best shown in FIGURES 1 and 3 and includes an arrangement of the transverse bulkheads 22 which provides interior compartments 24 within which the jacking mechanism 16 is mounted. Each. jacking mechanism 16 includes a pair of diametrically opposed jacking mechanism units 26; It will be understood that while two such units are shown as comprising each jacking mechanism, it is within the contemplation of the present invention to utilize one 'or more than two such units in cooperation with each, supporting leg assembly14. Since both of the units are of identical construction, a description of one should snflice to give a clear understanding of both. In the description to follow, the 'two units 26 are generally referred to as the unit 1 and the unit 2 so that when it is necessary to differentiate between the two a subscript numeral 1 or 2 is utilized.

ing elements 36 of rubber or the like are mounted on the upper and lower surfaces of the mounting arms between the plates 32 and 34 so that the forces transmitted by the jacking mechanism unit head 28 to the platform are absorbed somewhat thereby.

Extending downwardly from the head 28 is a pair of horizontally spaced rigid guide elements 38 of any suitable construction. Preferably, the guide elements 38 are of H-beam construction, the exterior webs of which may be reinforced by vertically spaced horizontal plates 39 rigidly secured thereto as by welding or the like. Slidably mounted between the interiorly extending channel-shaped flanges of the H-beams is a slide member 40 having a pair of oppositely extending upper arms 42 disposed within the guide elements 38 and a pair of lower oppositely extending arms 44 also disposed within the guide elements 38. The arms 42 and 44 serve to guide the slide member 40 within the guide elements 38 for relative vertical movement with respect thereto in either direction.

The slide member 40 is moved vertically by means of a fluid pressure motor, generally designated M, which, preferably, is in the form of a double acting piston and cylinder unit. To this end, the slide member 40 has a slot 46 extending downwardly from the upper end thereof and communicating with a rectangularly shaped opening 48. The motor M includes a cylinder 50 mounted within the opening 48 and having a piston 52 slidably mounted therein for vertical reciprocation. Rigidly secured to the piston 52 is a piston rod 54 which extends upwardly through the upper end of the cylinder and through the slot 46. Mounted on the upper end of the piston rod 54 is an enlarged annular head 56 which is arranged to seat within an upper horizontal portion 58 of a T-shaped slot 60 formed in the lower central portion of the head 28. 7

From the above, it will be seen that each head 28 is substantially fixedfwithrespect to the platform, while the associated slide member 40 is movable vertically'in either direction relative thereto by operation of the associated hydraulic motor M. In order to connect each jacking mechanism unit 26 with the supporting leg assembly so as to effect relative vertical movement of the latter, each unit 26 is provided with a series of pins, generally indicated by the reference character P. As best shown in FIGURE 4, the head 28 has a horizontally disposed aperture 62 formed therein to receive an upper pin P1U3 or P2U3 for horizontal reciprocal motion therein. The slide member 40 has a plurality of vertically spaced apertures 64, 66 and 68 formed therein for slidably Each jacking mechanism unit 26 includes a head 28 receiving pins PlLl, P1L2 and P1L3 or P2L1, P2L2, and P2L3, which are arranged to cooperate with the supporting leg assembly in a manner hereinafter to be more fully described.

Each of the pins P is horizontally reciprocated by a hydraulic motor means, generally indicated by the reference character PM and, preferably, in the form of a hydraulic cylinder and piston unit. Each cylinder and piston unit PM is operatively associated with a pin" P and the various pin motors are designated by the char acter PM followed by the corresponding subscript of the associated pin P. Each pin motor includes. a cylinder 70 having a piston 72 slidably mounted therein. Rigidly secured to the piston and extending outwardly of the cylinder is a piston rod 74 having its outer end fixed to the inner end of the associated pin P by any suitable means, such as a threaded connection or the like. Preferably, each piston and cylinder unit PM is mounted adjacent the associated pin by a cylindrical housing 76 surrounding the outwardly extending piston rod 74 as best shown in FIGURES 1 and 6.

Supporting leg assembly As best shown in FIGURES 1-3, each supporting leg assembly 14 includes an outer section 78, an intermediate section 80 and an inner section 82 arranged to be telescopically extended and retracted relative to each 031% In formulating the subscript reference characters, used herein. inner section 8-2 is designated section No. 1, the intermediate section 80 is designated section No. 2 and the outersection 78 is designated section No. 3. More over, in the subsequent description of the operation of the. present system, these designations are utilized to aid in correlating theassociated elements of each section. While threesections are shown in the drawings, it will be understood that the supporting leg assembly may comprise two sections or more than three, if desired.

The outer section 78 is preferably constructed of a tubular stock out at diametrically opposed positions to form two arcuate segments. The segments are rigidly interconnected, as by welding or the like, by means of a pair of jacking pin plates 8'4, each provided with a series of vertically spaced horizontally extending apertures 86for receiving pins P of the jacking mechanism. As best shown in FIGURE 3, the structure of the platform defining the well 12, which receives the supporting leg assembly 14, includes arcuate segmental plates 88 arranged to surround the outer section 78 and providing diametrically opposed openings 90 through which the plates 84 extend. In this way, the telescopic supporting leg assembly is mounted within the well 12 of the platform 10 for relative vertical movement with respect thereto, but rotational movement of the supporting leg assembly relative to the platform is effectively prevented. It will be understood that the engagement of the plates 84 within the openings 90 is somewhat loose so that the supporting leg assembly may have a slight relative angular movement with respect to the platform.

Referring now more particularly to FIGURES 5 and 6, the upper end of the outer section 78 has a cover plate assembly, generally indicated at 92, mounted thereon. The cover plate assembly 92 includes a circular plate 94 of a diameter greater than the diameter of the outer section 78 and substantially equal to the diameter of the well opening in the upper deck plate 18 of the platform 10 so as to engage within the same when the outer supporting leg section 78 is lowered within the well, as will hereinafter be more fully described. Rigidly secured to the interior surface of the circular plate 94 is a pair of concentric rings 96 and 98 and a plurality of circumferentially spaced radially extending strengthening ribs 100 are rigidly secured to the lower surface of the circular plate between the concentric rings 96 and 98. A central opening 102' is formed in the circular plate adjacent the inner ring 98 to provide an access opening to the interior of the supporting leg assembly, through which an attendant may pass. The opening 102 is arranged to be closed by a manhole cover 104 suitably removably attached by an appropriate means.

Extending downwardly from the circular plate 94 and rigidly secured thereto, as by welding or the like, is a plurality of circumferentially spaced vertical guide elements or tubes 106. The upper end of the outer section 78 has a web-like construction 107 of any suitable design rigidly secured therein between the interior surface of the section and a central cylindrical member 108, as by Welding or the like, having a corresponding plurality of vertically extending circumferentially spaced larger tubes 109 slidably receiving the guide tubes .106 of the cover assembly.

Secured to the lower end of the outer section 78 is a strengthening ring or'the like 110 and a second strengthening ring 112 is rigidly secured to the outer section in a position spaced vertically above the ring 110.

Referring now more particularly to FIGURES 3, 7, and 8, the intermediate section 80 is constructed similarly to the outer section 78, preferably by cutting an elongated cylindrical tube in diametrically opposed positions to form two arcuate segments and by subsequently rigidly securing the segments together, as by welding or the like, between elongated jacking plates 114 provided with a series of vertically spaced horizontally extending openings 116 for receiving pins P. Y

Rigidly secured within the upper end of the itermediate section 80, below the upper extremity thereof, is a rigid structure 118 of any suitable design. Mounted on the supporting structure 118, as by shock absorbing pads 120 of rubber or the like, is a holding pin assembly, generally indicated at 122. As best shown in FIGURES 7 and 8, the assembly 122 includes a pair of vertically disposed, transversely spaced plates 124 having their ends rigidly secured, as by welding or the like, to a pair of spaced blocks 126 disposed adjacent the jacking pin plates 114. The plates 124 and blocks 126 are also rigidly secured, as by welding or the like, to a pair of transversely spaced horizontal plates 128 and a base structure 130 built up of a plurality of plates suitably fixed together, as by welding or the like, and arranged to seat on the shock absorbing pads120.

Each of the blocks 126 is provided with a horizontally extending aperture 132 for receiving pins P1U2 and P2U2, respectively. Rigidly secured to the inner end of each of the pins P1U2 and P2U2 is a cross slide 134 having opposite ends thereof extending through and hori: zontally slidable within openings 136 formed in the plates 124. A pin motor PMU2, in the form of a piston. and cylinder unit, is fixedly mounted between the cross slides 134. As is usual, the piston and cylinder unit includes a cylinder 138 having one end thereof rigidly secured to one cross slide 134 and a piston 140 slidablyv mounted therein. A piston rod 142 is rigidly secured to the piston 140 and extends outwardly through the opposite end of the cylinder and has its outer end rigidly secured to the opposite cross slide 134 by any suitable means, such as welding or the like.

The'hydraulic motor PMUZ is preferably of the singleacting itype' arranged'to be retracted by fluid pressure and extended by spring means, generally indicated at 142.

I The spring means 142 comprises a pair of helical compression springs 144 having one end of each disposed within a cylindrical member 146 rigidly secured with one end of one of the cross slides 134. Each cylindrical memher 146 is arranged to telescope within a larger cylin drical member 148, within which the opposite end portion of the associated spring 144 is mounted. Each larger cylindrical member 148 is rigidly secured to one end of the opposite cross slide 134. It will be-seen that the springs 144 resiliently urge the cylindrical members 146 and 148 apart and since they are rigidly connected with the cross slide members 134, the latter are also urged apart. In a like manner, the pins P1U2 and P2U2, which are rigidly secured to the cross slides, are urged outwardly within the horizontally extended apertures 132 so as to engage within openings 86 within the corresponding jacking plates 84 of the outer section 78.

The intermediate section is guided for relative vertical movement with respect to the outer section 78 and is prevented from rotating about its own axis relative to the outer section by means of a guide cover plate 150 rigidly secured to an'inwardly extending, annular, as sembly retaining flange 152 fixed on the upper end of the intermediate section 180 by any suitable means, such as bolts or the like. The guide cover plate includes dia metrically opposed notches 154 arranged to embrace the inner portion of the jacking plate 84 of the outer section 78. The intermediate section is provided with-a rein forcing ring 156 adjacent its lower end and a second rein. forcing ring 158 is secured to the periphery thereof at a position spaced-above the ring 156.

The inner section 82 is also constructed in the same manner as the sections 78 and 80 and includes arcuate tubular segments rigidly interconnected by opposed jacking plates 160 having a series of vertically spaced horizontally extending openings 162 formed therein.

Preferably, the inner section 82 is made buoyant and to this end, the lower end of the section is provided with a closure 164 and a channel iron 166 is rigidly secured to the interior surface of the section in surrounding relation to each of the plates 160, with the intermediate web thereof spaced from the plate. At the upper end of the inner section 82, a holding pin assembly 168 is mounted which has a construction substantially identical to the holding pin assembly 122 previously described in connection with the intermediate section 80 and, therefore, it is not believed necessary to describe the same in detail. Sufiice it to say that the holding pin assembly 168 includes a single-acting hydraulic motor PMUl arranged to actuate a pair of pins P1U1 and P2U1.

Hydraulic system Referring now more particularly to FIGURE 11, the hydraulic system of the present invention includes a pump 170 of any conventional construction. Preferably, the pump unit is of the variable displacement type and is flexibly coupledto a motor 172, such as an electrical motor or the like. The pump is preferably. provided with a manual hand wheel control which is operable to vary its displacement which, in turn, determines the capacity of output and, therefore, the speed of the jacking operation. As is usual, the pump draws oil or other liquid from a reservoir 174 through a suction line 176 which preferably has embodied therein a strainer 178.

It will be understood that the hydraulic system is embodied within a suitable enclosure (not shown) which contains valves VU1, VU2 and VU3 for controlling the hydraulic motors PMUl, PMU2, PM1U3 and PM2U3, valves V1L1, V1L2, V1L3, V2L1, V2L2 and V2L3 for controlling respectively the motors PMlLl, PM1L2, PM1L3, PM2L1, PM2L2 and PM2L3. In addition, there is a valve V1 which controls the main jacking cylinders M1 and M2. In addition to theabove, each of the valves is operated by a pilot valve, designated by the reference character PV with a subscript character corresponding to the subscript character of the valve controlled thereby. In a like manner, each of the pilot valves PV is controlled by a solenoid, generally designated by the reference character S followed by a reference character corresponding with the subscript of the pilot valve associated therewith. The valvesV may be of any suitable construction and, preferably, are of a type arranged to reverse the direction of. flow along two paths when actuated by a hydraulic pilot pressure. The valves PV are similar in that they are arranged to reverse the direction of flow along two paths, but, of course, they are actuated by the solenoids S. V

The liquid under pressure from the pump 170 is fed to a main supply line 180 having a by-pass valve 182 connected in parallel therewith. The by-pass valve 182 preferably is of the type adapted to remain open, as by a pilot line 183, when the pressure in the mainsupply line 180 is equal to a predetermined pressure, as for example, 1500 p.s.i. The jacking cylinder supply line 184 is connected at one end with the valve V1. A pair of lines 186 and 188 are connected to opposite ends of the jacking cylinder M1 and lead to the opposite side of the valve V1 and parallel lines 190 and 192 are connected with opposite sides of the jacking cylinder M2 and are connected in parallel with the lines 186 and 188 respectively. A jacking cylinder return line 194 leads from the valve V1 and has parallel lines 196, 198 and 200 connected therewith. The line 196 leads to a by-pass valve 202 piloted by the pressure in the supply line 184, as by a line 203, to permit passage of liquid therethrough so long as the pressure in the jacking cylinder supply line 184 is maintained at a predetermined value, such as 2200 p.s.i, The outlet side of the valve 202 leads to the reservoir 174 through a main return line 204. The line 198 leads to a relief valve 206 which is arranged to be opened and permit flow therethrough at a predetermined pressure above the opening pressure of the by-pass valve 202, as for example 2700 p.s.i. The outlet side of the relief valve 206 leads to the reservoir through an auxiliary return line 208 connected to the main return line 204. The line 200 leads to a by-pass valve 210, hereinafter to be more fully described. The outlet side of the valve 210 leads to the reservoir through a parallel connection with the main return line 204. The valves 202, 206 and 210 control the pressure of the liquid in the main return line 194 and, preferably, a relief valve 212 is connected in parallel, as by a line 214,-with the jacking cylinder supply line 184 to maintain the pressure therein below a predetermined maximum value, as for example 3000 p.s.i. The relief valve 214 discharges into the reservoir through a parallel connection with the auxiliary return line 208.

Connected in parallel with the main supply line 180 upstream from the by-pass valve 182 so as to receive a minimum pressure'equal to the pressure at which the by-pass valve opens, as, for example 1500 p.s.i., is a main pin cylinder supply line 216 having parallel connections respectively with the valves VU1, VU2, VU3, VlLl, V1L2, V2L1, V2L2, V3L1 and V3L2, each of which also is connected in parallel with the auxiliary return line 208 connected with the main return line 204. The motors PMU2 and PMUI each have a 1ine220 and 222, respectively, connected therewith which extends to the opposite side of the associated valve. It will be understood that since the motors PMU2 and PMUl are single acting, only one line is necessary and the associated valves VU2 and W1 are arranged to block flowthrough one of the two lines leading thereto in either position so that the single line can either introduce or exhaust fluid under pressure to the associated motor. Preferably, the motors PM1U3 and PM2U3 are connected in parallel with the single valve VU3 through lines 224 and 226. The remaining motors PM1L1, PM1L2, PM1L3, PM2L1, PM2L2 and PM2L3 are each connected to its corresponding valve through separate pairs of lines, indicated at 228, 230, 232, 234, 236 and 238 respectively, so that each is independently controlled by a separate valve.

Connected in parallel with the main pin cylinder supply line 216 is a line 240 which leads to a reducing valve 242 arranged to provide a constant output pressure of a predetermined relatively small value, as for example 500 p.s.i. A main pilot valve supply line 244 is connected to the outlet side of the reducing valve 242 and the main supply line is, in turn, connected in parallel with the pilot valve PV1, PVUl, PVU2, PVU3, PV1L1, PV1L2, PV1L3, PV2L1, PV2L2 and PV2L3 each of which is also connected in parallel with a main pilot valve re turn line 246 which empties into the reservoir 174.

From the above, it can be seen that the pump is operable to supply fluid under pressure below a predetermined high value as determined by the relief valve 212 to either end of the jacking cylinders M1 or M2 through the operation of the valve V1 and the fluid from the opposite ends of the cylinders is returned to the reservoir through the valve V1 at a maximum pressure of 2700 p.s.i., or other high value as determined by relief valve 206, or at a relatively low predetermined value, as for example 2200 p.s.i., when the supply pressure in main cylinder supply line 184 has reached such predetermined value, through the operation of the valve 202.

In addition, the pin cylinders are controlled by valves VU and VL, which receive pressure from the pump at a minimum predetermined pressure, as for example 1500 p.s.i., as determined by the pilot operated bypass valve 182. The valve V1 controlling the jacking cylinders, as well as the'valves VU and .VL controlling the pin cylinders, are operated by pilot hydraulic pressure controlled by the operation of valves PV, which receive pressure from the pump at a predetermined value, as for example 500 p.s.i., as determined by the reducing valve 242.

The above arrangement used to control the jacking cylinders provides for positive action at all times directly proportional to the pump output. The arrangement prevents the possibility of excessivev loads displacing fluid from one end of the jacking cylinders-and pulling a vacuum in the other end. An expansion or retraction stroke of. the jacking cylinders is always dependent upon fluid output from the pump. ,.In addition, since the output of the pump is by manual variation, any speed desired with in the total capacity of the pump and jacking return can be selected by the operator, The pressure at which the relief valve 206 will open is in excess of any pressure that could be developed by the weight of the platform or supporting legs alone. Therefore, additional pressure from the pump supply is requircdto move the jacking cylinder piston and fluid output from the pump will control the jacking speed in operation.

The by-pass valve 202 in parallel with the valve 206 requires a predetermined pressure in the jacking cylinder supply line 184 less than that which will open the valve 206 before the same willopen; The by-pass valve 202 is provided mainly for the recycle stroke of the jacking cylinder in retraction. Due to the ratio of push areas on each side of the piston, it would take over-3000 p.s.i. to retract the jacking cylinders against the 2700 p.s.i. of relief valve 206. Therefore, as soon as the supply line 184 reaches 2200 p.s.i., the by-pass valve 202' opens and permits unrestricted return flow from the jacking cylinders to the reservoir.

As will be more apparent hereinafter, since the lower pins PL1 and PL2 are utilized merely to raise and lower the supporting leg sections Nos. land 2 and are not arranged to carry the load of the platform weight, they need not be designed to operate at the excessive pressures required when handling the platform weight. To this end, the hydraulic system includes an arrangement for preventing the jacking cylinders from operating within a supply pressure of over a small predetermined value when supporting leg sections Nos. 1 and 2 are being controlled. By limiting the supply pressure to the jacking cylinders to a predetermined low value, no more than a predetenmined design load can be transmitted to the pins PLl and PLZ.

Preferably, the above pressure limiting means embodies a valve V3 which is connected in parallel with the main jacking cylinder supply line 184-, as by a line 248. The valve V3 is similar, to the valves V1, VU and VL previously described and is arranged to control the flow in the line 248 and is, in turn, controlled by a pilot valve PV3 connected with the main pilot supply line 244 through a line 250 and to the main pilot return line 246 through a line 252. As before, a solenoid S3 controls the operation of the pilot valve PV3. r

The output side of the valve V3 has a line 254 leading therefrom which is connected with a by-pass valve 256 arranged to open at a predetermined low value, as for example 1100 p.s.i. The output side of valve 256 is connected with the auxiliary return line 208 which leads to the reservoir 174. The normally closed valve 210 previously described is adapted to. be opened by a pilot pressure of a value slightly less than the maximum pressure at which the valve 256 will open, as for example 1000 p.s.i. Such pilot pressure is supplied through a line 258 connected with the valve 210 and the line 254.

The above arrangement is such that as long as the solenoid S3 is actuated, which will occur when supporting leg sections 1 and 2 are being controlled, pilot valve PV3 will admit pilot pressure to the valve V3 so that the latter will operate to connect the pressure in line 248 to the line 254. In this manner, the pressure in the main supply line 184 will be maintained at a maximum value of 1100 p.s.i. through the operation of the by-pass valve 256, It will also be noted that with this pressure in the supply line 184, there will be insufiicient pilot pressure to open the by-pass valve 202 and, hence, insufficient pressure .in the main return line 194 to open the relief valve 206. The by-pass valve 210 is adapted to operate in the same manner as the valve 202 in that so long as a predetermined Electrical control system The present invention contemplates an electrical control system ,for operating the pilot valves for the various hydraulic motors arranged to effect jacking movement, In general, the electrical system includes a master selector switch SWM, which serves to select the supporting leg Section that the operator desires to control. In addition, thesystem embodies an operation selector switch SW-O, which is used to select the type of operation which the operator desires. That is, the operation'selector switch in one position sets up the control circuit-for manual operation and in a second position sets up the control circuit for semi-automatic lowering of the supporting leg sections or raising of the platform and in a third position sets up the control circuit for semi-automatic lowering of the platform or raising of the supporting leg'sections.

Referring now more particularly to FIGURES 12A and 1213, the electrical control system includes a circuit having main power lines 260 and 262 connected to any suitable source of power (not shown) as for example, a 208 volt, 60 cycle, single phasepower source. Each of the hydraulic motors PM operating the jacking pins is provided with a limit switch LS positioned to be actuated when the pin is'in an extended position or engaged within a supporting leg section aperture. The various limit switches are designated in FIGURE 12B by the reference character LS and a subscript corresponding to the subscript character of the pin operated thereby. Thus, there are twelve such limit switches and each is connected to the main power line 260 in series With a contact of the master selector switch SWM.

While the switch SWM may be of any suitable construction, in the drawings it is schematically illustrated as embodying a rotor arranged to selectively complete contacts when rotated so as to achieve the effect of selecting the desired supporting leg section upon which operations are to be carried out. As illustrated in FIG- URE 12B, the master selector switch includes twelve contacts which are connected inseries respectively with respective limit switches. The contacts are designated by the reference character I with a subscript corresponding to the subscript of the hydraulic pin motor associated therewith. In the position shown in FIGURE 12B, the master switch'is in a position to control section No. 1 of the telescopic supporting leg so that the contacts tlUl, tlLl, 't2U1 and t2L1 are completedand the remaining contacts are interrupted. When the rotor of the switch SW -M is turned approximately 120 to control supporting leg section No. 2, contacts t1U2, tlLZ, t2U2 and t2L2 are completed and the remaining contacts are interrupted. Finally, when the switch rotor is turned an additional 1 20 to control supporting leg section No. 3, contacts t1U3, t1L3, t2U3 and t2L3 will be completed and the remaining contacts interrupted.

The contacts tlU, t 1L, r2U and r2L leading from the switch SWM are each connected in series to relays R. The contacts t1U1, t1U2 and t1U3- leading from the switch SWM are connected togther in parallel and to the coil of a relay RlU through a lead 264 and the series circuit of the relay is completed to the power line 262. The contacts tlLl, t1L2 and t1-L3 leading from the switch SWM are connected together in parallel and to the coil of a relay RIL, as by lead 266. The relay coil, in turn, is connected in series with the power line 262 to complete the series circuit. In a like manner, the contacts tZUl, t2U2 and t2U3 are connected together in parallel and to the .coil of a relay R2U, as by a lead 268, the relay coil, in turn, is connected in series with the power line 262 to complete the series circuit. The contacts t2L1, t2L2 and t2L3 leading from the switch SWM are connected together in parallel and to the coil of a relay R2L1, as by a lead 270. As before the coil of the relay is connected to the main power line 262 to complete the series circuit. In this manner, there is provided a series relay circuit for each of the pins which is controlled by the associated limit switch. The master selector switch SW-M is connected to each of the series relay circuits to select the appropriate limit switch of the particular section being operated that will control the series relay circuits.

In addition, each limit switch is also connected in series with a pilot light L which, in turn, isconnected to the main power line 262 by a parallel connection. In FIGURE 12B, there is shown a pilot light for each limit switch designated by the reference character L and a subscript corresponding to the subscript of the limit switch associated therewith. The pilot lights are, therefore, connected to be actuated or turned on when the associated limit switch is closed. Since the pilot lights are connected in series with the limit switches independent of the series relay circuit of the limit switches they will be operative irrespective of the position of switch SW-M.

In addition to the limit switches described above,there is also a limit switch provided for each of the jacking cylinders M1 and M2. These limit switches are adapted to remain closed during expansion of the jacking cylinders .and to open just prior to the end of the expansion stroke and conversely remain open during retraction of the jacking cylinders and to close just prior'to the end of the retraction stroke. As shown in FIGURE 12A, limit switch LS1 associated with the jacking cylinder M1 is connected to the power line 260 in series with the coil of a relay R1 which, in turn, is connected with the main power line 262 to complete the series circuit. In a like manner, a limit switch LS2 is provided for the jacking cylinder M2 and connected with the power line 260 in series with the coil of a relay R2 which, in turn, is connected to the power line 262 to complete the series circuit. a

The switch contacts of the relays R are arranged to actuate control circuits of the operation selector switch SW-O. .While the switch SW-O may be of any suitable construction, as shown, it includes a rotor r having a series of contacts designated by the reference character r and a subscript numeral. Certain of the contacts of the rotor are connected with the contacts of the relays in a manner hereinafter to be more fully described. The rotor is adapted to connect the contacts r with corresponding contacts of any one of three stators Sm, Sa and Sb. When the contacts of the stator Sm are connected with the contacts of the rotor, the electrical control system is arranged to be manually operated. This position of the switch SW-O is generally utilized to initially position and begin operations on any of the supporting leg sections. When the stators So and Sb are connected with the rotor, the electrical control system is semi-automatic in operation. The stator Sa is utilized in lowering the supporting leg sections and in raising the platform after the sections have been embedded in the marine bottom. The stator Sb is utilized when it is desired to lower the platform back on the water and to raise the supporting leg sections from the floating platform.

The switch contacts of the relays R are connected with the contacts r of the rotor of the switch SW-O as follows. =Rotor contacts r1 and 12 are connected in series, with one switch actuated by the relay RlU by leads 272 and 274. The rotor contact r3 is connected by a lead 276 to one side of a single switch actuated by the relay R1L. The rotor contacts r4 and r5 are connected in series with one switch actuated by the relay R2U through leads 278 and 280. The rotor contact r6 is connected by a lead 282 to one side of a single switch actuated by the relay RZL. The opposite side of the switch actuated by the relay R2L is connected in series by a lead 284 with the opposite side of the switch actuated by the relay RlL. Rotor contacts r7 and r8 are connected in series with a normally opened switch actuated by the relay R1 through leads 286 and 288, and the contacts r9 and r10 are connected in series with a normally closed switch actuated by the relay R1 by leads 290 and 292. The contacts r11 and r12 are connected in series with a normally opened switch actuated by the relay R2 by leads 294 and 296 and the contacts r13 and r14 are connected in series with a normally closed switch actuated by the relay R2 by leads 298 and 300. Rotor contact r15 is connected directly to the power line 260 by alead 302.

Rotor contacts r1-r14 are thus controlled by the operation of the relays R which, in turn, are controlled by the limit switches selected by the master selector switch SW-M. In addition to the contacts r1-r14 and r-15, the rotor also includes output contacts r16, r17 and r18, hereinafter to be more fully described.

The stator Sm, which is arranged to connect the electrical control system for manual operation, includes contacts SmI-Sm6 and Sm16, Sm17 and 812118, which are arranged to be connected respectively to the rotor contacts r1-r6 and r16, r17 and r18. The stator contacts Sm2, Sm4 and Sm6 are connected with the main power line 262 by leads 304, 306 and 308. Stator contacts Sm3 and 811116 are connected in series, as by leads 310 and 312, with a switch SW-U which serves to manually control the operation of the selected upper pins P. Stator contacts Sml and Sm17 are connected in series, as by leads 314 and 316, with a switch SW-lL which serves to manually control the operation of selected lower pins P1L. Stator contacts SmS and Sm 18 are connected in series, as by leads 318 and 320, with a switch SW-2L which serves to manually control the operation of selected pins P2L.

The stator Sa includes contacts Sa3 and Sa6 Sa18, which are arranged to contact respectively the rotor contacts r3 and r6-r18. Contact Sa3 is connected with contact Sa15 by a lead 322. Contact Sa6 is connected with contact Sa12 by a lead 324. Contact Sa7 is connected with contact Sall by a lead 326. Contact Sa8 is connected with contact Sa16 by a lead 328. Contact Salt) is con nected with contact S4217 by a lead 330 and contact S014 is connected with contact Sa18 by a lead 332. Contact Sa9 is connected with the main power line 260 in series with a switch actuated by the relay RlU through leads 334 and 336. Contact S1213 is connected to the main power line 260 in series with a switch actuated by the relay RZU through leads 338 and 340.

The stator Sb includes contacts Sb3, Sb6-Sb12, and Sbl S-Sb18, which are arranged to be connected respectively with the rotor contacts r3, r6-r12 and r15-r18. The contact Sb3 is connected with contact Sb10 by a lead 342. The contact Sb6 is connected with the contact Sb15 by a lead 344. The contact Sb8 is connected with the contact Sb17 by a lead 346. The contact Sb9 is connected with the contact S1116 by a lead 348 and the contact Sbll is connected with the contact Sb18 by a lead 350. Contact Sb7 is connected by a lead 352 with lead 334, which connects the switch operated by the relay RlU to the main power line 260 through the lead 336. The contact Sb12 is connected by a lead 354 to the lead 338, which connects the switch actuated by relay R2U in series with the main power line 260 by lead 340.

As best shown in FIGURE 12B, the master selector switch SW-M also includes a series of contacts designated by the reference character 1, which are connected in series with the solenoids S, arranged to actuate the pilot valves PV, between the main power line 262 and the output rotor contacts r16, r17 and r18. Each pair of upper cylinders PMU are'controlled by a single pilot valve PVU which, in turn, is controlled by a single solenoid SU so that the solenoids SUl, SUZ, and SU3 are connected with the power line 262 and in series with one side of the contacts fUl, fU2 and fU3, the opposite side of which are connected together in parallel and to the rotor contact r16, as

by a lead 356, to complete the circuit. Solenoids SlLl, S1L2 and S1L3, which control pilot valves PVlLl, PV1L2 and PV1L3, are connected with the power line 262 and in series with one side of the contacts 1L1, f1L2 and 7"1L3 respectively of the master selector switch SW-M, the opposite side of which are connected together in parallel and to the rotor contact r17, as by a lead 358, to complete the circuit. In a like manner, solenoids S2L1 S2L2 and S2L3 which control pilot valves PV2L1, PV2L2 and PV2L3 are connected with the power line 262 and in series with one side of the contacts f2L1, j2L2 and f2L3 of the master switch SW-M, the opposite side of which are connected together in parallel and to the rotor contact r18, as by a lead 360, to complete the circuit.

As will be more fully explained hereinafter, when any one supporting leg section is being operated by the electrical control system, the upper pins of the other two supporting leg sections must be engaged and the lower pins retracted. Since the pins are retracted by energizing the solenoids S, it is, therefore, necessary to provide for the continuous actuation of two of each of the solenoids SlL and S2L, while one of each is connected for selected operation. To this end, the master switch SW-M is provided with additional contacts fhl L and fhZL. These contacts are connected in series with respective solenoids S1L and S2L between the main power lines 262 and 260. In the position of the master switch SW-M shown, wherein outer supporting leg section No. 1 is selected for operation, the contacts fhlL are connected such that contacts fh1L2, fh 1L3, fh2L2 and fh2L3 complete the series circuit respectively through solenoids S1L2, S1L3, S2L2 and S2L3 respectively. Contacts fhlLl and fh2L1 are interrupted. When the rotor of the master control switch SW-M is turned 120 to control intermediate supporting leg section No. 2, the series circuit to solenoids S1L1, S1L3, 821.1 and S2L3 are completed through contacts fhlLl, fh1L3, fhZLl and fh2L3. Circuits through contacts fit-1L2 and fh2L2 are interrupted. When the rotor switch SW-M is turned an additional 120 to control inner supporting leg section No. 3, series circuit through solenoids S1L1, S1L2, S2L1 and S2L2 are completed through contacts fhlLl, fh1L2, fh2L1 and fh2L2 respectively. Contacts fh1L3 and fh2L3 are interrupted.

In addition to the above, the master control switch SW-M also includes a contact f3 similar to the contacts fh, which is connected in series with the solenoid S3 which controls pilot valve PV3 between the power lines 262 and 260. The contact f3 is such that the series circuit through solenoid S3 is completed when the master control valve is set to control outer supporting leg section No. 1 and intermediate supporting leg section No. 2 and the circuit is interrupted when the master control valve is set to control inner supporting leg section No. '3.

The electrical control circuit also includes a jacking cylinder control switch SW-l, which is connected in series with the solenoid S1 controlling pilot valve PVl'between the main power lines 262 and 260, as shown in FIGURE 12A.

It will be understood that in the construction of the present hydraulic system and electrical control circuit that the various valves for controlling the operation of the jacking mechanism may be mounted in a suitable valve enclosure and the various switches and other electrical controls associated therewith are preferably mounted on a suitable control panel which may be conveniently operated by an attendant. It will be noted, however, that certain of the hydraulic motors and associated electrical controls must of necessity be mounted on the vertically movable supporting leg assembly which, in turn, necessitates the provision of hydraulic and electrical lines to these motors and electrical elements. Thus, in FIGURES 1, 2, 5, 9 and 10, there is shown a preferred embodiment of an arrangement whereby the electrical and hydraulic lines may be led to the various supporting leg sections upon which the various hydraulic and electrical elements are mounted,

so as to permit vertical movement of the supporting leg sections without danger of fouling the lines.

More specifically, thehydraulic motor PMU2 embodied in the holding pin assembly 122 has a first section 220A of itshydraulic line 220 extending upwardly therefrom of a length greater than the length of the outer section 78. The upper end of the first line section 220A is coiled around a rotary drum 362, as best shown in FIGURE 9. The drum 362 is suitably mounted on the upper end of the outer section 78, as by brackets 364 and is connected so as to be resiliently urged to rotate in a direction tending to reel in the line mounted thereon. The end of the line section 220A extends through the periphery of the drum and is connected, as indicated at 366, to a hollow hub 368 of the drum. One end of the hollow hub is swivelly connected to a line section 220B, which extendsupwardly to a coupling 370 mounted in the cover plate 94. -A line section 220C, greater than the length of the outer'section, is connected at one end to the coupling 370 and has its opposite end coiled around a similar drum assembly 372 mounted on the'platform. V

' In a like manner, the limit switches LS1U2 and LS2U2 actuated by the pins P1U2 and P2U2 respectively have suitable electrical lines leading upwardly therefrom of a length substantially as long or longer than the length of the outer section and also wound about a drum 374, as shown in FIGURE 10. The drum 374 is rotatably mounted in the upper end of the outer supporting leg section by any suitable'means, such as brackets 376 and is also resiliently urged to'rotate in a direction tending to wind in the lines mounted thereon. The ends of the electrical lines wound around'the drum are connected with suitable cylindrical contacts and brush assemblies of conventional construction, generally indicated at 378. Suitable lines are connected between the cylindrical contact and brush assemblies and a plug assembly 380 mounted in the cover plate 94. A similar drum assembly 382 is mounted on the platform around which lines of a suitable length are wound to connect with the plug assembly 380 and to provide for the elevation of the outer section.

In a like manner, the pin motor PMUl embodied in the pin assembly 168 on the upper end of the inner supporting leg section 82 has its line 222 extending therefrom through the pin assembly 122 and to a similar rotary drum assembly 383 carried by the upper end of the outer section. As before, the line from the drum assembly is connected with a second rotary drum assembly 384- mounted on the platform. The limit switches LS1U1 and LS2U1 operated by the pins PlUl and P2U1 respectively have lines extending upwardly therefrom wound around a drum assembly 386 carried by the upper end of the outer section 78 and the drum assembly 386 is electrically connected by suitable lines to a similar drum assembly 388 mounted on the platform in the manner previously described.

It will be. seen that the arrangement of the drum assemblies is such that the conduit carried thereby will be either payed out or resiliently reeled in as the various supporting leg sections are moved vertically in either direction relative to the platform and to each other. Fouling of the lines is, therefore, prevented and, it will also be seen, that provision is made for conveniently connecting and disconnecting the various lines between the platform and the supporting leg assembly.

General mechanical and hydraulic operation In general, the platform of the present invention is .floated to a marine site with a plurality of telescopic supporting legs retained in the platform openings or wells by the associated jacking mechanisms. It will be understood that in the overall construction of the platform, there is a plurality of supporting legs which must be actuated substantially together by similar controls provided for each in order to raise the platform to an even operating position above the water level. Since all of the telescopic supporting-legs are identical, the operation of-but a single telescopic supporting leg will be described, bearing in mind that a plurality of such legs are necessarily operated in the entire erection of the platform.

Preferably, the telescopic supporting leg assembly 14 is retained in its collapsed position in the associated platform opening 12 by the upper pins of the jacking mechanism 16, as shown in FIGURE 2. That is, pins P1U3 and P2U3 are engaged within apertures 86 in section No. 3 of the supporting leg assembly, pins P1U2 and P2U2 are also engaged in section No. 3 apertures 86 and pins PlUl and P2U1 are engaged in the apertures 116 section No. 2. If desired, the lower pins may also be engaged respectively within the associated section apertures, althrough this is not essential. The platform is thus floated to. the marine site of erection with the telescopic supporting leg assembly in this condition. Of course, all of the sections are preferably disposed in their uppermost position relative to the platform.

To commence operation, all of the lower pins PL are disengaged or retracted if they have been in an extended engaged position. The telescopic supporting leg assembly is now ready to have section No. 1 lowered by the oper-. ation of the jacking mechanism 16. In this regard, it must be borne in mind that when any one section of the telescopic supporting leg assembly is being moved by the operation of the jacking mechanism 16, the upper pins PU of the other two sections must be engaged and the lower pins PL thereof retracted. Thus, when section No. 1 is controlled, pins 'PU3 must be engaged within the section No. 3 apertures 86 and pins PL3 retracted andin this way, section No. 1 is retained in fixed position by the pins PU3 relative to the platform. In order to retain section No. 2 in fixed position, pins PU2 are engaged within section No. 3 apertures 86 and, of course, pins PL2 must be retracted. In this condition, section No. 1 can be vertically moved in either direction within section No. 2 by the operation of pins PU1 and PL1. Stated differently, pins PU1 serve to retain section No. 1 in fixed position relative to the platform through section No. 2, pins PU2, section No. 1 and pins PU3. Relative movement of section No. 1 within section No. 2 is obtained by supporting section No. 1 on the pins PL1 with the pins PU1 retracted. Of course, in order to permit this movement of section No. 1, pins PL2 and PL3 must be retracted.

To lower section No. 1 from its retracted position within section No. 2 and from its initial condition with pins PU1 engaged, the jacking cylinders M1 and M2 are ren'acted until pins PL1 can -be moved into apertures within section No. 1. With pins PL1 engaged, continued retraction of the jacking cylinders M serves to transfer the weight of section No.1 from the pins PU1 to the pins PL1 and the former are withdrawn Next, the jacking cylinders M are expanded to lower the pins PL1 relative to the platform and hence section No. 1 therewith. Just prior to the end of the expansion stroke of the jacking cylinders M, pins PU1 are engaged in apertures in section No. 2 and continued expansion of the cylinders transfers the weight of section No. 1 from the pins PL1 to the pins PU1 so that the former can be retracted. Next, the cylinders are retracted to raise the pins PL1 so that they may be engaged in section No. 1 apertures above the ones from which they have just been retracted. After they have been engaged within the apertures, the cylinders M are retracted still further to transfer the weight of section No. 1 from the pins PU1 to the pins PL1 and the cycle is again begun by expanding the cylinders M, which permits section No. 1, supported by the pins PL1, to be lowered another incremental distance. This cycle of operation is repeated until section No. 1 has been lowered to its fully extended position relative to section No. 2 or to any desired position relative thereto.

Section No. 2 is lowered by the operation of pins PU2 and PL2 and, as before, the upper pins PU1 and PU3 of the remaining sections must be maintained in engagement and the lower pins PL1 and PL3 retracted to permitoperation of section No. 2. Thus, when section No. 2 is being controlled, pins PU1 serve merely to retain section No. 1 in fixed relation with section No. 2 so that it will move therewith. Pins PU3 serve to retain section No. 3 in a fixed position relative to the platform so that when the pins PU2 are engaged therein, section No. 2 will be retained in fixed position. Section No. 2 is lowered by manipulating the upper pins PU2, lower pins PL2, and jacking cylinders M in the same manner indicated above relative to section No. 1. Briefly, pins PL2 are first engaged in section No. 2 apertures and the jacking cylinders M retracted to shift the weight of section No. 2 from the upper pins PU2 to the lower Pins PL2 so that by expanding the jacking cylinders M, section No. 2 may be lowered relative to section No. 3 through the support of pins PL2. At the end of the expansion stroke of the cylinders M, pins PU2 are engaged and upon further expansion of the cylinders, the weight is transferred from the lower pins PL2 to the upper pins PU2 and the jacking cylinders M are retracted so that the cycle can be repeated.

In normal operation of the telescopic supporting leg, it is contemplated that the lower end of section No. 1 will firmly engage the marine bottom at some point during the lowering of section No. 2. When this happens, control of section No. 2 is stopped and if the upper pins PU2 are not in engagement, the jacking cylinders M are retracted sufiiciently to permit pins PU2 to engage in the next highest apertures in section No. 3. In this regard, it will be noted that by-pass valve V3 is actuated during the operation of section No. 1 and section No. 2 so that the pressure supplied to the jacking cylinders M is of the order of 1100 p.s.i. Thus, during the expansion of the jacking cylinders M with the lower section engaged in the marine bottom, the jacking cylinders will stall out by the engagement of the marine bottom. When this happens, it is then time to switch to the control of section No. 3 in which the by-pass valve V3 is closed and the operating pressure to the jacking cylinders M is of the order of 2200 p.s.i. If pins PL2 are in engagement, they are retracted by expanding the jacking cylinders M slightly, if necessary, to remove any load imposed thereon by the jacking cylinders.

With the pins PU2 engaged within section No. 3 apertures, control of the latter is begun by retracting the jacking cylinders to permit the lower pins PL3 to engage within apertures in section No. 3. The jacking cylinders M are then expanded to shift the weight from the upper pins PU3 to the lower pins PL3 and the former are retracted. After the upper pins have been retracted, the jacking cylinders are expanded, which moves all of the caisson sections downwardly, which, in turn, has the effect of driving the lower end of section No. 1 to a solid foundation in the marine bottom. Further expansion of the cylinders M after the solid foundation has been encountered will result in a raising movement of the platform 10 relative to the telescopic supporting leg sec tion No. 3 so that the pins PL3 now serve to support the platform from the supporting leg assembly rather than the supporting leg assembly from the platform as before during the lowering of leg sections Nos. 1 and 2. Near the end of the expansion stroke of the jacking cylinders M, upper pins PU3 are engaged and the cylinders are retracted to transfer the weight of the platform 10 from the lower pins PL3 to the upper pins PU3 and the former are retracted. The jacking cylinders continue to retract and toward the end of their retraction stroke the lower pins PL3 are engaged in higher apertures in section No. 3. After the lower pins PL3 are engaged, the jacking cylinders are expanded to initially transfer the weight of the platform 10 from the upper pins PU3 to the lower pins PL3 and the former are withdrawn and the continued expansion of the jacking cylinders M begins a new cycle which is repeated until the platform has reached a suitable operating height on section No. 3.

"Preferably, the length of section No. 3 is selected to correspond with the height of the platform above the water level desired so that when the platform 10 reaches the proper height above the water, the upper end of the section No. 3 will be flush with the upper surface of the platform as shown in FIGURE 1. The desired height is reached by permitting the jacking cylinders M to stall out at the end of their expansion stroke so that the barge is maintained in an elevated position by the lower pins PL3. Finally, structural supporting wedges (not shown) are provided on bottom of the jacking frame assemblies to remove theplatform load from the jacking cylinders. In addition, wedges are placed to lock lower'pins PL3- in engagement with the section to prevent accidental withdrawal. It will be noted that the cover plate assembly 92 is adjustable and thus insures that the upper end of the supporting leg assembly will be flush with the upper deck of the platform;

T o-lower the platform back onto the water and raise the supporting legs back into the retracted transport position on the platform, the above procedure is followed in reverse.

Electrical control operation With the above in mind, the action of the electrical control system to achieve the operation will now be described assuming, as before, that the telescopic supporting leg assembly 14 is transported by the platform 10 in retracted raised position with the upper pins PU in engage- 3 ment and the lower pins PL retracted (although it is unimportant which position the lower pins PL are in,'as

the operations hereinafter described automatically posi-' tion them as required). Before the main power lines 260 and 262 are connected to the source of power to energize the system, the master selector switch SWM is setto control section No. '1 so that the contacts t, f, and fh thereofare in the position shown in-FIGURE 12B. peration selector switch SW-O is set so that rotor ris in connection with stator-Sm for manual operation; Switch- SW-U is opened, and, switch SW-l is closed. When all of. the switches have been thus positioned, the main power lines 260 and 262are connected to thepower-source to energize the, system. As soon as the system is energized,

the; jacking cylinders M are retracted due to the actuation-of pilot valveyPV1 by solenoid sl which isconnected across the power lines in series with the closed switch SW-l. 'It will be noted-that by actuating pilot valve PVl, pilot fluidpressure is transmitted to the valve V1 to reverse the;position of the same so as to cause fluid under pressure to enter the cylinders M through lines 1'86 and 190 and exhaust through lines 188 and 192 and 1 tension of the pins P connected therewith. Thus, when the associated solenoids SU and SL are not energized, the

associated pins will be extended or engaged, or at least urged into engaged position. When the solenoids SU and SL are'energized, the pilot valves reverse the Pilot flow to the associated valves to reverse them which, in turn,-

effects a retraction of theassociated pins connected with the cylinders.

Thus, when the system is SL3 are immediately energized through switch SW-M, contacts fhL2 and fhL3 so that the associated pins PLZ and PL3 are retracted. If any load is on these pins,

they will not immediately retract if in an engaged posi- 1 tion, but they will retract during the retracting movement of the jacking cylinders M. Solenoids SL1 are controlled by the operation of switch 'SW-O, since master switch- SW-M a position to control section No, 1. The

energized, solenoids SL2 and circuit is such that the lower pins PL of the section being controlled cannot be withdrawn unless the corresponding upper pins PU are engaged and vice versa. Thus, the circuit through solenoid S1L1 is controlled by the relay Rl-U and solenoid S 1L1 can only be energized to retract pins P1L1 when the limit switch LS1U1 is closed so as to energize the relay R1=U and close the switch contacts thereof. In a like manner, the circuit to solenoid S2L1: is controlled by the relay R2U and solenoid S2L1 canonly be energized to retract pin P2L1 when limit switch LS2U1 is closed so as to energize relay RZU and close the switch contacts thereof. it will be noted that when relay RlU is energized, the circuit through solenoid S1L1 is completed from the main line 262 through lead 304, contact Sm2, contact r2, leads 274 and 272, contacts r1 and Sml, lead 314, switch SW-lL (which is initially closed), lead 316, contacts Sm17 and r17, lead 358, and master switch contact flLl. iln a like manner, the circuit to solenoid 'S2L1 is completed from main line 262 through lead 306, contacts Sm4 and r4, leads 278 and 280, contacts rs and Sm5, lead 318, switch SW-2L, lead 320, contacts Sm18 and r18, lead 360, and main switch contact f2L1. In this way, when switch SW-O is set for manual operation, solenoids SlLl and S2L1 are under the control of switches SW-IL and SW-2L, provided limit switches LS1U1 and LS2U1 are closed.

In a like manner, solenoids SU2 and 'SUS will not be. energized, since their circuit is broken by contacts N2 and US of the switch SW-M and, hence, the associated pins PU2 and PU3 will remain extended or engaged. Solenoid SU1, which controls the operation of the upper pins PU1 of section No. 1, is in turn controlled by switch SW-U and limit'switches LSlLl and LS2L1. Since the switch SW-U is opend, the circuit is broken and solenoid SU1 will not be energized and the associated pins PU1 will remain extended.

Thus, after the power is turned on, the main jacking cylinders M will be retracted and all of the lower pins PL will be retracted and, hence, pilot lights LL will be off. Since all ofthe upper pins PU are engaged, pilot lights LU will be on. The pilot lights L serve as .a guide to the operator to indicate when the various pins P have been engaged so that he may properly execute the next;- movement.

Next, the operator opus switches SW-lL and SW-2L which interrupts thecircuits to solenoids SlLl and SZL1, thus urging pins 1L1 and 1L2 into engagement. Switch SW-l is then opened, which breaks the circuit to solenoid S1, causing the jacking cylinders to expand so that when the lower pins L1 register with supporting section apertures, they will move therein. When the pins PlLl and P2L1 have engaged, limit switches LS1L1 and LS2L1 close and the associated pilot lights L1L1 and L2L1 go on, indicating that the lower pins have engaged within apertures in section No. 2. p

After pilot lights L1L1 and L2L1 go on, switch SW4 is closed, which energizes solenoid S1 and, hence, causes the main jacking cylinders M to retract. In addition, operation selector switch SW-O is set so that the rotor r contacts stator sa. As the main jacking cylinders retract, the load of section No. l is removed from the upper. pins PU1 and they are retracted under the control of switch SW-O by energizing solenoids SU in the follow-; ing. mariner. Under semi-automatic operation as under manual operation, solenoid SU1 cannot be energized to retract the upper pins PU1 unless the corresponding lower pins PLl are in engagement and this condition is indicated by pilot lights L1L1 and L2L1 being on. A Limit switches LS1L1 and LS2L1 are, therefore, closed so that relays R1L and RZL areenergized. In addition, with switch SW,-O connected for semi-automatic operation with either stator Sa or stator Sb, the circuits to solenoids SU are also controlled by the operation of limit switches LS1 and LS2 connected with thejackingcylinders M1 and M2 .respectively. As described above, the limit switches LS1 and LS2 are closed during expansion of the jacking cylinders and opened just prior to the end of the expansion stroke thereof and, conversely, open during retraction of the jacking cylinders and closed just prior to the end of the retraction stroke thereof. Since the jacking cylinders have not been fully expanded to open limit switches LS1 and LS2, they will remain closed during the retraction of the jacking cylinders to remove the load from pins PU1 and, hence, relays R1 and R2 will also be energized. Thus, solenoid SU1 is energized to retract pins PU1 through a circuit from the main power line 260 through lead 302, contacts r and Sa15, lead 322, contacts Sa3 and r3, leads 276, 284, and 282, contacts r6 and S116, lead 324, contacts S1112 and 'r12, leads =296and 294, contacts r11 and Sa11, lead 326, contacts Sa7 and r7, leads 286 and 288, contacts r8 and 8:18, lead 328, contacts Sa16 and r16, lead 356 and master control switch contact fU 1.

When the upper pins P1U1 and P2U1 have retracted, limit switches LSlUl and LS2U1 open and the corresponding pilot lights L1U1 and L2U1 go out. When the pilot lights go out, switch SW-l is opened to permit the jacking cylinders M to expand which, in turn, l'owers section No. 1. When the jacking cylinders near the end of their expansion stroke, limit switches LS1 and LS2 open, which de-energizcs relays R1 and R2 and interrupts the circuit to solenoid SUI, causing the upper pins PU1 to move into engagement with an aperture within section No. 2. When the upper pins PU1 are engaged, limit switches IJSIUI and LS2U1 close, which energizes relays R111 and R2U connected to energize solenoids S1L1 and S2L1 and, hence, pins P1L1 and P2L1 are retracted. Thus, with relay R1U closed, solenoid SlLl will be energized to retract pin ilLl through a circuit from the power line 260 through leads 336 and 334, contacts Sa9 and r9, leads 290 and 292 (across the normally closed switch of de-energized relay R1), contacts r10 and Sa10,lead 330, contacts Sa17 and r17, lead 358, and main switch contact f1L2. In a like manner, solenoid S2L1 is energized through a circuit from the main power line 260 through leads 349 and 338 (across the switch of energized relay R2U), contacts Sa13 and r13, leads 298 and 300 (across the normally closed switch of de-energi'zed relay R2), contacts r14, andSa14, lead 332, contacts S1118 and 118, lead 360, and master switch contact f2L1. Thus, the lower pins PLl are retracted after the, upper pins PU1 assume the load of section No. 1 upon continued expansion of the jacking cylinders M and when their pilot lights LlLl and L2L1 go out, the operator closes switch SW-l, causing the jacking cylinders M to retract. When the jacking cylinders reach the end of their retraction stroke, limit switches LS1 and LS2 are closed which, in turn, energizes relays R1 and R2, opening the normally closed switches of relays R1 and R2 which, in turn, interrupts the circuit to solenoids S1L1 and S2L1, permitting the associated lower pins P 1L1 and P2L1 to engage within associated apertures. When limit switches LS'1L1 and LS2L1 close, relays RlL and R2L are energized, which completes the circuit to solenoid SUI, thus retracting the upper pins after the weight of the section has been transferred to the lower pins PLl by continued retraction of the jacking cylinders.

When the pilot lights LlUl and L2U1 go out, switch SW-l is opened, causing the jacking cylinders to expand and permitting section No. 1 to lower. This begins another full jacking cycle under the semi-automatic control of switch SW-O with the rotor r connected with stator Sa. After section No. 1 has been extended to a desired length by repeating the full jacking cycle a corresponding number of times, master selector switch SW-M is set to control leg section N0. 2 and the operation selector switch SW-O is set so that the rotor r is connected with stator Sm for manual operation. The above procedure is repeated to lower the section No. 2 and it will be noted that the master selector switch SW-M is set so that the various elements previously recited as in relation to Section No. 1 are the same in relation to section No. 2.

should be followed. While the jacking cylinders are stalled out'on their expansion stroke, switch SW-U is opened. If not already in this position, switches SW-1L and SW-ZL are opened, operation selector switch SW-O,

is set so that rotor r is connected with stator Sm for manual operation and switch SW,-1 is closed to retract the cylinders M. This will have the effect of raising sections Nos. 1 and 2 until the upper pins PUZ are engaged in leg section No. 3. When pilot lights L1U2 and L2U2 go on, switches SW-1L and SW-2L are closed so as, to actuate solenoids S1L2 and S2L2 and, hence, retract the associated pins PL2. When pilot lights L1L2 and L2L2 go out, all of the upper pins PL are engaged and all of the lower pins are retracted and supporting leg sections Nos. 1 and 2 are engaged with the marine bottom, although this engagement is not a firm bearing engagement. The platform is now ready to be raised.

To effect the raising of the platform, master selector switch SW-M is set to control supporting leg section No. 3. Switches SW- 1L and SW-ZL are opened, which breaks the circuit to solenoids S1L3 and $21.3, permitting the associated pins P1L3 and P2L3 to extend. Switch SW-l is opened to expand the jacking cylinders M. As the jacking cylinders expand, the lower pins PL3 will hitapertures in section No. 3 and engage. When the pilot lights L1L3 and L2L3 go on, switch sw-U is closed and switch SW-l is closed. This has the effect of retracting the jacking cylinders M and as soon as the lower pins PL3 have taken the load off the upper pins PU3, the latter will retract. With the upper pins PU3 retracted and the lower pins PL3 engaged, the extended sections are ready to be moved downwardly in bearing engagement with the marine bottom. To effect this movement, operatoh selector switch SW-O is set to engage rotor r with stator Se and switch SW-l is opened to expand the jacking cylinders M. During the expansion of the jackingcylinders, the lower end of section No. 1 will come into bearing engagement with the marine bottom and the platform 10 will begin to lift. As the jacking cylinders M reach the end of their expansionstroke, limit switches LS1 and LS2 will open, which breaks the circuit to solenoid SU3,

thus causing the upper pins PU3 to move into engagement within apertures in section No. 3. When limit switches LS1U3 and LS2U3 close as a result of the engagement of the upper pins PU3, the circuit to solenoids S1L3 and S2L3 are energized. However, since the lower pins PL3 now carry the load of theplatform 10 from the embedded supporting leg assembly, they will not retract as 'a result of the energization of the solenoids S1L3 andS2L3. Conseque'ntly, switch SW-'1 is closed to retract the jacking cylinders, so that the platform load on the lower pinsPL3 is, transferred to the upper pins PU3 and the former can retract; The jacking cylinders continue to retract until they reach the end of their stroke and limit switches LS1 and LS2 are closed. This has the effect of'energizing relays R1 and R2 so that the normally closed switches thereof will be opened and the circuit to solenoids S1L3 and S2L3 are interrupted so that associated pins P1L3 and P2L3 can expand into engagement. When the limit switches LS1L3 and LS2L3 are closed, relays RlL and R21. are energized, which completes the circuit .to solenoid SU3. However, since the weight of the platform is still on the upper pins, they will not be retracted until switch SW-l is opened to expand the jackingcy'linders M so as to transfer the platform load from the upper pins PU3 to the lower pins PL3, permitting the latter to'retract. The opening of the switch SW-I begins another full jacking cycle and these cycles are continued until the platform reaches the desired height above the water;

After operations have been completed audit is desired to move the platform to another marine site for erection therein, the following procedure is followed to 21- lower the platform back onto the water and to retract and raise the telescopic supporting leg assembly into its transport position. In general, the procedure outlined above is followed in reverse, except that instead of setting the operation selector switch SW-O so that rotor r is connected with stator Sa, the switch SW-O is-set so that rotor r is connected with stator Sb. Thus, with the master switch SW-M set to control either section No. 1, 2 or 3 and after the pins associated therewith are properly POSl. tioned to begin semi-automatic operation with switch SW-O in manual control setting, the latter is set so that stator Sb is connected with rotor r. The cycle with this setting of the switch SW-O is the same as outlined above with respect to the stator $11. The circuit to solenoids SU is controlled by relays RlL, R2L and R1 and is completed from the main power line 260 through lead 302, contacts r and Sb15, lead 344, contacts Sb6 and r6, leads 282, 284 and 276, contacts r3 and S113, lead 342, contacts Sb10 and r10, leads 292 and 290 (across the normally closed switch of relay R1), contacts r9 and Sb9, lead 348, contacts Sb16 and r16, lead 356, and contacts in of switch SW-M. Solenoids SlL are controlled by relays R1 and RlU by a circuit completed from main power line 260 through leads 336, 334 and 352, contacts Sb7 and #7, leads 286 and 288 (across the normally opened switch of relay R1), contacts r8 and S128, lead 346, contacts Sb17 and r17, lead 358, and contacts flL of switch SW- M. Solenoids S2L are controlled by relays R2 and R2U by a circuit completed from the main power line 260 through leads 340, 338, and 354, contacts Sb12 and r12, leads 296 and 294 (across the normally opened switch of relay R2), contacts r11 and Sbll, lead 350, contacts Sb18 and r18, lead 360 and contacts jZL of switch SW-M.

It thus will be seen that the objects of this invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It will be realized, however, that the foregoing specific embodiment has been shown and described only for the purpose of illustratingthe principles of this invention and is subject 1. In an apparatus of the type described, the combina'-' tion comprising: a platform; a telescopic leg for'supporting said platform including an outer section and at least one inner section, guide means on said platform mounting said outer section for substantially vertical movement in either direction relative to'said platform and a jacking mechanism'carried by said platform for selectively effect-- ing or restraining relative vertical movement in either direction between said platform and said outer section; holding means carried by one of said sections and releasably engageable with the other of said sections for restraining relative longitudinal movement therebetween in either direction, saidjacking mechanism being releasably engageable with said inner section and operable in cooperation with said holding means to selectively effect or restrain relative vertical movement in either direction between said sections.

2; The combination as defined in claim 1 wherein said jacking mechanism comprises an upper holding means releasably engageable with said outer section for restraining relative longitudinal movement between said outer section and said platform, lower holding means releasably engageable with either supporting leg section for restraining relative longitudinal movement between the section engaged and said platform, and power-actuated means extensible and retractable longitudinally of said sections and connected between said upper andlower holding means.

3. The combination as defined in claim 2 wherein said platform includes a deck and said guide means comprises a Well extending through said platform and interiorly enlarged to define a compartment within said platform below 22; said deck, and wherein said jacking mechanism is' disposed within said compartment.

4. The combination as defined in claim 2 wherein said holding means comprise transversely disposed pins movable into and out of engagement with a supporting leg section.

a 5. The combination as defined in claim 4 wherein each of said supporting leg sections includes a series of longitudinally spaced apertures for receiving a pin.

6. The combination as defined in claim 2 wherein said and fixed thereto for releasably'engaging said inner section.

7. In an apparatus including'a platform-like member; a supporting leg having vertically-spaced, transverse surfaces'thereon; and a jacking mechanism mounted on said member which cooperates with said supporting leg so that said member can alternately support and be supported by said supporting leg, said jacking mechanism including a pair of vertically spaced and relatively vertical.

movable pin means for releasably engaging the vertically spaced transverse surfaces on said supporting leg and power-actuated moving means for eifectingrelative vertical movement in either direction between said pair of pin means, said jacking mechanism being operable upon actuation of said moving means in one direction with one of said pair of pin means engaged with said supporting leg to effect a relative vertical movement between said member and said leg in one direction and upon actuation of said moving means in the other direction with the other of said pair of pin means engaged with said supporting leg to effect a relative vertical movement between said member and said leg in the other direction; the improvement-comprising control means for said jacking mechanism comprising electrical circuit means having means therein for actuating said moving means .to effect relative vertical movement between said pair of pin means in either direction, first means operable in response to a predeterminedrelative vertical movement between said member and said leg in said one direction by the actuation of said moving means with saido'ne pin means engaged for actuatmg the other pin means to engage the supporting leg,

second rneansoperable in response to a predetermined relative movement in said other direction between said pair of pin means as a result of actuation of said moving means with said other pin means engaged with said sup porting leg for actuating said one pin means to engage said supporting leg, and switch means for rendering either a supporting leg having vertically-spaced, transverse sur: i faces thereon; and a jacking mechanism mounted on said member which cooperates with said supporting leg so that said member can alternately support and be supported by said supporting leg, said jacking mechanism including a pair of vertically spaced and relatively vertical movable pin means for releasably engaging the vertically spacedtransverse surfaces on said supporting leg and power-actuated moving means for effecting relative vertical movement in either between said pair of pin means, said jackmg mechanism being openable actuation of said moving means in one direction with one of said. Pair of pin means engaged with said supporting leg to effect a relative vertical movement between said member and said leg in other direction the improvement comprising control means v

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