Hull-to-caisson interface connection assembly for spar platform

摘要

A hull-to-caisson interface connection assembly accommodates high-tensionloads between the hull (12) and a caisson (20) of a Spar-type platform (10), whilefacilitating angular flexing motion and constraining lateral and axial movement.The interface connection assembly includes an annular bearing shoulder (32)at the top end of caisson (20), and a laminated bearing assembly (22) mounted inthe bottom of the hull (12) and defining a passage (23) through which the upperportion of the caisson (20) passes, so that the caisson shoulder (32) seats againstthe upper end of the bearing assembly (22). The bearing assembly (22) includesa laminated structure of alternating steel (38) and elastomeric (40) flex elements,bonded to each other to flex together as a unit, rather than sliding relative toeach other. The laminated structure of the bearing assembly (22) supports thevertical tensile loads applied by the weight of the caisson (20) on the hull (12),while also accommodating the angular loads applied between the caisson (20)and the hull (12).