ARTICULATED BARGE FOR TOWING AND LAUNCHING OFFSHORE STRUCTURES

摘要

A variable capacity floating articulated barge assembly (100) includes two barges (102, 104) which are pivotally connected (106) at mating ends thereof. An elongate structure (148) to be launched from the barge assembly is jacked to initiate it sliding along a skidway (108) on each barge (102, 104) towards one end region where a pivotal support member (112) finally supports the structure (148) prior to it being launched from the barge assembly (100). During launching, the barges (102, 104) and the support member (112) of the barge assembly (100) pivot with respect to each other depending upon the degree and location of the load.