Importance

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Abstract

An offshore terminal of the type which includes a dedicated vessel which rigidly supports a transfer structure beyond one end of the vessel, and with the transfer structure held by catenary chains to the sea floor. The transfer structure lies very close to an end of the vessel, but is has an underwater lower end which lies at a level substantially no higher than the adjacent end of the vessel, to avoid the possibility of the catenary chains hitting the vessel. The transfer structure extends from below water to above water, and the hose structure extending up from the sea floor extends through the transfer structure to protect it from surface waves. A product distribution unit (PDU) lies at the top of the transfer structure and has a turning portion connected to the vessel, the PDU being connected to the vessel independently of a massive mooring structure that connects a rotatable portion of the transfer structure to the vessel to transfer large loads. The heavy duty mooring structure includes upper and lower plates with inner ends which are curved to mate with the extreme end of the vessel and which are attached thereto.

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First Claim