Base frame for a self-erecting marine platform

Abstract

A base frame for a self-erecting marine platform is used in a method for erecting the self-erecting marine platform, which includes initially rigidly anchoring the base frame to the sea floor. Bearing columns of the marine platform are then hydraulically extended, for example, until the columns come into contact with support regions for supporting the marine platform under water. The bearing columns are then rigidly connected to the base frame. The self-erecting marine platform can therefore be used in deeper sea water.

1 - 11 . (canceled) 
     
     
         12 . A base frame for a self-erecting marine platform, the base frame comprising:
 anchors configured to anchor the base frame to the seabed; and   a foundation framework rigidly connected to said anchors, said foundation framework having support regions configured to support the marine platform.   
     
     
         13 . The base frame according to  claim 12 , which further comprises a cable guide configured to guide underwater cables from the sea floor to a pontoon of the marine platform. 
     
     
         14 . The base frame according to  claim 13 , wherein said cable guide is rigidly connected to said foundation framework. 
     
     
         15 . The base frame according to  claim 13 , wherein said cable guide is constructed as an internally hollow cable guide tower. 
     
     
         16 . The base frame according to  claim 15 , wherein said cable guide tower has a free end and a height causing said free end to protrude from the water at a height of a pontoon of the installed marine platform. 
     
     
         17 . The base frame according to  claim 13 , wherein said cable guide has an interface configured to be connected to the underwater cables and configured to connect cables of the marine platform. 
     
     
         18 . The base frame according to  claim 12 , which further comprises connectors configured to rigidly connect the base frame to the self-erecting marine platform. 
     
     
         19 . A method for erecting a marine platform, the method comprising the following steps:
 rigidly anchoring a base frame to the sea floor beneath the sea surface;   supporting a self-erecting marine platform on the base frame; and   then rigidly connecting the base frame to the self-erecting marine platform.   
     
     
         20 . The method according to  claim 19 , which further comprises:
 positioning the marine platform floatingly above the base frame; and   then extending bearing columns of the floating marine platform downwards toward the base frame.   
     
     
         21 . The method according to  claim 19 , which further comprises, after the step of anchoring the base frame to the sea floor, guiding underwater cables from the sea floor through a cable guide fastened to the base frame and fastening the underwater cables to the cable guide. 
     
     
         22 . The method according to  claim 21 , which further comprises connecting components of the marine platform to the underwater cables.