Abstract: A deployed L-shaped rack structure interengaged with a self-elevating vessel is used for supporting a feeder transport vessel, such as an ocean or sea barge, to eliminate relative motion or movement between the vessels. Some of the proposed rack structures are movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The method of use for the movable rack structures includes the self-elevating vessel arriving at a predetermined location, elevating the hull of the self-elevating to a suitable height above the sea surface at a desired still water line (SWL) to create an air gap, and then deploying the rack structure. A feeder transport vessel, with its cargo and/or components, can then be floated over the deployed rack structure. The self-elevating vessel then uses its jacking system including a plurality of legs supported on the seabed to raise the feeder transport vessel and its cargo and/or components to a desired height above the SWL.

Abstract: The systems and methods for assembling and installing multiple wind turbines from a single vessel are provided. Generally, the different embodiments use wind turbine components on the vessel that include blades, a nacelle assembly having a rotating hub, and a tower. A Turbine Installation Gantry System (T.I.G.S.) embodiment uses a gantry system having a truss sub-structure and at least one bridge crane on the elevated vessel for assembling the wind turbine blades on board to the nacelle hub supported above the seabed. A Skidding Turbine Installation Crane (S.T.I.C.) embodiment has a rotatable crane mounted on a skidding pedestal or cantilever structure to provide full access to the vessel deck and the blades outboard of the vessel for assembling each of the blades with the assembled nacelle assembly outboard. A Turbine Assembly and Positioning System (T.A.P.S.