Abstract: A platform topsides can be transferred from a substructure to a transporter by ballasting the transporter, locating the transporter underneath the topsides and deballasting the transporter, causing load transfer units of the transporter to lift the topsides off the substructure. Each load transfer unit comprises a compression spring which rests on a layer of particulate material located in a drum, the particulate material in turn rests on a releasable hatch-cover. The springs provide a flexible connection between the transporter and the topsides. During the deballasting of the transporter, the hatch-covers are released to suddenly let out the particulate material from the drums, thereby lowering and relieving the springs, causing a direct contact and a stiff connection between the transporter and the topsides.

Abstract: A platform topsides (2) can be transferred from a substructure to a transporter (1) by ballasting the transporter (1), locating the transporter underneath the topsides (2) and deballasting the transporter, causing load transfer units of the transporter to lift the topsides (2) off the substructure (3). Each load transfer unit comprises a compression spring (53) which rests on a layer of particulate material (52) located in a drum (51), the particulate material (52) in turn rests on a releasable hatch-cover (58). The springs (53) provide a flexible connection between the transporter (1) and the topsides (2). During the deballasting of the transporter (1), the hatch-covers (58) are released to suddenly let out the particulate material (52) from the drums (51), thereby lowering and relieving the springs (53), causing a direct contact and a stiff connection between the transporter (1) and the topsides (2).