Abstract: A method for joining modules of ships. Ship modules are fabricated in individual bays of fabrication buildings and then moved out of the buildings for attachment together to form the ship on water. This eliminates the need for large dry docks or launch areas. The modules are floated and positioned such that the edges to be joined are adjacent or abutting each other. A flexible strap may be positioned tightly against the joint exterior to prevent water entry or a floating structure may be positioned under the modules such that a circular cross section backing seal the joint to prevent water entry. The interior of the modules is dewatered and the modules are then welded together. The modules may be positioned adjacent each other above the waterline through the use of a barge and dry dock to eliminate the need for dewatering.

Abstract: A system and method for ocean transport of prefabricated offshore structures includes a self-propelled sea-going vessel having a submergible mid deck and one or more raised decks. Ballasting equipment is provided in the vessel for submerging the mid deck to a level at least deep enough to permit the floating of a shallow draft barge over the mid deck. The shallow draft barge carries a prefabricated offshore structure such as a drill jacket. The barge with the offshore structure loaded thereon is floated over the submerged mid deck, and the vessel is then deballasted to raise the mid deck. With the barge lifted out of the water, the barge is fixed to the vessel which may then transport the barge and its cargo over an ocean to any offshore drilling site.

Abstract: A convertible barge having self-contained modules positioned thereon containing pipeline processing equipment. The modules are removably attached to the deck of the barge and are provided with a closable opening on at least one end thereof for passing a pipeline portion therethrough to another module. Spacer modules may be positioned between the modules housing processing equipment so that modules of standardized dimensions may be used.