Abstract: The present invention refers to a climate control device (15) for influencing at least one climatic parameter of a handle (5) of a steering device (2).

Abstract: A steering wheel for a motor vehicle has an outer steering wheel rim. The outer steering wheel rim is fixedly connected, via at least one spoke, to a steering wheel pot arranged in a steering wheel center. The steering wheel pot, on the base side, has a steering wheel hub for fixing to a steering column. The steering wheel hub is configured as a load cell for detecting a load acting on the steering wheel hub. Such a steering wheel may be used to facilitate various tests.

Abstract: A steering column assembly includes a jacket assembly, a mounting bracket, and a first telescope guide. The jacket assembly defines a first guide slot. The mounting bracket is disposed on the jacket assembly and has a first portion disposed opposite a second portion and a third portion extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion has a first rail received within the first guide slot. The first telescope guide is disposed between the first guide slot and the first rail.

Abstract: A torque transmission joint transmits torque between a drive shaft and a driven shaft. The torque transmission joint includes: a coupling including: a first concave-convex portion which is provided on one of inner and outer circumferential surfaces thereof and is engaged with a drive-side concave-convex portion of the drive shaft with a gap; and a second concave-convex portion which is provided on the other of the inner and outer circumferential surfaces and is engaged with a driven-side concave-convex portion of the driven shaft with a gap; a drive-side elastic member which is provided between the drive shaft and the coupling to be torque-transmittable; and a driven-side elastic member which is provided between the coupling and the driven shaft to be torque-transmittable. A concave-convex shape of the first concave-convex portion and a concave-convex shape of the second concave-convex portion are different from each other.

Abstract: The present application discloses a steering assistance device, including: a motor configured to output a drive force in accordance with a steering force applied to a steering shaft; and a speed reducer including: a gear section configured to rotate and oscillate in accordance with the drive force; an outer cylinder having an internally toothed ring formed thereon, the internally toothed ring being configured to mesh with the gear section; and a carrier configured to rotate in accordance with rotation and oscillation of the gear section and output a steering assistance force to a steering mechanism, the steering mechanism being configured to steer vehicle wheels in accordance with rotational operation applied to a steering wheel. The engagement ratio between the gear section and the internally toothed ring is from 25 to 100%.

Abstract: A steering assistance actuator for a vehicle includes a actuator shaft, a torque sensor, a motor, a drive mechanism and a drive housing. The actuator shaft is rotatable about a first axis. The actuator shaft includes an integral torque sensor. The motor has an output shaft rotatable about a second axis. The second axis is substantially parallel to the first axis. The drive mechanism is disposed between and drivingly connects the motor and the steering column. The drive mechanism provides a speed reduction from the motor to the actuator shaft. The drive housing encloses the torque sensor and the drive mechanism and is separate from a steering gear. The drive housing also has a mounting feature to which a housing of the motor is fixed. The drive housing also has a first bearing and a second bearing rotatably supporting the actuator shaft in the drive housing.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a power steering apparatus and a method of manufacturing a power steering apparatus that allow balls to smoothly travel in a connection member for circulating the balls. To achieve this object, a first curved portion of a first connection passage of a nut that faces a first bent portion of the connection member is formed into a curved shape in such a manner that a space between the first curved portion and the first bent portion is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value. Further, a second curved portion of a second connection passage of the nut that faces a second bent portion of the connection member is formed into a curved shape in such a manner that a space between the second curved portion and the second bent portion is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

Abstract: A rack housing includes first and second rack housing members aligned in the axial direction of the rack shaft and coupled to each other in the vicinity of a speed reducer. A speed reducer casing is provided in its outer wall with a through hole. A belt tension adjusting mechanism includes: an adjusting shaft rotatably attached to the speed reducer casing; an eccentric shaft attached to the outer periphery of the adjusting shaft so as to be rotatable together with the adjusting shaft; two bearings disposed on the outer periphery of the eccentric shaft and axially away from each other; and a tension pulley rotatably attached to the outer periphery of the eccentric shaft via the bearings. A first end of the adjusting shaft is exposed to the outside of the speed reducer casing through the through hole.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing vibrations of an electronic steering apparatus includes a vibration filter unit which extracts a steering vibration signal that is a radio frequency component of a torque signal transmitted from a torque sensor, a signal generation unit which generates a reference signal based on one of a wheel speed and a wheel vibration number transmitted from a sensor mounted in a vehicle, an adaptive filter which receives the reference signal generated by the signal generation unit and generates a current control signal, a motor which receives the current control signal, and an error unit which stores a steering vibration component value generated based on the steering vibration signal and the current control signal applied to the motor. Here, the steering vibration component value stored in the error unit is provided as feedback to the adaptive filter to update the adaptive filter with a coefficient.

Abstract: A method of detecting for primary circuit loss of an electronic stability control system for a vehicle comprises checking that a lateral acceleration sensor is installed and working properly, a yaw sensor is installed and working properly, and a steering wheel angle sensor is installed and working properly. An absolute value of the lateral acceleration sensor is compared with a first pre-defined threshold, an absolute value of the yaw sensor is compared with a second pre-defined threshold, and an absolute value of the steering wheel angle sensor is compared with a third pre-defined threshold. It is determined that primary circuit loss detection is not required when any of the three sensors are equal to and above the respective pre-defined thresholds and that primary circuit loss detection is required when all of the three sensors are below the respective pre-defined threshold.

Abstract: A method for adapting an actual steering wheel angle of a steering wheel and an actual wheel steering angle of a wheel steering system in a motor vehicle after an automated driving maneuver has been executed. The method includes detecting the actual steering wheel angle by a steering wheel angle-detection device and the actual wheel steering angle by a wheel steering angle-detection device, adapting the actual steering wheel angle by a steering wheel-actuation device and/or the actual wheel steering angle by a wheel steering-actuation device based on a transfer strategy within a predefined transfer time. Also disclosed is an associated device.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a steering control device having a manual steering mode in which a travelling direction of a vehicle is controlled in correspondence with a steering wheel state quantity indicating an operation quantity of a steering wheel provided at a vehicle and a compulsory automatic steering mode in which the travelling direction is controlled automatically, and controlling a steering wheel control quantity to be added to the steering wheel in accordance with the manual steering mode or the compulsory automatic steering mode, the steering control device is characterized by being provided with: steering mode selection means to switch between the manual steering mode and the compulsory automatic steering mode; and steering wheel control quantity calculation means, in a case where the manual steering mode is selected by the steering mode selection means, to calculate the steering wheel control quantity to be added to the steering wheel based on information indicating travelling state, and

Abstract: An integrated clutch steering mechanism for an autonomous vehicle (AV) can include a steering clutch coupled to a steering column of the AV, and an AV steering motor coupled to the steering clutch. The AV steering motor can apply torque to the steering column via the steering clutch to control steering of the AV. When a predetermined amount of torque is exceeded on the steering column, the steering clutch slips to enable manual steering of the AV.

Abstract: A steering knuckle (18) is provided for use in association with a vehicle steering assembly (10). The steering knuckle (10) includes a knuckle body (20) having a generally vertical face (26) and an upper yolk arm (22) having a generally vertical face (54). The generally vertical faces (26, 54) of the steering knuckle body (20) and the upper yolk arm (22) are connected to each other. The generally vertical face (54) of the upper yolk arm (22) includes a camshaft bore (62) extending therethrough and configured to receive a camshaft (64). The generally vertical face of the knuckle body may be welded to a spindle (24), with a portion of the spindle being cut away to allow for a complete circular weld between the knuckle body and the spindle.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for detecting a vehicle's turn signal status for collision avoidance during lane-switching maneuvers or otherwise. A method includes detecting, at a first vehicle, a presence of a second vehicle in an adjacent lane. The method includes identifying, in an image of the second vehicle, a sub-portion containing a turn signal indicator of the second vehicle. The method includes processing the sub-portion of the image to determine a state of the turn signal indicator. The method also includes notifying a driver or performing a driving maneuver, at the first vehicle, based on the state of the turn signal indicator.

Abstract: A driving support apparatus includes an other vehicle detector, an other vehicle information acquisition unit, a proximity detector, a proximity controller and a setting unit. The other vehicle detector detects an other vehicle travelling on the second lane. The other vehicle information acquisition unit acquires information containing the size of the other vehicle. The proximity detector outputs a proximity signal when it is detected that the other vehicle is located in the detection range of set on the second lane at a predetermined detection distance from the own vehicle. The proximity controller activates a proximity control unit when detecting that a turn signal lever is operated while the proximity signal is being output. The setting unit increases the detection distance according to the size of the other vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle (100) for use in the field of visual effects is provided, which has at least one adjustable dimension. The vehicle comprises a frame (101) and a plurality of wheels (110, 120, 130, 140), the wheels being adjustably attached to the frame such that the distance between a pair of wheels can be adjusted either manually or automatically. This adjustment may be a continuous adjustment. The vehicle may also comprise tracking markers which generate data in order to facilitate the production of a digital model. The vehicle may also comprise a camera (155) having a 360 degree field of view. The data captured by the camera can be used in the digital effects process to create realistic reflections of the surrounding environment on the digital model.

Abstract: A front vehicle body comprises a front frame having a closed cross-section, an apron reinforcement, a suspension housing, and first and second bulkheads arranged in the closed cross-section of the front frame. The suspension housing comprises first and second open cross-sections extending in a vehicle width direction and interconnecting the front frame and the apron reinforcement. The first and second open cross-sections include front ridgeline portions which are a high-rigidity portion extending in the vehicle width direction. The first and second bulkheads are arranged in the closed cross-section and located at or near positions which are continuous to lower ends of the front ridgeline portions.

Abstract: A front vehicle body comprises a front frame, an apron reinforcement, and a suspension housing. The suspension housing comprises first and second open cross-sections extending in a vehicle width direction and interconnecting the front frame and the apron reinforcement. The suspension housing includes first joint portions which are joined to an outer face of the front frame and second joint portions which are joined to an inner face of the front frame. The first joint portions and the second joint portions are arranged on an end portion of the suspension housing which is positioned on a front-frame side such that they are alternately aligned in a vehicle longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A vehicle assembly system and related method are provided. The vehicle assembly system includes a first fender for a first vehicle model having a first shape, a second fender for a second vehicle model having a second, different shape, a front end structure common to the first vehicle model and the second vehicle model, and a support common to the first vehicle model and the second vehicle model. The support has a first member attached to a downstanding flange of the first fender or a downstanding flange of the second fender and a second member extending from a lower portion of the first member is attached to the front end structure. The system and method provide a simple and inexpensive way to attach fenders having different shapes to a common front end of a vehicle.

Abstract: A load bearing panel member having a first portion, a second portion, and an appearance surface portion is formed by injection molding such that the first portion includes a plurality of ribs forming a grid pattern on the first portion and another plurality of ribs extending toward the periphery of the first portion which may be non-orthogonal to each other and to the ribs forming the grid pattern. An internal channel may be formed within each of the non-orthogonal ribs by injecting a gas into the rib during the molding process forming the panel. An appearance surface portion attached to the first portion and second portion of the panel member forms an integral hinge between the first and second portions of the panel member. The panel member may be configured as a floor panel of a vehicle.

Abstract: An air and water management system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The system includes an air opening allowing air to enter the engine room on a side of the motor vehicle, an engine cover covering at least one component associated with the engine of the motor vehicle, a rib extending from a top side of the engine cover creating a gutter on the engine cover between the rib and a side of the engine room, a water channel formed integrally in the engine cover adjacent and laterally inward of and parallel to the rib and including a drain longitudinally to the rear of the motor vehicle at a rearward portion of the water channel. Air entering the air opening flows over the rib and into the engine room of the motor vehicle. The rib blocks debris that enters the air opening from flowing into the engine room.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a sightseeing-touring vehicle with theater that has open plan architecture with wide openings (windows) that surround the sightseeing-touring occupants. The open-space architecture provides optimal views of surrounding sights, including a view of a large video display while maintaining all the creature comforts of a conventional vehicle for patrons inside.

Abstract: A rack system that is configured to allow the omission of cross bars. The cross bars can be easily removable and replaceable or can be adjustable along a length of the rack system. In some configurations, the rack system includes at least one side support arrangement comprising a first vertical support and a second vertical support. Two or more side support arrangements can be provided on each side of the truck bed. Pairs of support arrangements on one side of the truck bed can be connected by one or more longitudinal supports. Accessories, such as tool boxes or gas cans, can be connected to the one or more longitudinal supports.

Abstract: A trailer having a storage container, a landing gear assembly coupled to the storage container, and a rear wheel assembly coupled to the storage container includes a side skirt system for reducing drag on the trailer. The side skirt system includes a side skirt wall configured to be coupled to one side of the trailer to extend below one side wall of the trailer at least partially along a length of the trailer. A length of the side skirt wall along a top edge of the side skirt wall is approximately 48%-80% of a distance between the landing gear and forward-most position of the rear wheel assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle understructure includes a left undercover and a right undercover provided in an underpanel. The left undercover is provided from below inside in a vehicle width direction with respect to a left side sill between a left front wheel and a left rear wheel. The right undercover is provided from below inside in the vehicle width direction with respect to a right side sill between a right front wheel and a right rear wheel. Each of the left undercover and the right undercover includes a lowering portion. The lowering portion can lower from the underpanel during driving and extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction such that the vehicle longitudinal direction becomes a longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A carrier for a spare tire of a vehicle includes a base, a mount, and a locking member. The base is configured to be coupled to the vehicle. The mount is coupled to the base and pivotable relative to the base about a pivot axis. The mount is configured to support the spare tire for common rotation with the mount about the pivot axis. The pivot axis is offset from a central axis of the spare tire when the spare tire is supported by the mount. The locking member is movable between a locked position wherein the locking member engages the mount and the base to prevent relative movement therebetween, and an unlocked position wherein the mount is pivotable relative to the base.

Abstract: The disclosed technology relate to a device and system that include an outdoor power equipment power unit or cart configured to releasably couple a number of different interchangeable attachments or work implements to a common power unit, where some attachments include and/or require operator presence control, while other attachments do not include and/or require operator presence control. The outdoor power equipment power unit includes a power transfer coupling member operatively coupled to the drive shaft and configured to transfer rotational power to the associated attachment; and an operator presence actuation member operatively coupled to the operator presence control member, the operator presence actuation member configured to rotate in response to user actuation of the operator presence control member.

Abstract: A trailer hitch arrangement control system including a trailer sensor for sensing the position of a trailer relative to a trailer hitch assembly, a lock sensor for sensing the position of a locking mechanism, a control valve in fluid communication with a brake assembly of a trailer and operable between closed and open positions, wherein the brake assembly is engaged and disengaged, respectively, and wherein the brake assembly is positively biased toward the engaged position, and a controller coupled to the trailer sensor, the lock sensor and the control valve for determining whether the trailer hitch assembly is properly coupled to the hitch and generating a control signal to the control valve to actuate the control valve from the open position to the closed position when the trailer hitch assembly is improperly coupled to the hitch, such that the brake assembly remains in the engaged position.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems, for a modular rail slide are described herein. One or more embodiments include a modular rail slide, comprising: a first slide module comprising a first number of inserts coupled to the first slide module, and a second slide module, coupled to the first slide module, comprising a second number of inserts, and wherein the second slide module is coupled to a first coupling end of the first slide module.

Abstract: A track assembly for traction of a tracked vehicle, such as an agricultural vehicle, an industrial vehicle (e.g., a construction vehicle) or a military vehicle, is provided. The track assembly comprises a plurality of wheels which comprises a drive wheel and a plurality of roller wheels, as well as an elastomeric endless track disposed around the plurality of wheels for engaging the ground. A roller wheel may comprise a wheel body and a covering on the wheel body. The covering may comprise a lateral portion dimensioned to contact a drive/guide lug of the track. The roller wheels and the track may implement a self-alignment system of the track assembly. The track assembly may comprise a cooling system for transferring heat away from a roller wheel. The track assembly may comprise a lateral motion mechanism allowing a roller wheel to move widthwise in response to a side load.

Abstract: A drive system for a vehicle is disclosed. The drive system has a track supported by pulleys; at least one wheel, disposed near an end of the track; and at least one flipper. The at least one flipper has at least one of a flipper track supported by flipper pulleys and a flipper wheel. A diameter of the at least one wheel is larger than a combined diameter of: each of the pulleys of the track and twice a thickness of the track.

Abstract: An add-on part on a vehicle body, where a plurality of body hinge halves are each installed on the vehicle body using a first reference point system comprising body reference points, at least one vehicle transverse axis coordinate of the installed body hinge halves is measured, a plurality of add-on part hinge halves are each installed on the add-on part by using the first reference point system and a second reference point system comprising add-on part reference points, at least one correction value for the add-on part hinge halves with regard to the transformed arrangement of the add-on part hinge halves in the vehicle transverse axis is determined from the measured vehicle transverse axis coordinate of the body hinge halves, and the at least one correction value is used in the installation of the add-on part hinge halves.

Abstract: A bicycle stand which includes a frame with a first channel support and a transversely extending second channel support which are configured to engage with parts of a rim of a bicycle wheel.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a closure system for a flexible container. The closure system generally includes a flexible member and a substantially rigid member. The flexible and rigid members are each interconnected to opposing portions of an aperture of the container. When the closure system is in a closed state, the flexible member is in a position proximate to the rigid member. The flexible member may be pulled away from the rigid member to move the closure system to an open state. The closure system will remain in the open or closed state without contact from the user. The user may return the closure system to the closed state by applying a predetermined force to the flexible member.

Abstract: A single-track and engine-operated motor vehicle is provided. The motor vehicle includes a frame support structure that receives at least one engine in a fastening manner. The frame support structure includes frame elements and at least one supporting cladding part made of fiber reinforced plastic. The overall stiffness of the frame support structure is determined by the at least one supporting cladding part.

Abstract: A kick scooter includes a frame having a head tube for supporting handlebars and a front fork, an elongated frame member extending along a length of the frame, the frame member having a first end attached to the head tube and a second end configured for attachment to a rear wheel, the frame member being angularly disposed relative to the head tube. The frame includes support member coupled to the frame member for adjustable movement along a length of the frame member, a knee pad is attached to the support member for supporting a rider's knee and shin. The support member is movable relative to the frame member for adjusting a position of the knee pad relative to the head tube and a riding surface. The kick scooter further includes front and rear wheels, and a handlebar attached to the frame.

Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gravity sensor control system for an electric scooter, including a controller, and a gravity sensor, a drive motor and a decelerating device connected to the controller respectively, wherein the drive motor and the decelerating device are connected to wheels respectively; the gravity sensor is arranged underneath a footrest of the electric scooter and used for detecting the gravity supported by the footrest; and the controller gets a gravity center change of a human body based on a gravity variation value, namely increment value, detected by the gravity sensor, and controls wheel speeds and/or directions through the drive motor and the decelerating device based on the gravity center change.

Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to cycling. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein relate to an integrated cycling tool. The cycling tool may be integrated into the bicycle components to reduce the external modifications to a bicycle. This may enable a cyclist to carry a tool with them without the worry of carrying the tool, or the tool falling off the bicycle. The cycling tool may comprise multiple components and may be used to fix various parts of a bicycle. The cycling tool may fit within the confines of the bicycle and provide minimal to no impact to the rider or the functionality and performance of the bicycle.

Abstract: An axially-switchable quick release device, including: a rod extending in an axial direction; a clutch shaft disposed at an end of the rod and having a meshing teeth portion and an idling ring portion; and a quick release lever having a fitting portion and a turning portion connected to the fitting portion The fitting portion has a fitting teeth portion sleeved onto the clutch shaft and movable along the axial direction and between a meshing position and an idling position. When the quick release lever is at the meshing position, the fitting teeth portion engages with the meshing teeth portion so that the quick release lever and the clutch shaft can rotate synchronously. When the quick release lever is at the idling position, the fitting teeth portion moves to the idling ring portion so that the quick release lever can rotate freely relative to the clutch shaft.

Abstract: A detachable chainring assembly includes a first chainring, a second chainring and a locking part. The first chainring includes a first through hole. The second chainring includes a first surface, a second surface, a driven hole, and a plurality of first protrusion parts. The second surface is opposite to the first surface. The driven hole runs through the first surface and the second surface for securing a driving portion of a crank arm. The first protrusion parts protrude from the second surface and are disposed around the driven hole, and at least one of the first protrusion parts has a first locked hole. The locking part is detachably secured to the first through hole and the first locked hole such that the first chainring and the second chainring are jointly secured to each other via the locking part.

Abstract: A bicycle rear derailleur is provided, which includes a base adapted to be mounted on a bicycle frame, a movable member, a linkage assembly pivotally connected to and between the base and the movable member, a pivot shaft provided within and pivotally rotatable relative to the movable member, a chain guide fixed to an end of the pivot shaft, a restriction assembly provided on the pivot shaft, and a friction assembly provided within the movable member to provide a rotational friction on the restriction assembly. Whereby, the chain guide is pivotally awing toward a first direction by a force; when the chain guide swings toward a second direction which is opposite to the first direction by another force, it is forced by a swing resistance.

Abstract: A personal watercraft comprises a body including a deck and a hull, the hull includes a bottom surface facing downward and side surfaces facing outward in a rightward and leftward direction, the bottom surface has a shape in which a width in the rightward and leftward direction is reduced from its center portion in a forward and rearward direction to its rear portion, in a center portion of the hull in a forward and rearward direction, each of the side surfaces includes an upper side surface and a lower side surface, the lower side surface and the bottom surface are connected to each other to form an obtuse angle in a cross-section viewed from a rear, and an inclination angle formed between the lower side surface and a vertical line is set to be greater than an inclination angle formed between the upper side surface and the vertical line.

Abstract: A sponson attachment for an airboat allows the airboat to increase its safety and stability very quickly. A method for attaching a sponson to an airboat hull includes attaching first and second flexible tethers to a side of the sponson. The method also includes removably securing the first flexible tether to an exterior of the airboat hull adjacent a gunnel, and removably securing the second flexible tether below the first flexible tether on the exterior of the hull.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to knee braces for boats. The knee braces described herein are particularly suitable for use with lightweight, inflatable rafts and kayaks, for example packrafts used in backcountry boating. The knee braces include a fabric body and a plurality of adjustable straps configured to attach the fabric body to a side wall of the boat.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (60), such as a chain stopper, for connecting a chain 320 or at least one portion of a chain (320) to a structure (55), such as an offshore structure or vessel. The device comprising a first portion (70) pivotably or rotatably connected or connectable to a structure (55) so as to provide movement of the first portion (70) relative to a structure (55) about or around a first axis (310) of the first portion (70). The first portion comprises a chain or line guiding means (75) arranged for rotational movement about or around the first axis (310) of the first portion (70). In some examples, the device (70) may comprise a second portion (80) pivotably or rotatably connected or connectable to the first portion (70) so as to provide movement of the second portion (80) relative to the first portion (70) about or around a second axis (315) of the second portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mooring device that is suitable for use in water. The mooring device includes a pile configured to be embedded in a floor supporting the body of water, at least one arm configured to engage at least one entity, a joint configured to couple the pile and the at least one arm and permit rotation of the at least one arm relative to the pile, and joint locking means configured to lock the joint. The invention may further relate to a method of mounting the mooring device in water, a mooring system including multiple mooring devices and a system including the mooring devices.

Abstract: A device for ice-breaking with a vessel has two functionally separate upper and lower elements of different widths. The upper, wider element is situated next to the water line for breaking unbroken ice, and the lower, narrower element is situated below the upper element and for transporting broken ice sideways and under the unbroken ice. The upper wider element has a flat lower portion abaft an inclining front part with a small frame angle and breaks ice downward when moving ahead, and a flat stern part with a small frame angle and breaks ice downward when moving astern. The lower element has vertical side portions which in the forebody and the afterbody have a marked wedge-shape and shove broken ice sideways. Transport of broken ice sideways and astern can be augmented by bow propellers and wing propellers.

Abstract: A semi-submersible floating structure for the drilling and production of offshore oil and gas is provided. The semi-submersible floating structure includes a pontoon having a plurality of pontoon sections, an outer edge, and an inner edge, the pontoon sections defining an interior space. The semi-submersible floating structure further includes a plurality of columns extending vertically upward from the pontoon. Each column has an upper section having an upper column width; and a lower section. The lower section has a bottom end coupled to the pontoon and aligned with the outer edge of the pontoon, the bottom end having a lower column width greater than the upper column width, at least part of the bottom end protruding into the interior space. The lower section further has a flared portion between the upper section and the bottom end; the flared portion having a width that varies from the upper column width at the upper section to the lower column width at the bottom end.