Cross-reference to Related Applications

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of the Singapore patent application No. 10201404806R filed on 11 August 2014, and Singapore patent application No. 10201407998S filed on 1 December 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments relate generally to an offshore platform, more particularly to an offshore platform to be used in cold or arctic regions.

Background

[0003] In cold or arctic regions, conventional offshore platforms need to be extremely heavy in order to stay on location due to the continuous flow of ice sheets/blocks around the structure.

[0004] Some existing gravity base solutions involve complex fabrication and long lead-time for the installation of huge structures for drilling & production. Prior to the installation of such huge structures, complete assessment of a possible field and thereafter a firm confirmation of a big oil reserve is required. This translates into longer lead-time before "first oil" is recovered, and further additional time would be needed to fabricate an ice-resistant structure.

[0005] The conventional gravity base solutions are customized for specific field's requirement such as water depth, wave conditions, Ice conditions etc. Therefore, different unit shall be required for sites having different water depths. [0006] Further, conventional offshore platform with liquid storage facilities on the platform itself may experience space constraints issue relating to storage. Such conventional offshore platform may also be required to meet safety standards, which would further limit the already limited storage space.

[0007] In addition, conventional offshore platform is subjected to extreme weather conditions and may be susceptible to risk of collision with a tandem-loading tanker. With the liquid storage facilities on the platform itself, accidents caused by the above may cause substantial leak which would be detrimental to the environment.

[0008] An example of an offshore platform built for operating in Arctic areas, specifically in areas exposed to challenges posed by ice sheets/blocks, is the Hibernia Gravity Base Structure. The Hibernia Gravity Base Structure was built for Hibernia Oil Field in North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 315 km east- southeast of St. john's, Newfoundland, Canada. Installed in 1997 at the water depth of 80 m, it is operated by ExxonMobil. It is designed to withstand the impact of a one million ton iceberg. This iceberg-resistant gravity-based structure is also designed to withstand contact with a six million ton iceberg, without harm to workers, the environment or operations. The 450,000 T Gravity Base structure consists of a 105.50 m concrete caisson, constructed using high-strength concrete reinforced with steel rods and pre-stressed tendons. The caisson is surrounded by an ice wall, which consists of 16 concrete teeth. Inside the gravity structure are storage tanks for 1.3 million barrels of crude oil. The platform is also supported by an extensive iceberg-management program to minimize the risk of icebergs reaching it. The program uses active intervention, where boats, aircraft and a marine radar system are used to detect nearby icebergs and track their movement. If winds and ocean currents steer an iceberg toward the platform, one of the platform's support vessels is deployed to tow or redirect it. [0009] Another example is the Prirazlomnaya Platform for Prirazlomnoye oilfield located in Northern Russia on the Pechora sea shelf, an Arctic offshore oilfield. Operated by Gazprom, this offshore ice-resistant oil-producing platform ensures well drilling, oil production, storage & offloading with the field production expected to last for 22 years. The main features are its resistance to strong ice loads, long self- sustainability and year-round operability. Built at a cost of approximately 2 billion USD, this platform is held to the sea-bed by gravitational weight of 506,000 Tons and the sea is 19-20m deep at the operation site. This platform also has the oil storage capacity of 136,000 cubic meters.

[0010] However, these heavy structures involve huge cost of as much as several billion dollars and several years to build and install. Further, the installation is done only after the study of the site is completed and it is established that the reserve is big and commercially viable for a long term operation of as much as 10-15 years. Thus, it may take even 10 years, before the first oil is recovered using such heavy gravity based structure. Therefore, these gravity based structures are meant for big fields with proven large reserves of hydrocarbons and with a continuous operation period of 10-15 years or even more.

[0011] A need therefore exists to provide an offshore platform which seeks to overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more of the issues associated with the conventional art mentioned above.

Summary

[0012] According to various embodiments, there is provided an offshore platform including a platform; a support structure extending from the platform, the support structure configured to support the platform; an annular structure connected to the support structure, the annular structure configured to encircle the support structure; and an ice-breaking mechanism connected to the annular structure, the ice-breaking mechanism having a movable element.

Brief description of the drawings

[0013] In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the following description, various embodiments are described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A shows an offshore platform according to various embodiments;

FIG. IB shows an offshore platform according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2 shows an offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIG. 3 shows a skirt of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIG. 4 shows an offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIGs. 5A to 5C show various configurations of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view of the barge of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIGs. 7A and 7B show a closed up view of the ice-breaking mechanism of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments; FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of a cross-sectional perspective of the cylindrical structure and the barge with a flow generation mechanism according to various example embodiments;

FIGs. 9 A to 9E show a schematic diagram of filling and storing crude oil in the offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIGs. 10A and 10B show an offshore platform according to various example embodiments;

FIG. 11 shows a top view with partial cross-section of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments; and

FIG. 12 shows various configurations of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments.

Detailed description

[0014] Embodiments described below in context of the apparatus are analogously valid for the respective methods, and vice versa. Furthermore, it will be understood that the embodiments described below may be combined, for example, a part of one embodiment may be combined with a part of another embodiment.

[0015] It should be understood that the terms "on", "over", "top", "bottom", "down", "side", "back", "left", "right", "front", "lateral", "side", "up", "down" etc., when used in the following description are used for convenience and to aid understanding of relative positions or directions, and not intended to limit the orientation of any device, or structure or any part of any device or structure.

[0016] FIG. 1A shows an offshore platform 100 according to various embodiments. The offshore platform 100 may include a platform 102. The offshore platform 100 may further include a support structure 104 extending from the platform 102. The support structure 104 may be configured to support the platform 102. The offshore platform 100 may further include an annular structure 106 connected to the support structure 104. The annular structure 106 may be configured to encircle the support structure 104. The offshore platform 100 may further include an ice-breaking mechanism 108 connected to the annular structure 106. The ice breaking mechanism 108 may include a movable element 110.

[0017] According to various embodiments, the movable element 110 may be configured to abrade floating ice approaching the support structure 104. In other words, when a floating ice approaches the offshore platform 100, the floating ice may come into contact with the ice-breaking mechanism 108 on the annular structure 106. The movement of the movable element 110 of the ice-breaking mechanism 208 may grind or abrade the floating ice such that the floating ice may crack, break or fragmentalize.

[0018] According to various embodiments, the movable element 110 may comprises a belt. The belt may include teeth, protruding elements, claws, knife or other elements that may create a grinding or abrasive effect when the belt moves. Accordingly, when a floating ice comes into contact with the belt, movement of the belt may grind or abrade the floating ice such that the floating ice may crack or fragmentalize.

[0019] FIG. IB shows an offshore platform 100 according to various embodiments.

[0020] According to various embodiments, the ice-breaking mechanism 108 of the offshore platform 100 may further include at least two rollers 112. [0021] According to various embodiments, the belt may be arranged to wrap around the at least two rollers 112. The belt may be configured to be drivable by the at least two rollers 112.

[0022] According to various embodiments, the ice-breaking mechanism may further include a plurality of the movable element 110.

[0023] According to various embodiments, two adjacent movable elements 110 of the plurality of the movable element 110 may be drivable in opposing direction. Operating adjacent movable elements 110 of the plurality of the movable element 110 in opposing direction may create a more effective grinding or abrasive motion for cracking or fragmentalizing the floating ice.

[0024] According to various embodiments, the annular structure 106 may be configured to float on water. The annular structure 106 may be further configured to move relative to the support structure 104 along a longitudinal axis of the support structure. In other words, a position of the annular structure 106 with respect to the longitudinal axis of the support structure 104 may move according to the rise and fall of the water level. Therefore, the annular structure 106 may remain afloat on the water regardless of the rise and fall of the water level. Thus, the floating ice approaching the floating platform 100 may always comes into contact with the annular structure 106 and the ice-breaking mechanism 108.

[0025] According to various embodiments, the annular structure 106 may include a ballast tank. The ballast tank may allow the annular structure 106 to adjust the degree of immersion of the annular structure 106 in the water such that the ice- breaking mechanism 108 on the annular structure 106 may be positioned to be at an appropriate height with respect to the water surface to maximize the effectiveness of the ice-breaking mechanism 108 for grinding or abrading the approaching floating ice. [0026] According to various embodiments, the offshore platform 100 may further include a cushioning element 114 disposed between the support structure 104 and the annular structure 106. When a floating ice comes into contact with the ice-breaking mechanism 108 on the annular structure 106, the floating ice may exert a lateral force on the annular structure 106. The annular structure 106 may then transfer the lateral force to the support structure 104. The cushioning element 114 disposed between the support structure 104 and the annular structure 106 may absorb at least part of the lateral force and minimize the lateral force received by the support structure 104.

[0027] According to various embodiments, the offshore platform 100 may include a flow generation mechanism 116 connected to the annular structure 106. The flow generation mechanism 116 may generate a water flow around the offshore platform 100 such that floating ice cracked or fragmentalized by the ice-breaking mechanism 108 may moved along with the water flow and circumvent the offshore platform 100.

[0028] According to various embodiments, the flow generation mechanism 116 may include a propulsion device. As the offshore platform 100 is fixed to the seabed, the propulsion device would generate a water flow instead of propelling the offshore platform 100.

[0029] According to various embodiments, the offshore platform 100 may include a drive mechanism 118 configured to connect the annular structure 106 to the support structure 104. The drive mechanism may further be configured to rotate the annular structure 106 about the support structure 104. Depending on the direction the floating ice may be approaching the offshore platform 100, the annular structure 106 may be rotated about the support structure 104 such that the ice-breaking mechanism 108 may be positioned to maximize the effectiveness of cracking or fragmentalizing the floating ice. [0030] According to various embodiments, the support structure 104 may include two compartments. The two compartments may be in the interior of the support structure 104. In other words, the interior of the support structure 104 may be divided into two compartments. The two compartments may be separated by a separation member. The two compartments may be separated into an upper compartment and a lower compartment.

[0031] According to various embodiments, the support structure 104 may include a protruding element extending out from an external surface of a base of the support structure 104. The protruding element may be sunk into the seabed as the base of the support structure 104 lay on the seabed. The protruding element may anchor the support structure 104 into the seabed such that the floating platform 100 may be securely fixed to the seabed.

[0032] According to various embodiments, the floating platform 100 may further include a suction mechanism 120 at the base of the support structure 104. The suction mechanism 120 may provide a suction force to maintain the base of the support structure 104 firmly secured to the seabed.

[0033] According to various embodiments, the floating platform 100 may further include two or more supporting structures 104.

[0034] According to various embodiments, the floating platform 100 may further include an intermediate platform 122 coupled to the two or more supporting structures 104. The two or more support structures may be disposed between the platform 102 and the intermediate platform 122.

[0035] According to various embodiments, the floating platform 100 may further include a base structure 124 coupled to the intermediate platform 122. The base structure 124 may be configured to support the intermediate platform 122. The intermediate platform 122 may be configured to be removably attachable to the base structure 124.

[0036] According to various embodiments, the base structure 124 may include a protruding element extending out from an external surface of a base of the base structure 124. The protruding element may be sunk into the seabed as the base of the base structure 124 lay on the seabed. The protruding element may anchor the base structure 124 into the seabed such that the floating platform 100 may be securely fixed to the seabed.

[0037] According to various embodiments, an offshore platform may include a cylindrical structure (i.e. a support structure) that can store oil and sea-water separately. The offshore platform may further include a suction system (i.e. a suction mechanism) provided at a bottom of a base of the cylindrical structure for firm and stable grounding. The offshore platform may further include a bare deck platform (i.e. a platform) to support drilling, production and accommodation. The offshore platform may further include a barge, possibly doughnut shaped, (i.e. an annular structure) provided around the cylindrical structure which can adjust its position or loadline according to the water level. The offshore platform may further include an ice management system (i.e. an ice-breaking mechanism) installed on the platform or the doughnut shaped barge. The ice management system may cut away incoming ice sheets, thereby protecting the main structure from any undue forces exerted by the sheets of ice.

[0038] According to various embodiments, an offshore platform may include a bare deck platform (i.e. a platform) to support drilling, production and accommodation. The offshore platform may further include three supporting columns (i.e. two or more support structures) connected to the deck platform at the top of the columns and a mat (i.e. an intermediate platform) at the bottom of the columns. The mat supports the three columns, which in turn support the deck structure. The offshore platform may further include an ice management system (i.e. an ice-breaking mechanism) fitted at each of the columns near to the water surface. The offshore platform may further include an adjustable barge (i.e. an annular structure) to support the ice management system. The offshore platform may further include a cylindrical stool (i.e. a base structure) of appropriate height that is optional to be placed beneath the mat, if the water depth requirement is more.

[0039] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described more fully with reference to accompanying drawings FIG. 2 to FIG. 12, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. This present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein below. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, lengths and sizes of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0040] FIG. 2 shows an offshore platform 200 according to various example embodiments. The offshore platform 200 may include a platform 202. The platform 202 may include various components relevant to drilling production and storage activities, for example drilling tower 230 etc, on a top surface of the platform 202. The offshore platform 200 may further include a support structure 204 extending from a base surface of the platform 202. The support structure 204 may be configured to support the platform 202 such that, in the offshore location, the offshore platform 200 may be erected with the platform 202 held above a water surface while the support structure 204 supporting the platform 202 may extend into the water. [0041] The offshore platform 200 may further include an annular structure 206 connected to the support structure 204. The annular structure 206 may be configured to encircle the support structure 204. In other words, the annular structure 206 may be arranged such that the support structure 204 extends through a centre hole of the annular structure 206. The annular structure 206 may further be slidably movable in a vertical direction on the support structure 204 along a longitudinal axis of the support structure 204. The annular structure 206 may further be configured to float on water. Thus, the annular structure 206 may slide in the vertical direction on the support structure 204 according to the rise and fall of the water level.

[0042] The offshore platform 200 may further include an ice-breaking mechanism 208 connected to the annular structure 206. The ice-breaking mechanism 208 may include movable element 210. As shown in FIG. 2, the movable element 210 may be a belt 210. The ice-breaking mechanism 208 may further include two rollers mounted on the annular structure 206. The belt (i.e the movable element) 210 may be wrapped around the two rollers. The two rollers may be arranged such that the one of the two rollers is mounted near a base of the annular structure 206 and the other of the two rollers is mounted near a top of the annular structure 206. Accordingly, the belt 210 may be moved in a direction from the base of the annular structure 206 to the top of the annular structure 206, or the belt 210 may be moved in a direction from the top of the annular structure 206 to the base of the annular structure 206.

[0043] The movable element 210 may be configured to abrade floating ice approaching the support structure 204 of the offshore platform 200. In other words, when a floating ice approaches the offshore platform 200, the floating ice may come into contact with the ice-breaking mechanism 208 on the annular structure 206. The movement of the movable element 210 of the ice-breaking mechanism 208, for example the movement of the belt 210, may grind or abrade the floating ice such that the floating ice may crack, break or fragmentalize.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the support structure 204 may be in the form of a cylindrical structure 204. The cylindrical structure 204 may be provided as a central structural tower providing support for the platform 202. The cylindrical structure 204 may further include a central tower portion 228 and a base portion 226 beneath the central tower portion 228. The radius of the base portion 226 may be larger than the radius of the central tower portion 228.

[0045] The cylindrical structure 204 may be divided internally into two compartments with a deck or a separation level. In other words, the interior of the cylindrical structure 204 may include two compartments separated by the deck or the separation level. The two compartments may be arranged to be one above the other such that there is a lower compartment and an upper compartment.

[0046] The lower compartment of the cylindrical structure 204 may be configured to store oil obtained through production, while the upper compartment may store sea-water. The lower compartment of the cylindrical structure may extend from the base portion 226 to a section of the central tower portion 228. In other words, the interior of the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204 and part of the interior section of the central tower portion 228 of the cylindrical structure 204 may form the lower compartment.

[0047] The cylindrical structure 204 may support the platform 202 at the top of the cylindrical structure 204. The platform 202 may be a bare deck platform, which may be retrofitted for various purposes such as drilling, production, etc.

[0048] The platform 202 may be configured with various components relevant to drilling production and storage activities. The platform 202 may be modular in that various components may be included on the platform 202, with the provision of a modular interface. For example, various interfaces may be provided, such as an interface with drilling equipment, an interface with an oil production unit, an interface with oil storage facility, an interface with a lifting crane, an interface with an accommodation module, or an interface with a helipad.

[0049] The modular interface may be complemented by support infrastructure, such as electrical power, mechanical couplings, and/or utilities, coupled to each of the various interfaces of the modular interface, as well as support structural framework configured to accommodate variable deck loads so as to provide for the modular installation or removal of equipment. Further, the platform 202 may be arranged to allow for modular installation or removal of various components even when the offshore platform 200 is deployed at sea.

[0050] To further improve the stability of the offshore platform 200 at sea, the cylindrical structure 204 may include a skirt 332 (i.e. a protruding element). FIG. 3 shows a skirt 332 of the offshore platform 200 according to various example embodiments. The skirt 332 may be circumferentially extruded around the periphery of a bottom 232 of a base 226 of the cylindrical structure 204. In other words, the skirt 332 extends out from an external bottom surface 232 of the base portion 226 of the support structure 204. The skirt 332 may be sunk into the seabed. Accordingly, the skirt 332 may keep the offshore platform 200 in position against possible skidding when impacted by environmental loads. The skirt 332 may be provided as a firm elongate structure perpendicularly extending from the bottom surface 232 of the base portion 206 of the cylindrical structure 204, and may be sunk into the seabed due to the weight of the offshore platform 200. On the other hand, the solid base portion 206 may or may not sink into the seabed. The skirt 332 may be securely welded or coupled to the base portion 226, such as to withstand great horizontal stresses or loads experienced by the cylindrical structure 204. The skirt 332 may extend anywhere from 50 cm to 5 m from the base portion 226, depending on projected loads to be experienced. According to various example embodiments, in place of a skirt 332, a pile (or independent vertical protrusion), or multiple piles may be provided, extending from the bottom 232 of the base portion 226.

[0051] The offshore platform 200 may further include a suction mechanism. The suction mechanism may be located at the bottom 232 of the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204. The suction mechanism may provide additional retaining force to keep the offshore platform 200 in place during the impact of environmental loads. The suction mechanism may contribute to the firm footing of the cylindrical structure 204 on the seabed. More than one suction mechanism may be provided, at different positions on the bottom 232 of the base portion 206. In other words, a plurality of suction mechanism may be provided at the bottom surface 232 of the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204.

[0052] The offshore platform 200 may further include a removal mechanism (i.e. a dislodgement mechanism). The removal mechanism may be located at the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204. The removal mechanism may include a jetting system, which may be arranged to pump water under the base portion 226 to dislodge the base portion 226 from the seabed. The use of such removal mechanism may be needed where the offshore platform 200 has been deployed for a prolonged period of time in a particular deployment site in which particulate matter has built up over time. The jetting system may serve to dislodge the particulate matter thereby making it easier for the cylindrical structure 204 to be disengaged from the seabed. [0053] According to various example embodiments, the central tower portion 228 and the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204 may be removably coupled to each other. In other words, the central tower portion 228 may be coupled to the base portion 226, and the central tower portion 228 may be subsequently removed from the base portion 226. FIG. 4 shows an offshore platform 400 according to various example embodiments. The offshore platform 400 may include a deck platform (i.e. a platform) 402 mounted on a cylindrical structure (i.e. a support structure) 404. The cylindrical structure 404 may include a central tower portion 428 arranged to be removably secured on a base portion 426. The offshore platform 400 may further include a locking mechanism 434 adapted to removably couple the central tower portion 428 to the base portion 426.

[0054] According to various example embodiments, the removable base portion 426 may be pre-installed with the central tower portion 428 prior to being delivered to an offshore location for installation. In other words, the central tower portion 428 and the base portion 426 are coupled together by the locking mechanism 434 before both the central tower portion 428 and the base portion 426 are delivered to the offshore location for installation.

[0055] According to various example embodiments, installation of the removable base portion 426 at an offshore location may be separate from and earlier than the installation of the platform 402 and central tower portion 428. In other words, the base portion 426 and the central tower portion 428 may be delivered to an offshore location separately and installed separately.

[0056] Accordingly, the removable base portion 426 may first be carefully placed on a selected position on the seabed or a predetermined offshore location. The central tower portion 428 may then be brought to the offshore location, filled with water as ballast and lowered carefully onto the removable base portion 426. A secure connection between the central tower portion 428 and the base portion 426 may be made, by way of the locking mechanism 434 connecting a bottom surface of the central tower portion 428 to a corresponding top surface of the base portion 426. In other words, the base portion 426 may be installed in an offshore location first. Subsequently, the central tower portion 428 may be installed onto the base portion 406 by lowering the central tower portion 428 onto the base portion 426, and locking the central tower portion 428 to the base portion 426 using the locking mechanism 434.

[0057] To remove the offshore platform 400, the central tower portion 428 may be uncoupled from the removable base portion 426 and easily retrieved. In other words, the offshore platform 400 may be dismantled section by section, and each section may be removed from the offshore location individually. Accordingly, the central tower portion 428 may be uncoupled from the base portion 426 such that the central tower portion 428 may be removed from the offshore location. Subsequently, the base portion 426 may be removed separately.

[0058] FIGs. 5A to 5C show various configurations of the offshore platform 200 according to various example embodiments. Depending on the sea level at a target area or at a predetermined location for installation of the offshore platform for drilling, the platform of the offshore platform may be elevated to the respective required height. FIG. 5A shows a drilling tower 230 independently installed over a drilling site. In this example, the intended drilling location may sit on land. In FIG. 5B, the intended drilling location may be in water that is of an intermediate depth. According to various example embodiments, the drilling tower 230 may be installed on a platform 202 and subsequently on a cylindrical structure (i.e. a support structure) 204, which includes a central tower portion 228. The drilling tower 230 may be provided extending horizontally from the deck platform 202 such that a clear vertical path extending downwards to the sea bed may be available for drilling purposes. In FIG. 5C, the intended drilling location may be in deep waters. The drilling tower 230 may be installed on a platform 202 supported by a cylindrical structure 204, which includes a central tower portion 228 installed on a removable base portion 226.

[0059] Advantageously, the provision of such a removable base portion 226 may allow the central tower portion 228 of the cylindrical structure 204 to be provided at a fixed height. Depending on the sea level and water depth of intended installation location, only the height of the removable base portion 226 need to be varied. In other words, the central tower portion 228 of the cylindrical structure 204 may be manufactured with standard dimensions while only the base portion 226 of the cylindrical structure 204 requires customization. This may allow for cost effective mass -production of the cylindrical structure 204, because only the removable base portion 226, which is much simpler to construct, requires customization during the manufacturing process.

[0060] According to various example embodiments, the annular structure 206 of the offshore platform 200 may include a barge 206. The barge (i.e. the annular structure) 206 may be adjustable. The barge 206 may be a doughnut- shaped barge, a ring-shaped barge, or an annular barge. The barge 206 may be connected with the cylindrical structure 204. The barge 206 may be configured to encircle the cylindrical structure 204 and may be arranged to be provided at or near the waterline to shield the cylindrical structure 204 from approaching floating ice blocks/sheets, thus preventing or minimising possible damage to the cylindrical structure 204 that may be caused by the approaching floating ice blocks/sheets. In other words, the barge 206 may function to absorb impact from the floating ice blocks/sheets and shield the cylindrical structure 204 from direct impact from the floating ice blocks/sheets.

[0061] The barge 206 encircling the cylindrical structure 204 may adjust its position or loadline according to the waterline so that an ice management mechanism (i.e. an ice-breaking mechanism) 208 installed on it may remain effective for ice- cutting and/or diverting operations. In other words, since the barge 206 is floating on the water, the position of the barge 206 with respect to the cylindrical structure 202 may be adjusted automatically by the rise and fall of the waterline with respect to the cylindrical structure 202. Thus, the barge 206 may remain at the waterline and remain effective in shielding the cylindrical structure 202 from floating ice blocks/sheets. Accordingly, the barge 206 may manage ice according to different water levels with respect to the fixed height of the platform 202 and cylindrical structure 204, because of its ability to adopt to the prevalent water level.

[0062] FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view of the barge 206 of the offshore platform 200 according to various example embodiments. The barge 206 may not be fixedly coupled to a portion of the cylindrical structure 204. The barge 206 may be arranged such that the barge 206 floats on water and may be movable with respect to the water line 606 and the fixed cylindrical structure 204.

[0063] The barge 206 may include floating or buoyancy mechanism, for example ballast tank, such that the barge 206 may be adjusted to a preferred position with respect to the water line. In other words, the barge 206 may adjust the degree of immersion in water such that it may adjust the extent of the barge body being exposed above the water surface using the floating or buoyancy mechanism. The buoyancy mechanism may include various inlets and outlets for air and sea water in various compartments in the barge 206. [0064] Further, the barge 206 may be movable lateral along the surface of the water with respect to the cylindrical structure 204. The floating platform 200 may further include a buffer portion (i.e. a cushioning element) 214. The buffer portion 220 may be provided in between the cylindrical structure 204 and inner walls of the barge 206, to prevent damage from impact should the barge 206 be forcefully driven onto the cylindrical structure 204. According to various embodiments, a roller system may be provided in between the barge 206 and the cylindrical structure 204.

[0065] According to various example embodiments, the barge 206 may include a rotation mechanism (i.e. a drive mechanism) which serves to rotate the barge 206 about the cylindrical structure 204. The rotation mechanism may be a mechanically driven mechanism provided on the barge 206 that contacts the cylindrical structure 204 and actuates the barge 206 to move in a rotationally manner around the cylindrical tower 204. The rotation mechanism may also be a jet outlet provided at the bottom of the barge 206 and arranged to be in the water. The jet outlet may be arranged to output a stream of compressed air in a tangential direction with respect to the substantially annular shape of the barge 206, so as to drive the rotation of the barge 206 about the cylindrical structure 204. The rotation mechanism may also be a fixed propeller provided at the bottom of the barge 206 to drive rotation. More than one rotation mechanisms may be provided to improve rotation effectiveness. Such a rotation mechanism or mechanisms may be arranged to provide rotation in opposing directions.

[0066] To keep the barge 206 at a fixed position and to prevent the barge 206 from rotating about the cylindrical structure 204, the cylindrical structure 204 may include a movable locking mechanism 236, which may be raised or lowered into a corresponding cavity in the barge 206, to retain the barge at a fixed location and prevent rotation.

[0067] The offshore platform 200 may be installed in the arctic region. In the arctic region, thick sheets of ice float around continuously and may pose a danger to the installed offshore platform 200 because the floating ice may come into contact with the offshore platform 200 and exerting a lateral force upon the offshore platform 200. According to various embodiments, the offshore platform 200 may include an ice management system (i.e. an ice-breaking mechanism) 208, which may be both economical and technically efficient, to disrupt such hazardous forces from exerting on the offshore platform 200. The ice management system 208 may be installed either on the deck (i.e. the platform 202) or on the barge 206 encircling the cylindrical structure 204. The ice management system 208 may cut away incoming ice sheets, thereby protecting the offshore platform 200 from any undue forces exerted by the sheets of ice.

[0068] FIGs. 7A and 7B show a closed up view of the ice-breaking mechanism of the offshore platform according to various example embodiments. The ice-breaking mechanism 208 may be connected to the annular structure 206 of the offshore platform 200. The ice-breaking mechanism 208 may include a movable element 210 operable to be set into a motion. The motion of the movable element 210 may include grinding or abrading objects, such as floating ice blocks or sheets, approaching the support structure 204 of the offshore platform 200. In other words, as objects approach the support structure 204 of the offshore platform 200, the objects may come into contact with ice-breaking mechanism 208. The movable element 210 of the ice-breaking mechanism 208 may be operated to move in a manner to abrade the objects in contact with the movable element 210 such that the abrasive motion may cut the object or cause the object to crack and/or fragmentalize.

[0069] Advantageously, the dynamic ice management system (i.e. the ice- breaking mechanism) 208 installed on the offshore platform 200 may greatly reduces the requirement of having huge gravity weight on the offshore platform 200, which is otherwise imperative on conventional gravity based offshore platforms to counter the forces exerted by the ice and its movement.

[0070] The ice management system (i.e. the ice-breaking mechanism) 208 which may be arranged to cut away the inbound floating ice blocks may be fitted either on the platform 202 or on the barge 206. The ice management system 208 installed on the offshore platform 200 may crush the incoming ice sheets that otherwise may pose a danger to the stability of the offshore platform 200 and may cause structural damage to the offshore platform 200.

[0071] The ice management system 208 may include several belts (i.e. a plurality of movable elements) 210 fitted vertically or off-vertical axes all around the periphery of the barge (i.e. the annular structure) 206 encircling the cylindrical structure 204. A plurality of belts 210 of the ice management system 208 may be mounted on an exterior surface of the barge 206. The barge 206 may include a truncated cone shaped structure with a through hole along a longitudinal axis of the truncated cone shaped structure. The belt 210 may be made of high strength steel or equivalent and/or stronger materials. The belt 210 may include transversely arranged sharp edged teeth on its surface. The belt 210 may also include claw portions on the belt 210, in place of teeth. The claw portions may be arranged to create a more destructive impact on incoming ice. The belt 210 may also include independent knife edge portions in place of the teeth. The independent knife edge portions may be arranged to cut according to a direction of a movement of the belt 210. The belt 210 may also include curved knife-edge portions for more effective cutting. The teeth may be reinforced, for example with hardened tips or coated with a hardened alloy, to provide a longer lasting cutting edge for more effective cutting. The teeth may be high strength steel, and may be capable of withstanding structural deterioration even under low temperatures.

[0072] Each of the belts 210 may run on two rollers 212 or drums fitted on a slope of the barge 206. In other words, each belt 210 may be arranged on a slant surface of the truncated cone shape structure of the barge 206 such that the belt 210 is wrapped around two rollers 212. One of the two rollers 212 may be disposed at a bottom of the slant surface near a base of the truncated cone shape structure and the other of the two rollers 212 may be disposed at a top of the slant surface near an apex of the truncated cone shape structure. Accordingly, the belt 210 may be driven by the rollers 212 such that the belt 210 may be moved in a direction from the bottom of the slant surface to the top of the slant surface, or in a direction from the top of the slant surface to the bottom of the slant surface. According to various example embodiments, more rollers may be provided for greater control of the belt movement. The rollers 212 may also be arranged to be capable of absorbing impact from incoming ice sheets.

[0073] According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 200 may include a control system (not shown) for controlling the rollers 212. The control system for the rollers 212 may be located on the platform 202, so that the control system may be easily accessed for operation.

[0074] According to various example embodiments, a loadline of the barge 206 may be adjusted with respect to the water line, such that any incoming ice sheets may come into contact with the toothed belt 210 of the ice management system 208 with the lower roller 212, i.e. the lower roller 212 is at the same height as the incoming ice sheet.

[0075] According to various example embodiments, the control system may be configured to operate the plurality of belts 210 in synchronization, for better degradation of the ice sheets. According to various example embodiments, the belts 210 may be operated to actuate adjacent belts in opposing directions such that the forces in differing directions may create a more effective ice management. In other words, at least two adjacent belts 210 of the plurality of belts 210 may be actuated to move in opposing directions to generate more effective abrasive motion on the ice.

[0076] According to various example embodiments, the control system may be capable of only operating belts 210 which face an incoming ice sheet. Thus, there may be power savings as well as possible extension or preservation of the operational lifespan of such a conveyor belt type ice-breaking mechanism 208. Further, the control system may be capable of rotating the barge 206 such that a particular set of operating belts 210 may be configured to face incoming ice sheets. This may allow the ice-breaking mechanism 208 to continue operating even if some belts 210 cease to be operable, due to maintenance or malfunction etc.

[0077] According to various example embodiments, continuous rotation of the rollers 212 may move the belt 210. When the ice sheets approach the floating platform 200, the ice sheets may come into contact with the moving belt 210 of the ice-breaking mechanism, the continuous rotating belts 210 with its sharp teeth will grind or abrade the ice such that the ice may crack or fragmentalize.

[0078] According to various example embodiments, the continuous operation of the ice-breaking mechanism 208 with the moving belts 210 may possibly ensure that the offshore platform 200 remains clear of any incoming ice sheets. The annular structure 206, on which the these belts 210 are fitted may always adopt to the prevalent sea water level, thereby always maintaining an optimum draft for the most efficient operation of the ice-breaking mechanism 208.

[0079] According to various example embodiments, the annular structure 206 of the offshore platform 200 may include a track on the platform 202, which is connected to the support structure 204. The track may run along a periphery of the platform 202 such that the track is configured to encircle the support structure. The ice-breaking mechanism 208 may include a hydraulic ram mechanism, which may be connected to the track (i.e. the annular structure). In other words, the hydraulic ram mechanism may be mounted on the track, which may be installed on the platform 202 on the support structure 204. The movable element 210 of the hydraulic ram mechanism may include a hydraulic ram. The hydraulic ram may include strong narrow chisels or digging chisels. In use, the position of the hydraulic ram mechanism may be shifted along the track. Since the track is configured to encircle the support structure 204, the hydraulic ram mechanism may be positioned anywhere along the track and around the support structure 204. The hydraulic ram mechanism may be operated such that the hydraulic ram may be set into a cyclical vertical motion. In other words, the hydraulic ram mechanism may be operable to extend the hydraulic ram vertically downward from the hydraulic ram mechanism such that the chisels may contact a water surface. Subsequently, the hydraulic ram may be retracted. Accordingly, when ice sheets approach the offshore platform 200, the ice sheet located directly below the hydraulic ram mechanism may be hit by the chisels of the extending hydraulic ram. The hydraulic ram may be operated to extend at a predetermined speed such that the ice sheets may be hit with a force sufficient to cause the ice sheet to break, crack or fragmentalize. [0080] The crushed or fragmented ice pieces created by the ice-breaking mechanism 208 according to the various example embodiments may flow with the water stream bypassing the cylindrical structure 204 without posing any structural threat or stability threat to the offshore platform 200. According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 200 may further include a diversion mechanism (i.e. a flow generation mechanism) to brush away or disperse crushed ice.

[0081] According to various example embodiments, the diversion mechanism may include movable arm coupled to the adjustable barge 206 or under the deck platform 202. The movable arm may be arranged to be inserted into the water at or near the surface, and at a position extending slightly beyond the circumference of the barge 206. The movable arm may include a generally flat panel, and the arm may be configured to be actuated in a back and forth motion, with respect to the adjustable barge 206, so as to move the fragmented ice pieces to flow about the barge 206 and away from the offshore platform 200. The movable arm may further be movable about the barge 206, such that the flat panel may be inserted into the water at any point about the circumference of the barge 206.

[0082] According to various example embodiments, the diversion mechanism may include a fluid flow generation mechanism. The fluid flow generation mechanism may be configured to drive the water to flow around and about the cylindrical structure 204, and away from the cylindrical structure 204. Such water flow may then carry away the fragmented ice portions. For example, the bottom of the barge 206 portion may be provided with a plurality of propeller devices, where the propeller devices may create a flow about and around the cylindrical structure 204. FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of a cross-sectional perspective of the cylindrical structure 204 and the barge 206 with a flow generation mechanism 216 according to various example embodiment. The flow generation mechanism 216 may include a plurality of propulsion devices 216, such as propellers. Each of the plurality of propulsion devices 216 may be provided at each cardinal point on the barge 206. To generate water flow about the barge 206, three of the plurality of propulsion devices 216 may be operated to generate water flow in the same direction, such that the water and fragmented ice is agitated and carried quickly about the cylindrical structure 204. To effectively generate the required flow of water around the cylindrical structure 204, the barge 206 should be kept in position with respect to the cylindrical structure 204 by using the locking mechanism 236. According to various example embodiments, instead of a propeller, a fitting screw may be provided for driving the water flow.

[0083] According to various example embodiments, to install the offshore platform 200, the complete offshore platform 200 may be towed to the desired offshore location. Through controlled flooding of the tanks in the lower compartment of the cylindrical structure 204, the offshore platform 200 may be lowered down into the water so that the bottom 232 of the cylindrical structure 204 may rest on the seabed. The skirt 332 which may be fitted all along the periphery of the bottom 232 of the cylindrical structure 204 may sink into the seabed ensuring that the bottom 232 sits on the seabed firmly. Furthermore, the suction mechanism which may be fitted at the bottom 232 of the cylindrical structure 204 may contribute to the firm footing on the seabed, thereby adding to the overall stability.

[0084] FIGs. 9 A to 9E show a schematic diagram of filling and storing of crude in the offshore platform 200 according to various example embodiments. While the cylindrical structure 204 settles on the seabed, the flooding will continue till the lower compartment of the cylindrical structure 204 is completely filled with sea-water (FIG. 9A). Production of crude oil may start when operation is started at the production facilities, such as drilling tower 230 etc., installed on the platform 202. The crude oil may be pumped into the lower compartment 242 and the sea-water originally stored in the lower compartment 242 may in turn be pumped into the upper compartment 244. Gradually, the oil fills up most of the space in lower compartment 242 while the displaced sea-water which is contaminated with oil fills up the upper compartment 244 (FIG. 9B). In the fully stored condition, the lower compartment 242 is full of crude oil and the upper compartment 244 is full of oily sea-water (FIG. 9C).

[0085] Once the full storage is achieved, the system may continue to hold the crude oil till a shuttle tanker arrives. The crude oil may then be transferred from the lower compartment 242 to the shuttle tanker and subsequently taken to shore based refinery. The oily sea-water may again be pumped back from upper compartment 244 to the lower compartment 242 (FIG. 9D). Subsequently, the lower compartment 242 may again be filled with oily sea-water (FIG. 9E). These two compartments 242, 244 may constitute a closed loop system and may offer an environmentally safe solution for storage since none of the oil or oily sea-water goes out to the open sea. This cycle of oil storage and transfer may continue for years. When the exploration and production of the specific site is completed, the cylindrical structure may be lifted up through controlled de-flooding of lower compartment 242 and then towed to a different location.

[0086] According to various example embodiments, the capacity of the storage system may be in the range of anywhere between 250,000 barrels to 300,000 barrels or more and the system may operate in water depth of 20m to 70m or more.

[0087] According to various example components, the lower compartment 242 may be filled with sea-water and is intended to hold only sea-water. During production, when crude oil is extracted, it may be directly pumped into the upper compartment 244. Thus, the upper compartment 244 may be provided solely for storage of oil, while the lower compartment 242 may be provided solely for water storage. This may allow a strict separation between the crude oil and the water.

[0088] FIGs. 10A and 10B show an offshore platform 1000 according to various example embodiments. The offshore platform 1000 may include a platform 1002. The platform 1002 may be similar to the platform 202 of the offshore platform 200 in FIG. 2. The offshore platform 1000 may further include two or more support structure 1004 extending from a base surface of the platform 1002. The two or more support structures 1004 may be configured to support the platform 1002 such that, in the offshore location, the offshore platform 1000 may be erected with the platform 1002 held above a water surface while the two or more support structures 1004 supporting the platform 1002 may extend into the water.

[0089] The offshore platform 1000 may further include an annular structure 1006 connected to each of the two or more support structures 1004. Each of the annular structure 1006 may be configured to encircle each of the two or more support structures 1004. In other words, the annular structure 1006 may be arranged such that each of the two or more support structures 1004 extends through a centre hole of each of the respective annular structure 1006. Each of the annular structure 1006 may further be slidably movable in a vertical direction on each of the two or more support structures 1004 along a longitudinal axis of each of the two or more support structures 1004. Each of the annular structure 1006 may further be configured to float on water. Thus, each of the annular structure 1006 may slide in the vertical direction on each of the two or more support structures 1004 according to the rise and fall of the water level. Each of the annular structure 1006 may be similar to the annular structure 206 of the offshore platform 200 in FIG. 2.

[0090] The offshore platform 1000 may further include an ice-breaking mechanism 1008 connected to each of the annular structure 1006. The ice-breaking mechanism 1008 may include movable element 1010. The ice-breaking mechanism 1008 may be similar to the ice-breaking mechanism 208 of the offshore platform 200 in FIG.2.

[0091] The movable element 1010 may be configured to abrade floating ice approaching the support structure 1004 of the offshore platform 1000. In other words, when a floating ice approaches the offshore platform 1000, the floating ice may come into contact with the ice-breaking mechanism 1008 on the annular structure 1006. The movement of the movable element 1010 of the ice-breaking mechanism 1008, for example the movement of the belt 1010 may grind or abrade the floating ice such that the floating ice may crack, break or fragmentalize. The ice-breaking mechanism 1008 may cut away incoming ice, thereby shielding each of the two or more support structures 1004 from any undue forces that may be exerted by the ice. Further, the gaps between the two or more support structures 1004 may allow the fragmented ice to flow easily across the offshore platform 1000.

[0092] According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 1000 may further include an intermediate platform 1022. The intermediate platform 1022 may be coupled to the two or more support structures 1004. The two or more support structures 1004 may be disposed between the platform 1002 and the intermediate platform 1022. In other words, the platform 1002 may be connected to a top end of each of the two or more support structures 1004, and the intermediate platform 1022 may be connected to a bottom end of each of the two or more support structure 1004. [0093] According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 1000 may further include a base structure 1024 coupled to the intermediate platform 1022. The base structure 1024 may be configured to support the intermediate platform 1022. The intermediate platform 1022 may be configured to be removably attachable to the base structure 1024.

[0094] According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 1000 may further include a locking mechanism 1062 configured to removably couple the base structure 1024 to the intermediate platform 1022.

[0095] According to various example embodiments, the two or more support structures 1004 may include cylindrical columns 1004. In FIGs. 10A and 10B, it is shown that there may be three cylindrical columns 1004. The three cylindrical columns may have equal dimensions and may support the platform 1002. The upper end of all the three columns 1004 may be rigidly connected to a bottom of the platform 1002. The lower end of all the three columns 1004 may be rigidly connected to the top of the intermediate platform 1002. The three columns may also interface with the water surface and offer minimal resistance to the water flow across the offshore platform 1000 such that fragmented or broken ice sheets may flow across the offshore platform 1000 easily. The three columns may also support the ice management system (i.e. the ice-breaking mechanism) 1008 which may be installed onto the annular structure 1006 encircling around each of the three columns 1004.

[0096] FIG. 11 shows a top view with partial cross-section of the offshore platform 1000. According to various example embodiments, two columns 1054, 1056 of the three columns 1004 may be within a periphery of the circular shaped intermediate platform 1022, while the third column 1052 may be intersecting with the periphery of the circular shaped intermediate platform 1022. In other words, one 1052 of the three columns 1004 may have only a portion of an end surface of the column 1052 connected to the circular shaped intermediate platform 1022. According to various example embodiments, a slot 1060 may run down from a top surface of the circular shaped intermediate platform 1022 to a bottom of the base structure 1024. The slot 1060 may be utilized for running drilling lines from the platform 1002, through the inner region of the third column 1052 and then running through the slot 1060 till the bottom of the cylindrical stool 1024 and then to the well at the seabed.

[0097] According to various embodiments, the upper end of the three columns 1004 may be connected to the platform 1002, while the lower end may be connected to the intermediate platform 1022. Thus, the intermediate platform 1022 may support the columns 1004, which in turn, may support the platform 1002.

[0098] FIG. 12 shows various configurations of the offshore platform 1000. According to various example embodiments, the intermediate platform 1022 may rest on the seabed to provide all the necessary support to the platform 1002 and keep it above the water surface with certain height. In other words, the offshore platform 1000 may be installed in the location without the base structure 1024. According to various example embodiments, when the water depth is higher than the height of the column structure 1004, the intermediate platform 1022 may be removably coupled onto the base structure 1024, which may be in the form of a cylindrical stool, of appropriate height, which in turn may be installed on the seabed.

[0099] According to various example embodiments, the locking mechanism 1062 between the intermediate platform 1022 and the base structure 1024 may maintain the complete offshore platform 1000 upright and stable under the environmental conditions. [00100] According to various example embodiments, the offshore platform 1000 may be provided with the slot 1060 near to the periphery of the intermediate platform 1022 for running of the drilling line down to the base structure 1024. During installation, the slot 1060 in the intermediate platform 1022 has to be aligned with the corresponding slot 1060 in the base structure 1024, thus providing a continuous path for the drilling line that runs from the platform 1002 to the seabed.

[00101] According to various embodiments, the base structure 1024 may include a cylindrical structure 1024 acting as a stool to support the intermediate platform 1022, and hence the components above the intermediate platform 1022. This base structure 1024 may configured to be structurally sound to support all the loads. Further, a locking mechanism 1062 may be provided between the base structure 1024 and the intermediate platform 1022 which can secure the intermediate platform 1022 onto the base structure 1024. The base structure 1024 may further be configured to be removable from the seabed.

[00102] According to various example embodiments, to further improve the stability of the base structure 1024, a protruding element extending out from an external surface of a base of the support, similar to the skirt 332 in FIG. 3, may be provided.

[00103] According to various example embodiments, the removable base structure 1024 may be pre-installed with the rest of the components of the offshore platform 1000 and carried out to sea for installation together. Alternatively, an installation of the removable base structure 1024 may be separate from and earlier than the installation of the rest of the components of the offshore platform 1000, for example the support structures 1004 and the intermediate platform 1022. According to various embodiments, the base structure 1024 may be carefully placed on a selected position on the sea bed. The intermediate platform 1022 and support structure 1004 may then be filled with water as ballast and lowered carefully onto the base structure 1024 and a secure connection may be made, by way of the locking mechanism 1062. To dismantle the offshore platform 1000, the intermediate structure 1022 along with the support structure 1004 and the platform 1002 may then be uncoupled from the base structure 1024.

[00104] FIG. 12 shows various configurations of the offshore platform 1000. The drilling tower 1030 on the platform 1002 may be elevated to the required heights depending on the sea level at the indented area for drilling. The drilling tower 1030 may be independently installed over a drilling site, if for example, the intended drilling location sits on land. If the intended drilling location lies in water that is of an intermediate depth, the drilling tower 1030 may be installed on a platform 1002 and subsequently on an intermediate structure 1022 through columns 1004. The drilling tower 1030 may be provided extending horizontally from the platform 1002 so as to provide a clear vertical path downwards to the sea bed for drilling purposes. When the intended drilling location lies in deep waters, the drilling tower 230 may be installed on a platform 1002 supported by the intermediate structure 1022 and the support structure 1004, which is then installed on the base structure 1024.

[00105] According to various example embodiments, the provision of the base structure 1024 may allow for the intermediate platform 1022 and the support structure 1004 to be provided at a fixed height. While the height of the base structure 1024 may be varied according to the sea level of intended installation site. This may allow for cost effective mass -production of the intermediate platform 1022 and the support structure 1004, as only the base structure 1024 requires customized manufacturing. [00106] According to various example embodiments, for very shallow water depth, the offshore platform 1000 including a platform 1002, three support structures 1004 and an intermediate platform 1022 may be sufficient to perform the exploration and production activities. To install the offshore platform 1000, the complete offshore platform 1000 may be towed to the desired location and then through controlled flooding of the ballast tanks in the intermediate platform 1022, the offshore platform 1000 may be lowered down so that the intermediate platform 1022 rests on the seabed. Once installed, the offshore platform 1000 may be operated to perform drilling or production activities.

[00107] According to various example embodiments, for deeper water depth, a base structure 1024 may be installed first at the seabed. Subsequently, the rest of the offshore platform 1000 including a platform 1002, three columns 1004 and an intermediate platform 1022 may be installed onto the base structure 1024. The locking mechanism 1062 may be provided between the base structure 1024 and the intermediate platform 1022, which may secure the intermediate platform 1022 onto the base structure 1024. A skirt which may be fitted all along the periphery of the bottom of the base structure 1024 may sink into the seabed ensuring that the base structure 1024 sits on the seabed firmly.

[00108] According to various example embodiments, for drilling operations, the drilling line may run from the platform 1002 to the seabed through the slot 1062 provided at the periphery of the intermediate platform 1022 and the base structure 1024. In the final installed condition, the slots in the intermediate platform 1022 and the base structure 1024 may align to form a continuous channel for the drilling line.

[00109] Advantageously, the offshore platform as disclosed herein according to various example embodiments may, for example, allow drilling and/or oil production in cold (Arctic) region offshore fields in which there are presence of ice sheets. In particular, the offshore platform may perform drilling and production in Arctic region without much obstruction from the incoming ice sheets. The platform supporting structure may include ice-breaking mechanism to deal with incoming ice-sheets and overcome the lateral forces from them, thereby allowing a smooth operation for drilling and oil production. Further, the multi-modular feature may allow the offshore platform to operate at different water depths with equal ease. The offshore platform may further performs drilling, production and liquid storage management of substantial volume, which maybe discharged into shuttle tankers on a periodic basis.

[00110] While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced.