The project required detailed modelling of the hydrodynamic response of the structure in shallow water for input into BMT's Rembrandt simulator for real-time simulation. BMT's hydrodynamicists then validated the mathematical model of Orlan with Crowley personnel prior to running a number of simulation workshops to establish tug requirements for tow and set-down as well as establishing operability envelopes for the set-down process in Chayvo Bay, Sakhalin Island, Russia.

To meet operational requirements, Orlan had to be set down within 5m of the target location and within 1º of the desired heading.

The first phase of the project involved using PC Rembrandt to assess the number and size of tugs required to safely handle Orlan during the final transit from the staging area to the set-down point and then manoeuvre the structure into position at the target site.

These simulations included the effects of various combinations of wind, waves and current and were performed using detailed electronic charts of the set-down and staging area, created from recent hydrological survey data.

The second phase of the project utilised a refined PC Rembrandt simulation that included the ability to model the actual set-down of the structure. BMT's advanced mathematical algorithms enabled modelling of the entire operation from approach through set-down allowing multiple scenarios to be quickly and effectively assessed.

Following the detailed evaluation of tow and set-down scenarios, the Orlan structure was successfully installed within 1m of its target location.

MJ Information No: 21400