Submerging offshore support structure

Abstract

This is a support structure for situating and protecting operative devices in deep offshore locations to include certain types of wind turbines. The support structure can be made to submerge and reemerge automatically, with the operative device, to avoid damage that would be caused by hazards in a marine environment at or near the water's surface. Approaching hazards are detected remotely and by sensors located on and around the supporting structure. Critical environmental and support structure conditions are constantly monitored and managed by computer through a network of sensors, equipment controls, and pre programmed response sequencing.

1 . A submerging support structure for protecting an operative device situated in the sea offshore, comprising: a relatively stationary foundation zone in the lowest-most portion of the support structure and connected to the sea floor; a mid level, active zone secured to said foundation zone, said active zone substantially functioning to provide motive forces for repositioning at least the operative device above or below the sea surface; and a primary zone in the uppermost portion of the support structure from which the operative device is deployed, said primary zone and operative device being repositioned by the active zone according to the presence of hazardous conditions. 
     
     
         2 . The submerging support structure of  claim 1  further comprising a network of both sensors and equipment controls, connected to a computer system programmed to reposition at least the operative device upon specific signals from the sensors according to preprogrammed response sequences. 
     
     
         3 . The submerging support structure of  claim 1  further comprising a communication network, said network connected between the computer of  claim 2  and remote environmental input devices, and support structure monitoring and alternate control capabilities, such that the support structure may be moved above and below the sea surface automatically or by degrees of remote command.