The Ryan Ramp-A Unique Stabilizing Design for a Dynamic Situation

ABSTRACT The Ryan Ramp (Patent pending) is a unique structural design which affords safe transfer of personnel and equipment between vessels and offshore structures. A study conducted on the prototype ramp under actual field conditions is presented in this paper. The tests relate the forces involved in the system and the stability imparted to the vessel. The swing rope and personnel basket are also compared with this new technique. Design details are discussed. INTRODUCTION Problems in the transfer of personnel and equipment at sea have been in existence since the invention of boats. Although many devices have been designed to solve this problem, the offshore industries generally use two basic methods: the personnel basket and the swing rope. These techniques have managed to keep the industry operating, but not without problems. The purpose of the Ryan Ramp is to increase safety and accessibility to offshore structures. This new design has been in active use for over a year and was used in all operational sea conditions without a malfunction. It weathered Hurricane Carmen, which had 180 mile per hour winds, without damage to the platform or the ramp. DISCUSSIONS Swing Rope The swing rope is the least expensive and the most used method. It operates satisfactorily in light seas with no outside assistance. However, many accidents have resulted from this technique. A person using the swing rope successfully must possess the following physical dexterity:Confidence in his ability to negotiate the transfer.Timing in order to grab the rope when the boat is on the top of the swell.Judgment as to when to release from the rope. Otherwise, he may swing back between the boat and the structure.Strength to hold his body weight by his hands alone while swinging.Agility to adjust to the impact when he hits the deck while maintaining balance on a moving boat. In using the swing rope, the boat operator must position the boat close to the structure and the man preparing to use the swing rope must get close to the side or stern of the boat. If a swell surges the vessel into the platform, the impact can cause damage and send him over the side. Personnel Basket The personnel basket requires a crane on the structure which has as its primary function: the handling of heavy equipment. It is relatively inexpensive and is more effective in rougher seas than the swing rope. This method requires the structure be manned in order to operate the crane. It is limited by the skill and ability of the crane and boat operators, as well as the ability of the passengers on the basket. Also, the loose construction of the basket tends to give the passenger a feeling of insecurity, particularly when he is hanging on the outside high above the water. Since the crane operator is located well above the boat deck, many accidents have resulted from misjudgments.