Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a foundation that facilitates the extraction process by minimizing the soil resistance. When the foundation is lowered onto a seabed, it penetrates the seabed and experiences soil resistance therefrom. In particular, the suction generated at the base of the foundation contributes significantly to the soil resistance. The foundation is configured to uniformly distribute pressurized fluid to the base external via a plurality of outlets. The outlets are terminated with an interface layer to allow the transfer of pressurized fluid to the base external and prevent the ingress or seabed sediments into the body. The pressurized fluid released to the base external increases the pore pressure at the base external, thus minimizing the suction at the base.

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First Claim