Abstract: A device for assisting in the underwater extraction or insertion of an elongate element disposed in a pipe is provided. The device includes a clamping and vibration-generating assembly including a sealed housing bearing a gripper and including a member for tightening the gripper on the pipe, an adjustable vibrator for vibrating the housing and the gripper, and a member for measuring the vibration produced by the vibrator on the pipe in order to determine the optimum vibration The device also includes a controller for remotely controlling the gripper and the vibrator. A method for assisting in the extraction or insertion of an elongate element is also provided.

Abstract: Interconnecting apparatus (10) for a pair of structural members or space frame assemblies is disclosed. Apparatus (10) includes a button (12) attached to an end of one structural member and a receiver (18) attached to the end of another structural member. Receiver (18) includes a cradle (38) with a wall (40) on one side and a lip (42) on the other. Button (12) fits snugly into cradle (38) between wall (40) and lip (42) and is retained there by a locking mechanism, such as clip (24). Interconnect mechanism (10) may be used in a variety of applications including connecting a pair of trusses together and creating a space frame structure.