Abstract: A pile handling tool for use in lowering and stabbing a pile underwater. The tool incorporates a simple release mechanism to engage or disengage the tool from the pile using an ROV. A sleeve is sized to be received over the top end of the pile. A lifting eye is provided on the top of the sleeve. A stop plate is provided in the sleeve that allows it to rest on top of the pile. A pile centralizer provided in the sleeve substantially centers the pile in the sleeve when the sleeve is lowered over the pile. Pile support pins movably received in cylinders on the sleeve are form the release mechanism and are movable by an ROV for installation of the tool and lifting and installing of a pile.

Abstract: An apparatus for near vertical laying of pipeline offshore. A support base and framework on a lay vessel support an alignment tower that extends upwardly from the base and is designed to support the pipe joint to be added to the pipeline. A support tower that supports the weight of the pipeline is attached to the support base such that the support tower extends downwardly therefrom into the water. A travel block is adapted for movement along the length of the tower for raising or lowering the pipe and pipeline. A pedestal that is movable between open and closed positions for receiving a pipe section from the travel block and supporting the weight of the pipeline is positioned near the bottom of the tower. A strongback or boom may be used to grasp a pipe joint from a ready rack and transfer the pipe joint into the alignment tower for addition of the pipe joint to the pipeline. The extension of the support tower into the water eliminates the need for a stinger.

Abstract: An apparatus for near vertical laying of pipeline offshore. A support frame and movable deck on a lay vessel support a tower at the desired angle for pipe laying. The tower has a travel block that is movable between open and closed positions for receiving a pipe section and supporting the weight of the pipe or pipeline. The travel block is adapted for movement along the length of the tower for raising or lowering the pipe and pipeline. A pedestal that is movable between open and closed positions for receiving a pipe section and supporting the weight of the pipeline is positioned near the bottom of the tower and adapted to transfer the weight of the pipeline from the travel block to the pedestal without the need to open the travel block. A strongback with adjustable clamps is used to grasp a pipe section from a ready rack and transfer the pipe section into the tower for addition of the pipe section to the pipeline. The strongback is guided into and up the tower by rails.

Abstract: A method of installing a cold water conduit for use with Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), fossil or nuclear power plants. The method is comprised of installing a marine railway system on the ocean floor and subsequently using the railway system as an aid to the installation of the cold water conduit and as a support structure for the conduit.