With Orienting Or Aligning Of Member For Connection Patents (Class 166/341)
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Patent number: 8528646Abstract: An apparatus for blocking or capping a pipe end is disclosed. The apparatus includes a tubular body defining a central cavity having an inlet, an outlet, and an axis. The apparatus also includes a plurality of conical blocker rings mounted to an inner diameter surface of the tubular body within the cavity, at least some of the blocker rings being rigid and some of the blocker rings being compliant. The blocker rings are adapted to seal to a pipe end inserted into the central cavity. The rigid blocker rings have an outer diameter joined to an inner diameter of the central cavity, and the compliant blocking rings have an inner diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the rigid blocker rings and are adapted to seal around an exterior of the pipe when inserted from the inlet.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Pawel Karol Stezycki
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Patent number: 8511389Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly having a completion landing string inside a drilling riser is described herein and comprises a power source for generating an alternating electrical current; a connector for connecting the power source to a receptacle in the subsea well assembly; a first inductor electrically connected to the power source through the connector; a subsea control module delivering power and control signals to the subsea well assembly; and a second inductor spaced from the first inductor, and located in the subsea control module, the second inductor positioned so that an EMF is produced on the second inductor when the alternating electrical current is passed through the first inductor to thereby generate an alternating current signal on the second inductor.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Stephen P Fenton
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Patent number: 8511387Abstract: A cap is lowered onto and secured to a subsea member with an external flange, effecting a seal between the external flange and cap. The cap includes a tubular outer body defining a cavity, and a tubular inner body defining a bore, wherein the lower end of the inner body resides within the cavity. The cap also includes a lower engaging member coupled to the outer body that is radially movable between an inward state and an outward state and configured to alternately engage and disengage at least one of a backside of the external flange. Finally, the cap includes an upper engaging member coupled to the outer body and being radially movable independently of the lower engaging member between an inward state and an outward state and configured to engage and disengage the inner body.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2010Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Thomas A Fraser, John G Landthrip, Eric D Larson, Sara N Riddle, Dale Norman, Jamie C Gamble, Satish N Ramasheshaiah, James R Reams
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Publication number: 20130206419Abstract: The present invention relates to a blowout preventer for being mounted on a well head, comprising a plurality of valves arranged in fluid communication with each other, connected and forming a tubular pipe. Furthermore, the invention relates to a launcher system, a well intervention module, a well intervention system and a well system.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2011Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: WELLTEC A/SInventors: Jørgen Hallundbaek, Lars Mangal
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Patent number: 8499838Abstract: A connector is lowered onto and secured to a subsea member, effecting a seal between subsea member and the connector. The connector includes an outer body defining a cavity, and an inner body defining a bore, wherein the lower end of the inner body resides within the cavity. The connector also includes an engaging member coupled to the outer body and adapted to engage the subsea device, the engaging member radially movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The connector includes a seal carried by the inner body and adapted to form a seal between the bore and the subsea device. Finally, the connector includes a pre-loading member coupled to the outer body, operable to urge the inner body and seal against the subsea device to exert a pre-loading force on the seal. A differential pressure between the bore and a subsea environment energizes the seal.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Thomas A Fraser, John G Landthrip, Eric D Larson, Sara N Riddle, Dale Norman, Jamie C Gamble, Satish N Ramasheshaiah, James R Reams
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Patent number: 8499839Abstract: A connection device comprises a lock component of non-circular cross-sectional shape, the lock component being both angularly and axially moveable relative to a housing, stop means operable to limit angular movement of the lock component relative to the housing, the lock component having a threaded drive region, and a drive nut in threaded engagement with the drive region, wherein angular movement of the drive nut relative to the housing when the stop means are not engaged is able to drive the lock component for angular movement, rotation of the drive nut when the stop means are engaged causing axial displacement of the lock component relative to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Viper Subsea LimitedInventors: Iain Reid, Paul Charles Roberts, Alistair Ross Donald
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Publication number: 20130192843Abstract: A method and system for rapid containment and intervention of a subsea well blowout that can be performed in a rapid and efficient manner, where containment will minimize the damage to the environment and assets. The method can include disconnecting a riser from a subsea well after a blowout has occurred and moving the mobile offshore drilling unit away from the subsea well. Connecting a lower marine riser package with a blowout preventer, and diverting the well. The pressure and flow of the well fluid can be observed. At least of portion of the diversion path can be closed off and kill fluid and or cement pumped to the subsea well to kill and control the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Inventor: Leo William Abel
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Patent number: 8485260Abstract: A system and method to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning components using removable, modular component sets. In one exemplary embodiment, an ROV establishes a backup hydraulic flow to a BOP function by attaching one end of a hose to a modular valve block and the other end to an intervention shuttle valve, thus circumventing and isolating malfunctioning components. A compound intervention shuttle valve is provided that comprises first and second primary inlets, first and second secondary inlets, and an outlet. A modular valve block is provided that comprises a directional control valve, a pilot valve, a manifold pressure regulator, a pilot pressure regulator, stab type hydraulic connections and an electrical wet-make connection.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater DrillingInventors: Steve O'Leary, Tom Thrash, Angela Donohue
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Publication number: 20130168101Abstract: A vertical subsea tree is operated by a subsea control module supplied with hydraulic and electric power from the surface through the vertical subsea tree. A landing sub is communicatively coupled to the surface with a landing sub umbilical and run to the vertical subsea tree. The landing sub engages mating penetrations on an upper portion of the master valve block of the vertical subsea tree to supply flow passages extending from the penetrations to the subsea control module through the master valve block. The subsea control module is then operated through the landing sub umbilical to control operation of the vertical subsea tree.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.Inventors: William Thomas Bryson, Michael Wenham, Paul White
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Patent number: 8474538Abstract: A connector assembly that can be used to connect a tension ring to a telescoping joint on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of hydraulically actuated hang-off dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. To prevent accidental disengagement of the hang-off dogs, a hydraulically actuated lock ring is used to provide a positive stop against the back of the hang-off dogs.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2010Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: David Andrew Wallace, Martin Urquhart
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Patent number: 8474540Abstract: The connector comprises a male flange 15 and a female flange 14 allowing to assemble a main tube and auxiliary line tubes 11. A locking collar 17 and a locking ring 40 assemble the male flange and the female flange. Locking collar 17 is mounted mobile in rotation on the outer surface of the male flange while cooperating with the outer surfaces of the male and female flanges. Locking ring 40 is mounted mobile in rotation on the male element of the connector while cooperating with the inner surface of the female connector.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2011Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Jean Guesnon, Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
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Patent number: 8474539Abstract: The present disclosure provides an improved design for a pull tube sleeved stress joint and associated pull tube for managing stresses on a catenary riser for a floating offshore structure. The pull tube sleeve stress joint includes at least one sleeve surrounding a length of the pull tube with an annular gap between the sleeve and pull tube and a link ring therebetween. For embodiments having a plurality of sleeves, a first sleeve can be spaced by an annular first gap from the pull tube and coupled thereto with a first ring between the pull tube and the first sleeve, and a second sleeve can be spaced by an annular second gap from the first sleeve and coupled thereto with a second ring between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. Both pull tube and sleeves can be made with regular pipe segments welded together with regular girth welds.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Michael Y. H. Luo, Bob Lixin Zhang, Shih-Hsiao Mark Chang
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Patent number: 8459345Abstract: A whipstock assembly includes a pivotable deflector movable from a retracted to a deployed position. In the deployed position, the deflector is capable of guiding a tubular member away from the whipstock.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Douglas Bruce Bell
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Patent number: 8434558Abstract: A device for containing fluid flow from a borehole includes: a containment assembly including a body having a cavity configured to receive a leaking portion of a borehole termination structure extending from the borehole and surround the leaking portion, the cavity configured to be adapted to at least partially conform to a shape of at least one of the leaking portion and the borehole termination structure; and a flow control assembly configured to connect a fluid conduit in fluid communication with the containment assembly and direct downhole fluid into the fluid conduit.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Aaron R. Swanson, James P. Dwyer, Todd J. Talbot
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Publication number: 20130098626Abstract: A subsea wireline system for soft landing equipment during installation. The subsea soft landing wireline system includes coarse alignment members that can be part of a tree and interact with a funnel located on the equipment to be installed by the soft landing system. Smaller alignment members can provide fine alignment and also interact with a funnel located on the equipment to be installed. The funnels are used to trap sea water that provides a cushion for the equipment being installed. Once in alignment, trapped water can be released from the funnel or funnels via a restricted orifice and/or a control valve located on an ROV. The system achieves soft landing without the use of a running tool, thus reducing expense.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2011Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Ronald Baker, Pradeep Dhuper
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Patent number: 8418765Abstract: A combined piloting method of remote operated underwater vehicles includes: connecting, to a vertical profile, a constraint device including at least two arms arranged at a reciprocal fixed angular position, each of the at least two docking arms including at a first end a device for the hooking of a remote operated underwater vehicle, the at least two docking arms being constrained at one of their second ends to a device for the sliding and rotating hooking to the vertical profile; connecting at least two remote operated vehicles to the constraint device; detecting the position of the overall structure consisting of the constraint device and remote operated vehicles; detecting the orientation of each of the remote operated vehicles; receiving data relating to the position and orientation to be reached; determining the power required by each remote operated vehicle; and transmitting related commands to each vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: ENI S.p.A.Inventors: Paolo Ferrara, Michele Filippini, Roberto Finotello, Tiberio Grasso
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Patent number: 8418766Abstract: An underwater connection installation (26) and a laying method for connecting a riser and a flexible pipe (22) that are intended for carrying hydrocarbons. A post (28) is attached to a float (20) to suspend the riser (12) below the surface. The post (28) supports a gooseneck shape pipe (54) that has a bent-over outlet free end (58) ending in a first coupling (60). A coupling end piece (32) mounted on the flexible pipe (22) includes a second coupling (86). The coupling end piece (32) and the post (28) define mechanical guides including complementary frustoconical rings (64, 84). The driving of the coupling end piece (32) and of the bent-over free end (58) toward each other causes the frustoconical rings (64, 84) to engage one another to bring about coaxial alignment of the couplings (60, 86).Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: Ange Luppi
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Patent number: 8397837Abstract: This invention relates to a system for controlling the movements of objects in an automated or remote operated system, as well as a related method and use of the system comprising independent transporting means for moving a number of objects relative to each other, the system being providing with means for controlling the position and velocity of the objects relative to each other. Each object is related to a defined geometric shape related to the object positions having dimensions corresponding to or exceeding the physical dimensions of the object in all directions, and also defining a critical allowed distance between the defined geometric shapes.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Aker Kvaerner MH ASInventor: Pål Skogerbø
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Patent number: 8387702Abstract: A multicoupler, particularly for gas or oil production, comprises at least one male and one female part. Said parts comprise a plurality of fluid coupling members which can be assigned to one another and which are in engagement with one another when male part and female part are in the coupling position. One of the parts comprises a connecting means including a spindle, which connecting means in the coupling position is in engagement with a mating connecting means on the other part.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Klaus Biester
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Publication number: 20130048295Abstract: A device for capturing hydrocarbons discharged from a subsea flow passage comprises an elongate tubular structure having a central axis, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end. The second end is open and in fluid communication with the first end. The tubular structure includes a rigid stabbing member extending axially from the second end and configured to he inserted into the flow passage. In addition, the device comprises an annular flexible skirt disposed about the stabbing member. The skirt is secured to the stabbing member and extends radially outward from the stabbing member. The skirt is configured to flex from an unflexed position to a flexed position upon insertion of the stabbing member into the flow passage. The skirt is biased to the unflexed position and has an outer diameter in the unflexed position that is greater than the inner diameter of the flow passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Pierre Albert Beynet, Douglas Paul Blalock, Kevin James Devers, Trent James Fleece, Kinton Lowell Lawler, Jason Edward Waligura
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Publication number: 20130048294Abstract: An underwater well is completed by extending an elongate stinger laterally outward from a vessel positioned at the water surface. The stinger is extended to curve downward toward a wellhead of the well. A well completion string is deployed from the vessel on the stinger while supporting the completing string to curve outward and downward from the vessel toward the wellhead. The completion string is then guided into the wellhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Travis Thomas Hailey, JR., Thurman Philip Harrell
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Patent number: 8376049Abstract: A running tool for use in handling control modules on a subsea production tree. The running tool is deployable on wire line and includes a column like body and a connector adapted for connection to the production tree. The running tool also includes a hoist system that is selectively positioned by a swiveling jib crane for handling the control modules. A replacement control module can be included with the running tool when the tool is deployed from above the sea surface. After the running tool connects to the production tree, the jib crane can position the hoist for attachment to and removal of an existing control module on the production tree. The hoist can then to attach to and install the replacement control module and can be further manipulated to retrieve the existing control module and stow it onto the body.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Robert Bell
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Patent number: 8371385Abstract: The device described herein combines a subsea wellhead and a tree mandrel into a single piece. The wellhead includes a tree valve block having an upper and lower section. The lower valve block section is integral with the wellhead and includes access between the production line and the tubing annulus to the main bore of the wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Caspar G. Lewis
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Patent number: 8360147Abstract: A location-and-rotation feedback tool that provides accurate feedback of the location and orientation of a well component during running operations in wells. The feedback tool device is adapted to be secured on a tool stem above a running tool and comprises a body, a circumferentially extending groove, and a hole in the groove that vents to the bore of a blowout preventer. The circumferential groove aligns with a fluid line port in the blowout preventer to provide location feedback via a fluid line pressure. The hole aligns with the fluid line port in the blowout preventer to provide rotation feedback via fluid line pressure.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: David L. Ford, Johnny E. Jurena
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Publication number: 20130014954Abstract: Methods and devices for forming a subsea connection over an existing subsea connection are described herein. In one embodiment, a subsea connector for forming a sealed connection to a subsea connection comprises a connector body including a sealing portion. The connector body comprises a throughbore running therethrough. The subsea connector also comprises a latch clamp assembly coupled to the sealing portion. The latch clamp assembly comprises at least a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion movable to couple to an existing subsea connection. The connector body and latch clamp assembly together form a sealed connection to the existing subsea connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventor: JOSEPH KILLEEN
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Publication number: 20130008661Abstract: Subsea well intervention module (100) for performing well intervention operations in a well (101) through a well head (120) from a surface vessel (102), comprising a supporting structure (110), a pipe assembly (170) fastened to the supporting structure and having two opposite ends, an inner diameter and a cavity (182) in which an intervention tool (171) may be arranged for pressurising the cavity (182) when connected to the well head or a blowout preventer arranged on top of the well head to wellbore pressure before at least one valve (121) of a well head is opened and the tool is submerged into the well, a connection member connected with a first end (202) of the pipe assembly for providing a connection to the well head, a wireless intervention tool (171) having an outer diameter and comprising an electrical power device (196). The connection member has an open first end connectable with the well head or blowout preventer and a through-bore providing fluid passage from the first end to the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2011Publication date: January 10, 2013Inventors: Jørgen Hallundæk, Paul Hazel
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Patent number: 8322429Abstract: A method for interchangeably connecting undersea a marine package with first and second pressure control devices. The method includes lowering undersea the marine package toward the first pressure control device such that a first half of a feed-thru component mounted to the marine package contacts a second half of the feed-thru component mounted on the first pressure control device; engaging the first and second halves, wherein the first and second halves of the feed-thru component were not previously engaged while the marine package and the first pressure control device were each assembled above sea; and locking the first half to the second half by using an external pressure such that a functionality of the feed-thru component is achieved.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLCInventors: Robert Arnold Judge, Perrin Rodriguez
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Patent number: 8322428Abstract: A casing hanger nesting indicator generates a signal to notify personnel on the surface that a wellhead member has properly landed on a predetermined surface within the wellbore. The casing hanger nesting indicator comprises a signaling device such as an explosive charge or a frequency shift key wherein the noise or vibration of the signaling device travels through the wellbore, via the drilling conduit in some embodiments, up to the surface platform.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Charles E. Jennings
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Patent number: 8316947Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for deploying a subsea well intervention system from a surface vessel to a subsea tree, including connecting a spoolable compliant guide (SCG) to a subsea intervention package; testing the connection; lowering overboard the intervention package into a water column using a primary lifting device; gradually paying out the SCG from a reel thereof as the intervention package is lowered to a seabed; transferring the weight of the intervention package to a secondary lifting device, wherein the intervention package functions as a dead weight to overcome a positive buoyancy of the SCG, a distance between the primary and secondary lifting devices creates and controls a shape of the SCG; and once landed onto a subsea tree with heave compensation, disconnecting the secondary lifting device from the intervention package, and hanging the SCG off at the vessel at deck level.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Daniel Sack
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Patent number: 8316948Abstract: A box and pin coupling for a drilling riser having an actuator assembly with an attached dog. The actuator assembly includes an actuation rod having an end affixed to the dog. A portion of the rod is circumscribed by an annular sleeve, where the outer surface of the sleeve is threadingly attached to one of the box or pin. A shoulder is formed on the rod outer circumference between the sleeve and the end of the rod attached to the dog. A retainer cap is provided on the end of the rod opposite where it attaches to the dog. The sleeve abuts the rod on one end, and the retainer cap on the other, so that rotating the sleeve axially moves the actuation rod, that in turn moves the attached dog into or out of engagement with a profile on the other of the box or pin.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2010Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Rick L. Stringfellow, Jesse L. Bullard, Tom A. Fraser, Brian N. Munk
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Publication number: 20120292037Abstract: An adjustment and restraint system for a subsea flex joint may include a pusher saddle to be installed on a flex joint top plate and a hydraulic cylinder to be disposed in the pusher saddle. The hydraulic cylinder may be used to adjust a tilt angle of the adapter spool. A holder saddle may also be installed on the flex joint top plate. The hydraulic cylinders, the holder saddles, holder members, or a combination thereof may be used to restrain the adapter spool in the upright position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Luis Javier Gutierrez, Kevin Taylor Lanan, Fred Lamar Smith
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Patent number: 8307903Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for subsea well intervention operations, including retrieval of a wellhead from a subsea well. In one aspect, a method of performing an operation in a subsea well is provided. The method comprising the step of positioning a tool proximate a subsea wellhead. The tool has at least one grip member and the tool is attached to a downhole assembly. The method also comprising the step of clamping the tool to the subsea wellhead by moving the at least one grip member into engagement with a profile on the subsea wellhead. The method further comprising the step of applying an upward force to the tool thereby enhancing the grip between the grip member and the profile on the subsea wellhead. Additionally, the method comprising the step of performing the operation in the subsea well by utilizing the downhole assembly. In another aspect, an apparatus for use in a subsea well is provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Weatherford / Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Redlinger, Andrew Antoine, My Le, Richard J. Segura
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Publication number: 20120279718Abstract: A method for connecting a coupling parts of a subsea coupling arrangement, wherein the coupling parts comprises at least one sealing surfaces, the method comprising connecting the coupling parts by displacing the coupling parts towards each other, wherein a watertight seal is formed when the coupling parts are connected, feeding filtered sea water through a channel into a space between the coupling parts during the displacement, flowing the filtered sea water over the sealing surfaces to prevent particles and dirt from being trapped between the sealing surfaces, and discharging the filtered sea water from the space into surroundings of the subsea coupling arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2012Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventor: Svend Erik Rocke
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Publication number: 20120273213Abstract: A riser system connects a subsea source of hydrocarbons to a collection vessel. The system includes a riser, a lower end of the riser fluidly coupled to a seal stem, the seal stem in turn fluidly attached to a lower riser assembly through a polished bore receptacle. The upper end of the riser is connected to the collection vessel, the riser being maintained in a near vertical position. Methods of installing and using the riser systems for killing and cementing wells are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2012Publication date: November 1, 2012Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Douglas Paul Blalock, Michael Patrick Cleary, Thomas Patrick Mataway, Steven Dirk Koepke
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Patent number: 8297361Abstract: An oil recovery system recovers oil released at the bed of a body of water. The system includes a fluid collector assembly positionable proximate to the bed of the body of water. The collector assembly has an open lower end to receive fluid and has an upper end coupled to a lowermost fluid transfer tube. Fluid transfer tubes are interconnected in a string between the lowermost fluid transfer tube and a vessel positioned to receive fluid transferred through the fluid transfer tube. A guide cable is anchored at the bed of the body of water to guide the fluid collector assembly and the fluid transfer tubes to the bed. A lift cable selectively lowers the fluid collector assembly and the fluid transfer tubes to the bed. Fluid entering the collector assembly rises to the water surface via the transfer tubes.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2011Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Inventor: Warren N. Root
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Patent number: 8286713Abstract: A completion system and method for completing a subsea well with angular alignment-free assembly The system includes a series of circumferential channels formed in a well completion device at a boundary between a tubing hanger and the completion device. The circumferential channels provide complete circular fluid paths with respect to the tubing hanger and the completion device. A supply bore and a drain bore are in communication with each circumferential channel and oriented to supply a fluid to and remove fluid from, respectively, the circumferential channel. A circumferential electrical connector couples the tubing hanger and the completion device. The circumferential channels and bores provide fluid services between the completion device and the tubing hanger and the electrical connector provides electrical services to the tubing hanger. The completion system allows the fluid and electrical services to be provided without requiring any angular alignment between the tubing hanger and the completion device.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2009Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Argus Subsea, Inc.Inventor: Earl Broussard
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Patent number: 8267179Abstract: A connection tool for connecting a pipeline to a subsea connection structure which includes a connection porch (22) into which the pipeline is connected, the tool comprising:—a tool chassis (26);—a carrier (28) mounted on the chassis (26) and adapted to releasably carry the pipeline;—at least one locating member (30) positioned at the front of the chassis (26) so as to be engageable with the locating posts (24) on the connection porch (22) to hold the chassis (26) adjacent to the connection porch (22), a hinge connecting the locating member (30) to the chassis (26), such that the azimuthal orientation of the chassis relative to the connection porch can be varied when the locating member (30) is engaged with the locating post, wherein the locating member (30) includes a locking member that engages the locating post when the locating member (30) is engaged thereon.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2007Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: VerdErg Connectors LimitedInventors: David John Butcher, Richard John Wood
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Publication number: 20120217015Abstract: There is provided a high power laser-riser blowout preventer package and laser module for use with a subsea riser. The laser module and laser-riser package use high power laser energy to quickly cut the riser permitting an offshore drilling rig to quickly, and in a controlled manner disconnect from a blowout preventer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2011Publication date: August 30, 2012Applicants: Foro Energy, Inc., Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Mark S. Zediker, Henry A. Bergeron, Philip V. Clark, Brian O. Faircloth, Joel F. Moxley, Paul D. Deutch, Charles C. Rinzler
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Publication number: 20120211232Abstract: A method of completing a subsea wellbore includes providing one or more conductor anchoring assemblies on an outer surface of a conductor; forming the subsea wellbore; positioning the conductor in the subsea wellbore; and energizing the one or more conductor anchoring assemblies into contact with the subsea wellbore, thereby stabilizing the conductor in the subsea wellbore. In yet another embodiment, the method further includes extending the subsea wellbore; positioning a casing inside the conductor, wherein the casing includes a casing anchoring assembly; and energizing the casing anchoring assembly into contact with the conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Inventors: Kristoffer Grodem, Hallvard Svadberg Hatloy, Sean B. Yakeley, Mona Desai, Brad T. Easley, Njaal Hove
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Patent number: 8245774Abstract: The present invention discloses a whipstock assembly for use in forming a lateral borehole from a parent wellbore. The whipstock assembly comprises a body and a deflection member above the body. The deflection member includes a concave portion for deflecting a milling bit during a milling operation. Disposed on a perforation plate portion of the concave portion is a raised surface feature. The raised surface supports a milling bit above the perforation plate portion during a milling operation. This, in turn, substantially prevents frictional contact between the milling bits and the perforation plate portion during a milling operation. The present invention also provides a novel method for manufacturing a whipstock in which a cavity portion is formed behind the perforation plate by milling out the backside of the deflection member and then joining a second back cover member to the whipstock body to complete the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Thurman B. Carter, Thomas M. Redlinger, David J. Brunnert
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Publication number: 20120199358Abstract: A connecting device for mating and connection on the sea bed of first and second pipelines having first and second pipe ends at the connection point, is shown. The connecting device includes a first connecting part retaining the first end; a second submersible connecting part retaining the second end and a connector arranged between the connecting parts for final connection between the pipe ends. A guiding device engages with a guiding structure during a lowering motion of the second connecting part towards the first connecting part and pivots the second connecting part into coarse alignment of the second pipe end in a direction towards the first pipe end such that the first and second pipelines are brought to align with each other. An adjacent ramp structure with abutment surfaces and a guiding mechanism cooperate with the second connecting part and contribute to fine alignment of the pipe ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Inventor: Johan Larsson
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Patent number: 8235122Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly includes an outer wellhead member with a bore containing at least one conical generally upward facing load shoulder that inclines relative to an axis of the bore. The outer wellhead member also contains an overpull recess having a generally downward facing overpull shoulder positioned below the at least one generally upward facing load shoulder. An inner wellhead member is lowered into the housing, the inner wellhead member having at least one conical downward facing load shoulder that inclines relative to an axis of the bore. A load ring has an inner profile that slidingly engages the downward facing load shoulder and an outer profile that slidingly engages the upward facing load shoulder.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Nicholas P. Gette
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Patent number: 8230920Abstract: A whipstock includes deflector movable from a retracted to a deployed position. In the deployed position, the retractor is capable of guiding a tubular member away from the whipstock as the tubular member passes downwardly along the whipstock.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2010Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Douglas Bruce Bell
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Publication number: 20120181038Abstract: A subsea winch is described. The subsea winch comprises a housing adapted to be attached to a well intervention system, the housing having an inlet and an outlet and at least one powered sheave arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the or each powered sheave having a surface adapted to form a frictional engagement with a cable passing between the inlet and the outlet via the at least one sheave. In use, a pull force pulling the cable in a downhole direction applied to the cable by a tool string being lowered into the well intervention system is increased by the winch such that the downhole pull force on the cable at the housing inlet is greater than the downhole pull force at the housing outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2010Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: Jeffrey Charles Edwards, Michael Graham Morgan
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Publication number: 20120168169Abstract: An electrical and hydraulic configuration on a subsea tree that facilitates the use of an ROV control system to operate the tree during well installations, interventions, and workovers. An SCM at the tree is in communication with a fixed junction plate that receives a production umbilical during normal operation. The ROV can be deployed to disconnect and park the production umbilical during well installations, interventions, and workovers to prevent accidental operation of the SCM or tree. The junction plate is configured to connect with the ROV and thereby establish communication with the hydraulic lines of the SCM. The ROV may carry an umbilical from a vessel to provide electrical and hydraulic service to the SCM during well operations. In addition, the ROV has facilities to repressurize spent control fluid to thereby allow reuse of the control fluid by the SCM.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.Inventor: Robert K. Voss
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Publication number: 20120160505Abstract: A load transferring subsea structure (10) for temporary guiding and permanently relieve forces within a pipe connection that is subjected to bending moments when connection is completed. A connector (3) keeps the pipe ends (E1, E2) together. The load transferring structure (10) includes one basically stationary structure (1) that retains a first pipe end (E1) and one basically manoeuvrable structure (2) that retains the second pipe end (E2). The second pipe end (E2) is to be connected to the first, stationary pipe end (E1). The stationary structure (1) includes portions (6) having predetermined configuration including fitted surfaces (6a, 6b) for interaction during mating with complementary portions (11, 12) having predetermined configuration including fitted surfaces (14, 15) on the mobile structure (2) for creation of a load path external of the pipe ends (E1, E2).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Ulf Lønnemo, Terje Pedersen, Rolf Nerem, Per Lillejordet, John Anders Ingebo
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Publication number: 20120145405Abstract: An adjustable riser suspension system for suspending a riser under tension including a riser hanger, a mating sleeve rotationally coupled to the riser hanger, a ratchet-latch sleeve located inside the mating sleeve with an external profile configured to engage an internal profile of the mating sleeve and an internal profile configured to engage an externally threaded face of the riser. The riser hanger and mating sleeve are configured to move downward relative to the riser such that the mating sleeve fits over at least a portion of the riser, causing the ratchet-latch device to ratchet over the external threads of the riser. The mating sleeve is configured to rotate relative to the riser, causing the internal and external profiles of ratchet-latch device to lock the riser and the mating sleeve to prevent movement of the riser relative to the mating sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2011Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventors: Delbert Edwin Vanderford, Max Van Adrichem
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Patent number: 8196666Abstract: Flexible riser, comprising a length of a flexible pipe with an upper end, a bend restrictor and a termination for hanging up on a vessel, a floating installation or a platform, distinguished in that the bend restrictor in the upper end is connected to an adapter pipe extending from a lower end at the bend restrictor to an upper end, to an end coupling to which the upper ends of both the flexible pipe and the adapter pipe are fastened, the flexible riser extending through the bend restrictor and the adapter pipe and the end connection comprising a means for hanging up at deck level of the vessel, the installation or the platform. Method for pulling-in and hanging up of the flexible riser.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Advanced Production and Loading ASInventor: Sigmund Askestad
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Publication number: 20120080193Abstract: A running tool for use in handling control modules on a subsea production tree. The running tool is deployable on wire line and includes a column like body and a connector adapted for connection to the production tree. The running tool also includes a hoist system that is selectively positioned by a swiveling jib crane for handling the control modules. A replacement control module can be included with the running tool when the tool is deployed from above the sea surface. After the running tool connects to the production tree, the jib crane can position the hoist for attachment to and removal of an existing control module on the production tree. The hoist can then to attach to and install the replacement control module and can be further manipulated to retrieve the existing control module and stow it onto the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2010Publication date: April 5, 2012Applicant: VETCO GRAY INCInventor: Robert Bell
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Patent number: 8141643Abstract: A method of installing equipment subsea comprising the steps of: assembling the equipment within a frame; submerging in the sea at least a part of an assembly comprising the frame and the equipment; coupling the at least partially submerged assembly to a vessel; transporting the at least partially submerged assembly proximate a subsea installation site; coupling the assembly to an installation device; and installing the equipment at the installation site using the installation device. A frame for supporting equipment is also disclosed wherein the frame is shaped to match the dimensions of the equipment to be supported. The frame comprises at least one clamp having a first half clamp member for releasably engaging a second half clamp member of a second structure and a full clamp member for clamping around and supporting the equipment. The first half clamp member and the full clamp member can be integrally formed.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Subsea 7 LimitedInventor: Mick Fowkes