Including Means To Pull Member Into Position Patents (Class 166/343)
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Patent number: 8087464Abstract: A system for installation of a subsea module of great length by means of a vessel, using a cable for its installation and/or retrieval, and methods applied therein. The system allows transporting the subsea module on the vessel to a location in the sea and descending the subsea module into the sea at a vertical position for installation on the seabed.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.-PetrobrasInventors: Roberto Rodrigues, Luiz Eduardo Peclat Bernardo, Robson Soares Junior, Giovani Colodette, Romulo Cobe Vasconcellos, Sergio Luis Uliana, Orman Salvador Toscano
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Patent number: 8038368Abstract: A system for starting up a flowline suitable for conveying hydrocarbons is provided. The flowline is extended over the seabed from a wellhead and terminated at a joint end. The joint end is suitable for connection to a subsea riser extended in a catenary. The flowline is able to stretch and a lock fixes the joint end with respect to the seabed for maintaining the flowline in its stretched position, and preventing its return movement.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2005Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Ange Luppi, Roland Daly
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Patent number: 8028752Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for setting a plug in, or retrieving a plug from, a horizontal xmas tree. The apparatus comprises a housing with a throughbore adapted to be releasably connected at a first end to a horizontal xmas tree, the housing including an at least one axially moveable member which also includes an at least one radially moveable element and a tool deployable within the housing throughbore by an elongate support and adapted to be releasably connected to the plug. The tool has an outer surface portion profiled to releasably engage with an engagement surface the at least one radially moveable element whereby, in operation, engagement of the at least one radially moveable element with the tool outer surface portion permits the plug, connected to the tool, to be set in the horizontal xmas tree or retrieved from the horizontal xmas tree by axial movement of the at least one axially moveable member.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Expro North Sea LimitedInventor: Andrew Richards
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Patent number: 7967070Abstract: A subsea connector is disclosed. The connector includes a guide funnel assembly that may be coupled to a subsea structure. The guide funnel assembly may receive a shaft. The shaft may be coupled to a bend restrictor/limiter or a bend stiffener. The shaft may be received inside the guide funnel assembly. The shaft may include a recess. A latch assembly may be coupled to the guide funnel assembly. The latch assembly may include one or more dogs and a latch operating device. The dogs may be radially moveable in and out of the interior of the guide funnel assembly. The dogs may be inserted into the recess of the shaft to inhibit longitudinal axial movement between the shaft and the guide funnel assembly. The latch operating device may control the in and out radial movement of the dogs.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Deep Sea Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Sanjay Konda Reddy
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Publication number: 20110094748Abstract: An automatic release system for a riser includes a guide funnel assembly that receives a shaft coupled to the riser. A pull-head is located inside at least a portion of the shaft and coupled to the shaft. The pull-head is coupled to a pulling mechanism. One or more spring-loaded dogs are mounted on the outside of the shaft. The dogs radially move in and out through one or more openings in the shaft aligned with the dogs and engage a groove on the pull-head when radially moved in through the openings. One or more stopper mechanisms are mounted on the outside of the shaft and aligned with the dogs. In a first position, the stopper mechanisms inhibit the dogs from disengaging from the groove in the pull-head. In a second position, the stopper mechanisms allow the dogs to disengage from the groove in the pull-head.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2010Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventor: Sanjay K. Reddy
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Patent number: 7866398Abstract: An underwater termination assembly for use with a subsea system such as a well tree, comprises a construction having first and second limbs substantially at a right-angle to each other, which construction may be lowered having an umbilical connected to one of the limbs so that said one of the limbs sits on the bed of a body of water.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
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Patent number: 7798232Abstract: A technique facilitates formation of connections between compliant tubular members and subsea facilities. A compliant tubular member is deployed to a subsea location in a manner that arranges the compliant tubular member in a curvilinear shape. The distal end of the compliant tubular member is drawn down into proximity with the subsea facility and then moved horizontally into alignment with the subsea facility. Subsequently, the distal end is lowered into engagement with the subsea facility without being detrimentally affected by motion of an upper end of the compliant tubular member.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Colin Headworth
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Publication number: 20100139925Abstract: A connector (1) for connecting components of a subsea system, the connector comprising male and female components (3, 2), guide means (11) for assisting preliminary orientation of the male component within the female component and means (18; 20; 21) for drawing the male component into the female component and latch means (22) for securing the male component within the female component.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: LEWIS LIMITEDInventors: David Ernest McKay, Drummond Lawson, Malcolm George Cameron Milne
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Patent number: 7690433Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing, adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Oceeaneering International, Inc.Inventor: Graeme E. Reynolds
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Publication number: 20100038090Abstract: An underwater termination assembly for use with a subsea system such as a well tree, comprises a construction having first and second limbs substantially at a right-angle to each other, which construction may be lowered having an umbilical connected to one of the limbs so that said one of the limbs sits on the bed of a body of water.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2008Publication date: February 18, 2010Applicant: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
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Patent number: 7621338Abstract: A wellhead assembly includes a tree cap having a production mandrel extending down into a production passage of a Christmas tree to form a seal. The tree has an annulus bore and an annular cavity at the upper end of the tree surrounding the upper ends of the production and annulus bore. A communication gallery leads between the annulus bore and the cavity. The tree cap also includes an annular sealing member that enters the cavity for sealing a communication gallery.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Wenham, Alistair D. Crozier
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Patent number: 7537057Abstract: A connector for securing a first cylindrical member to a second cylindrical member comprises a cylindrical body which includes a first end that is attached to the first member and a second end that is positioned proximate the second member, a cylindrical housing sleeve which is positioned concentrically over the body and which includes an upper end portion that is secured to the body and a lower end portion that is disposed adjacent the second member, a cylindrical primary piston that is positioned between the body and the housing sleeve, a locking mandrel which is connected to or formed integrally with the primary piston and which includes at least first and second annular portions that have different diameters, and a split lock ring which is supported by the lower end portion adjacent a number of locking grooves in the second member and which includes at least first and second cylindrical portions that correspond to the first and second annular portions of the locking mandrel.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Shiva Singeetham, Eric Baltmanis
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Patent number: 7503391Abstract: A tieback connector for attaching a riser to a subsea production assembly is provided. The tieback connector includes a main body adapted to be coupled to the subsea production assembly having a central passageway sufficiently large to pass an end of the riser string therein and a connector positioner coupled to the main body, which is adapted to secure the tieback connector around a circumferential surface of a wellhead of the subsea production assembly. The tieback connector further comprises an aligning extension portion defined by a funnel-shaped tip, which aids alignment of the riser terminus during landing of the riser string onto the wellhead. The tieback connector secures the riser to the wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Dril-Quip, Inc.Inventors: Jason C. McCanna, Larry E. Reimert
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Patent number: 7490670Abstract: A subsea oil and/or gas exploitation device including at least one guide member for guiding subsea equipment that is to be landed and connected to the device into a connecting position in relation to the device. The at least one guide member includes an array of projections provided for the purpose of engaging corresponding recesses arranged in a corresponding guide member of the subsea equipment.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia ASInventor: Patrice Aguilera
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Patent number: 7467662Abstract: An installation apparatus comprises a coupling member, a guide member, and a securing member operable to secure a termination system to the coupling member.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Deep Down, Inc.Inventor: Ron Smith
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Patent number: 7431092Abstract: A well assembly for intervention of a subsea well or a well head with a wireline or a coiled tubing connected to a tool or a toolstring and including lubricator and an injector package. The injector package is adapted to inject the wireline or coiled tubing into the well or well head. The lubricator is adapted to be fitted in a lubricator package and define a locking chamber via which the wireline or coiled tubing is to be forwarded to the well or well head. The lubricator is adapted to be connected to the well head. The injector package includes an injector module adapted to be fitted to the well head. The injector module is adapted to forward the lubricator through it when the packages are connected to each other and to the well head, for the purpose of injecting the wireline or coiled tubing into the well or well head. The lubricator includes a lubricator pipe element and an associated moveable stripper/packer element adapted to be connected to a well barrier module on the well head.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia ASInventors: Svein Audun HÃ¥heim, Edgar Johan Heim, Sturla Wold, Christopher Hoen
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Patent number: 7357184Abstract: A jacking frame for an oil well offshore platform is provided that includes a support structure; a coiled tubing injector supported by the support structure and having a longitudinal axis; and a centralizer attached to the support structure, which moves a wellhead of the platform into alignment with the longitudinal axis of the coiled tubing injector.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Bart Patton, Yarom Polsky
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Patent number: 7234528Abstract: A tieback connector connects a riser between a subsea wellhead housing and a floating platform. The tieback connector has a tubular body that stabs into and seals with a casing hanger. A latch member on the tieback connector engages a locking profile to secure the tieback connector to the wellhead housing. A sleeve is slidably carried on the tubular body between a running-in position and a set position. The lower end of the sleeve lands on an upper rim of the casing hanger prior to the seal engaging the seal surface. Continued downward movement of the tubular body relative to the sleeve causes the seal to engage the seal surface and the sleeve to move to the set position. The sleeve has upper end that engages a lower end of the latch member to limit any upward movement of the casing hanger in the wellhead housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2005Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Jr., Jeffery K. McCarty
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Patent number: 7225876Abstract: A reciprocable connector assembly for coupling a service line through a path in a wellhead and hangar wall, the assembly comprising: connector for coupling with a corresponding connector disposed in the hangar wall; a shuttle carrying said connector between a first position in which the connector is not coupled to the corresponding connector and a second position in which it is coupled, at least one service line connected at one end to the connector and wound in a plurality of turns to extend or retract with respect to one another as the shuttle moves between the first and second positions and a support for constraining movement of the turns.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Aker Kvaerner Subsea LimitedInventor: Marcio P Laureano
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Patent number: 7222674Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing, adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventor: Graeme E. Reynolds
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Patent number: 7165619Abstract: The subsea intervention system (SIM) includes a BOP module 10 and CT module 20. A tool positioning system 76 is used for positioning a selected subsea tool 22 stored within a rack 18 with a tool axis in line with the BOP axis, while a marinized coiled string injector 80 is moved by positioning system 81 to an inactive position. Power to the subsea electric motors 162 is supplied by an electrical line umbilical extending from the surface for powering the pumps 164, with the hydraulic system controlled by power control unit 198. The injector 80 preferably includes a pressure compensator roller bearing 220 and a pressure compensated drive system case 254.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2003Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventors: Preston Fox, John Goode, Ivan Iankov, David Martin, Andrew Michel, Ronald Yater
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Patent number: 7112009Abstract: An apparatus for substantially horizontal connection of a conduit to a subsea structure: A frame connectable to and supportable by the subsea structure, the frame has a docking device operable to allow a horizontal connection device, including one of a remotely operated vehicle and a toolskid, to dock with the frame such that the frame is capable of bearing at least part of an operational load associated with the horizontal connection of the conduit to the subsea structure.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2002Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignees: Technip France SA, Technip Offshore UK LimitedInventor: Calum Mackinnon
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Patent number: 7044228Abstract: A subsea well system has a flowline jumper that extends between components on the sea floor. The jumper has connectors on each end for connecting to the two components and has a curved portion. At least a portion of the jumper is buoyant to cause it to assume a vertical arcuate configuration when installed. One end of the jumper has a connector that has a mandrel that guides into a mating socket formed on the end of an arm. The arm is mounted to a ring that can be rotated to various orientations.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Gawain Langford, Francisco Dezen, Lars-Petter Sollie, Stephen P. Fenton
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Patent number: 7028777Abstract: A running tool 10, a lockdown sleeve 27, and a seal ring 24 are provided for axially fixing upward movement of a tubular hanger with respect to a subsea wellhead. The running tool 10 includes a tool latching and unlatching mechanism 51 for axially connecting the running tool to the subsea wellhead housing, a tool force applicator 64 for exerting a downward setting force, and a sleeve latching mechanism 73 for securing the lockdown sleeve to the subsea wellhead housing 20. The seal 24 is provided between the lockdown sleeve and one of the tubular hanger and the wellhead housing. The method of the invention includes running the tool and sleeve in open water to the subsea wellhead housing, locking the tool to the housing, setting the seal, locking the sleeve to the housing, then retrieving the tool in open water.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Dril-Quip, Inc.Inventors: Morris B. Wade, Gregory D. Williams, Lionel J. Milberger, Timothy A. Pillow
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Patent number: 6932553Abstract: The invention is a multipurpose system for a drilling and well intervention made of a pivotable, slidable cantilever on a platform adapted to pivot and to slide along an x-y axis; a tower disposed on the cantilever with a mast, a hoist winch, a splittable block connected to the mast, a trolley with a holding member wherein the trolley is moveably mounted to the mast and the splittable block, and a hoist cable that passes over the mast through the splittable block to the trolley; a storage device for storing tubulars; a racking arm secured to the tower for moving tubulars; a reel with coiled tubulars; a moveable injector head for running and retrieving coiled tubulars from the reel; and a retractable trolley moveably mounted on the mast with a holding member and adapted for positioning the tubulars over a well and over an additional work area.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Itrec, B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Christopher Louis Beato, Robert Frodo Van Kuilenburg
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Patent number: 6926097Abstract: An offshore jack-up workover rig. The workover rig includes a vessel which may be self powered or powered by a tug. The vessel may be raised above the surface of a water body by extending the legs until they reach the water body bed and then continuing to extend the legs. The workover rig contains a workover floor unit which includes at least a drawworks, a drawworks motor, and a well aperture. The workover rig is detachably mounted on an extensible cantilevered frame. The frame may be extended to position the workover floor unit over an offshore platform to be serviced. The workover floor unit is also configured to mover laterally relative to the extensible frame. The vessel is also provided with a crane. The crane may be used to lift the detachable workover floor unit from the vessel and deposit it, including its equipment, on the platform.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Inventor: Michael E. Blake
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Patent number: 6817417Abstract: An ROV, wireline or diver installed subsea xmas tree debris cap has an integral corrosion inhibitor/biocide provided in the form of a solid block which is wrapped in a water soluble membrane bag. The block is suspended inside the debris cap in a basket or perforated container. After installation of the debris cap, the membrane and solid block will dissolve and sanitize the stagnant water, thereby protecting all materials from corrosion for a number of years. The debris cap also includes an environmental seal in the form of a single O ring. Furthermore, the debris cap is simplified in that it does not include a conventional debris cap-to-xmas tree lockdown mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Richard Blair, William Crawford, Martin Forsyth, Graeme J. Collie, Kevin N. Hannigan
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Publication number: 20040216885Abstract: A method for attaching a first component which comprises a depending portion to a second component which comprises a bore that is sized and configured to receive the depending portion, wherein the first and second components are exposed to a fluid which is at an ambient pressure, comprises the steps of inserting the depending portion at least partially into the bore and then creating a bore pressure within the bore which is less than the ambient pressure. In this manner a pressure difference between the ambient pressure and the bore pressure will force the depending portion into the bore to thereby attach the first component to the second component.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2003Publication date: November 4, 2004Applicant: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Christopher D. Bartlett
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Publication number: 20040194963Abstract: A string of pipe is stored in a body of water for working over a subsea well. The string is stored in a substantially linear configuration having controlled curvatures along its length with radii that are not smaller than the minimum yielding radius of curvature of the pipe material. The string may be made up from individual segments of threaded pipe. One end of the string is inserted into the well using a pipe drive assembly connected with the wellhead. The opposite end of the string is connected to a line that extends to a surface facility. The string may be rested on the bottom of the sea or may be floated on the water surface or may be suspended with buoyancy devices in various orientations between the sea bottom and the water surface. The pipe string may be stored within a tubular sleeve or may be disposed directly in the seawater.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventor: Carlos A. Torres
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Patent number: 6766860Abstract: An offshore drilling rig contains a heavy-duty support cart that straddles the moonpool and rides on rails. A funnel-shaped hole extends through the support cart, and a cutout on one side of the cart provides lateral access to the hole. The cart can be moved to the region of the rotary assembly, where a length of tubulars can be suspended from the cart. For instance, when the BOP is pulled out for installation of the Xmas tree assembly, the BOP and attached riser can be pulled up above the seabed and hung from the support cart, then moved laterally out of the way while the Xmas tree assembly is installed. This lateral movement lowers the possibility of collision between the BOP and Xmas tree assembly. The BOP assembly can then be disassembled and at a later time, or hung until is needed for an adjacent borehole. In a preferred embodiment, the cart is included on multi-activity rigs with more than one load path, hoist, and rotary assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: GlobalSantaFe CorporationInventors: William G. Archibald, Paul Bruton
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Patent number: 6742594Abstract: A subsea well system has a flowline jumper that extends between components on the sea floor. The jumper has connectors on each end for connecting to the two components. At least a portion of the jumper is buoyant and sufficiently flexible to cause it to assume a vertical arcuate configuration when installed. One end of the jumper has a connector that has a mandrel that guides into a mating socket formed on the end of an arm. The arm is mounted to a ring that can be rotated to various orientations.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignees: ABB Vetco Gray Inc., ABB Offshore Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gawain Langford, Francisco Dezen, Lars-Petter Sollie, Stephen P. Fenton
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Patent number: 6615923Abstract: A protector for placement over subsea wellheads. A main body is cylindrical, with an inner diameter of sufficiant size to fit over a subsea wellhead. One end of the main body has a cap across it. A vent and a pump-through port, which permits pumping in of corrosion inhibitors, is in the cap. The open end of the main body has an outwardly flaring skirt to help guide the protector into place over the wellhead. The main body is formed from polyurethane via molding or other suitable methods.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventors: Milford Lay, Jr., Gregory J. Landry
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Publication number: 20030029618Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for moving equipment into and through a conduit that is preferably an oil and/or gas production well, wherein use is made of an uphole equipment storage and handling unit via which equipment modules can be moved into a launch conduit and connected to a shuttle device which is able to locomote itself as a wireless tractor via the launch conduit into and from the underlying conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2002Publication date: February 13, 2003Inventors: Hagen Schempf, Steve John Kimminau, Johannis Josephus Den Boer, John Foreman Stewart, Aarnoud Frederic Bijleveld
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Patent number: 6474416Abstract: A remotely installed pressure containing closure having a slight negative buoyancy, and a method for assembly of a slight negative buoyancy remotely installed pressure containing closure, such as a tree cap, on a subsea assembly, having at least one fluid bore, and more preferably a production bore and an annulus bore, wherein the remotely installed pressure containing closure comprises: a guidance ring having a plurality of chambers; optionally, a plurality of orientation pins affixed to the guidance ring for aligning the guidance ring to a funnel; buoyant material disposed in the chambers of the guidance ring to assist in creating a slight negative buoyancy for the remotely installed pressure containing closure; a cylinder connected to the remotely installed pressure containing closure for engaging sealing means on a subsea assembly for sealing at least one seal of at least one fluid bore of said subsea assembly; a debris cover connected to said cylinder to house equipment and cover the fluid bore; a mandreType: GrantFiled: January 10, 2001Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: Kvaerner Oilfield ProductsInventors: Scott Kennedy Beall, Roy Ortiz
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Patent number: 6409428Abstract: An apparatus for releasably securing a tubular structure of a floating installation to an anchor fixedly secured to an underwater floor has a first connection element mounted at one end of the tubular structure and a second connection element configured at one end to couple with the first connection element. The second connection element includes a pair of guides secured thereto which extend horizontally therefrom. A hinge device connects the second connection element to the anchor such that the second connection element is pivotably connected to the anchor. A plurality of cables connect to both the tubular structure and the anchor, whereby the pair of guides cooperate with the cables such that when the cables are under tension, the cables urge the second connection element to pivot and align with the first connection element.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: TechlamInventor: Olivier Moog
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Publication number: 20020040782Abstract: A method and system of subsea intervention comprises lowering one or more assemblies of intervention equipment into the sea. Underwater marine units (such as remote operated vehicles or small submarines) may be employed to connect the assemblies to each other and to the subsea wellhead equipment. The subsea wellhead equipment includes a carrier line spool (e.g., coiled tubing spool, wireline spool, slickline spool) and equipment to inject a carrier line from the carrier line spool into the subsea well. The carrier line spool can be located underwater, such as on the sea floor or positioned above the subsea wellhead equipment. The carrier line spool can also be located on a sea vessel. Also, to switch tools, a carousel system having multiple chambers containing different types of tools can be used.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2001Publication date: April 11, 2002Inventors: Gary L. Rytlewski, Thomas H. Zimmerman, Peter A. Goode, Ashley C. Kishino, John A. Kerr, Alan R. Christie
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Patent number: 6352114Abstract: A deep ocean drilling system is disclosed for drilling offshore wells in extremely deep water using smaller and more economical drilling vessels. The system utilizes a reduced diameter drilling riser that reduces the size and cost of conventional floating drilling unit. The reduced diameter drilling riser is detached from the blowout preventer stack and repositioned and attached to a mud return assembly. Large diameter casing is lowered into the wellbore outside of the reduced diameter riser. Thereafter, the reduced diameter drilling riser is released from the mud return assembly and repositioned over and reconnected to the blowout preventer stack.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1998Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Assignee: Ocean Drilling Technology, L.L.C.Inventors: David C. Toalson, William A. Hunter, Roger W. Mowell
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Patent number: 6343655Abstract: A method of intervention on the seabed (F) using a free end of one riser (24) originating from a semi-submersible platform (10) designed for producing oil from a deposit, at a number of distinct intervention points (30, 32), includes the following successive steps: tethering the platform (10) to immobilize it in a position floating over the deposit; installing the riser (24) connecting the floating platform (10) to the seabed (F) for intervention at a first intervention point (30); carrying out an intervention at the first intervention point (30); disengaging the free end of the riser (24) from the first intervention point (30), while keeping this end submerged; moving the free end of the riser (24) with respect to the seabed (F) towards a second intervention point (32), while keeping the floating platform (10) in place; and carrying out an intervention at the second intervention point (32).Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1999Date of Patent: February 5, 2002Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: Pierre Armand Thomas
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Patent number: 6276454Abstract: This invention provides a tubing injection system that contains one injector for moving a tubing from a source thereof to a second injector. The second injector moves the tubing into the wellbore. In an alternative embodiment for subsea operations, the system may contain a first injector placed under water over the wellhead equipment for moving the tubing to and from the wellbore. A second injector at the surface moves the tubing to the first injector and a third injector moves the tubing from the tubing source to the second injector. In each of the tubing injection systems sensors are provided to determine the radial force on the tubing exerted by the injectors, tubing speed, injector speed, and the back tension on the source. A control unit containing a computer continually maintains the tubing speed, tension and radial pressure on the tubing within predetermined limits.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Peter Fontana, Philip Burge
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Patent number: 6227765Abstract: A pipeline (23) device, comprising at least one end for connection to a connection site, e.g., on another pipeline (22), on the seabed. A sleeve, movable in the longitudinal direction of the pipeline (23), is arranged at the end of the pipeline (23). A pull-in device (4, 36, 39) grips the sleeve (29) in order to pull the end of the pipeline (23) towards the connection site. The sleeve (29) may be arranged rotatably on the pipeline, and the pipeline may comprise a conical portion (26) into which the sleeve (29) is adapted to enter in order to center the pipeline (23) end relative to the sleeve (29).Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1998Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignee: Kvaerner Oilfield Products A.S.Inventor: Knut von Trepka
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Patent number: 6116345Abstract: This invention provides a tubing injection system that contains one injector for moving a tubing from a source thereof to a second injector. The second injector moves the tubing into the wellbore. In an alternative embodiment for subsea operations, the system may contain a first injector placed under water over the wellhead equipment for moving the tubing to and from the wellbore. A second injector at the surface moves the tubing to the first injector and a third injector moves the tubing from the tubing source to the second injector. In each of the tubing injection systems sensors are provided to determine the radial force on the tubing exerted by the injectors, tubing speed, injector speed, and the back tension on the source. A control unit containing a computer continually maintains the tubing speed, tension and radial pressure on the tubing within predetermined limits.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1997Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Peter Fontana, Philip Burge
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Patent number: 6024514Abstract: The invention relates to a system for intercoupling of two pipeline which are located in a subsea position. A second pipeline (12) is preinstalled on a bottom based template or frame (10), and a first pipeline (2) is initially freely positioned, located in a smaller or larger distance from said second pipeline. Equipment is available for transport of said first pipeline to the bottom frame with said second pipeline, and equipment for positioning, holding and coupling of the pipelines, such that a pressure resistant, strong coupling is provided between the same. One aspect of the invention relates to a ring-shaped, open seat (18) mounted on the bottom frame (10) at a certain space in front of a terminator (14) on the end of the second pipeline (12) mounted on the bottom frame (10).Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1998Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Assignee: ABB Offshore Technology A/SInventor: Inge Ostergaard
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Patent number: 6004072Abstract: A subsea flowline (10) deployed onto the sea floor (S) has tie-in points for interfacing other subsea facilities. Mudmats (14A, 14B, 14C) support hubs (16A, 16B, 16C) at the tie-in points. One embodiment shown in FIG. 2 has a cradle (22) supporting flowline (10) for relative rotative movement. Hydraulic jacks (26) are connected to arms (24) to position and maintain hub (16) in a vertical orientation. Another embodiment, shown in FIG. 3, has an outer swivel sleeve (21A) which is mounted on mudmat (14A) and receiving flowline (10A) for relative rotation. An annular fluid chamber or toroid (25A) provides fluid communication between flowline (10) and hub (16A) connected to outer swivel sleeve (21A). Another embodiment, shown in FIG. 4, combines the features and characteristics illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1998Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: FMC CorporationInventor: Christopher E. Cunningham
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Patent number: 5992526Abstract: A lightweight ROV deployable tree cap (28) for deployment on a subsea production hub (10) of a subsea tree. A tree cap (28) has a lightweight body (30) with parallel planar sides and including suitable openings and slots for mounting of the various operating elements. A seal plate structure (64) includes a piston (66) connected to a seal plate (68) having a pair of downwardly projecting tubular seal members (70, 72) for fitting within the production bore (13) and annulus bore (15) of the tree hub (10) in a sealed landed position. Fluid pressure is applied to fluid line (96) to urge piston (66) and seal plate (68) downwardly into sealing landed position. For removal or retrieval of tree cap (28) from the installed position on subsea tree hub (10), fluid pressure is applied through fluid lines (108, 110) for the upward movement of seal plate (68) and tubular seal members (70, 72) from sealing relation with production bore (13) and annulus bore (15).Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1998Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: Christopher E. Cunningham, Vincent H. Vetter, Shiva P. Singeetham, Edmund M. Mouret, Christopher D. Bartlett
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Patent number: 5975803Abstract: System and method for joining together two assemblies which can move one with respect to the other, especially in underwater installations, comprising a remote-operated vehicle (17) comprising propulsion means (21) and at least one equipment item (19, 20) including hauling means (20) which attach to the assembly considered as being fixed (2) during connection, means of attaching to the other assembly considered as being mobile and which has to be connected to the said fixed assembly, means (19) of winching the said hauling means, the said equipment item being at least partially housed in a skid (18), characterized in that the remote-operated vehicle (17) further comprises a front chassis (22) that pivots about a pivot axis, the said pivoting chassis comprising the said means of attachment to the mobile assembly, the pivoting of the said front chassis being controlled in such a way that as the mobile assembly is moved towards the fixed assembly, the said vehicle is kept constantly in an approximately horizontaType: GrantFiled: May 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: CoflexipInventor: Calum Mackinnon
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Patent number: 5860477Abstract: A latching mechanism for a sub-sea control module is constructed with energy storing means such that a latch is cooked into an unlatched condition by the action of lifting the sub-sea control module to store energy in the energy storing means and is moved into a latched condition by the action of lowering the sub-sea control module into abutment with the mounting base.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1996Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Assignee: GEC-Marconi LimitedInventors: James Brian Wilson, David William Pearce
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Patent number: 5807027Abstract: The invention relates to a system for pull-in and interconnection of two pipelines in subsea position, whereof one first pipeline initially is freely suspended, while one second pipeline for instance is mounted on a bottom based manifold frame. The end section on the first pipeline is provided with a socket-like termination with a front end, which is provided with means (17) for coupling of the terminator (8) to complementary pipe coupling means (29) on the second pipeline (19). The terminator (8) is provided with a laterally directed, longitudinally shaped anchor element (10), and the manifold frame (22) is provided with receiving means (24) for receipt and fixation of the anchor element (10).Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1996Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Assignee: ABB Offshore Technology ASInventor: Inge Ostergaard
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Patent number: 5730551Abstract: A subsea connector system and method utilizing a skid (18) on the sea floor (F) four coupling a subsea conduit (16) carried by the skid (18) to a subsea conduit (12) on a relatively fixed subsea structure (10). A lift line device or structure (24) has an upper lift line (36) connected by a spreader bar (40) to a pair of lower guide lines (38) which are directed from a vertical position to a generally horizontal relation by J-tubes (30). The ends of the guide lines (38) have anchor members (42) thereon which are anchored to guides (46) on the subsea facility (10). Upon raising of the upper lift line (36), the skid (18) moves in a combined pulling and lifting motion to engage a side (52) of the subsea facility (10) for being guided into a docked position with aligned guides (46) on the subsea facility (10). In this position, an ROV (26) secures the skid (18) into a releasably locked position by insertion of retainer pins (not shown) into aligned openings (35, 51) of the skid (18) and subsea facility (10).Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1995Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: Harold Brian Skeels, Bill George Louis
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Patent number: 5501549Abstract: A tool for the remote-controlled pulling, aligning and connecting of a subsea conduit to a subsea installation. The tool includes a framework, a pulling wire with a pulling head which can be releasably attached to the end of the subsea conduit and also optionally aligning means which bring the ends of the conduit which are to be connected in line with one another. The tool has a frame pivotally mounted on the framework around a substantially horizontal axis oriented substantially at right angle to the axis of the conduit and at almost the same height at which the conduit will finally lie, said frame including a grip elevator which can grip and hold the pulled conduit and manipulate the end of the conduit between a slanting pulling position and a final substantially horizontal connecting position.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Assignee: Kvaerner Energy a.sInventors: Joren Breda, Jens Bakke, Sverre Caspersen
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Patent number: 5249891Abstract: An apparatus for guiding camera systems and the like subsea from a platform has a running tool and a guideline holder. These components are detachably assembled and the first runs and retrieves the second which connects guidelines to some fixed subsea point.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1992Date of Patent: October 5, 1993Assignee: Texaco Inc.Inventor: William W. Pecue, II