Supporting, Anchoring, Or Positioning Of Pipe Or Cable Patents (Class 405/184.4)
  • Patent number: 10968326
    Abstract: Minimum Federal Safety Standards for corrosion control on buried oil & gas pipelines stipulate that metallic pipes should be properly coated and have impressed-current cathodic protection (ICCP) systems in place to control the electrical potential field around a protected pipe. In certain examples described herein, electrically-conductive composites can be used and provide intrinsically-safe materials without the dielectric shielding issues of existing materials used with pipelines. As reacted by customary spray applications, the nanocomposite foams described herein are directly compatible with ICCP functionality wherever foam contacts the metallic pipe. Various compositions and their use with underground and/or above ground pipelines are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Phillips Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Alan D Phillips
  • Patent number: 10391445
    Abstract: Processes for forming and sequestering CO2 clathrates in a marine environment are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: EXXONMOBIL RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY
    Inventors: Matthew S. Mettler, Ashish B. Mhadeshwar, Jean W. Beeckman, Robert D. Denton, Jason W. Lachance, Rustom M. Billimoria
  • Patent number: 9139971
    Abstract: An aggregate replacement device may be used to take replace rock aggregate in underground drainage systems. An aggregate replacement device may include a structure having a proximal end, a distal end, and at least one face. The at least one face may have a plurality of first openings. A second opening in the structure may extend from the proximal end to the distal end of the structure continuing uninterrupted through at least one of the at least one faces. The second opening may receive a pipe inserted in a radial direction of the pipe. The aggregate replacement device may also include a pipe retainer. An additional embodiment of the aggregate replacement device may include a stake which may be used to secure the aggregate replacement device in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventor: Alton F. Parker
  • Publication number: 20150147152
    Abstract: A pipe connection guide arrangement is adapted to align a first pipe section having a first flange with a second pipe section having a second flange. The arrangement includes a guide bar to be attached to the first pipe section in a manner in which the guide bar projects longitudinally beyond the first flange. Similarly, a guide funnel is to be attached to a second pipe section, wherein the guide funnel is adapted to receive and locate the guide bar to laterally align the first pipe section to the second pipe section. A stopper bar is provided on the guide bar forward of the first flange, wherein the stopper bar is adapted to abut against the guide funnel to longitudinally align the first pipe section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Garry Ray VAN HEERDEN, Ian TYNDALE-BISCOE
  • Publication number: 20150132064
    Abstract: A damaged portion of a pipeline buried in a trench is gradually lifted from the trench to expose the damaged portion above water and provide easy access to the damaged portion. Inflatable roller bags are placed under the pipeline adjacent the damaged portion; the roller bags are then inflated in a controlled manner using a computer-based control unit. A control manifold is connected to the control unit and each of the roller bags by a separate air conduit allowing controlled bag-inflation and bag-deflation process for each roller bag. Once the pipeline is repaired, the roller bags are deflated, lowering the pipeline back to its original position in the trench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: James Pirtle
  • Publication number: 20150110563
    Abstract: Apparatus for manipulating a longitudinally extensive member comprises a main body portion, ground contacting assemblies on which said main body portion is mounted, said ground contact assemblies being operable to convey the apparatus over a ground surface, a trench cutting device, and a mounting arm depending directly or indirectly from said main body portion and having a proximal end arranged proximate said main body portion and a distal end arranged distal from said main body portion, said distal end being operatively laterally movable with respect to the main body portion between a first limit position towards a first side of the apparatus and a second limit position towards an opposite second side of the apparatus. The mounting arm is provided with a lifting device configured to lift, and/or support assembly configured to support, said longitudinally extensive member, proximate said distal end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Jonathan Ralph Manchester
  • Patent number: 8998537
    Abstract: A portable pipe thrusting apparatus for inserting and removing a pipe from a borehole, comprising a collar configured to releasably grip the pipe; and a bi-directional driver coupled between the collar and the support frame, the driver configured to drive the collar toward and away from the borehole, to insert and remove the pipe from the borehole, wherein the support frame is portable and is transportable by a truck to the drilling site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Martin Cherrington
  • Patent number: 8992123
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for recovering the core (108) of a subterranean sheathed electrical cable (106), while minimising the impact on the surrounding environment. The apparatus comprises a ram (102) operable to exert a pushing force on the core of a length of the cable, a plurality of linkages, each linkage being configured to be insertable into the cable along its length under the action of the ram to displace the core relative to an outer sheath of the cable, and a puller operable (104) to exert a pulling force on the core to thereby facilitate removal of the displaced core from the outer sheath by action of the pushing/pulling forces. The apparatus and method are found to be particularly suited to the recovery of high-tension copper core cables, while enabling any hydrocarbon (e.g. oil) impregnated inner sheathing to be controllably disposed of without hazard to the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Rook Services Limited
    Inventor: Craig Murphy
  • Patent number: 8985907
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for the rapid and precise removable installation of a substrate-penetrating device that facilitates underground delivery of various utilities to and/or from devices mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Anthony Obiesie Okobi
  • Patent number: 8985906
    Abstract: An assembly for connecting a flexible line (20) to an underwater installation (18). The line is extended between the underwater installation (18) and a surface installation (16). The line (20) includes (i) a surface end (22), a bottom end (28) (ii) a contact portion (26) near the bottom end and a floating portion (24) which extends between the contact portion (26) and the surface end (22). The contact portion (26) includes an angled part (40) that divides the contact portion (26) into a first part (36) and a second part. Then angled part (40) is moored to the bottom (10) at an anchoring point (42) located in the opposite direction from both the bottom end (28) and the floating portion (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignees: Technip France, Advanced Production and Loading AS
    Inventor: Geir Olav Hovde
  • Patent number: 8974147
    Abstract: A device for controlling buoyancy of a buried pipeline, the device comprising a form placed atop the pipeline and a flexible strap extending around the form adjacent its top. The form may comprise a first trough located adjacent the first side of the pipeline, a second trough located adjacent the opposing second side of the pipeline, and a middle section with an inverted-U-shaped cross section such that the middle portion fits over the top of the pipeline and joins the first trough and the second trough. The troughs are filled with backfill when the pipeline is buried. Thus, when fully installed, the device may comprise the slot form, the strap, and the backfill. As the pipeline tends to rise, the straps deform, bringing the sides of the troughs inward and compressing the backfill therein. This prevents further upward movement of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Brian Webb
  • Patent number: 8950501
    Abstract: A riser clamp (20) comprising a first jaw portion (211) and a second jaw portion (212) that can be opened and closed relative to each other. The jaw portions (211/212) each comprise a thermoplastic body (301/302) that can be, for example, injection molded pieces of polyethylene (e.g., HDPE). The jaw portions (211/212) can be connected by a hinge (39) that is integrally formed therewith. The clamp (20) can also include cradles (701/702) and caps (711/712) for holding auxiliary lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Travis L. Sessions, Gary W. Schroeder, Tyler B. Miner, Larry G. Cobb
  • Patent number: 8950977
    Abstract: An elongate sling section is disclosed. The elongate sling is cooperable with like sling sections to form a sling for use in abandonment or recovery of a pipeline. The sling section includes end-pieces at five opposite ends and complementary connector formations associated with each respective end-piece. Each connector formation is cooperable, in use when forming a sling, with a complementary connector formation of a neighbouring sling section in the sling. The sling section further includes a tensile load-bearing sling element extending between the end-pieces and a sleeve around the sling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Contracting (UK) Limited
    Inventor: John Duncan Cruickshank
  • Patent number: 8950979
    Abstract: The present invention regards a method for laying pipelines on the seabed comprising the steps of attaching an end (2) of the pipeline (1) to a structure (10, 20), lowering the structure with the pipeline to the seabed, allowing the pipeline end to pivot relative the structure, measuring the inclination of the pipeline end relative to the seabed, modifying a pipe spool such that one end is given the same inclination of the end as the pipeline and that at least one part of the pipe spool will be resting on the seabed after connection, connecting the pipe spool to the pipeline. The invention also regards a pipeline installation device where at least a one side of a top structure is allowed to move relative a foundation structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea AS
    Inventor: Jan Helge Hassel
  • Patent number: 8939702
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for handling a fluid-tight flange coupling between a first and a second conduit component while maintaining the fluid integrity of the coupling. The apparatus includes a gripping mechanism configured to straddle the flange coupling and grip both of the first and second conduit components. The gripping mechanism is mounted on a lifting frame able to bear the loadings upon the gripped components during a moving operation. The apparatus includes a base frame with a gripping mechanism to receive the flange coupling. The coupled components are gripped on each side of the flange coupling to maintain the fluid integrity of the flange coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Buchan, Murray Jamieson McIntosh
  • Patent number: 8939680
    Abstract: The current disclosure is a structure for repairing drain tile or any other conduit found in the construction of underground utilities, which conduit severed by the digging of a ditch. The first element is spray-in-place or pre-manufactured polymeric foam, such as polyurethane foam, that is placed so as to span the ditch and rest upon a pipeline located in the ditch. Next, sandbags, foam shims, or similar slope adjustments are placed atop the foam. Finally, a stiff, elongate member (e.g., H-beam, I-Beam, guardrail) is placed atop the sandbags spanning the entire ditch from one end of the severed utility to the other end of the drain tile or other conduit. In broader contexts, the disclosed structure will find use in repairing severed conduit due to an excavation regardless of whether a utility lies in the ditch. Additionally, such pre-manufactured foam bridges can be used as breakers to support underground utilities, such as large pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Hamman IP LLC
    Inventor: Carl R. Hamman
  • Patent number: 8936413
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for deploying pipeline from a vessel are described in relation to pipelines with installed accessories. One or more accessory support structures are installed at appropriate bedding locations on the seabed. In deploying pipeline from a vessel, an accessory is then attached at a position along the pipeline to correspond with the pre-installed accessory support structure bedding location. The pipeline and attached accessory are deployed and guided into engagement with the pre-installed accessory support structure on the seabed such that the pipeline is deployed substantially horizontally through the accessory support structure, and the accessory is supported by the pre-installed accessory support structure at the bedding location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Acergy France SA
    Inventors: Romain Mille, Brieuc Du Halgouet
  • Patent number: 8936414
    Abstract: A support system supports a pipe or conduit. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus, systems and methods include support beams extending across an excavated opening. For example, a pair of beams may be positioned to span the excavated opening with the opposing ends of the beams supported on the ground above the excavated opening. Support rods may be positioned to extend through and/or from the beams and into the excavated opening. In one exemplary embodiment, the support rods include a J-hook configured for receipt within an opening in pipe or conduit support members positioned beneath and supporting the pipe or conduit. In another exemplary embodiment, a pipe contacting support member is positioned beneath and contacting a pipe for supporting the pipe and fully excavating the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Robert J. Wegener
  • Patent number: 8931977
    Abstract: A pipe support has an outer tubular support wall, an inner tubular support wall, spaced inwardly from the outer tubular support wall, and a connecting portion for maintaining the outer tubular support wall and the inner tubular support wall in a fixed, spaced apart relationship. The pipe support is intended for use in-trench and out-of-trench for supporting a pipeline during assembly, installation, testing and operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Pipesak Inc.
    Inventors: Geoff Weyman Connors, James Andrew Blokker
  • Patent number: 8919736
    Abstract: A puller is provided with a number of advantages. Pullers are described that have a high power to weight ratio, and a high power to volume ratio. Examples of pullers and pulling systems include configurations that provide high cable friction in a small device volume. Examples of pullers and pulling systems also include constant force pulling which is desirable in particular for small diameter pipe replacement. Using pullers and pulling systems as described, minimally invasive pipe replacement operations are possible. Reversible pullers are also provided that decrease the amount of time needed to burst or split multiple segments of pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Publication number: 20140348591
    Abstract: The current disclosure is a structure for repairing drain tile or any other conduit found in the construction of underground utilities, which conduit severed by the digging of a ditch. The first element is spray-in-place or pre-manufactured polymeric foam, such as polyurethane foam, that is placed so as to span the ditch and rest upon a pipeline located in the ditch. Next, sandbags, foam shims, or similar slope adjustments are placed atop the foam. Finally, a stiff, elongate member (e.g., H-beam, I-Beam, guardrail) is placed atop the sandbags spanning the entire ditch from one end of the severed utility to the other end of the drain tile or other conduit. In broader contexts, the disclosed structure will find use in repairing severed conduit due to an excavation regardless of whether a utility lies in the ditch. Additionally, such pre-manufactured foam bridges can be used as breakers to support underground utilities, such as large pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: HAMMAN IP LLC
    Inventor: Carl R. Hamman
  • Patent number: 8894021
    Abstract: A cable support is disclosed. The cable support may comprise a mount, a drive support, a strap, and a drive block. The drive support and the strap may be connected to the mount. The drive block may be connected to the drive support and the strap. A cable support may comprise a body having a through hole, a plurality of compression segments, and a spreader. The plurality of compression segments may be located at least partially within the body and may be sized to receive a wire. The spreader may be located between the plurality of compression segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Southwire Company, LLC
    Inventors: Allan W. Daniel, Chad Garrish, David Fuller, Stuart W. Thorn
  • Patent number: 8888406
    Abstract: A weighted bag includes a filler material contained by a sealed bag configured to be substantially impermeable to fluids. The sealed bag may include a generally tubular bag body made from a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coated polymer-based textile where the tubular bag body is formed by hot air welding and the bag is sealed using sealing tape applied and bonded at each end of the tubular bag body. The weighted bag may be recovered after use and recycled for reuse in a subsequent installation. The filler material may include a slag, a slag-based material and/or low iron fines which may be residual material from the steel or iron producing industries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Mid-American Gunite, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Keaton, Robert G. Harte
  • Publication number: 20140334879
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pipe section (10), constructed to be joined end-to-end to a same pipe section in order to form a pipeline which is laid from a pipeline laying vessel, the pipe section having a pipe has a greater wall thickness than the wall thickness of a main part of the pipe wall (15), the pipe section comprising a thickened gripping zone (20) which section, wherein the thickened gripping zone has a length (22) and a wall thickness which are constructed and arranged to allow a shear clamp (45) having protrusions (48) to grip the thickened gripping zone in order to suspend the pipeline from the pipeline laying vessel via the thickened gripping zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS NEDERLAND SE
    Inventor: Cornelis Van Zandwijk
  • Patent number: 8864414
    Abstract: A device for controlling buoyancy of a buried pipeline, the device comprising a form placed atop the pipeline and a flexible strap extending around the form adjacent its top. The form may comprise a first trough located adjacent the first side of the pipeline, a second trough located adjacent the opposing second side of the pipeline, and a middle section with an inverted-U-shaped cross section such that the middle portion fits over the top of the pipeline and joins the first trough and the second trough. The troughs are filled with backfill when the pipeline is buried. Thus, when fully installed, the device may comprise the slot form, the strap, and the backfill. As the pipeline tends to rise, the straps deform, bringing the sides of the troughs inward and compressing the backfill therein. This prevents further upward movement of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Webb
  • Patent number: 8851795
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing means to supply cold water from depth to a floating vessel comprises a template having a plurality of receptacles for receiving a plurality of vertically-oriented cold water pipes. A method for installing a plurality of cold water pipes at a floating, offshore ocean thermal energy conversion facility comprises: lowering such a template to the seafloor; inserting vertically-oriented pipes into the receptacles on the template; providing sufficient buoyancy near the top of the pipe to maintain the pipe in a generally vertical state; positioning a floating vessel having receptacles configured to engage the upper ends of the pipes over the template; raising the template with the inserted pipes from the seafloor until the upper ends of the pipes engage the receptacles; and, locking the pipes in the receptacles such that the pipes are in fluid communication with a cold water sump on the floating vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Seahorse Equipment Corp
    Inventors: Stephen E. Kibbee, Peimin Cao
  • Publication number: 20140270971
    Abstract: Novel tools and techniques for installing lines or cables, including, without limitation, power lines, low voltage lines, telecommunications lines or cables (e.g., telephone cables, network cables, television cables, etc.), and/or the like, and, in particular, installing optical fiber and/or other lines, slightly below ground level in a roadway or other ground surface. In some cases, a method might include creating a channel in the ground surface, placing one or more lines (e.g., power lines, low voltage lines, telecommunications lines, and/or the like) in the channel, and placing a capping material in the channel, thereby encapsulating the lines. In some cases, placing the one or more lines in the channel might include placing a conduit (containing the one or more lines) in the channel, and encapsulating the one or more lines might include encapsulating the conduit. The capping material might include polyurea, thermosetting material, and/or any other suitable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicants: Louisiana Tech University Research Foundation, a division of Louisiana Tech University Foundation, CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: Erez N. Allouche, Bryan Cady, Michael L. Elford
  • Publication number: 20140255104
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a weighting device for a longitudinally extending conduit. The weighting device is made from a flexible material, preferably woven, and has a top loading main body for receiving ballast material. The main body has a pair of legs forming a conduit accepting space between them. The legs are adapted to be positioned in straddling relation over a conduit with said conduit being embraced in said conduit accepting space between the legs. The main body has at least one inner panel extending between the inner and outer sidewalls of each of the leg sections to prevent excessive bulging of the leg section when filled with ballast material. The panel divides the legs into compartments. Ballast introduced into the main body will flow into the compartments of the legs. The weighting device may also include filling and hoisting loops.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: PIPESAK INC.
    Inventor: Geoff Weyman Connors
  • Patent number: 8789605
    Abstract: A riser clamp (20) comprising a first jaw portion (211) and a second jaw portion (212) that can be opened and closed relative to each other. The jaw portions (211/212) each comprise a thermoplastic body (301/302) that can be, for example, injection molded pieces of polyethylene (e.g., HDPE). The jaw portions (211/212) can be connected by a hinge (39) that is integrally formed therewith. The clamp (20) can also include cradles (701/702) and caps (711/712) for holding auxiliary lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Travis L. Sessions, Gary W. Schroeder, Tyler B. Miner, Larry G. Cobb
  • Patent number: 8790040
    Abstract: A method of forming a protection system and a protection system for a secondary conduit adapted to be coupled to a main conduit is disclosed. The main conduit and the secondary conduit are for installation below the sea surface. The method includes spooling onto a reel an elongate member in a first configuration for transportation and/or storage until such a time that it is ready to be deployed. The first configuration is a substantially planar configuration. The method also includes paying the elongate member out from the spool and causing or allowing the elongate member to adopt a second configuration and form the protection system for the secondary conduit. The second configuration is a substantially non-planar configuration. The elongate member is coupled to an external surface of the main conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Limited
    Inventor: Julek Romuald Tomas
  • Patent number: 8790041
    Abstract: Device (1) for applying a push or pull action on tubes (100) to be laid in the ground for overcoming waterways or other types of obstacle, includes two push blocks (2, 2?), disposed parallel to and mirroring each other, and a vice (8), which couples the device (1) to a tube (100) to be pushed/pulled. Each push block (2, 2?) including, in turn, a base (5, 5?), a main cylinder (3, 3?), a movable arm (6, 6?), one positioning cylinder (4, 4?) and vertical regulation cylinder (7, 7?). The arms (6, 6?) conferring a variable geometry to device (1) which is able to assume corresponding positions and positive and negative angles. The device finds application in the field of ancillary equipment for horizontal controlled drilling and horizontal directional drilling (TOC and HDD), i.e. suitable technologies for installing new pipelines without opencast digging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Roberto Bernardoni
  • Patent number: 8784010
    Abstract: A device and a system for an oil field road crossing and a method of installing thereof. A plurality of conduits having a rectangular cross-section with a coupling header on each end are set in the ground at the road crossing, the conduit top surfaces substantially level with the ground. The long sides of adjacent conduits are welded together in parallel. The coupling headers are in fluid communication with the rectangular conduit, each header have an open end operative to connect to the end of a cylindrical pipeline. When cylindrical pipelines are connected to the headers, one at each end of the rectangular conduit, the pipelines are in fluid communication with each other. The flat surfaces of the rectangular conduits form a road crossing substantially level with the ground for a vehicle to safely travel over without disrupting flow through the pipelines absent burying the pipelines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Alan Cessac
  • Patent number: 8777518
    Abstract: A skid for positioning a pipe or a piece of earth boring equipment includes a first frame and a second frame slidably mounted on the first frame. The second frame forms a rectangular trough having an open upper end. An upwardly opening cradle rests in the open upper end of the rectangular tough of the second frame that supports the pipe or the piece of earth boring equipment. A first vertical sack mechanism is attached to a first end of the first frame and a first end of the second frame. A second vertical jack mechanism is attached to a second end of the first frame and a second end of the second frame. The first and second vertical jack mechanisms raise and lower the second frame and the upwardly opening cradle supporting the pipe or the earth boring equipment to a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: MPC Bedrock Montana LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. Coleman
  • Patent number: 8764344
    Abstract: A method for laying a pipe includes predisposing first and second releasable gripping devices for firmly gripping or releasing the pipe. The gripping devices are located along the longitudinal direction of the pipe. The gripping devices when activated grip and move the pipe so that only a predetermined longitudinal pipe section is received in the laying site. The gripping devices are rearranged and activated, instant by instant, so that the pipe is at all times solidly gripped by at least one gripping device. The above step is repeated until multiple longitudinal sections are housed in the laying site. A machine for laying pipe has gripping devices independently activatable for firmly gripping or releasing the pipe and also for moving the first and/or second gripping devices a predetermined number of times while gripping the pipe, for moving multiple longitudinal pipe sections into the laying site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Enereco S.p.A.
    Inventors: Aurelio Simoncelli, Giuliano Ciaroni
  • Patent number: 8764345
    Abstract: A method of abandoning an underwater pipeline on the bed of a body of water from a laying vessel includes the steps of lowering the free end of the pipeline into the body of water and onto the bed of the body of water using a first and second rope, both connected to the free end of the pipeline and extending from the laying vessel to the free end of the pipeline. The method also includes disconnecting the first rope from the free end of the pipeline, once the free end of the pipeline is laid on the bed of the body of water; and rewinding the first rope onto the laying vessel, while the second rope is still connected to the free end of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Saipem S.p.A.
    Inventor: Kimon Ardavanis
  • Patent number: 8757931
    Abstract: A pipe guide adapter for drawing pipes into a channel with the aid of a traction means is provided with ribs which are arranged conically on a base pipe. The ribs ensure guidance of the pipe and, at the same time, a simple construction of the adapter. In addition, the pipe guide adapter can be provided with rollers, which are arranged in the free spaces between the ribs and facilitate the guide function of the pipe guide adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: TT Schmidt GmbH
    Inventor: Franz-Josef Püttmann
  • Patent number: 8734051
    Abstract: An aeration and drainage system includes an aeration & drain pipe which contains slots on its upper surface, a stand which holds said aeration & drain pipe above a bottom surface, an air and liquid transfer element attached to the aeration & drain pipe and positioned over said slots. Additionally the air and liquid transfer element extends upward from the slots, and the air and liquid transfer element contains openings on its top to allow fluids to flow into the air and liquid transfer element and through the slots in the aeration & drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Buildworks Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dirk Marinus Kerkhoff, J. Cornelis Kerkhoff
  • Patent number: 8721222
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for controlling lateral deformation and reducing axial displacement, also referred to as walking, of a subsea conduit such as a pipeline for conveying produced hydrocarbon fluids. The systems and methods include the installation of rolling assemblies on the conduit at predetermined locations. The rolling assemblies include elements for forming rolling modules rotatable with respect to the conduit. Also disclosed is a system for monitoring displacement of the conduit over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Sid A. Mebarkia, Antonio C. F. Critsinelis, Dane Drew, Michael J. Quinney, Lynn Wang
  • Patent number: 8708603
    Abstract: An aeration and drainage system includes an aeration & drain pipe which contains slots on its upper surface, a stand which holds said aeration & drain pipe above a bottom surface, an air and liquid transfer element attached to the aeration & drain pipe and positioned over said slots. Additionally the air and liquid transfer element extends upward from the slots, and the air and liquid transfer element contains openings on its top to allow fluids to flow into the air and liquid transfer element and through the slots in the aeration & drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Buildworks Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dirk M. Kerkhoff, J. Cornelis Kerkhoff
  • Patent number: 8708602
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for controlling axial, lateral and/or vertical movements of subsea pipelines which reduce the need for expensive pipeline anchoring or other mitigation solutions. The pipeline is connected to a stabilizing structure generally adjacent to the pipeline using a plurality of load-bearing members attached to the pipeline and the stabilizing structure at a plurality of predetermined locations. Also described are systems and methods for monitoring operating parameters of the pipeline over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid A. Mebarkia, Robert L. Foster, Jr., Michael J. Quinney
  • Patent number: 8657531
    Abstract: The disclosure provides an installation method to deploy the flexible pipe below the water, utilizing supporting equipment between a flexible pipe and intended connections. In addition, the method of connection and pull down can maintain control of the flexible pipe subsea throughout the method with limited or no surface intervention. This installation method provides a redundancy as the connector approaches in a subsea connection in at least one embodiment. The method utilizes combinations of buoyancy elements, hand-off sequences, and pull down equipment, such as subsea winches and wire rope, to accomplish such connections with limited or no surface intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventor: Carlos M. Rios
  • Publication number: 20140050534
    Abstract: In one aspect, a mat for placement on a sea floor includes a plurality of fabric cells formed from a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer, each of the plurality of fabric cells including a first cell edge and a second cell edge where the first and second fabric layer are coupled, the first and second cell edges being aligned in a first direction, a third cell edge and a fourth cell edge where the first and second fabric layer are coupled, the third and fourth cell edges being aligned in a second direction and a cavity configured to receive a filling material, the cavity being defined by the first, second, third and fourth cell edges. The mat also includes a grid of cables disposed within and supporting the plurality of fabric cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: SEABED SERVICES LLC
    Inventors: Wayne Leslie Thompson, Harry Charles Tate
  • Publication number: 20140044489
    Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus, systems and methods for reducing displacement of a subsea conduit such as offshore hydrocarbon production pipeline, also referred to as pipeline walking or buckling, thus reducing the need for expensive pipeline anchoring or other mitigation solutions. A movement resistor adapted to be installed on a subsea conduit is provided having an inner portion adapted to receive and securely attach to a subsea conduit and at least one resistor portion adapted to resist induced forces. At least one movement resistor can be installed along the length of a subsea conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid Ahmed Mebarkia, Daniel Christopher Kefford, Daria Igorevna Bougai, Dane Ryne Drew
  • Patent number: 8641323
    Abstract: A method of positioning on the sea floor, from a floating vessel, an unlaid end portion of a pipe that is being laid from its other end on the sea floor is disclosed. The method includes lowering the unlaid end portion of the pipe to a lowered position above the sea floor. Transfer of the load of the unlaid end portion of the pipe occurs from the lowering device to a line for suspending the unlaid end portion of the pipe. Lowering the line for suspending and the unlaid end portion of the pipe occurs. There is disclosed a corresponding method of recovery as well as associated apparatus. A method for effecting a subsea connection between one line and an object suspended below the surface of the sea by another line and associated apparatus are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Limited
    Inventor: Jonathan Richard Tame
  • Patent number: 8641326
    Abstract: An improved method for replacing existing underground sewer pipe is accomplished without excavation, pipe bursting, or pipe reaming. First, vertical sight holes are drilled into the ground and through the existing pipe. Slurry material from the vertical hole drilling fills the old pipe. Then, a pilot hole is drilled in a first direction through the old pipe. Then, a reaming tool is pulled in the opposite direction so as to enlarge the pilot hole and grind out the old pipe, while simultaneously pulling the new pipe into position behind the reaming tool. The broken old pipe and slurry are vacuumed out of the vertical relief holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Ted R. Dimitroff
  • Patent number: 8628272
    Abstract: A pipeline alignment termination device comprises a connecting piece (22, 24, 28) connected at its first end to a pipeline (29). The connecting piece is supported on a skid base (12) by an articulated support (24). Adjustable constraints (25, 26, 30, L) operable by ROV, permit the second end (20) to be accurately aligned by transverse and rotational adjustments with the end of a spoolpiece (232, 234). After alignment and connection, constraints on the rotation and transverse movement are removed, leaving the connecting piece supported but free to move with up to five degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Acergy France SA
    Inventor: Vincent Alliot
  • Patent number: 8622656
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems and methods are utilized to relocate subsurface conduit. Specifically, the movement of underground conduit is accomplished via the apparatuses, systems and methods described herein, including movement thereof in either or both of laterally from a first lateral position to a second lateral position and/or vertically from a first vertical position to a second vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Terra Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Wegener, John W. Jinnings, Mark Tingley, David Zarembski
  • Publication number: 20130315675
    Abstract: A pipe protection apparatus includes a sheet of permeable material having an inner surface and an outer surface and a longitudinal direction and a width direction defined by two edges of the sheet along the longitudinal direction. A fastening structure is configured to join the two edges to form a seam as the sheet of permeable material is wrapped in the width direction around a drain pipe configured to be installed underground to form a sock along the longitudinal direction. The sock is configured to be installed underground with the drain pipe about which it is wrapped, yet to remain for a service life in non-bonding contact with the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel E. Pajak, Andrew P. Boos, Christian D. Kane
  • Publication number: 20130315676
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a positioning system for service lines. Generally, the invention relates to a mechanism for the deployment, retraction, and transportation of fixed-length service lines such as electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and communication resources necessary to the operation of a drilling rig used for subterranean exploration. More particularly, the invention provides an extendable cable positioning system for use with drilling rigs where pad drilling will require relatively short distance movements of the drilling rig, and it is desirable to leave the energy resource systems stationary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith J. Orgeron, Darrell D. Jamison, Mark W. Trevithick
  • Patent number: 8585327
    Abstract: An apparatus for placing foundation devices and/or pipes and/or augers in the ground, as an attachment to be attached to the boom of a construction vehicle, including a mounting hinged to a coupling point of the boom, and a drive head, which is rigidly connected to the mounting and configured as a rotational driving and/or drilling and/or impact drilling and/or pile-driving drive and to which the foundation device/pipe/auger for placement in the ground can be coupled. The coupling point can be displaced with respect to the drive head in at least one first direction which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the foundation device/pipe/auger, and optionally in a second direction, which is transverse to the first direction. The mounting can be a universal joint in which a first joint axis extends so that a first and a second joint part can be displaced thereon, relative to each other, in the first direction, so as to displace the coupling point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Krinner Innovation GmbH
    Inventors: Guenther Thurner, Martin Thurner