Abstract: The present invention relates to a subsea structural connector (20) used in the offshore oil and gas industry for remotely joining elements of production and drilling vessel mooring systems and other subsea equipment. This invention relates to a connection mechanism that facilitates automatic latching of two components (1, 2) upon engagement, and then remotely controlled actuation of a device that secures the connection. Specifically, this invention relates to a securing mechanism that creates residual stress between the connected components (1, 2) such that the connector (20) can withstand high variable axial, shear, torsional and bending loads while minimizing the propensity for fatigue damage within the mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system used in the offshore renewables or oil and gas industries for providing articulation at the end of a mooring line or a riser. The design uses a nested rubber segment (14) and orthogonal cylindrical bearings (12) to provide articulation with low resistance at both small and large oscillation angles. A relative rotational force applied between the axially loaded member (1) and the anchor assembly (4) causes the angle of the axially loaded member (1) to change to reduce such forces. The securement assembly comprises a bearing assembly (10) arranged to provide rotation about a pin (11). The bearing assembly (10) is arranged to provide two distinct stages for relative rotation. In the first stage, small relative rotations are accommodated by the flexion or deformation in the rubber layer (14). This deformation of the rubber layer (14) enables the axially loaded member (1) to rotate around the pin (11) and move relative to the anchor assembly (4).

Abstract: The connector includes a sleeve (4) which is screwed on to a thread (18) provided on an upper axial end of the lower riser section (1). The sleeve (4) encloses a lower end of an upper riser section (2) and is retained thereto. Once the sleeve (4) is secured to the lower riser section, this loosely secures the upper riser section (2) to the lower riser section (1). A tensioning tool then stretches the sleeve (4) upwardly and a retaining collar (5) is then maneuvered in order to retain the sleeve (5) in this tensioned state after the release of the tensioning tool. This creates a preloaded connection between the upper riser section (2) and the lower riser section (1).