Abstract: An improved conduit seal is provided for the upper connector assembly (10) of a TLP where the upper end of a tether (14) is pivotally secured within the tether conduit (38) of a floating platform (12). The conduit seal includes an annular elastomeric seal (48) and a series of mounting blocks (52) bonded thereto. The tether mounts a CLB housing (24) which has an annular lip (74) with a continuous groove (80). Each of the mounting blocks is provided with a locking pin (84) which can be hydraulically driven into the groove (80) to lock the mounting blocks on the CLB housing, and confine the seal (48) relative to the CLB housing.

Abstract: A flexible pipe joint having an annular housing with a central cavity in which a nipple is partially submerged. The nipple has a flared end on the submerged portion thereof. An elastomeric ring, internally contoured spherically with reference to a common center point spaced from the flared end and located on the longitudinal axis of the joint, is adhered about its outer surface to the inner surface of the flared end. An elastomeric body having an assembly of embedded concentric spherical rings is adhered to the outer surface of the flared end. The spherical rings are contoured and positioned symmetrically with respect to the common center point. A flange (42 or 144, 146) is welded to the nipple at the end opposite the flared end. The flange is used to bolt the joint to the adjacent pipe sections and can be in two parts (144, 146). A collar welded to the housing encircles the nipple and engages the outer surface of the elastomeric body to maintain the body in position.

Abstract: An improved keyhole latch is provided for securing offshore structures in place. The back flange of the flex joint and latch assembly has a male portion and the load ring of the receptacle has a female portion. By matching the male and female portions, rolling of the load ring and flex joint and latch assembly is minimized and the noncontinuous surface on the load ring is strengthened.