Abstract: A tube buoyancy can system for tensioning a top tension riser. In some embodiments, the system includes a tubular can coupled to the top tension riser and a pressurized gas system configured to selectably inject pressurized gas into the tubular can. The tubular can includes an enclosed upper end having at least one closeable opening therethough, an open lower end configured to allow seawater to flow freely into and out of the tubular can, and an inner surface extending therebetween. The inner surface is devoid of structural obstructions which substantially inhibit the free flow of seawater through the lower end. When the opening is open, the tubular can is ballasted by seawater. When the opening is closed and pressurized gas is injected into the tubular can, the tubular can is de-ballasted of seawater.

Abstract: A tube buoyancy can system for tensioning a top tension riser. In some embodiments, the system includes a tubular can coupled to the top tension riser and a pressurized gas system configured to selectably inject pressurized gas into the tubular can. The tubular can includes an enclosed upper end having at least one closeable opening therethough, an open lower end configured to allow seawater to flow freely into and out of the tubular can, and an inner surface extending therebetween. The inner surface is devoid of structural obstructions which substantially inhibit the free flow of seawater through the lower end. When the opening is open, the tubular can is ballasted by seawater. When the opening is closed and pressurized gas is injected into the tubular can, the tubular can is de-ballasted of seawater.

Abstract: Systems and methods for coupling a topside to a fixed or floating substructure during float-over installation of the topside are disclosed. Some system embodiments include a first plate coupled to a leg of the substructure and a retaining wall coupled to the first plate and extending substantially normally therefrom, wherein the retaining wall and the first plate form a recess. The system embodiments further include a second plate disposed at an end of a leg of the topside, the second plate received within the recess and engaging the first plate, and a plurality of shims disposed between the second plate and the retaining wall, wherein the plurality of shims are configured to inhibit translational movement of the second plate relative to the first plate.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a deepwater anchor that combines the high holding capacity of a plate anchor with the simple installation procedures associated with torpedo anchors. The complex embedding procedure typical for plate anchors is avoided. Instead, the anchor is installed by allowing it to free-fall through the water and then impact into the seabed. After penetrating the seabed, a pull on the anchor line causes the deployment of initially folded flukes. In their deployed positions, one or more flukes or plate-like structures extend perpendicularly toward the anchor shank, and function similar to conventional plate anchors. As a result of the fluke deployment, the holding capacity of the anchor against uplift loads is significantly greater than with a conventional torpedo anchor. Another aspect of the invention relates to the modular construction of a torpedo anchor, wherein the properties of an anchor can be adapted to the specific conditions determined at the deployment site.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing the vortex formation in the wake of a marine member is disclosed, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of vortex generators extending perpendicularly from the surface of a marine member, and wherein a chord of the vortex generator is inclined at an angle ranging between 0 degrees and about 40 degrees, measured relative to a fluid flow component described perpendicular to the marine member. A variety of vortex generator configurations, installation angles, size ratios, and methods and means of operation and desirable operational characteristics are also disclosed.