Abstract: The invention describes a cost-effective alternative for deploying and installing subsea equipment using a workboat or other vessel of opportunity. The equipment is not supported directly by the vessel, but is instead supported by one or more buoys below the wave zone. The buoys are controlled by a combination of chain, wire rope, and synthetic line linking it to the workboat. As such, the buoy system described herein decouples vessel motion from the payload by supporting the payload from the buoys below the wave zone. Because the buoys are below the wave action and its associated turbulence, there is little energy and hence little tendency for motion. The result is a stable, inexpensive, maneuverable system capable of servicing large subsea payloads in a wide range of water depths.

Abstract: The invention describes a cost-effective alternative for deploying and installing subsea equipment using a workboat or other vessel of opportunity. The equipment is not supported directly by the vessel, but is instead supported by one or more buoys below the wave zone. The buoys are controlled by a combination of chain, wire rope, and synthetic line linking it to the workboat. As such, the buoy system described herein decouples vessel motion from the payload by supporting the payload from the buoys below the wave zone. Because the buoys are below the wave action and its associated turbulence, there is little energy and hence little tendency for motion. The result is a stable, inexpensive, maneuverable system capable of servicing large subsea payloads in a wide range of water depths.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for seismic detection of shallow drilling hazards, especially overpressured shallow waterflow sands. In one embodiment, a seismic survey is performed to obtain both compression and converted shear type seismic data. After processing, the seismic data is analyzed to identify possible correlations between reflection events observable in the shear seismic data and reflection events observable in the compression seismic data. At depths of up to at least 3,500 feet below the sea floor, any such correlation is indicative of the presence of sands.

Abstract: A method for installing piles in offshore waters using a drill and grout technique. The method utilizes a drilling fluid for drilling the borehole for the pile that forms a cementitious filter cake on the borehole wall and a cement for grouting the pile that is compatible with both the filter cake and salt water.

Abstract: A method for strengthening the soil and rock formations forming the structural base of a structure wherein a cement slurry is injected into the soil and rock formations. The method is particularly useful in strengthening the foundations of offshore structures.