With Orienting Or Aligning Of Member For Connection Patents (Class 166/341)
  • Patent number: 8245774
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a whipstock assembly for use in forming a lateral borehole from a parent wellbore. The whipstock assembly comprises a body and a deflection member above the body. The deflection member includes a concave portion for deflecting a milling bit during a milling operation. Disposed on a perforation plate portion of the concave portion is a raised surface feature. The raised surface supports a milling bit above the perforation plate portion during a milling operation. This, in turn, substantially prevents frictional contact between the milling bits and the perforation plate portion during a milling operation. The present invention also provides a novel method for manufacturing a whipstock in which a cavity portion is formed behind the perforation plate by milling out the backside of the deflection member and then joining a second back cover member to the whipstock body to complete the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Thurman B. Carter, Thomas M. Redlinger, David J. Brunnert
  • Publication number: 20120199358
    Abstract: A connecting device for mating and connection on the sea bed of first and second pipelines having first and second pipe ends at the connection point, is shown. The connecting device includes a first connecting part retaining the first end; a second submersible connecting part retaining the second end and a connector arranged between the connecting parts for final connection between the pipe ends. A guiding device engages with a guiding structure during a lowering motion of the second connecting part towards the first connecting part and pivots the second connecting part into coarse alignment of the second pipe end in a direction towards the first pipe end such that the first and second pipelines are brought to align with each other. An adjacent ramp structure with abutment surfaces and a guiding mechanism cooperate with the second connecting part and contribute to fine alignment of the pipe ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Johan Larsson
  • Patent number: 8235122
    Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly includes an outer wellhead member with a bore containing at least one conical generally upward facing load shoulder that inclines relative to an axis of the bore. The outer wellhead member also contains an overpull recess having a generally downward facing overpull shoulder positioned below the at least one generally upward facing load shoulder. An inner wellhead member is lowered into the housing, the inner wellhead member having at least one conical downward facing load shoulder that inclines relative to an axis of the bore. A load ring has an inner profile that slidingly engages the downward facing load shoulder and an outer profile that slidingly engages the upward facing load shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas P. Gette
  • Patent number: 8230920
    Abstract: A whipstock includes deflector movable from a retracted to a deployed position. In the deployed position, the retractor is capable of guiding a tubular member away from the whipstock as the tubular member passes downwardly along the whipstock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Douglas Bruce Bell
  • Publication number: 20120181038
    Abstract: A subsea winch is described. The subsea winch comprises a housing adapted to be attached to a well intervention system, the housing having an inlet and an outlet and at least one powered sheave arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the or each powered sheave having a surface adapted to form a frictional engagement with a cable passing between the inlet and the outlet via the at least one sheave. In use, a pull force pulling the cable in a downhole direction applied to the cable by a tool string being lowered into the well intervention system is increased by the winch such that the downhole pull force on the cable at the housing inlet is greater than the downhole pull force at the housing outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventors: Jeffrey Charles Edwards, Michael Graham Morgan
  • Publication number: 20120168169
    Abstract: An electrical and hydraulic configuration on a subsea tree that facilitates the use of an ROV control system to operate the tree during well installations, interventions, and workovers. An SCM at the tree is in communication with a fixed junction plate that receives a production umbilical during normal operation. The ROV can be deployed to disconnect and park the production umbilical during well installations, interventions, and workovers to prevent accidental operation of the SCM or tree. The junction plate is configured to connect with the ROV and thereby establish communication with the hydraulic lines of the SCM. The ROV may carry an umbilical from a vessel to provide electrical and hydraulic service to the SCM during well operations. In addition, the ROV has facilities to repressurize spent control fluid to thereby allow reuse of the control fluid by the SCM.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventor: Robert K. Voss
  • Publication number: 20120160505
    Abstract: A load transferring subsea structure (10) for temporary guiding and permanently relieve forces within a pipe connection that is subjected to bending moments when connection is completed. A connector (3) keeps the pipe ends (E1, E2) together. The load transferring structure (10) includes one basically stationary structure (1) that retains a first pipe end (E1) and one basically manoeuvrable structure (2) that retains the second pipe end (E2). The second pipe end (E2) is to be connected to the first, stationary pipe end (E1). The stationary structure (1) includes portions (6) having predetermined configuration including fitted surfaces (6a, 6b) for interaction during mating with complementary portions (11, 12) having predetermined configuration including fitted surfaces (14, 15) on the mobile structure (2) for creation of a load path external of the pipe ends (E1, E2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Ulf Lønnemo, Terje Pedersen, Rolf Nerem, Per Lillejordet, John Anders Ingebo
  • Publication number: 20120145405
    Abstract: An adjustable riser suspension system for suspending a riser under tension including a riser hanger, a mating sleeve rotationally coupled to the riser hanger, a ratchet-latch sleeve located inside the mating sleeve with an external profile configured to engage an internal profile of the mating sleeve and an internal profile configured to engage an externally threaded face of the riser. The riser hanger and mating sleeve are configured to move downward relative to the riser such that the mating sleeve fits over at least a portion of the riser, causing the ratchet-latch device to ratchet over the external threads of the riser. The mating sleeve is configured to rotate relative to the riser, causing the internal and external profiles of ratchet-latch device to lock the riser and the mating sleeve to prevent movement of the riser relative to the mating sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Delbert Edwin Vanderford, Max Van Adrichem
  • Patent number: 8196666
    Abstract: Flexible riser, comprising a length of a flexible pipe with an upper end, a bend restrictor and a termination for hanging up on a vessel, a floating installation or a platform, distinguished in that the bend restrictor in the upper end is connected to an adapter pipe extending from a lower end at the bend restrictor to an upper end, to an end coupling to which the upper ends of both the flexible pipe and the adapter pipe are fastened, the flexible riser extending through the bend restrictor and the adapter pipe and the end connection comprising a means for hanging up at deck level of the vessel, the installation or the platform. Method for pulling-in and hanging up of the flexible riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Production and Loading AS
    Inventor: Sigmund Askestad
  • Publication number: 20120080193
    Abstract: A running tool for use in handling control modules on a subsea production tree. The running tool is deployable on wire line and includes a column like body and a connector adapted for connection to the production tree. The running tool also includes a hoist system that is selectively positioned by a swiveling jib crane for handling the control modules. A replacement control module can be included with the running tool when the tool is deployed from above the sea surface. After the running tool connects to the production tree, the jib crane can position the hoist for attachment to and removal of an existing control module on the production tree. The hoist can then to attach to and install the replacement control module and can be further manipulated to retrieve the existing control module and stow it onto the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Patent number: 8141643
    Abstract: A method of installing equipment subsea comprising the steps of: assembling the equipment within a frame; submerging in the sea at least a part of an assembly comprising the frame and the equipment; coupling the at least partially submerged assembly to a vessel; transporting the at least partially submerged assembly proximate a subsea installation site; coupling the assembly to an installation device; and installing the equipment at the installation site using the installation device. A frame for supporting equipment is also disclosed wherein the frame is shaped to match the dimensions of the equipment to be supported. The frame comprises at least one clamp having a first half clamp member for releasably engaging a second half clamp member of a second structure and a full clamp member for clamping around and supporting the equipment. The first half clamp member and the full clamp member can be integrally formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Limited
    Inventor: Mick Fowkes
  • Patent number: 8127853
    Abstract: A tieback connector connects a tieback conduit from an offshore platform to a subsea wellhead assembly. The tieback connector has a mandrel that is connected to a string of tieback conduit and a sleeve and load ring that are carried by the mandrel. The load ring is radially expansible and has a conical portion with internal threads. The load ring has an external grooved profile that engages an internal grooved profile in the subsea assembly. The mandrel is rotatable relative to the sleeve while in its lower position, causing the load ring to further expand outward into engagement with the internal profile. A locking member is carried below the load ring on an exterior cam surface of the mandrel. The cam surface moves the locking member outward when the mandrel moves downward into engagement with an internal profile in the subsea assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Rockford D. Lyle, Gregory M. Dunn
  • Patent number: 8127852
    Abstract: A method for connecting a lower marine riser package to a lower blowout preventer stack. The method includes lowering a frame of the lower marine riser package toward a frame of the lower blowout preventer stack such that a first half of a feed-thru component contacts a second half of the feed-thru component; floating at least one of the first half of the feed-thru component or the second half of the feed-thru component while the frame of the lower marine package is further lowered toward the frame of the lower blowout preventer stack; and engaging the first half of the feed-thru component to the second half of the feed-thru component after further lowering the lower marine riser package toward the lower blowout preventer stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: Robert Arnold Judge, Perrin Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8122964
    Abstract: A method to interchangeably connect a plurality of Lower Marine Riser Packages with a lower BOP stack includes engaging a Lower Marine Riser Package connector of the Lower Marine Riser Package, with a Lower Stack mandrel connector of a Lower Stack, thereby aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack axially about a vertical axis, engaging at least one ring alignment pin of the Lower Marine Riser Package with at least one alignment plate of the Lower Stack, thereby rotationally aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack within a specified angle about the vertical axis, and engaging feed-thru connections between the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: Robert Arnold Judge, Perrin S. Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20120037375
    Abstract: An autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) may be programmed and launched to interface with an emergency blowout preventer which has been fitted, either when new or retrofitted, with an emergency BOP control system (EBOP). The EBOP is a “black box” drop-in solution for projects such as emergency well control that can be retrofitted to existing BOP systems or added to new BOP systems and comprises one or more control docking stations, each adapted to receive autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV); one or more interface units connected to the control docking station and used to provide an interface between the control docking station and a BOP; and the AUV which is dimensioned and configured to autonomously mate with the control docking station and effect controls of the BOP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: OCEANEERING INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Graeme E. Reynolds, Robert A. Johnigan, Greg R. Boyle
  • Patent number: 8096365
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for controlling an external device (4) at a well installation includes a control module (2) for generating electrical and/or optical control signals. A control pod (8) receives the control signals, the control pod controlling the external device. A hydraulic line (10) links the control pod to the external device (4) for controlling it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Christopher David Baggs
  • Patent number: 8087465
    Abstract: A locking tree cap for use on a subsea tree. The tree cap may be installed and retrieved using a remote operated vehicle. The tree cap may include deflectable collet fingers that lock the tree cap to a tree spool. The deflectable collet fingers may be adapted, such as with enlarged heads, to extend into recesses of the tree spool when the tree cap has been landed on the tree spool. The tree cap may be locked onto a tree spool before energizing sealing members within the bores of the subsea tree, thereby protecting the sealing members from damage during the installation of the tree cap onto the tree spool. The tree cap may include soft landing means such as a plastic cap, on the end of stabs to protect the sealing members as the tree cap is landed. The tree cap may include a secondary locking mechanism used to further secure the tree cap to the tree spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Aker Subsea Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Huang, Venu Kopparthi, Saul dos Santos Filho
  • Publication number: 20110297386
    Abstract: A system for controlling a blowout location at an offshore oilfield comprises: a support construction that is movable next to a blowout location in an offshore oilfield and that can be set to rest in seabed, the support construction comprising: a) a first foundation part and a second foundation part that are located at a distance from each other; b) support members that are located at a distance from each other; and a funnel structure that is movable along the support members, the funnel structure comprising connecting members that are form-locking with the support members. The first foundation part, the second foundation part and the support members are so configured that the blowout location can be restricted a) between the first foundation part and the second foundation part and b) between the support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Iisakki Huotari
  • Patent number: 8056634
    Abstract: A running tool for lowering a christmas tree to a subsea wellhead. The running tool includes an off center adjustment to compensate for asymmetric weight distribution in the christmas tree. The running tool comprises a main body, latches for coupling the body to the christmas tree, an offset arm connected to the body, and a lift arm (drill pipe adaptor) connected to the lift arm and selectively positioned on the lift arm to offset and compensate for the christmas tree asymmetric weight distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: David N. Spencer
  • Patent number: 8052351
    Abstract: A method is disclosed that comprises the steps of preassembling the connector pipe in a support; coupling a frame to the pipeline at or towards an end thereof such that the location of at least one part of the frame is known with reference to the throughbore and the end of the pipeline; engaging the support with a portion of the frame; substantially aligning the connector pipe with the end of the pipeline; and connecting the connector pipe to the end of the pipeline. A cutting tool is also disclosed that can be coupled to a portion of a guide means and used to cut the pipeline at a predetermined distance from the guide means such that the end of the pipeline is created. A remotely operable vehicle can be used to remotely actuate and control the connection of the pipe and the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Subsea 7 Norway NUF
    Inventor: William Tobias Bird
  • Patent number: 8037939
    Abstract: The invention relates to a riser pipe section comprising a main tube (2), at least one auxiliary line element (3) arranged substantially parallel to said tube (2), characterized in that the ends of main tube (2) comprise connecting means (8) allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted and in that the ends of auxiliary line element (3) comprise linking means (5-6) allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Yann Poirette, Gérard Papon, Jean Guesnon
  • Patent number: 8020623
    Abstract: A subsea control module for providing control of subsea equipment is provided. The design allows for replacement and retrieval of a subsea control module with a single remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”) deployment from a vessel. The subsea control module can provide distributed electrical and hydraulic control functions via multiple directional control valve modules, multiple pilot valve modules, and a central electronic control module. Each directional control and pilot perform a set of functions so that replacement of a single module does not require disassembly of any other components) or hydraulic connection. Similarly, each pilot valve module can include a set of pilot valves, pressure transducers, solenoids and electronic circuitry to perform a limited set of functions so that failure of a single pilot valve module does not result in failure of the entire subsea control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: DTC International, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Parks, Dana C. Beebe, Chester W. Kronke
  • Publication number: 20110214877
    Abstract: A box and pin coupling for a drilling riser having an actuator assembly with an attached dog. The actuator assembly includes an actuation rod having an end affixed to the dog. A portion of the rod is circumscribed by an annular sleeve, where the outer surface of the sleeve is threadingly attached to one of the box or pin. A shoulder is formed on the rod outer circumference between the sleeve and the end of the rod attached to the dog. A retainer cap is provided on the end of the rod opposite where it attaches to the dog. The sleeve abuts the rod on one end, and the retainer cap on the other, so that rotating the sleeve axially moves the actuation rod, that in turn moves the attached dog into or out of engagement with a profile on the other of the box or pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Rick L. Stringfellow, Jesse L. Bullard, Tom A. Fraser, Brian N. Munk
  • Patent number: 8011434
    Abstract: A securing device comprises an axially reciprocable drive shaft which has a head adapted to pass forwards through a detent plate. The head is adapted to engage the plate after rotation. A cam slot is defined in a drive housing and is engageable by a cam follower carried on the drive shaft. The cam slot has two end portions extending parallel to the axis of the drive shaft and an oblique intermediate part such that the drive shaft is rotated when the follower moves along the intermediate part and the drive shaft moves only axially when the follower moves along either of the end portions. A subsea assembly including the securing device includes a fixed stab plate including a central collar, and a free stab plate having an aperture through which said collar extends, the collar including an chamber defined by the detent plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: M.S.C.M. Limited
    Inventors: Patrick J Cosgrove, Douglas F Kirkman, Terence Burgon
  • Patent number: 8006765
    Abstract: A well servicing tool storage system for subsea well intervention is disclosed which provides a tool storage means as part of the intervention system and which has a plurality of tool storage arms deployed around the tool storage means. Each arm has a clamp capable of clamping a tool, and moving the clamped tool between a stored position near the perimeter of the tool storage means, and a deployed position in the centre of the tool storage means where the tool can be made up into a wireline connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Expro AX-S Technology Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Richards, Mark Davies
  • Publication number: 20110155386
    Abstract: Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Johnnie E. Kotrla, Melvyn F. Whitby, David J. McWhorter, Glenn J. Chiasson
  • Patent number: 7967070
    Abstract: A subsea connector is disclosed. The connector includes a guide funnel assembly that may be coupled to a subsea structure. The guide funnel assembly may receive a shaft. The shaft may be coupled to a bend restrictor/limiter or a bend stiffener. The shaft may be received inside the guide funnel assembly. The shaft may include a recess. A latch assembly may be coupled to the guide funnel assembly. The latch assembly may include one or more dogs and a latch operating device. The dogs may be radially moveable in and out of the interior of the guide funnel assembly. The dogs may be inserted into the recess of the shaft to inhibit longitudinal axial movement between the shaft and the guide funnel assembly. The latch operating device may control the in and out radial movement of the dogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Deep Sea Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Sanjay Konda Reddy
  • Patent number: 7921917
    Abstract: Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Johnnie E. Kotrla, Melvyn F. Whitby, David J. McWhorter, Glenn J. Chiasson
  • Publication number: 20110048310
    Abstract: A monohull offshore drilling vessel comprising: a hull having a moonpool; —a multiple firing line hoist system mounted on the hull at said moonpool, the multiple firing line hoist system comprising: —a mast having a top side and a base connected to the hull of the drilling vessel, wherein the mast has a hollow construction with a first side and an opposed second side, —a first hoisting device supported by the mast and having load attachment means displaceable along a first firing line, which extends on the outside of and adjacent to the first side of the mast; —a second hoisting device supported by the mast and having load attachment means displaceable along a second firing line, which on the outside of and adjacent to the second side of the mast; wherein the first and second hoisting devices each include one or more cables and one or more associated winches, the winches preferably disposed in the hollow construction of the mast, to manipulate the position of each of the load attachment devices relative to th
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: Itrec B.V.
    Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Diederick Bernardus Wijning
  • Patent number: 7896081
    Abstract: A tieback connector connects a tieback conduit from an offshore platform to a subsea wellhead assembly. The tieback connector has a mandrel that is connected to a string of tieback conduit and a sleeve and load ring that are carried by the mandrel. The load ring is radially expansible and has a conical portion with internal threads. The load ring has an external grooved profile that engages an internal grooved profile in the subsea assembly. The mandrel is rotatable relative to the sleeve while in its lower position, causing the load ring to further expand outward into engagement with the internal profile. A locking member is carried below the load ring on an exterior cam surface of the mandrel. The cam surface moves the locking member outward when the mandrel moves downward into engagement with an internal profile in the subsea assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Rockford D. Lyle, Gregory M. Dunn
  • Patent number: 7866398
    Abstract: An underwater termination assembly for use with a subsea system such as a well tree, comprises a construction having first and second limbs substantially at a right-angle to each other, which construction may be lowered having an umbilical connected to one of the limbs so that said one of the limbs sits on the bed of a body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7845412
    Abstract: A technique for subsea intervention operations enables pressure control to be accomplished at the surface while borehole fluid control is exercised at the seabed. A compliant guide extends between a subsea well installation and a surface location, such as a surface intervention vessel. A buffer fluid is deployed within the compliant guide to maintain the borehole fluids proximate the seabed. The buffer fluid also enables pressure control over the buffer fluid and the borehole fluid to be performed from the surface. Additionally, a flexible conveyance can be used to move intervention tools through the compliant guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Andrea Sbordone, Eric Smedstad, Rene Schuurman, Alan Johnston, Axel Destremau, Yves Le Moign
  • Publication number: 20100288503
    Abstract: A subsea connector that includes a connector capable of selectively connecting to a spool body to form a connector assembly. The subsea connector may include an adapter ring that is capable of connecting the spool body to the connector. The connector assembly may be lowered onto a wellhead member and locked into place by a movable piston and split lock ring. While the connector assembly is in the unlocked state, the adapter ring may be rotated moving the connector up or down with respect to the spool body, which lands on the wellhead member. The movement of the connector may be used to vary the alignment of the connector locking means with respect to the locking profile of the wellhead member. This change in position may be used to modify the preload force applied to the connector when locked onto the wellhead member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Glen H. Cuiper, Paulo C.S. Paulo
  • Patent number: 7802624
    Abstract: An underwater stabplate connection is provided by lowering a counterbalanced first part of the connection in a horizontal disposition by a lift line, the first part being attached to an umbilical. The first part of the connection mates with a second part of the connection, the second part being attached to an underwater structure such as a well tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Richard K. O. Barratt
  • Patent number: 7798232
    Abstract: A technique facilitates formation of connections between compliant tubular members and subsea facilities. A compliant tubular member is deployed to a subsea location in a manner that arranges the compliant tubular member in a curvilinear shape. The distal end of the compliant tubular member is drawn down into proximity with the subsea facility and then moved horizontally into alignment with the subsea facility. Subsequently, the distal end is lowered into engagement with the subsea facility without being detrimentally affected by motion of an upper end of the compliant tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Colin Headworth
  • Patent number: 7779916
    Abstract: A subsea intervention system is disclosed comprising a floating vessel and a source of coiled tubing at the floating vessel. The system includes a seabed installation including a wellhead and compliant guide having one end operatively connected to the floating vessel and the second end operatively connected to the seabed installation. The compliant guide provides a conduit between the floating vessel and the wellhead for the coiled tubing. At least one injector is present at the floating vessel for inserting the coiled tubing into the compliant guide, and a carousel is proximate the wellhead which comprises a plurality of chambers with intervention tools in at least two of those chambers. The system may also include a plurality of sensing units that are disposed at spaced intervals along the compliant guide to monitor various aspects of the compliant guide and to transmit that information to a repositioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Warren M. Zemlak, John A. Kerr
  • Publication number: 20100200241
    Abstract: A system in some embodiments includes a two-part funnel that guides a first component to engage or connect with a second component of a mineral extraction system. The two-part funnel having a first funnel portion, and a second funnel portion, wherein the second funnel portion is configured to be disposed in at least two positions relative to the position of the first funnel portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Scott D. Ward
  • Patent number: 7770650
    Abstract: A horizontal tree has a lateral passage extending from its bore. A tubing hanger having a lateral passage lands in the bore of the tree. The tubing hanger has an orientation guide mounted to it. A retractable pin is mounted in the sidewall of the tree. The orientation guide on the tubing hanger engages the pin to rotate the tubing hanger as it is being landed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart F. Young, Martyn J. Lord
  • Patent number: 7770649
    Abstract: A locking device for locking an exchangeable unit in an insertion opening of an associated housing, particular in maritime mineral oil or mineral gas extraction, comprises locking elements adjustable between an insertion opening and a locking position, wherein in its insertion direction the unit can be inserted into the insertion opening, and is locked in the locking position within the insertion opening and relative to the housing. The locking elements are formed as thread segments spaced apart by insertion gaps in the circumferential direction and arranged on the outer side of the unit and being aligned with the insertion opening, said thread segments being arranged in the insertion opening at a gap and being in thread engagement in the locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Klaus Biester, Norbert Lenz
  • Publication number: 20100186964
    Abstract: A connection device comprises a lock component of non-circular cross-sectional shape, the lock component being both angularly and axially moveable relative to a housing, stop means operable to limit angular movement of the lock component relative to the housing, the lock component having a threaded drive region, and a drive nut in threaded engagement with the drive region, wherein angular movement of the drive nut relative to the housing when the stop means are not engaged is able to drive the lock component for angular movement, rotation of the drive nut when the stop means are engaged causing axial displacement of the lock component relative to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Iain Reid, Paul Charles Roberts, Alistair Ross Donald
  • Publication number: 20100186963
    Abstract: A connection tool for connecting a pipeline to a subsea connection structure which includes a connection porch (22) into which the pipeline is connected, the tool comprising: -a tool chassis (26); -a carrier (28) mounted on the chassis (26) and adapted to releasably carry the pipeline; -at least one locating member (30) positioned at the front of the chassis (26) so as to be engageable with the locating posts (24) on the connection porch (22) to hold the chassis (26) adjacent to the connection porch (22), a hinge connecting the locating member (30) to the chassis (26), such that the azimuthal orientation of the chassis relative to the connection porch can be varied when the locating member (30) is engaged with the locating post, wherein the locating member (30) includes a locking member that engages the locating post when the locating member (30) is engaged thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: VERDERG CONNECTORS LIMITED
    Inventors: David John Butcher, Richard John Wood
  • Publication number: 20100155074
    Abstract: A method for connecting a lower marine riser package to a lower blowout preventer stack. The method includes lowering a frame of the lower marine riser package toward a frame of the lower blowout preventer stack such that a first half of a feed-thru component contacts a second half of the feed-thru component; floating at least one of the first half of the feed-thru component or the second half of the feed-thru component while the frame of the lower marine package is further lowered toward the frame of the lower blowout preventer stack; and engaging the first half of the feed-thru component to the second half of the feed-thru component after further lowering the lower marine riser package toward the lower blowout preventer stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Perrin Stacy Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20100139925
    Abstract: A connector (1) for connecting components of a subsea system, the connector comprising male and female components (3, 2), guide means (11) for assisting preliminary orientation of the male component within the female component and means (18; 20; 21) for drawing the male component into the female component and latch means (22) for securing the male component within the female component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: LEWIS LIMITED
    Inventors: David Ernest McKay, Drummond Lawson, Malcolm George Cameron Milne
  • Patent number: 7690433
    Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing, adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Oceeaneering International, Inc.
    Inventor: Graeme E. Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20100078175
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for controlling an external device (4) at a well installation includes a control module (2) for generating electrical and/or optical control signals. A control pod (8) receives the control signals, the control pod controlling the external device. A hydraulic line (10) links the control pod to the external device (4) for controlling it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Christopher David Baggs
  • Publication number: 20100038090
    Abstract: An underwater termination assembly for use with a subsea system such as a well tree, comprises a construction having first and second limbs substantially at a right-angle to each other, which construction may be lowered having an umbilical connected to one of the limbs so that said one of the limbs sits on the bed of a body of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7650943
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for controlling an external device (4) at a well installation includes a control module (2) for generating electrical and/or optical control signals. A control pod (8) receives the control signals, the control pod controlling the external device. A hydraulic line (10) links the control pod to the external device (4) for controlling it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Christopher David Baggs
  • Patent number: 7637325
    Abstract: A cap for a subsea tree having a re-entry hub (1) and for use with a tubing hanger (25) deployed within the tree comprises an outer sleeve (3) for fitment over the hub and an inner sleeve (19) adapted to extend within the hub. The sleeve has communication couplers (27, 37) for cooperation with the tubing hanger. Preferably the communication couplers are located at the extremity of the inner sleeve. The couplers can accommodate dummy plugs or live couplers to suit the mode of application. The inner sleeve (19) supports at least one annular seal (21, 22) which provides a barrier between the inner sleeve and the inner periphery of the hub. The outer sleeve (19) includes releasable engagement fittings (16) for securing the outer sleeve to the hub. The cap is adapted for use as a running tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Aker Subsea Limited
    Inventors: Cecil C Goonetilleke, Oystein Mogedal, Knut Mogedal
  • Patent number: 7628225
    Abstract: The present embodiments relate to systems for building and/or handling a tubular string of a drilling device. The drilling device comprises a drill floor and a drilling derrick extending from the drill floor. The drill floor has an extension in a first plane (P1) being substantially perpendicular to a first direction (N). The system comprises a suspension device being fixedly attached to the drilling derrick, wherein a projection of the suspension device, in the first direction, onto the first plane (P1), is situated outside the drill floor. The present embodiments also relate to drilling device trolleys arranged to transport a component to and from a drilling center of a drilling device. The present embodiments relate to a use of a drilling device having a drill floor, wherein the drilling device has a suspension device being situated outside the drill floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: GVA Consultants AB
    Inventors: Inge Petersson, Robert Ludwigson
  • Publication number: 20090294129
    Abstract: A method to interchangeably connect a plurality of Lower Marine Riser Packages with a lower BOP stack includes engaging a Lower Marine Riser Package connector of the Lower Marine Riser Package, with a Lower Stack mandrel connector of a Lower Stack, thereby aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack axially about a vertical axis, engaging at least one ring alignment pin of the Lower Marine Riser Package with at least one alignment plate of the Lower Stack, thereby rotationally aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack within a specified angle about the vertical axis, and engaging feed-thru connections between the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Arnold Judge, Perrin S. Rodriguez