Connection To Provide Fluid Flow Path Patents (Class 166/344)
  • Patent number: 8714262
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a method of limiting the amount of oil in a sea comprises: positioning a device for directing the flow of a fluid adjacent to a wellhead, wherein the device comprises: a first fluid passageway; a second fluid passageway; a third fluid passageway, wherein the first fluid passageway is operatively connected to the second and third fluid passageways; and a fluid director, wherein the fluid director is operatively connected to the first, second, and third fluid passageways, and wherein depending on at least one of the properties of a fluid, the fluid director directs the fluid to increasingly flow into the second or third fluid passageways. This embodiment is useful in limiting the amount of oil when a blowout has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8708054
    Abstract: A technique enables protection of subsea wells. The technique employs a subsea test tree and associated control system to ensure control over the well in a variety of situations. The subsea test tree may be formed with an upper portion releasably coupled to a lower portion. The upper portion employs at least one upper shut-off valve, and the lower portion employs at least one lower shut-off valve to protect against unwanted release of fluids from either above or below the subsea test tree. The subsea test tree also is coupled with the control system in a manner which allows control to be exercised over the at least one upper shut-often valve and the at least one lower shut-off valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Terrell Eugene Dailey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140102711
    Abstract: A subsea arrangement comprising a first subsea structure, a second subsea structure, and a clamp connector. The first subsea structure is provided with at least one coupling member which is designed to mate with a corresponding coupling member on a first side of the clamp connector so as to allow the clamp connector to be releasably connected and secured to the first subsea structure through these coupling members. The second subsea structure is provided with at least one coupling member which is designed to mate with a corresponding coupling member on an opposite second side of the clamp connector so as to allow the clamp connector to be releasably connected and secured to the second subsea structure through these coupling members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY SCANDINAVIA AS
    Inventor: Steinar HESTETUN
  • Patent number: 8689881
    Abstract: An offshore unit includes a hull and/or a deck frame, a mat attached to at least one connecting leg or a spud can attached to each of at least one connecting leg or lower hull attached to at least one connecting means. A wellhead deck is removably attached to the hull and/or deck frame and a sub-sea clamp in conjunction with a caisson or a sub-sea conductor frame is removably attached to the mat or to the at least one connecting leg, where a spud can is attached to each of the at least one connecting leg, or to the lower hull. The offshore unit is relocatable and is a platform or a rig capable of performing drilling, production, construction, accommodation, hook-up and commissioning or a combination of any of these functions thereof. The offshore unit is a self-elevating mobile platform or submersible platform or semi-submersible platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Kingtime International Limited
    Inventors: Nagendran C. Nadarajah, Renata Anita De Raj, Mahendran Sippiah
  • Patent number: 8689880
    Abstract: A system for interconnecting a floating rig and a riser assembly includes a rotating control device permitting pressurization of the riser assembly; and a sliding joint connected to the rotating control device, the sliding joint being longitudinally extendable and compressible while the riser assembly is pressurized. Another system includes a sliding joint including more than two telescoping sleeves, and the sliding joint being longitudinally extendable and compressible while the riser assembly is pressurized at the surface. An apparatus includes a sliding joint with multiple sets of telescoping sleeves, each set including at least two of the sleeves. Another apparatus includes a sliding joint with multiple radially overlapping seal assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Christian Leuchtenberg
  • Publication number: 20140090852
    Abstract: A device for collecting and confining oil escaping from a sea bottom wellhead blowout. The device is easily and quickly moved into position to contain the oil from a subsea well blowout. The device provides an improved method for recovering the oil flowing from a subsea well blowout and preventing the mixing of such fluids with large quantities of the seawater. An improved method of oil containment includes the positioning of a vertical capsule over a subsea well blowout and the conducting of oil through a conduit to surface processing and storage equipment. In addition, an improved method includes the formation of a seal completely around the blownout wellhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Reeves
  • Patent number: 8684092
    Abstract: An apparatus to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning BOP control components using a remotely installed removable hydraulic hose connection. The backup fluid flow route sends pressure-regulated hydraulic fluid to a BOP operation via an isolation valve rigidly attached to the BOP, then to a hose connected to an intervention panel on the BOP and finally through a valve that isolates the primary flow route and establishes a secondary flow route to allow continued operation. To increase reliability, the backup components route from a spare BOP function and are rigidly fixed to the BOP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Transocean Sedco Forex Ventures Limited
    Inventors: Scott P. McGrath, Brian K. Williams
  • Patent number: 8684089
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid circulation system for circulating fluid in a subsea cavity, the cavity being filled with a first fluid and having first and second end ports. The system comprises a container (26) containing a second fluid, fluid lines (21, 27) extending from the container to the first and second end ports of the cavity, respectively, and a pump (22) for exchanging the second fluid provided in the container (26) and the first fluid provided in the subsea cavity (10). The invention also relates to a method for circulating fluid in a subsea cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea AS
    Inventors: Kristian Borhaug, Gunnar Herø
  • Patent number: 8684090
    Abstract: A telescopic riser section device for a riser which is arranged to connect a wellhead to a surface vessel, the telescopic riser section being placed between the wellhead and the riser and being provided with at least one actuator arranged to apply a downward tensile force to the riser; an actuator-pressurizing circuit being connected to the at least one actuator and being arranged on the riser section and/or on the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Norocean AS
    Inventor: Trond Haugland
  • Patent number: 8672038
    Abstract: A retrievable bridge is provided which mounts to the top of a subsea tree to provide fluid communication between the production line of the subsea tree and a production flowline. The retrievable bridge mounts to the top of the subsea tree and preferably connects to a vertically oriented pipe of the production flowline. The retrievable bridge can be utilized to carry wear items such as chokes, subsea control modules, and flow meters which may require maintenance more often than other components of the subsea tree. By mounting these items along the flow passageway in the retrievable bridge the components are securely mounted and still available for maintenance/replacement without the need to remove the entire tree. In one embodiment, Intervention into the well is available without removing the retrievable bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Magnum Subsea Systems PTE Ltd.
    Inventors: Hoon Kiang Tan, Kim Kok Goi, Patrick Joseph Hyde, Peter Ernest Page
  • Publication number: 20140060849
    Abstract: A cap system for subsea equipment that can be employed on various subsea equipment including but not limited to a vertical monobore tree, a horizontal tree, a wellhead and a tubing head spool. The cap system includes a cap assembly that has the flexibility of installation and retrieval for open water as well as a through a riser with a running tool. The cap assembly also does not require any orientation during installation. The cap system includes a debris cap assembly installable in engagement with the cap assembly. The debris cap assembly interfacing with the cap assembly provides the ability to inject and bleed fluids through a main bore and an annulus bore of the subsea tree independently and without removal of the debris cap assembly and cap assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Parth D. Pathak, Harrison J. Li, John T. Bogard
  • Patent number: 8662181
    Abstract: A stabplate connection is provided by: providing a first part (1) comprising a stabplate and carried by an underwater structure; providing a second part (2) comprising a stabplate carried by tooling (4); engaging the tooling with said first part; using the tooling to bring the parts together so the stabplates mate with each other; using the tooling to lock the first and second parts together by engaging a portion (6) carried by the first part with a portion (10) carried by the second part; disengaging the tooling from the first part; and removing the tooling from the stabplate connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Andrew S. Hamblin, Gareth H. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8662184
    Abstract: A subsea well production system for a well including a subsea wellhead. The system includes a multi-section production tree that includes a landing section engageable with the subsea wellhead and including a landing section bore. The tree also includes a valve section separate from and engageable with the landing section, the valve section including a lateral production port extending through a valve section wall and in communication with a valve section bore. A production tubing supported by a tubing hanger is installed and supported in the landing section bore such that the tubing hanger extends into the valve section bore. The tubing hanger and production tubing are retrievable through the section bores without disengaging the valve section from the landing section. The valve section is also disengageable from the landing section with the tubing hanger remaining in the landing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: David R. June
  • Patent number: 8657011
    Abstract: A method for providing auxiliary electrical power to an underwater well installation, the installation being linked to a surface location via an umbilical cable, to supplement any electrical power received at the installation from the umbilical cable, comprises the steps of: providing power generation means at the installation; and providing an electrical power output line for transferring electrical power generated by the power generation means to the installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Parag Vyas, Matthew Alexander Lehar, Ashalatha Devarajan, Peter John Davey, Nicholas Ellson
  • Publication number: 20140034327
    Abstract: A vertical connection apparatus for connecting a pipeline to a subsea structure comprises a guide funnel for controlling the position of the pipeline relative to the subsea structure; a moveable barrier and a attachment region for a drive mechanism; the moveable barrier is operable between an open position in which the pipeline can pass through the guide funnel and a closed position in which the barrier prevent the end of the pipeline passing through the end of the guide funnel. A tool with a drive mechanism can be attached between the pipeline and guide funnel to manipulate the pipeline into a connectable position. A clamp connector secures the connection between the pipeline and subsea structure conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: VERDERG CONNECTORS LTD
    Inventors: John White, Brian Wells, Colin Bickersteth
  • Patent number: 8640776
    Abstract: The present invention regards a device designed for injection of fluids in a well bore, typically an offshore well bore for petroleum production and gas injection/gas lift system for fluid injection. The device comprises a outer hollow housing (1) with an internal body (2) moveable within the outer housing (1) with an internal bore (3) which in a first closed position is closed with a metal to metal seal system between the outer housing (1) and the internal body (2), which internal body (2) is operated by pressure differential across the internal body (2), where the internal body (2) is designed with slots (4) forming outlets of the internal bore (3) which in an open position of the device is positioned outside of the outer housing (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Petroleum Technology Company AS
    Inventors: Magnar Tveiten, Øyvind Stokka, Erling Kleppa, Tom Norland
  • Publication number: 20140020905
    Abstract: A rotary lock block type drilling riser connector, including a main body connection part and control pipeline connection parts, the structure of main body connection part is: a driving ring is set between the flanges of an upper and a lower joint, a plurality of fan-shaped grooves are set on the lower end of the flange of the upper joint, each fan-shaped groove having a lock block (6) therein, the driving ring (4) surrounds outer sides of all the lock blocks, matching crimping circular grooves are arranged for each lock block and the lower joint; each lock block is slidably connected with a T-shaped elongated slot of the upper joint through a T-shaped screw; the driving ring is fixedly connected with the flange upwardly, many segments of the horizontal T-shaped slots are evenly distributed in the inner surface of the driving ring along a circumference direction, another screw hole is provided in the outer circumferential surface of the lock block, and the driving ring is slidably connected with the lock block
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: Baoji Oifield Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Caihu Chen, Dingya Wang, Keren Ren, Ping Deng, Jinquan Wang, Aili Li, Hong He
  • Patent number: 8631862
    Abstract: A chemical injection line connector includes first and second couplings configured to automatically seal shut when the members are disengaged. A method for blocking contamination or pressure transfer of chemical injection lines includes securing first and second couplings to corresponding ends of a chemical injection line and automatically sealing the couplings shut when the couplings are disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: David R. June
  • Patent number: 8631874
    Abstract: A drilling system employing a main tubular having a plurality of fluid inlet and outlet conduits positioned thereon and a concentric inner tubular having a plurality seals for sealing the annular space between the concentric inner and main tubulars. The fluid inlet and outlet conduits work in cooperation with the annular seals to selectively open and close for effective management of pressure within the tubulars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Transocean Sedco Forex Ventures Limited
    Inventors: John Kozicz, Tim Juran, Andy Legault, Sandy Black, John Mackay, Scott Niven, Iain Sneddon
  • Patent number: 8631873
    Abstract: A tubing hanger body made from Non-CRA steel coupled to production tubing made from CRA material. The coupling includes pin threads at the top end of the production tubing which are arranged to be screwed into box threads of the tubing hanger body. A seal sub having metal-to-metal and/or elastomeric seals engages the top end of the production tubing and protects the tubing hanger body from contact with production fluid flowing from the production tubing below to a Christmas tree tubing above. The invention includes a method of repairing of an existing tubing hanger body where its through bore has been damaged. This allows the through bore to be over machined and a CRA sleeve installed to replace tubing threads and body material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Proserv Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian A. Sneed
  • Patent number: 8622138
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) Limited
    Inventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
  • Publication number: 20140000901
    Abstract: A bore selector for coupling a monobore riser to a dual bore subsea installation, the bore selector comprising a lower base part comprising a first and a second through bores connected to the respective bore of the dual bore subsea installation, an upper selector part comprising a through bore connected to a bore of the monobore riser, the upper selector part is movable relating to the lower base part to and fro between a first and a second positions, an actuator configured to move the upper selector part relating to the lower base part between the first and the second positions, and a connector sleeve slidably mounted in the through bore, wherein the connector sleeve is configured to selectively engage with the first and the second through bores, and is movable in the axial direction of the through bore to and fro between a raised and a lowered position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Vidar Strand
  • Patent number: 8613323
    Abstract: An assembly for use on a wellhead includes a tree body including an internal main bore arranged in use to be aligned with the bore of a wellhead housing; the tree body including a lateral bore extending through the tree body from the internal bore; the tree body further including means for connecting to a connector so as to align the internal bore of the tree body with an internal bore in the connector, in use the tree body and the connector together forming a horizontal tree. The tree body may include one or more integrally formed bores and valves to provide fluid flowpaths for the annulus and/or cross-over functions. A wellhead assembly including the tree assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Keith Garbett, Andrew Bean, Hans Paul Hopper
  • Publication number: 20130333896
    Abstract: A method for disrupting an obstruction from a wellbore includes determining a location of an obstruction within a wellbore. An ultrasound transducer is deployed down an interior of a casing in the wellbore. Ultrasound energy is focused, using the ultrasound transducer, to the determined location of the obstruction and the obstruction is disrupted using the focused ultrasound energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicants: SIEMENS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS USA, INC., SIEMENS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephen R. Barnes, Thomas O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 8607877
    Abstract: This invention relates to equipment and a subsea pumping system using a subsea module installed on the sea bed, preferably away from a production well and intended to pump hydrocarbons having a high associated gas fraction produced by one or more subsea production wells to the surface. One object of this invention is achieved by means of the design of a pumping module (PM) which is linked to pumping equipment already present in a production well and which basically comprises: an inlet pipe (2), separator equipment (3), a first pump (4) and a second pump (8). In the subsea pumping system for the production of hydrocarbons with a high gas fraction, the other object of this invention, when oil is pumped from the production well (P) the well pump (13) increases the energy of the fluid in the form of pressure and transmits this increase in energy in the form of an increase in suction pressure in the second pump (8) of the subsea module (PM).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.-Petrobras
    Inventor: Roberto Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 8607879
    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: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.
    Inventor: Graeme Reynolds
  • Patent number: 8590625
    Abstract: A subsea completion for a well is presented that includes a tubing spool, a tubing hanger, a fluid coupling, an electrical coupling, a control system, a valve, and a production tree. The tubing spool includes a central bore, a side wall, and a fluid supply passage extending through the tubing spool. An electrical supply passage can also extend through the side wall of the tubing spool. The tubing hanger includes a fluid control passage. The tubing hanger can also include an electrical control passage. The control system includes a fluid control conduit to provide fluid to the tubing spool fluid supply passage from outside the tubing spool. The valve is connectable to the outside of the tubing spool to control fluid flow between the control system fluid conduit and the tubing spool fluid supply passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen C. Smith, David R. June
  • Patent number: 8590624
    Abstract: A running tool sets and pressure tests a bridging hanger and a packoff in a single trip. The running tool has a stem, an inner body, and a piston. The inner body is connected to the stem so that rotation of the stem relative to the inner body will cause the stem to move longitudinally. The piston is connected to the stem so that the stem and piston rotate and move longitudinally in unison. A piston engagement element is housed in the inner body and is adapted to engage the piston when the bridging hanger is set to prevent premature setting of the packoff. The piston engagement element can be disengaged once the bridging hanger is set, thereby allowing the piston to set the packoff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Guilherme Pedro Eppinghaus Neto, Fernando Sousa
  • Publication number: 20130299178
    Abstract: Systems and methods for riser coupling are disclosed. A riser coupling system comprises a riser joint connector comprising a first tubular assembly coupled to a second tubular assembly. The riser coupling system further comprises a spider assembly which receives the riser joint connector and has a connector actuation tool. The connector actuation tool comprises a dog assembly, a clamping tool and a splined member. The dog assembly selectively extends a dog to engage the riser joint connector. The clamping tool couples the first tubular assembly and the second tubular assembly. Finally, the splined member actuates a locking member of the riser joint connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Blake T. DeBerry, Morris B. Wade, James Daryl Kizer
  • Publication number: 20130292128
    Abstract: A subsea production system for conducting hydrocarbon recovery operations in a marine environment, including a trussed tower having a first end including a base residing proximate the seabed and a second end having a landing deck configured to receive and releasably attach to a floating drilling unit. The system also includes one or more hydrocarbon fluids storage cells. The storage cells reside at the seabed proximate the base of the trussed frame. The system further includes subsea production operational equipment that resides within the trussed frame near the water surface and is in fluid communication with the hydrocarbon fluids storage cells. A method for installing such components is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Carl R. Brinkmann, Dmitri G. Matskevitch
  • Patent number: 8573306
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) Limited
    Inventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
  • Patent number: 8561706
    Abstract: The connection system allows to assemble two sections of a riser pipe used for offshore drilling, the riser pipe comprising a main tube and at least one auxiliary line arranged parallel to said tube. The connection system comprises a connector A for assembling two main tube sections and connecting means B1 for assembling two auxiliary line sections. Connecting means B1 are arranged, with respect to connector A, in such a way that the overall dimensions E of the connection system are smaller than the sum of the overall dimensions EA of the connector and of the overall dimensions EB1 of the connecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Daniel Averbuch, Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
  • Patent number: 8555979
    Abstract: The present invention is a blowout preventer including a large funnel. The large end of the funnel is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or other fluid) is blowing out. The small end of the funnel is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. Air is pumped under high pressure through the high pressure pipe, separating the oil and forcing the oil, that is not kept down in the well pipe by the pressure, up through the return pipe. The funnel can be moved into alignment with the well pipe using positioning arms. A stopper may be forced into the well pipe. There are propellers near an end of the high pressure pipe. There are stacked turbines in the return pipe. There is a gasket with pivoting overlapping plates, to seal the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
  • Patent number: 8555977
    Abstract: Remotely operated underwater redirection plenum chamber for spill response. A method for operating an underwater redirection plenum chamber including aligning a first end of the redirection plenum chamber with a riser pipe having a fluid flow. A collar is lowered from the first end of the redirection plenum chamber, such that an inner diameter of the collar surrounds an outer diameter of the riser pipe. A plurality of barbs within the collar are activated to pierce and engage an inner surface of the riser pipe. A grip engages the outer diameter of the riser pipe. The grip has at least two counter rotating cylinders such that when rotated by the fluid flow the counter rotating cylinders create a seal allowing fluid to travel through the grip and into a first chamber of the redirection plenum chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Blueshift, Inc.
    Inventor: John David Christopher Aykens
  • Patent number: 8555978
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tubing system for transporting a gas-liquid flow from a well to a production platform or processing facility. It includes a dual pathway section between the well and the production point having a first tubing portion and a second tubing portion. The second tubing portion includes a plurality of parallel channels so as to divide the multi-phase flow into a plurality of flows through individual channels. This is done to reduce flow slippage of the lower viscosity portion of the flow, which may lead to inefficiencies in flow characteristics, and often, undesirable cyclical variations in pressure and fluid volume. This is especially useful in inclined portions of the petroleum flow pipe system and along hilly terrain. The first round tubing portion is used for transporting the gas-liquid flow as well as for maintenance purposes, such as for pigging, fishing or coiled tubing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Technology Commercialization Corp.
    Inventors: Boris Ganelin, Michael W. Kenworthy
  • Patent number: 8550169
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Subsea Technologies Group Limited
    Inventors: David Ernest McKay, Drummond Lawson, Malcolm George Cameron Milne
  • Patent number: 8550170
    Abstract: A retrievable flow module (RFM) apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the RFM apparatus is a standalone assembly configured to mate with a subsea device, such as a production tree. The RFM apparatus may include a frame within which various flow control and monitoring elements are disposed. The frame may have an alignment system that enables the RFM apparatus to horizontally mate with the tree. Because the RFM apparatus provides for the collocation of flow control and monitoring elements within a standalone assembly, deployment or retrieval of the flow control and monitoring elements may be accomplished in single operation. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Edmund McHugh, Finbarr Evans, Tobias Voelkel
  • Publication number: 20130248195
    Abstract: A subsea fluid connector is disclosed. The body of the connector has a first portion and a connection profile portion, a first port through an outer surface of the first portion, plurality of openings through an outer surface of the connection profile portion, and a plurality of fluid passages through the body and coupled between the first port and the plurality of openings. The subsea fluid connector may have a first fluid flow path extending through the plurality of fluid passages between the first port through the outer surface of the first portion and the plurality of openings through the outer surface of the connection profile portion, and a second fluid flow path extending through a fluid passage between a second port through the outer surface of the first portion and a third port through the outer surface of the connection profile portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Gutierrez, Shane Wells, Daniel Gutierrez, James Edward Fuselier
  • Patent number: 8540031
    Abstract: The invention features an encapsulating device and system to contain a fluid or substance spilled during a blowout of a pipe at subsea level. The system features a semi-circular housing that fits underneath the flange of a pipe. A heater is provided inside the housing. The system features a tri-flange system having flanges on the top and sides of the housing. The side flanges are closed and sealed and then the top flange is closed. Side flanges divert pressure in the system. The system discloses arms and sealants to aid in sealing the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Rimi
  • Patent number: 8534364
    Abstract: An underwater placed assembly produces gas or gas and oil/condensate from a subsea gaseous reservoir, where at least one production well is provided from the seabed to a production zone and at least one water injection well is provided from the seabed to an injection zone. The assembly includes: a pressure increasing device connected to the outlet of the production well in order to increase the pressure in a production flow from the production well, and a water turbine that is connected to and driving the pressure increasing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Statoil ASA
    Inventor: Harald Underbakke
  • Patent number: 8528647
    Abstract: The invention relates to a riser pipe section (1) comprising a main tube (2), at least one auxiliary line element (3) arranged substantially parallel to said tube (2), the ends of the main tube comprising connection means allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted and the ends of the auxiliary line element comprising linking means allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted, said linking means comprising at least one locking pin (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Jean Guesnon, Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
  • Patent number: 8522880
    Abstract: A floating structure includes a riser support system. The riser support system includes multiple carts, each suitable for moveably connecting a risers to the riser support system. A cart includes a support frame and one or more riser tensioners for connecting the support frame to a riser. Each cart is designed for being supported by a cart support structure in a production dock and in a drilling dock, and for being transferred by a crane between the production dock and the drilling dock. Thus, the riser support system enables transferring risers and their riser tensioners within the moonpool from a production dock to a drilling dock without the need of disconnecting and/or reconnecting the risers to extra riser tensioners for support in the drilling dock or during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: ITREC B.V.
    Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Pieter Dirk Melis Van Duivendijk
  • Patent number: 8522881
    Abstract: Systems and methods for the prevention or dissolution of hydrates in an undersea well. One example system includes a submersible isolation bell for capturing effluent being exhausted from the well, and an umbilical. A power cable supplies electric power to the submersible isolation bell, for example for heating of the interior of the submersible isolation bell to prevent or discourage the formation of methane hydrates and the precipitation of other byproducts. Diluents may be supplied to the submersible isolation bell to further discourage the formation of hydrates and precipitation of other byproducts. The diluents may be heated locally at the submersible isolation bell, using electric power supplied by the power cable. A conformable seal may substantially seal the submersible isolation bell to a riser or other structure at the wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Composite Technology Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Worrall, Craig Hazelton, Michael Tupper
  • Patent number: 8511386
    Abstract: A subsea pumping system using a subsea module is installed on the sea bed, preferably away from production wells and intended to pump hydrocarbons having a high associated gas fraction produced by subsea production wells to the surface. The system achieves an advantage by the design of a pumping module (PM) which is linked to pumping equipment already present in a production well and which includes: an inlet pipe (2), separator equipment (3), a first pump (4) and a second pump (8). Another advantage of the subsea pumping system for the production of hydrocarbons with a high gas fraction is that, when oil is pumped from the production well (P), the well pump (13) increases the energy of the fluid in the form of pressure and transmits this increase in energy in the form of an increase in suction pressure in the second pump (8) of the subsea module (PM).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.—Petrobras
    Inventor: Roberto Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 8496063
    Abstract: A method and device for recovering drilling fluid used in connection with the provision of a subsea well, in which the drilling fluid is circulated from a vessel on a sea surface via a drill string and out through a drill bit into an annulus which is defined by a borehole and the drill string. The device includes a filtering device which is connected, in respect of fluid, to an annulus and which is arranged to contain drill cuttings and drilling fluid. A fluid line extends from a portion of the filtering device to the vessel, the fluid line being arranged to carry drilling fluid which has been separated from the drill cuttings back to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Ott Subsea Bag Technology AS
    Inventor: John Eirik Paulsen
  • Patent number: 8490705
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for operating a subsea blowout preventer includes a surface manifold configured to convey hydraulic power to the blowout preventer, a surface actuation valve hydraulically connected to subsea valves and configured to operate the blowout preventer, and a control system monitoring apparatus. The control system monitoring apparatus includes a surface manifold pressure transducer hydraulically connected to the surface manifold, an electronic readback system, and a surface control line pressure transducer hydraulically connected to the surface end of at least one control hose and the surface actuation valve. The control system monitoring apparatus is configured to read, record, and process pressure data supplied by the surface manifold and surface control line pressure transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Post Curtiss, III
  • Patent number: 8485260
    Abstract: A system and method to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning components using removable, modular component sets. In one exemplary embodiment, an ROV establishes a backup hydraulic flow to a BOP function by attaching one end of a hose to a modular valve block and the other end to an intervention shuttle valve, thus circumventing and isolating malfunctioning components. A compound intervention shuttle valve is provided that comprises first and second primary inlets, first and second secondary inlets, and an outlet. A modular valve block is provided that comprises a directional control valve, a pilot valve, a manifold pressure regulator, a pilot pressure regulator, stab type hydraulic connections and an electrical wet-make connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling
    Inventors: Steve O'Leary, Tom Thrash, Angela Donohue
  • Patent number: 8479824
    Abstract: A power slip extends a joint from tubing disposed in casing at a well so that a casing head can install on the casing and the tubing can be packed-off from the casing. The joint attaches to an inner sleeve having collet members that fit onto the inner tubing so that the joint extends thereabove. An outer sleeve and interlocking collet assemble together and install onto the inner sleeve. The collet threads onto the inner sleeve and forces the outer sleeve downward onto the inner sleeve. Being forced, the outer sleeve causes the collet members to engage around the inner tubing. The casing head then installs on the casing with the joint extending up through the head's bowl. An H-plate installs in the open bowl around the extended joint, and another pack-off installs on the joint to pack it off from a spool attaching to the casing head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Travis, Elizabeth A. McClain, Paul Perez, Brandon M. Cain
  • Patent number: 8474539
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an improved design for a pull tube sleeved stress joint and associated pull tube for managing stresses on a catenary riser for a floating offshore structure. The pull tube sleeve stress joint includes at least one sleeve surrounding a length of the pull tube with an annular gap between the sleeve and pull tube and a link ring therebetween. For embodiments having a plurality of sleeves, a first sleeve can be spaced by an annular first gap from the pull tube and coupled thereto with a first ring between the pull tube and the first sleeve, and a second sleeve can be spaced by an annular second gap from the first sleeve and coupled thereto with a second ring between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. Both pull tube and sleeves can be made with regular pipe segments welded together with regular girth welds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Michael Y. H. Luo, Bob Lixin Zhang, Shih-Hsiao Mark Chang
  • Patent number: RE44520
    Abstract: A completion system for a subsea well includes a tree having a generally cylindrical wall forming an internal bore therethrough and a production port extending laterally through the wall in communication with the internal bore. The internal wall has a landing arranged to support a tubing hanger having seals for sealing the production port between the tubing hanger and the internal wall, the production port being arranged to communicate with a lateral production fluid outlet port in the tubing hanger. A workover port extends laterally from an opening in the internal wall below the production port and the production port seals and a tubing annulus seal sealing the workover port from the tubing annulus. A tubing annulus port extends from an opening in the tree below the tubing annulus seal and the tubing annulus port and workover port being arranged to be in fluid communication externally of the internal bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Cooper Cameron Corporation
    Inventor: Rhonda Hartmann