With Anchoring Of Line Patents (Class 405/172)
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Patent number: 12246798Abstract: An automatically-separable suction anchor system including a plurality of pumps is disclosed. The system includes an opening/closing unit including a blocking plate provided at a suction pile while having a through hole and pull-up brackets, and a valve member to cause the interior of the suction pile to selectively communicate with an exterior of the suction pile, a suction device including an operation-supporting tubular body with a suction hole and a pressing opening/closing part configured to enable the suction hole to communicate with the suction pile, a frame including clamps to be selectively coupled to the pull-up brackets, and first and second supports, and an operating pump coupled to the operation-supporting tubular body, the operating pump including a first pump of high capacity and a second pump of high head configured to penetrate the suction pile, and a third pump configured to draw the suction pile, and a control module.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2023Date of Patent: March 11, 2025Assignee: Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology [KIOST]Inventors: O Soon Kwon, Hyoun Kang
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Patent number: 12215805Abstract: A subsea line clamp assembly (1) has a body (10) having an axis and a clamp member (50), assembled in segments around a subsea line (3), and tethered to a subsea anchor (5). The clamp member (50) is movably located within the body (10). The inner surface of the body (10) and the outer surface of the clamp member (50) have respective tapered portions as part of teeth (32, 72) arranged to inter-engage. Adjacent teeth (32, 72) may be separated by axis-parallel portions. The clamping force on the subsea line (30) can be maintained at a consistent clamping force throughout the service life of the subsea line (3), despite the actions of creep and compression acting to reduce the outer diameter of the line (3).Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2021Date of Patent: February 4, 2025Assignee: Balmoral Comtec LimitedInventor: Aneel Gill
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Patent number: 12025242Abstract: A sliding subsea foundation comprises a polymeric shoe layer on the underside of a mudmat or subsea structure. The shoe layer defines a soil-engaging face that comprises an array of parallel grooves. The grooves are shallower than the thickness of the shoe layer such that each groove has a closed top, defined by and integral with the shoe layer, that spans the groove. Where a subsea structure is supported on the foundation with a subsea pipeline attached to the structure, the grooves are substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2020Date of Patent: July 2, 2024Assignee: SUBSEA 7 LIMITEDInventors: Stylianos Panayides, Toby Adam Powell, Keith Duncan Lauder
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Patent number: 11994240Abstract: A cover that includes a deformable jacket, intended to be placed around the submerged element. The deformable jacket has an internal volume. The cover includes a plurality of insulating elements arranged in the internal volume, able to move freely relative to one another; at least one opening for selective access to the internal volume through the deformable jacket, for allowing the internal volume to be flooded by a liquid during the deployment of the cover towards the submerged element, and for allowing suction of the liquid contained in the internal volume during the application of the cover on the submerged element.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2020Date of Patent: May 28, 2024Assignee: TECHNIP N-POWERInventors: Isabelle Clement, Xavier Henneuse
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Patent number: 11884427Abstract: Stud-propelling mechanisms for securing a launch vehicle to a landing platform, and associated systems and methods, are disclosed. A representative system includes a fastening mechanism carried by a landing support element of a portion of a launch vehicle, the mechanism configured to fasten the landing support element to the landing surface when the launch vehicle portion is on the landing surface. The fastening mechanism can include a barrel structure for propelling a stud and an interference portion positioned to receive the stud upon activation of an energetic material that propels the stud. The stud can bind in the interference portion and in the landing surface to fasten the landing support element to the landing surface. A representative method includes automatically fastening a portion of a launch vehicle to a landing surface using a stud carried by the portion of the launch vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2021Date of Patent: January 30, 2024Assignee: Blue Origin LLCInventors: Brian Riordan, Shane Draney, Rory Arp, Robert E. McMullen
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Patent number: 11565779Abstract: A method of installing one or more anchors in an underwater substrate in a body of water including installing an anchor into the underwater substrate by rotating an anchor installation vehicle about a central axis Y to drive the anchor coupled to the anchor installation vehicle into the underwater substrate. The anchor installation vehicle includes a vehicle frame having a top end and bottom end, a plurality of arms extending outward from the vehicle frame, one or more rotational thrusters disposed at distal ends of the respective arms, and an anchor system that holds the anchor extending from the bottom end of the vehicle frame with the anchor aligned with a central axis Y.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2021Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Assignee: Other Lab, LLCInventors: Peter Sturt Lynn, Jonathan B. Pompa
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Patent number: 11326719Abstract: This invention relates to a device (1) for securing an element (2) to a pipe (4), the device (1) comprising: a compensating member (10) made of an elastic material, extensible when the device (1) is tensioned around the pipe (4) with a strap (6), and progressively shrinkable over time to keep the device (1) and the strap (6) in tension when the pipe (4) shrinks; two clamping buckles (20, 30) each designed to receive a free end (62, 63) of the strap (6); and two strands (40, 50) made of a material less elastic than the compensating member (10), and each extending between a first end (41, 51) integral with the compensating member (10) and a second end (42, 52) integral with one of the clamping buckles (20, 30). The invention also relates to a system (1, 6) comprising such a device (1) and a strap (6); an installation (1, 2, 3, 4, 6) comprising such a system (1, 6); and a method for operating such a system (1).Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2019Date of Patent: May 10, 2022Assignee: Financiere de Beaumont—FBDInventor: Hervé Guy Claude Courbis
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Patent number: 11274769Abstract: Provided is a method of laying empty pipes on the seabed, which method includes arranging a plurality of empty pipes in a bundle; arranging a bundle-strengthening element in a cavity defined by the pipes of the bundle; binding the bundle; and lowering the bundle to the seabed.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2017Date of Patent: March 15, 2022Inventor: Johnny Soerensen
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Patent number: 11124940Abstract: An internally braced synthetic mattress is a geosynthetic structure made of a geosynthetic material. The structure has a bottom side, a top side and at least one upright side joining at least a portion of the bottom side and top side. The at least one upright side is formed by an upright fold of the geosynthetic material. A horizontal bar is woven through a portion of the bottom side of the geosynthetic structure and joined with an upright bar and a diagonal bar to form at least one angle brace to support at least a portion of the geosynthetic structure. The geosynthetic structure contains a filler to prevent/reduce erosion.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2020Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Assignee: PROPEX OPERATING COMPANY, LLCInventors: D. Scott Manning, Drew Loizeaux, Chastity Adkins
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Patent number: 10837164Abstract: Embodiments may be directed to processes, devices, systems, and manufactures involving water leaching systems. Embodiments may comprise one or more receiving chambers and a plurality of outriggers connected to one or more receiving chambers in such a way as to provide support against external loads acting on the one or more receiving chambers. The outriggers may be directly coupled with chambers and may be spaced apart from chambers as well. The outriggers may also be integrated with the chambers and may be added to or detachable from the chambers. The outriggers along with the chambers may each provide for leaching of wastewater or other water from them along one or more of their sides.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2019Date of Patent: November 17, 2020Inventor: David A. Potts
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Patent number: 10774984Abstract: A goal securement device includes a ground engagement system, a ground securement system, a goal securement system, and a goal securement monitoring system. In an embodiment, the systems work cooperatively to secure a goal to the ground and monitor the status of such securement. Embodiments of each system and embodiments of various components, aspects, or features of each system are described.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2020Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: RTC Industries, Inc.Inventors: Joel Barenbrugge, Gregory Dempsey, Michael James Fuchs
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Patent number: 9919774Abstract: Systems and methods for gas-up and cool down of LNG cargo tanks are described herein. A system includes a supply vessel located at a waterway location, a receiving vessel moored to the supply vessel, and a manifold conduit. The supply vessel is configured to transfer natural gas to the receiving vessel using the manifold conduit for gas-up and cool down of one or more LNG cargo tanks onboard the receiving vessel.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2011Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: Excelerate Energy Limited PartnershipInventors: Jonathan W. Cook, Mark K. Lane
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Patent number: 9423251Abstract: An along-the-cable reciprocating motion control mechanism includes a moving platform, weight drop-off gear, weight release gear and trigger gear. The moving platform is set at a guide cable and can make reciprocating motion along the guide cable. A profiler is carried by the moving platform and the buoyancy of the moving platform carrying the profiler is greater than zero, the weight drop-off gear is set at the top of the guide cable and can drop a weight onto the moving platform within a predefined period, the weight release gear is provided on the moving platform, the trigger gear is set at the bottom of the guide cable, and when the moving platform carries a weight and descends to the bottom of the guide cable, the trigger gear touches the weight release gear to enable it to make a series of actions.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2015Date of Patent: August 23, 2016Assignee: OCEAN UNIVERSITY OF CHINAInventors: Jiwei Tian, Wei Zhao, Ming Xu, Qingxuan Yang
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Patent number: 9057168Abstract: An improved erosion and sediment control gabion multi-cell device, which includes a first end cell having four rigid upright walls, each wall having a plurality of flow openings therethrough; an interior space defined by the four walls, into which a water permeable material such as sand or rock material is placed; a second end cell of similar construction to the first end cell; a center cell engaged to and sharing a sidewall with each of the first and second cells, the center cell having flexible upright wire mesh front and rear walls to allow the multi-cell gabion to flex upward and downward or side to side to accommodate the terrain onto which the gabion is set in place; and a geotextile fabric liner positioned in each cell to help restrict flow of soil through the device.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2013Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Inventor: Louis I. Dugan, Jr.
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Patent number: 9033615Abstract: The invention discloses a flexible offshore pipeline for oil and gas transportation stabilized on seabed by anchorage piers. It comprises cable (1) and flexible pipe (2) for oil and gas transportation, anchorage pier assemblies (3) to prevent the cable from drifting, and constraining assemblies (4) to restrict the flexible pipe (2) are sequentially provided on the cable. The anchorage pier assembly (3) comprises a gravity block (31) and the first clamping tool (32), and the first clamping tool (32) connects with the cable (1). The invention uses the flexible pipe (2) to build up offshore pipeline for oil and gas transportation, and anchorage pier assembly (3) and constraining assembly (4) for constraining the flexible pipe (2) are sequentially provided on the cable (1), which can restrict the flexible pipe, achieve reliable oil and gas transportation and prevent the flexible pipe drifting on the seabed. The pipeline system can protect the flexible pipe, are strong and reliable and the cost of pipeline is low.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITYInventors: Aihui Zhang, Dadi Zhang, Xiu Zhang
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Patent number: 8985906Abstract: An assembly for connecting a flexible line (20) to an underwater installation (18). The line is extended between the underwater installation (18) and a surface installation (16). The line (20) includes (i) a surface end (22), a bottom end (28) (ii) a contact portion (26) near the bottom end and a floating portion (24) which extends between the contact portion (26) and the surface end (22). The contact portion (26) includes an angled part (40) that divides the contact portion (26) into a first part (36) and a second part. Then angled part (40) is moored to the bottom (10) at an anchoring point (42) located in the opposite direction from both the bottom end (28) and the floating portion (24).Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2010Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignees: Technip France, Advanced Production and Loading ASInventor: Geir Olav Hovde
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Patent number: 8950979Abstract: The present invention regards a method for laying pipelines on the seabed comprising the steps of attaching an end (2) of the pipeline (1) to a structure (10, 20), lowering the structure with the pipeline to the seabed, allowing the pipeline end to pivot relative the structure, measuring the inclination of the pipeline end relative to the seabed, modifying a pipe spool such that one end is given the same inclination of the end as the pipeline and that at least one part of the pipe spool will be resting on the seabed after connection, connecting the pipe spool to the pipeline. The invention also regards a pipeline installation device where at least a one side of a top structure is allowed to move relative a foundation structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea ASInventor: Jan Helge Hassel
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Patent number: 8936413Abstract: Methods and apparatus for deploying pipeline from a vessel are described in relation to pipelines with installed accessories. One or more accessory support structures are installed at appropriate bedding locations on the seabed. In deploying pipeline from a vessel, an accessory is then attached at a position along the pipeline to correspond with the pre-installed accessory support structure bedding location. The pipeline and attached accessory are deployed and guided into engagement with the pre-installed accessory support structure on the seabed such that the pipeline is deployed substantially horizontally through the accessory support structure, and the accessory is supported by the pre-installed accessory support structure at the bedding location.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Acergy France SAInventors: Romain Mille, Brieuc Du Halgouet
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Patent number: 8882392Abstract: A method of anchoring a pipeline at a subsea location includes the steps of installing a first pile into the subsea location in a position away from the pipeline, affixing a first line to the pipeline and to the first pile, and tensioning the first line from the pipeline. A second pile is installed into the subsea location in a position away from the pipeline and away from the first pile. A second line is affixed to the pipeline and the second pile. The second line is tensioned from the pile. Each of the first and second lines extends on opposite sides of the pipeline at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the pipeline. Each of the pile is a suction pile having a tensioning mechanism thereon.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Pinnacle Engineering Inc.Inventors: Peter A. Cruz, Terence F. Townend, Jeffrey A. Liggett
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Patent number: 8882390Abstract: This method comprises connecting a downstream point (40) of a pipe (24) to a buoy (26) and completely submerging the buoy (26). It comprises deploying in the body of water (12) an intermediate section (30) of the pipe (24) from the downstream point (40) to at least as far as an upstream point (38), anchoring the upstream point (38), and tensioning the intermediate section (30) to keep it vertical. The connecting step includes activating a traction unit (96) to raise the downstream point (40) on the buoy (26). During the connecting step, the buoy (26) is carried in the body of water (12) virtually exclusively by its own floatability.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2009Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Jeroen Remery, Romain Vivet, Christophe Defreslon, Ange Luppi
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Publication number: 20140286709Abstract: A method of securing a pipeline to the bed of a body of water includes moving an underwater vehicle selectively, on the bed of the body of water, along the pipeline; transporting a plurality of fastening devices on the underwater vehicle; and driving each fastening device partly into the bed of the body of water, close to the pipeline, by a handling device mounted on the underwater vehicle, to confine the pipeline between the bed of the body of water and the fastening device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: SAIPEM S.p.A.Inventors: Diego Lazzarin, Paolo Dallona, Diego Magri
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Patent number: 8734055Abstract: This method comprises connecting a downstream point (40) of a pipe (24) to a buoy (26) and completely submerging the buoy (26). It comprises deploying in the body of water (12) an intermediate section (30) of the pipe (24) from the downstream point (40) to at least as far as an upstream point (38), anchoring the upstream point (38), and tensioning the intermediate section (30) to keep it vertical. The height of the buoy (26) is less than 1.5 times its greatest transverse dimension. The method comprises moving the buoy (26) between a remote position and an installed position in line with an anchoring region, keeping the buoy (26) partly submerged on the surface (16) of the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2009Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Jeroen Remery, Romain Vivet, Christophe Defreslon, Ange Luppi
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Patent number: 8708602Abstract: Systems and methods are described for controlling axial, lateral and/or vertical movements of subsea pipelines which reduce the need for expensive pipeline anchoring or other mitigation solutions. The pipeline is connected to a stabilizing structure generally adjacent to the pipeline using a plurality of load-bearing members attached to the pipeline and the stabilizing structure at a plurality of predetermined locations. Also described are systems and methods for monitoring operating parameters of the pipeline over time.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid A. Mebarkia, Robert L. Foster, Jr., Michael J. Quinney
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Publication number: 20140044488Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus, systems and methods for reducing displacement of a subsea conduit such as offshore hydrocarbon production pipeline, also referred to as pipeline walking or buckling, thus reducing the need for expensive pipeline anchoring or other mitigation solutions. A movement resistor adapted to be installed on a subsea conduit is provided having an inner portion adapted to receive and securely attach to a subsea conduit and at least one resistor portion adapted to resist induced forces. At least one movement resistor can be installed along the length of a subsea conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2012Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid Ahmed Mebarkia, Daniel Christopher Kefford, Daria Igorevna Bougai, Dane Ryne Drew
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Patent number: 8636447Abstract: An apparatus from repairing a subsea pipeline has a pile with a receptacle on a top surface thereof, a frame having a pair of pins extending outwardly on opposite side of the frame and received within the receptacle of the pile, a length of pipeline affixed to the frame. The pipe support is affixed to an end portion of the length of pipeline. The receptacle has a pair of slotted members extending upwardly from a top surface of the pile. Each of the slotted members has a tapered opening with a hole formed below and communicating with the tapered opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2012Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Trendsetter Engineering, Inc.Inventor: Mario R. Lugo
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Patent number: 8517044Abstract: A hydrocarbon transfer system includes a first and second floating structure and a substantially horizontal transfer pipe system submerged below water level interconnecting the floating structures. The transfer pipe system includes a flow line support member which is with at least one end attached to a connection head, a number of hydrocarbon flow lines being connected along the support member via carrier members. The connection head includes a cable or chain connected to one of the floating structures, connectors situated on the connection head or at the position of the support member near the connection head, which connectors are on one side in fluid connection with the flow lines and on the other side in fluid connection with a flexible flow line extending from the connection head to the floating structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2009Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventors: Jack Pollack, Paul Brown, Lionel Fromage, Mamoun Naciri
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Publication number: 20130170914Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for stabilizing a subsea pipeline such that movements of the pipeline in the axial, lateral and/or vertical directions are restrained. The pipeline is connected to a stabilizing structure generally adjacent to the pipeline using one or more load-bearing members attached to the pipeline and the stabilizing structure at one or more predetermined locations. Also disclosed are systems and methods for monitoring operating parameters of the pipeline over time.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid A. Mebarkia, Robert L. Foster, JR., Michael J. Quinney
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Publication number: 20120298373Abstract: The disclosure relates to an assembly including a supporting buoy and an anchoring assembly (28) comprising a base (100) attached to the bed (12) of the expanse of water. The assembly comprises a flexible anchoring line (30) connecting the anchoring assembly (28) to the supporting buoy (26). The anchoring line (30) comprises a lower section (84) made of chain links (92). The anchoring assembly (28) comprises a device (110) for guiding the lower section (84). The lower section (84) is movably mounted in the guide device (110) relative to the base (100), between an extended configuration and a contracted configuration, and a locking member (114) which can be released from the anchor line (30) on the anchoring assembly (28).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventors: Ange Luppi, Philippe Espinasse
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Publication number: 20120263542Abstract: An assembly for connecting a flexible line (20) to an underwater installation (18). The line is extended between the underwater installation (18) and a surface installation (16). The line (20) includes (i) a surface end (22), a bottom end (28) (ii) a contact portion (26) near the bottom end and a floating portion (24) which extends between the contact portion (26) and the surface end (22). The contact portion (26) includes an angled part (40) that divides the contact portion (26) into a first part (36) and a second part. Then angled part (40) is moored to the bottom (10) at an anchoring point (42) located in the opposite direction from both the bottom end (28) and the floating portion (24).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2010Publication date: October 18, 2012Inventor: Geir Olav Hovde
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Publication number: 20120107050Abstract: The invention relates to a pipeline assembly and a method of installing a pipeline assembly, wherein the pipeline extends at least in part on a seabed and curves upwardly from the seabed along a curved section thereof, the pipeline extending toward a delivery end provided at the water surface, wherein a connecting device connects the pipeline at a coupling point to an anchoring device at the seabed for preventing the coupling point from moving upward. The invention further relates to a pipeline device comprising at least two pipeline assemblies which are interconnected at a substantial distance from the seabed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS NEDERLAND B.V.Inventors: Dirk Rients WOLBERS, Ton COPPENS
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Patent number: 8152411Abstract: Guide arrangement for marine risers, in particular for offshore oil and gas operations. The guide arrangement has at least one guide structure (21, 22) for a length of riser, a frame assembly (10, 10A-D) for supporting said guide structure, anchor means (11, 12) at the seabed, tether means (13, 14) connecting said frame assembly to said anchor means, and a buoyancy element (1) for keeping said guide structure (21, 22) at a desired level in the sea during operation. The guide structure (21, 22) is pivotably supported by said frame assembly (10, 10A-D) with a pivot axis (21P, 22P) being substantially horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: NexansInventors: Torfinn Ottesen, Jan Arne Häll
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Patent number: 8123437Abstract: The invention relates to a pipeline assembly and a method of installing a pipeline assembly, wherein the pipeline extends at least in part on a seabed and curves upwardly from the seabed along a curved section thereof, the pipeline extending toward a delivery end provided at the water surface, wherein a connecting device connects the pipeline at a coupling point to an anchoring device at the seabed for preventing the coupling point from moving upward. The invention further relates to a pipeline device comprising at least two pipeline assemblies which are interconnected at a substantial distance from the seabed.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2006Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Heerema Marine Contractors Nederland B.V.Inventors: Dirk Rients Wolbers, Ton Coppens
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Patent number: 8100606Abstract: A stabilization system for stabilizing a submarine pipeline supported on a seabed below water level. The seabed is inclined in that it incorporates a sloping section extending between an upper section and a lower section. The stabilization system includes an upper anchoring mechanism for anchoring the pipeline to the upper seabed section adjacent the top end of the sloping section and the other being a lower anchoring mechanism for anchoring the pipeline to the lower seabed section adjacent the bottom end of the sloping seabed section. A buoyancy mechanism is provided along the extent of the pipeline section between the two anchoring mechanisms. The buoyancy provided by the buoyancy mechanism maintains the pipe section above and out of contact with the sloping seabed section.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: JP Kenny Pty LtdInventors: Philip Gwyn Brown, Gordon Charles Cowper
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Patent number: 8092119Abstract: A pipeline buoyancy control assembly is operable to simultaneously retain a plurality of pipelines against buoyancy forces. Respective ends of two retaining straps corresponding to two respective pipelines engage a tie-down member of a single control assembly. The retaining straps are placed over the respective pipelines and other ends of the retaining straps are attached to additional control assemblies. Further, stresses exerted on the retaining straps when the pipelines are subjected buoyancy forces are minimized by the unique structure of the tie-down member and the manner by which the retaining straps attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventor: Shawn D Downey
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Publication number: 20120003048Abstract: A device is described for a foundation to be placed in a sea bed, comprising a housing-formed, downwardly open, coat-forming construction set up for placing in the sea bed, said construction comprises a top part, and the top part comprises an extended hollow body (140) that stretches a distance into the inside of the construction. The invention is characterised in that the length of the inner pipe is shorter or longer than the length of the coat. When the inner pipe is shorter, its length is of the order of 10-90% of the length of the skirt 10, preferably 25 to 60%, and most preferred 50%. When the inner pipe is longer, its length is more than 100% and up to 300% of the length of the outer coat (10), preferably 150 to 200% and most preferred 300%. A method and different applications are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2009Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventors: Øyvind Hosøy, Eldar Lien
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Patent number: 8087848Abstract: A method and apparatus for deploying a plurality of seismic sensor units into a water column is described. The method includes providing a length of flexible cable from a cable storage device disposed on a vessel to a powered sheave, the cable having a plurality of spaced apart attachment points, routing the cable from the powered sheave to pass adjacent a workstation disposed on the vessel, deploying a free end of the cable into the water column while increasing the motion of the vessel to a first speed, operating the vessel at the first speed while providing a deployment rate of the cable at a second speed, the second speed being greater than the first speed, decreasing the second speed of the cable as an attachment point approaches the work station, and attaching at least one of the plurality of seismic sensor units to the attachment point at the workstation.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Fairfield Industries IncorporatedInventors: James N. Thompson, Jerry L. Laws, Larry E. Berges
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Patent number: 8007203Abstract: A method and an installation for connecting a rigid submarine pipe and a flexible submarine pipe. The rigid pipe terminates in a free connection end. The flexible pipe has a flow-line portion and a suspended portion. The flow-line portion has an input end connected to the free connection end. The installation comprises an anchoring device to hold the flow-line portion anchored at an anchor point and to allow the flow-line portion to form an undulation. The anchoring device is suitable for holding the anchor point at a distance and close to the free connection end to form the undulation between the anchor point and the free connection end.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2006Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Philippe Espinasse, Jean-Pascal Biaggi
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Patent number: 7976246Abstract: A system for deploying a deepwater mooring spread from a floating vessel using at least two cranes each having a main block, a deepwater deployment system connected to at least one of the cranes, a reel drive, a structure for supporting the reel drive and a hang-off, a plurality of neutral buoyancy polymer lines deployable by the reel drive connectable to each other and the hang-off with chains and/or with remote operated vehicle connectors, at least two suction piles with anchor chains, and at least two buoys, one for each suction pile for connecting to the neutral buoyancy polymer lines.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Kahn Offshore B.V.Inventor: Richard L. Krabbendam
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Patent number: 7942608Abstract: A flowline for hydrocarbon which is capable of being reeled and which is unreeled for being laid on the seabed using the reeled lay method is comprised of successive pipe sections having opposing ends which are joined by an anchor collar that is butt welded to the opposing ends. The pipe sections have a jacket on the exterior of the pipe sections, but the pipe sections are able to be reeled. Anchor collars are affixed by butt welding between the ends of adjacent pipe sections. Each anchor collar has a fixture or protrusion radially outward which has an outer diameter less than or at least not more than the outer diameter of the pipe section jacket. The flowline has the same inner diameter at the pipe sections and the collar, and the pipe has the same outer diameter as the collar, while the protrusion protrudes outward from the exterior of the collar.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Antoine Bastard, Kevin Legris, Julie Le Pocreau
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Publication number: 20110033244Abstract: A hydrocarbon transfer system includes a first and second floating structure and a substantially horizontal transfer pipe system submerged below water level interconnecting the floating structures. The transfer pipe system includes a flow line support member which is with at least one end attached to a connection head, a number of hydrocarbon flow lines being connected along the support member via carrier members. The connection head includes a cable or chain connected to one of the floating structures, connectors situated on the connection head or at the position of the support member near the connection head, which connectors are on one side in fluid connection with the flow lines and on the other side in fluid connection with a flexible flow line extending from the connection head to the floating structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2009Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: SINGLE BUOY MOORINGS INC.Inventors: Jack Pollack, Paul Brown, Lionel Fromage, Mamoun Naciri
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Patent number: 7866398Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
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Patent number: 7862256Abstract: A pipeline weighting device to straddle the longitudinal axis of a pipeline, a method of filling the device, and a method of weighting a pipeline with the device. The pipeline weighting device is formed of a plurality of interconnected, generally tubular-shaped lobes arranged to straddle the pipeline in a balanced manner along the longitudinal axis of the pipeline. The lobes are formed of a flexible, water permeable fabric to hold weighting fill material. Each lobe has opposed and closed longitudinal side edges and opposed ends, one end being a closed end, and the other end forming an open or partially open filling end.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: CRC-Evans Canada Ltd.Inventors: Ian Sprague, Charles Frederick McKay
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Patent number: 7794177Abstract: A subsea system for securing an end portion of a pipeline includes a subsea foundation. The foundation has a lower portion located below the sea floor and an upper portion extending above the sea floor. The subsea foundation has a receptacle formed in the upper portion. The system includes a base frame that lands on the subsea foundation. The base frame has a track formed therein. A stab is hingedly mounted to the base frame. The stab stabs into the receptacle to secure the base frame to the subsea foundation. A sliding mechanism is carried by the base frame and moves along the track. The sliding mechanism is connected to a segment of the pipeline extending along the sea floor. A terminal assembly for an end portion of a pipeline and a method for securing an end portion of a pipeline are also included herein.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventor: Kristen DeLack
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Publication number: 20100189514Abstract: A flexible bag-type pipeline weight, configured to straddle a pipeline, has internal tie means to prevent excessive bulging of the weight after being filled with ballasting material, thus facilitating installation in narrow trenches. Built-in loading loops facilitate filling the weight with ballasting material without need for special loading equipment. The bag-type pipeline weight is formed with a pair of leg sections on either side of a Central, pipeline-receiving recess. Once filled with ballast, the legs remain separated, thus facilitating installation on a pipeline. The filled pipeline weight is also freestanding and stable for purposes of transport and storage prior to installation. Hoisting slings facilitate lifting and manipulation of loaded pipeline weights without the need for spreader bars.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventors: Donald O. GUNN, Lyle Connley REID
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Patent number: 7677837Abstract: A device for transferring fluid between two floating supports anchored to the sea bottom, having a rigid central undersea pipe installed below the surface with its ends each being connected to respective ones of two supports via a flexible hose. The main portion of the rigid central pipe includes or co-operates with buoyancy elements such that the central pipe adopts, in a quasi-static rest state, a configuration of an arch, preferably following a curve such that the angles between the half-lines of the axes of the rigid pipe and the horizontal half-lines at each of its ends extending towards the other end present absolute values of less than 20° and the flexible hoses present lengths and curvatures such that variations in the curvatures of the flexible hoses are suitable for compensating the movements of the floating supports.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Saipem S.A.Inventors: Francois-Regis Pionetti, Midir Rivoal
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Patent number: 7654773Abstract: The disclosure provides a system and method for installing subsea equipment, such as a pipeline and equipment associated therewith in a target area, generally having restricted overhead access. An anchor can be installed in the seabed and can include one or more sheaves. A pipeline can be provided, which can include related equipment and/or one or more coupling devices situated remotely from the anchor relative to the target area. A winch wire can be provided and is adapted to be directly or indirectly coupled across at least a portion of the target area to the pipeline. A transfer sling having a pull wire and an initiation wire can be coupled between the winch wire and pipeline to assist the winch wire pulling the pipeline into the target area and transferring a pipeline force from the sheave to the anchor independent of the sheave.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Antoine Bastard, Kevin Legris, Julie LePocreau
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Publication number: 20090269141Abstract: There is disclosed a floating system positioned in a body of water having a water bottom, the system comprising a host member floating in the water; an elongated underwater line structure, comprising a top connected to the host; a bottom extending to the seabed and adapted to connect to a flowline lying on the seabed; a first portion of the line structure being shaped concave upward; a second portion of the line structure being shaped concave upward; and a transition segment between being shaped concave downward, the transition segment located between the first portion and the second portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2007Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventors: You Son LI, George Rodenbusch, Heping Zhang, Jane Qing Zhang
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Publication number: 20090238647Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for coupling seismometers and seismic sources to the ocean floor that results in improved seismic data quality and repeatability for reservoir management and seismic monitoring activities. Piles are configured with a coupling device and permanently installed on the ocean floor. The seismometers or seismic sources are acoustically coupled to the piles on the ocean floor via the coupling device. The pile, seismometer and seismic source may be surface treated with a material that releases divalent cations to enhance both the acoustic coupling and the load holding capacity of the pile. The pile is permanently imbedded into the seabed while the expensive and high-maintenance seismometers and seismic sources are redeployed on the piles as needed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventors: Neil Ernest Delfino, Joshua Ronen, Cung Khac Vu
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Publication number: 20090202305Abstract: A flowline for hydrocarbon which is capable of being reeled and which is unreeled for being laid on the seabed using the reeled lay method is comprised of successive pipe sections having opposing ends which are joined by an anchor collar that is butt welded to the opposing ends. The pipe sections have a jacket on the exterior of the pipe sections, but the pipe sections are able to be reeled. Anchor collars are affixed by butt welding between the ends of adjacent pipe sections. Each anchor collar has a fixture or protrusion radially outward which has an outer diameter less than or at least not more than the outer diameter of the pipe section jacket. The flowline has the same inner diameter at the pipe sections and the collar, and the pipe has the same outer diameter as the collar, while the protrusion protrudes outward from the exterior of the collar.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2008Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventors: Antoine Bastard, Kevin Legris, Julie Le Pocreau
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Publication number: 20090162146Abstract: The disclosure provides a system and method for installing subsea equipment, such as a pipeline and equipment associated therewith in a target area, generally having restricted overhead access. An anchor can be installed in the seabed and can include one or more sheaves. A pipeline can be provided, which can include related equipment and/or one or more coupling devices situated remotely from the anchor relative to the target area. A winch wire can be provided and is adapted to be directly or indirectly coupled across at least a portion of the target area to the pipeline. A transfer sling having a pull wire and an initiation wire can be coupled between the winch wire and pipeline to assist the winch wire pulling the pipeline into the target area and transferring a pipeline force from the sheave to the anchor independent of the sheave.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2007Publication date: June 25, 2009Applicant: TECHNIP FRANCEInventors: Antoine BASTARD, Kevin LEGRIS, Julie LePOCREAU