Structure Protection Patents (Class 405/211)
-
Publication number: 20100129159Abstract: A device and method for the reduction of vortex-induced vibration of a deepwater riser. A device for attachment to a structure, which is subject to movement relative to a fluid surrounding the structure, for reducing vortex-induced vibration effects on the structure, the device comprising: a flexible netting (4) interconnecting a plurality of relatively inflexible members comprising a plurality of elongate members (3) and a plurality of spacer members (6), wherein each elongate member has a first cuter boundary and each spacer member has a second outer boundary wherein the second boundary extends radially outward of the first outer boundary relative to the netting, over at least: a substantial portion of the boundary.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Andrew James Brown
-
Publication number: 20100098497Abstract: A system comprising a subsea structure beneath a body of water, subject to a water current; an installation vessel floating on the body of water; a line connected to the subsea structure and the installation vessel; and one or more vortex induced vibration suppression devices connected to the line, which have been lowered from the vessel to be installed on the subsea structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Stephen Paul Armstrong, Richard Bruce McDaniel, Catherine Anne Preator, David Wayne McMillan, Janet Kay McMillan, Christopher Steven West
-
Publication number: 20100086363Abstract: A device for protecting a subsea structure from damage due to impact from falling objects. The device includes a lower shell that can be positioned over the subsea structure on the sea bed. The lower shell has a non-articulating cross sectional shape that provides a conduit between the lower shell and the sea bed. An upper shell is fixed to an outer surface of the lower shell and has a cross sectional shape that provides a conduit between the outer surface of the lower shell and the upper shell. The upper shell is sized and configured to be disposed on the lower shell. The lower shell can include footings to providing bearing support on the sea bed or may be positioned on separate footings or foundation on the sea bed. Methods of making the device and using the device to protect subsea structures are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventor: Yesudas J. Manimala
-
Patent number: 7677838Abstract: A motion reduction apparatus has an orthorhombic shaped floating main body (11), a plumb plate supported vertically on one side section of the floating main body by stay members (13), and flow sections (15) for flooding with incoming water are provided between the floating main body and the plumb plate in such a way that an upper end section of the plumb plate is at about the same height as the bottom surface of the floating main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2003Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Masami Matsuura, Makoto Nishigaki, Takahiro Hirai, Youichi Yamaguchi
-
Publication number: 20100021240Abstract: The present invention relates to device for preventing fouling of marine piles and the like. There is provided a marine pile antifouling device including a buoyant, substantially annular body for installation about a pile or the like, and having a working clearance about said pile or the like, wherein at least the outer surface of said body may be constructed of polymer foam or closed surface plastic. In one embodiment a marine pile antifouling device including a buoyant, resilient, unitary and substantially annular body, openable against said resilience for installation about a pile, and having a working clearance about said pile is provided. It has been surprisingly determined that a body of quite soft material representing no risk to the integrity of the pile surface is capable of maintaining the pile surface substantially free of marine fouling and growth.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2006Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventor: Charles Castrogiovanni
-
Patent number: 7617792Abstract: A bumper assembly for attachment to a post has a hollow bumper member with an internal bore that fits over a post and allows the bumper member to rotate. A protective liner is provided between the bumper member and the post and has an internal bore that fits around the post and an external wear surface that fits within and rotatably supports the bumper member. A retaining ring can be secured to the post to hold the bumper assembly in place vertically. Alternatively, the hollow bumper member can be provided with end faces that interact with the upper and lower surfaces of a protective liner positioned within the hollow bumper member to hold the bumper assembly in place vertically. The components of the bumper assembly can be split along one side or provided as two separate halves attachable together to facilitate attachment to posts that are restrained on both ends.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Inventor: Matt D. Pursley
-
Publication number: 20090269136Abstract: A bridge includes a bridge includes a pier, and a hooked collar at least formed on upstream surface of the pier. The anti-scour structure includes at least one hook extending upwardly. The hook configured for guiding water flow or downflow to move upwardly thereby protect river bed from being scoured.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2008Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventor: Su-Chin CHEN
-
Publication number: 20090269143Abstract: There is disclosed a system comprising a structure, a vortex induced vibration monitoring system, adapted to monitor a vortex induced vibration level of the structure, a tensioner connected to the structure, and a controller adapted to calculate a tension on the structure to optimize the vortex induced vibration value of the structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2006Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Dean Leroy Henning, Li Lee
-
Patent number: 7604435Abstract: Umbilical device, where the device has a longitudinal axis (x), and includes at least one elongated electrical cable or tube element; and an elongated load bearing component along the longitudinal axis (x) and having an external surface including at least one groove disposed along the longitudinal axis (x) and parallel thereof. The component includes a central core encompassed by a plastic or elastic layer, which is provided with the at least one groove, where the groove is designed for holding the cable or tube element within it, while allowing the cable or tube element to move substantially radially in the groove when the umbilical is bent and that the layer is made from several plastic or elastic elements.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: NexansInventors: Einar Mjelstad, Knut Ivar Ekeberg
-
Patent number: 7600945Abstract: A cladding section for mounting upon an elongate member and suppressing vortex induced vibration of it, the cladding section being formed of plastics sheet shaped to define two or more parallel, part tubular portions having respective vortex induced vibration suppression features, material joining neighboring part tubular sections being sufficiently pliant to allow the cladding section to be re-configured from a quasi-flat state to a state in which it forms a tube for receiving the elongate member. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a cladding section for mounting upon an elongate underwater member and suppressing vortex induced vibration of it, the method including thermoforming the cladding section in one piece.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Trelleborg CRP LimitedInventor: Alan Burgess
-
Patent number: 7578038Abstract: Apparatus and methods for remotely installing vortex-induced vibration (VIV) reduction and drag reduction devices on elongated structures in flowing fluid environments. The apparatus is a tool for transporting and installing the devices. The devices installed can include clamshell-shaped strakes, shrouds, fairings, sleeves and flotation modules.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: David Wayne McMillan, Richard Bruce McDaniel
-
Patent number: 7568861Abstract: A bend stiffener to surround an end portion of an elongated, essentially cylindrical object, e.g. a flexible pipe or a cable, extending from a subsea installation to a surface vessel, and is connected to an end piece or end flange of the object at a connection to the vessel. A plurality of spaced apart clamp sets, each set has inner, essentially cylindrical clamp surrounding the object and semi-circular longitudinal grooves for receiving spring rods in an outer surface thereof, and outer clamp which in inner surface thereof has longitudinal semi-circular grooves for receiving the spring rods. The spring rods are secured in the end piece or the end flange or an adapted arrangement on the object. Each outer clamp is secured to the respective inner clamp and locks the spring rods relative to the inner clamp and the object.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2005Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Marine Subsea Group ASInventors: Erik Godøy, Jan Egeland
-
Publication number: 20090185868Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reducing vortex induced vibration are provided. An apparatus for reducing vortex induced vibration can include a first body at least partially disposed within a second body. The first body can be made of a material having more weight per linear foot than the second body. The apparatus can also include one or more helical fins.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Rodney H. Masters, Billy L. Griffith
-
Patent number: 7559723Abstract: A hull-to-caisson interface connection assembly accommodates high tension loads between the hull and a caisson of a Spar-type platform, while facilitating angular flexing motion and constraining lateral and axial movement. The interface connection assembly includes an annular bearing shoulder at the top end of caisson, and a laminated bearing assembly mounted in the bottom of the hull and defining a passage through which the upper portion of the caisson passes, so that the caisson shoulder seats against the upper end of the bearing assembly. The bearing assembly includes a laminated structure of alternating steel and elastomeric flex elements, bonded to each other to flex together as a unit, rather than sliding relative to each other. The laminated structure of the bearing assembly supports the vertical tensile loads applied by the weight of the caisson on the hull, while also accommodating the angular loads applied between the caisson and the hull.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2006Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: Harvey O. Mohr
-
Patent number: 7547159Abstract: An add-on structure for cradle boat lifts incorporating a piling brace that, when hurricane winds threaten, provides for the interconnection of the pilings to the cradle of a cradle boat lift. One or more piling braces span the distances between the inboard pilings and the cradle beams. The outboard piling braces are similarly configured. Cradle brackets attach to the cradle and provide for the crosswise attachment of the piling brace to the cradle beam. The piling braces are permanently attached to the piling or intermittently secured by U-bolt to piling pads, which are permanently secured to the pilings.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Inventor: Helen Doro Warters
-
Patent number: 7537416Abstract: A riser support system for use in a body of water comprises a buoyant and ballastable support structure and a plurality of substantially vertical and rigid risers each of which is attached to the inside of the support structure at a location below the center of buoyancy of the support structure and below the surface of the body of water. Usually, each riser passes through the inside of a single tube in the support structure. Typically, the riser support system is used to support a plurality of risers and their surface wellheads inside the hull of an offshore platform, usually in such a manner that the axial movement of the risers and support structure is independent of the axial movement of the hull.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Chevron USA IncInventor: Stephen B. Wetch
-
Publication number: 20090052989Abstract: Sheath (20, 21) with specially designed artificial rugosity (18, 19), to be put on structures and objects (10) submerged in a flow (12) and leaning on a scourable bottom, such as piers and abutments of bridges, pipelines, and others. The rugosity diminishes the intensity of the secondary flow that occurs in the border of attack of the structure and also reduces the turbulent wake; as a result, there is a decrease in the local scour that can put the mentioned structures at risk. The sheath also reduces the drag force due to the relative movement of the structure (10) in relation to the liquid medium, so it can be applied to moving objects in a liquid medium at rest. The sheath may have an efficient streamlined profile that produces an additional decrease of the scour and the drag force; it may also include a mechanism to turn the sheath automatically, if the flow has variable direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2005Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventor: Robie Bonilla Gris
-
Publication number: 20090035068Abstract: A barrier for stopping unwanted watercraft and subsurface intruders from entering into a port or off-shore structure is provided. In one embodiment, the invention is a barrier comprised of a vertical net structure supported from the sea floor. The barrier comprises vertical supports and a net assembled between the vertical supports with a system of ropes and energy absorbing devices. The structural components of the barrier are designed and configured in a manner as to absorb and displace the kinetic energy generated by an explosive laden small watercraft traveling at a high rate of speed. In another embodiment, invention is a barrier system installed around the perimeter of a water side or offshore facility. This barrier system comprises a bottom founded perimeter fence having a gate system and a series of barriers comprised of a vertical fence structure supported from the sea floor.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Jeffrey B. Terai, James M. McDole
-
Patent number: 7476056Abstract: Disclosed are a sound attenuation sleeve for use on a piling during underwater construction and a method of using such a sleeve for attenuating underwater transmission of sound and/or shock waves during underwater pile driving operations.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2007Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Gunderboom, Inc.Inventor: Harold B. Dreyer
-
Patent number: 7467912Abstract: In an Extendable Draft Platform including a deck, a plurality of buoyancy columns installed in column wells in the deck for movement from a raised position to a submerged position, and a heave plate on the bottom of the columns, each of the columns has an upper portion and a lower portion. A helical strake having a radial height H is fixed to the lower portion of each column. The maximum width of the lower column portion is less than the maximum width of the upper column portion by at least 2H, so that the strake can pass through a column well having maximum width that is only slightly greater than that of the upper column portion. A plurality of guide rails is fixed to the lower portion of each column, each extending along the outer periphery of the strake from the upper column portion to the heave plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: John Murray
-
Patent number: 7458752Abstract: A suppression element (1) for vortex vibrations, comprising an envelope (2) for t least partly enveloping a tubular element (100); at least one projection (3) pointing away from the envelope. The envelope is modular to form with similar suppression elements a tube (101,102), which, in operation, at least partly, envelops a tubular element (100). Also, a construction kit for a suppression system and a suppression system for vortex vibrations with at least two suppression element (1), which together form a tube, which in operation, at least partly envelops a tubular element (100), as well as an apparatus for extracting minerals with a pipeline enveloped by a suppression system are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: Lankhorst Special Mouldings B.V.Inventors: Martin Esselbrugge, Arnoldus van Belkom, Wilfred Zuidhof
-
Patent number: 7431535Abstract: A clamp is disclosed for use in deep sea oil exploration operations. The clamp includes a pre-formed metallic belt (12) to which a first rigid metallic curve (13) is welded. The rigid metallic curve reinforces and protects the anchorage housing of an electro-hydraulic hose which is secured by the clamp. The belt (12) further includes a second rigid metallic curve (14) to reinforce and protect an electric cable which is secured by the clamp. The belt includes rigid symmetrical forks (15) and (16) that are welded in the rotation area of screws that serve to tighten the clamp. The clamp includes a body made of vulcanized rubber having three tips (26), (27) and (28), which are formed at equidistant angles of 120°. The clamp body includes a larger bore hole in the center (17), a medium bore hole in half oblong form (9) in the tip (27), a small bore hole in half oblong form (8) in the tip (26), and a bore slot (18) in the tip (28) suitable for the opening and closing of the clamp (1).Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: IPBGR Indústria Mecânica LTDAInventor: Gilmar Souza Cupolillo
-
Patent number: 7421966Abstract: A system for protecting a dock from ice damage. The system includes a circumferentially fluted, water-impermeable housing capable of longitudinal and radial expansion and contraction. The housing defines a cavity with upper and lower openings into the cavity through the housing. The openings are configured and arranged to engage a dock-supporting post at longitudinally spaced upper and lower points along the length of the post with the upper point positioned above the water line and the lower point positioned below the frost line.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Zine-Eddine BoutaghouInventor: Zine E. Boutaghou
-
Patent number: 7413384Abstract: A deep draft semi submersible structure wherein the semi-submersible has a center of gravity below its center of buoyancy and the structure is a floating vessel with at least three vertically oriented buoyant columns. Each of the vertically oriented buoyant columns have at least one ballasted compartment and the columns are spaced apart at a sufficient distance to reduce vortex induced vibration amplitude. There are at least two connecting structural sealed trusses connected to the columns below sea level, they are positioned to minimize hydrodynamic wave action on the trusses and to transfer shear loads between the columns while remaining transparent to wave and ocean current motion.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: AGR Deepwater Development Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward E. Horton, III, James V. Maher
-
Patent number: 7402001Abstract: The present invention relates to a bottom-to-surface connection device comprising at least one undersea pipe or riser (1, 1a-1b) capable of including a single float (2, 21-27), said float being connected at its bottom end to a junction device (8) creating a leaktight flexible joint between the bottom end of the float (2) and said riser (1a), the connection device being characterized in that said junction device (8) is interposed between and secured to a bottom portion (1a) of the riser going down to the sea bottom and a top portion of the riser passing through said float and rising to the surface, said junction device (8) comprising at least one first laminated abutment in the form of a body of revolution having a plurality of elastomer layers defining surfaces of revolution that are frustoconical in shape or ellipsoidal in section.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Saipem S.A.Inventors: Yves Stassen, Michaël Gassert, Olivier Moog, Alain Skraber
-
Patent number: 7399142Abstract: A leg guide for use in a leg of a jack up unit adapted to provide sliding guidance of the leg during vertical movement of the leg. The leg guide has a first portion contacting an edge of a leg chord and a second portion contacting a face of the leg chord along a longitudinal plane opposite the contact plane of the first portion. The edge contacting guide has a deflecting guide unit, which uses a compressible member sandwiched between two rigid plates. As the leg moves, the teeth of the leg chord contact the edge guide unit, with the compressible member absorbing compressible loads acting on the leg chord. The second portion provides for a face plate mounted transversely to the edge contacting guide for reducing the build-up of horizontal moment acting on the leg chord during the vertical movement of the leg and for reducing bending moments acting on the leg.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Offshore Technology Development Pte Ltd.Inventors: Kok Seng Foo, Chin Kau Matthew Quah, Cheng Choong Chan
-
Patent number: 7396189Abstract: A sacrificial impact-absorbing and energy-dissipating structure for protecting marine facilities from the destructive force of an accidental impact by a marine vessel is constructed from a plurality of inexpensive steel pipes or tubular members that are permanently secured together as by welding to form an open three-dimensional cubic framework of plastically deformable material. One or more of the tubular members forming the structure can optionally be filled with water, a rigid foam material and/or wooden elements that will provide additional energy-dissipation capabilities in the event that the containing tube is subjected to a deforming impact. Filler ports, discharge ports, pressure relief plugs, and valves can optionally be provided on one or more of the tubular members.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventors: Abdulmalik A. Alghamdi, Abobakr M. Radwan
-
Patent number: 7393157Abstract: A timber pile protection apparatus includes a sleeve that has an open first end, an open second end and a peripheral wall extending between the first and second ends. The sleeve is positioned on the timber pile. The first end is positioned nearer to a bottom end than a top end of the timber pile. The sleeve is positionable in an unrolled position extending upwardly from the first end or in a rolled position rolled downwardly to the first end. A tether has an attached end and a free end. The attached end is attached to the sleeve adjacent to the second end of the sleeve. The tether has a length greater than the sleeve. The free end extends outwardly from the sleeve when the sleeve is in the rolled position and is graspable to be pulled upwardly and unroll the sleeve to the unrolled position.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Inventor: Richard A. Macias
-
Patent number: 7387469Abstract: A bend stiffener 2 is disclosed for preventing excessive bending of an elongate member, e.g. a marine riser, in a region where it enters a tube, e.g. an “l” or “J” tube mounted on a hydrocarbon extraction platform. The bend stiffener has an elongate sleeve 8 having a through-going cavity which receives the elongate member in use. The sleeve is to be mounted by means of (i) a mating part 18 received by the tube and (ii) an axial locating arrangement 6, 12, 14, 16. The axial locating arrangement is designed to permit at least some angular movement. As a result bending moments are borne by the engagement of the mating part 18 with the tube. The axial locating arrangement does not suffer large bending moments and so problems of fatigue in this area are alleviated.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Trelleborg CRP Ltd.Inventor: John Malachy Duggan
-
Publication number: 20080131210Abstract: Dynamic motion decoupling is effected with the use of mass, added mass, buoyancy, submerged weight and drag in areas of relatively low tension. High curvatures of lines on some configurations, together with their low slope may be utilized. The original line configuration may or may not be modified. Known motion suppressing device designs can be used. Because of the low slope on some configurations, said motion suppressing devices can be installed on arbitrarily long line segments to achieve objections required. Novel, drag and added mass enhancing devices effective in all directions can be used to increase the suppression effectiveness and/or in order to reduce the number of devices used. This invention is suitable for use on new designs and it is also suitable for retrofitting on existing, already installed lines.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2005Publication date: June 5, 2008Applicant: SEA-HORSE EQUIPMENT CORPORATIONInventor: Krzysztof Jan Wajnikonis
-
Patent number: 7380513Abstract: The invention relates to a rotatable fairing (1) for a marine riser (2) or other slender marine structure. The fairing (1) is arranged on the riser for reducing watercurrent-induced stresses on said riser (2), said fairing (1) having a tail portion (3) for trailing generally in the downstream direction behind said riser. The fairing (1) is provided with an attenuation unit (8) for counteracting the unstable rotation of said fairing (2) relative to said riser (2), in order to prevent undesired vibrations of said riser (2). The fairing is provided with one or more clamps (10) for attachment to and around a periphery of said riser (2), said clamps (10) arranged with a gear rim (12) for engagement with an actuating cogged wheel (14) of said attenuation unit (8).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Sinvent ASInventor: Halvor Lie
-
Patent number: 7334966Abstract: A tubular structure is reinforced or reinstated by providing a reinforcing layer in its interior in spaced relation to the existing structure so that a cavity is formed. Plastics or polymer material, preferably a compact elastomer, is injected into the cavity and cures to bond the existing structure and reinforcing layer together so that shear forces are transferred and the reinforced structure behaves as a composite body.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Intelligent Engineering (Bahamas) LimitedInventors: Peter Marshall, Stephen J. Kennedy
-
Patent number: 7316525Abstract: There is disclosed a system comprising a structure, a vortex induced vibration monitoring system, adapted to monitor a vortex induced vibration level of the structure, a tensioner connected to the structure, and a controller adapted to calculate a tension on the structure to optimize the vortex induced vibration value of the structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2006Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Dean Leroy Henning, Li Lee
-
Patent number: 7300229Abstract: Repair jacket is adapted for repairing or reinforcing elongate structures such as pilings, especially in marine environments. Jacket includes a cylindrical body of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) material that is about 0.5 to 3.5 inches greater in diameter than the piling. The body is wrapped around the piling and sealed. Centering/damping springs keep the body centered on the piling and damp the blows of waves so the body is not damaged. A bottom seal is a resilient tube within an abrasion-resistant tube attached to the bottom of the body for sealing the gap. The resilient tube is filled with expanding grout to create a rigid seal at the bottom of the gap. The gap volume between piling and cylindrical body is then filled with grout to permanently attach repair jacket to piling and repair the surface of the piling.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventors: Edward R. Fyfe, Robert Joness Fyfe
-
Patent number: 7150241Abstract: A system for protecting a dock from ice damage. The system includes a circumferentially fluted, water-impermeable housing capable of longitudinal and radial expansion and contraction. The housing defines a cavity with upper and lower openings into the cavity through the housing. The openings are configured and arranged to engage a dock-supporting post at longitudinally spaced upper and lower points along the length of the post with the upper point positioned above the water line and the lower point positioned below the frost line.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Inventor: Zine Eddine Boutaghou
-
Patent number: 7121767Abstract: A buoyancy module comprises a multi-layer outer protective shell that has an exterior surface and an interior surface. A first layer of foam buoyancy material is located adjacent to the interior surface. A second layer of foam buoyancy material that includes macrospheres and syntactic foam is surrounded by the first layer of foam buoyancy material. The multi-layer outer protective shell can include a layer of fiberglass backed by a fibrous plastic liner. In this embodiment, the layer of fiberglass provides the exterior surface of the multi-layer outer protective shell, while the fibrous plastic liner provides the interior surface of the protective shell. The second layer of foam buoyancy material can be a precast material. The precast material can include for example macrospheres and syntactic foam. The first layer of foam buoyancy material is preferably a stronger layer than the second layer of foam buoyancy material.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2002Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Cuming CorporationInventor: Lou W. Watkins
-
Patent number: 7108457Abstract: A marine riser that includes active boundary-layer control (“BLC”) for reducing hydrodynamic drag and vortex-induced-vibration (“VIV”) caused by currents. The marine riser includes at least one riser pipe surrounded by a BLC sheath. Extending through the sheath is at least one nozzle, preferably at least one pair of slot-nozzles, for discharging water into the sea in which the marine riser is deployed. The BLC sheath may be rotate-able to align a pair of slit-nozzles with the current direction, or in a fixed BLC sheath, pairs of slot-nozzles may be selectively activated based on the current direction. The BLC sheath may also include a tail-jet or retractable tail-fin. The BLC sheath may be formed from telescoping sections that decrease in diameter toward the bottom of the riser and that are nested when the telescoping sheath is retracted. Finally, a BLC system may also be implemented in a production riser system.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2001Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: High Seas Engineering LLCInventors: Neal A. Brown, Victor G. Grinius, Cam M. Shaar
-
Patent number: 7097387Abstract: There is provided a buoyancy system for a structure having at least one component being substantially stationary with respect to the bottom of a water covered area. The system comprises a set of buoyancy modules of engineered materials to apply an identified amount of buoyancy. The set of buoyancy modules is attached to the structure at a set of buoyancy load transfer locations. The set of buoyancy modules comprises layers of the engineered materials. The engineered materials comprise a substantially reinforced axial layer, a substantially reinforced hoop layer; and a leak prevention layer.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Metin Karayaka, Paul N. Stanton
-
Patent number: 7074305Abstract: The present invention is directed at a pipeline support for reducing corrosion on a pipeline surface comprising support fill material, a case for housing the support fill material; wherein when a cathodic protective current contacts the support, the current flows through the support to the pipeline surface to reduce corrosion on the surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Inventor: Geoff Weyman Connors
-
Patent number: 7070360Abstract: The invention provides a protective structure for a subsea installation. The protective structure comprises first and second body portions and a hinge member. The body portions are pivotally mounted to the hinge member such that at least one of the body portions may pivot relative to the other body portion. The body portions occupy a first configuration which facilitates transportation and/or deployment to the seabed and a second configuration in which the body portions are arranged to substantially enclose the subsea installation when the structure has been positioned over it. First and second locking means can lock the structure in the first and the second configuration respectively. Additionally the protective structure can allow access to the subsea installation when in use, by provision of a closable opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Subsea 7 BVInventor: Kjell Einar Ellingsen
-
Patent number: 7070361Abstract: Apparatus for suppressing vortex induced vibrations on a marine element of a riser system wherein the riser system comprises at least one umbilical element. Systems comprising and methods of using said apparatus to suppress vortex induced vibrations. The apparatus, systems, and methods comprise module elements which provide: i) a surface around a marine element for installing VIV suppression devices; and ii) passages for housing the at least one umbilical element.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: David Wayne McMillan, Donald Wayne Allen
-
Patent number: 7044076Abstract: A pontoon provides buoyancy for a protection barrier to be provided in a body of water. The pontoon includes a metal structural member; a urethane inner shell that encases a portion of the metal structural member; a polyethylene region that encases the urethane inner shell; and a polyurethane elastomer or polyurea outer shell that encases the polyethylene region. A portion of the metal structural member extends out from the outer shell to thereby couple to a portion of the protection barrier.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Innovative Technology Application, Inc.Inventors: Erick B. Knezek, Matthew A. Marcy, Robert C. Truston
-
Patent number: 7017666Abstract: A method for controlling drag and vortex induced vibration in a substantially cylindrical element by providing an ultra-smooth surface about the cylindrical element. The system for controlling drag and vortex induced vibration utilizes a substantially cylindrical marine element having an ultra-smooth effective surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2000Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Dean Leroy Henning, David Wayne McMillan, Richard Bruce McDaniel, Kenneth Dupal
-
Patent number: 6994492Abstract: Methods for remotely installing vortex-induced vibration (VIV) reduction and drag reduction devices on elongated structures in flowing fluid environments. The devices installed can include clamshell-shaped strakes, shrouds, fairings, sleeves and flotation modules.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: David Wayne McMillan, Stephen P. Armstrong, Dennis E. Walker
-
Patent number: 6960047Abstract: A protection apparatus protects a harbor or an area in a body of water or adjacent to a body of water. The protection apparatus floats on the body of water, and includes a plurality of barrier units positioned side-by-side, each of the barrier units includes a composite-based durable barrier structure. The barrier structure is configured to hold a net in place in order to protect an area in the body of water or abutting the body of water from waterborne craft. The protection apparatus also includes connectors respectively provided between adjacently-positioned ones of the barrier units. Each of the connectors includes a tensile member and a dampening member for handling forces applied to the protection barrier and for maintaining the integrity of the protection barrier.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Innovative Technology Application, Inc.Inventors: Erick B. Knezek, Matthew A. Marcy, Robert C. Truston
-
Patent number: 6953308Abstract: An elongated, annular hull of a floating offshore platform includes one or more segmented, helical strakes disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the hull to reduce vortex-induced vibrations resulting from water currents. The hull may comprise a single annular hull or a plurality of parallel, adjacent hulls. Each strake includes a plurality of generally rectangular segments extending substantially radially outward from the hull. Each of the segments includes a pair of spaced-apart radial stanchions supporting a generally rectangular frame to which a corresponding panel is attached. The panels have a radial width that is about 13 percent of the effective diameter of the hull. The segments are arranged in a spaced-apart, end-to-end relationship that defines a discontinuous, but generally helical band extending around the circumference of the hull from about 35 feet (11.7 m) below the mean water line of the hull to its lowermost end.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignee: Deepwater Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Edward E. Horton
-
Patent number: 6948884Abstract: A mechanism to be applied to an exterior surface of a cylindrical structure for the reduction of the effect of Vortex Induced Vibration (VIV) in the cylindrical structure when immersed in flowing fluid, wherein the mechanism includes a generally cylindrical column having a central axis, an interior surface corresponding in size and shape to the exterior surface of the cylindrical structure to which the mechanism is to be applied and an outer surface defining a wall thickness. A reduced wall thickness is formed into the outer surface in a pattern to produce a discontinuity that interrupts the lengthwise coherence of vortex shedding of moving fluid from the outer surface when the cylindrical column is attached to the exterior of the cylindrical structure in the flowing fluid. The effect of VIV on the cylindrical structure is effectively reduced. The result is a submergible cylindrical assembly for positioning in a flowing body of water and having enhanced resistance to VIV.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Qi Xu, Tao Qi, Jeffery C. Measamer
-
Patent number: 6896447Abstract: A vortex induced vibration suppressor and method is disclosed. The apparatus includes a body that is a flexible member of a polymeric (e.g., polyurethane) construction. A plurality of helical vanes on the body extend longitudinally along and helically about the body. Each vane has one or more openings extending transversely there through. A longitudinal slot enables the body to be spread apart for placing the body upon a riser, pipe or pipeline. Tensile members that encircle the body and pass through the vane openings enable the body to be secured to the pipe, pipeline or riser.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Inventor: Weldon Taquino
-
Patent number: 6886487Abstract: Thrusters in communication with a feedback control system are provided on a cylindrical offshore marine member, such as a spar, for reducing and/or controlling vortex-induced-vibrations, low-frequency drift oscillations due to random waves, and low-frequency wind induced resonant oscillations. The thrusters are provided thrust instruction from the feedback control system based on marine member displacement and current velocity.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventor: Ferdinand J. Fischer, III
-
Patent number: 6872030Abstract: A wood support piling is reinforced by a composite wrapping. The composite wrapping is formed on the wood piling by a filament winding process. Filament strands are impregnated with resin and wrapped around the wood piling under tension. The resin is allowed to cure to form a seamless layer which is uniform in thickness and materials. The composite wrapping is bonded to the wood piling and applies a compressive force on the wood piling to improve its strength characteristics. The composite wrapping may be applied to a portion of the wood piling where reinforcement is needed so that the piling can be manufactured economically. The composite wrapping protects the piling against deterioration and reduces the need for chemical preservatives which are harmful to the environment.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: North Pacific Group, Inc.Inventors: Bret H. Ashton, Clint H. Ashton