Connection apparatus and methods
US9163485B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L1/26
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.