Equinor has been granted a patent for a method of connecting a conduit to a subsea structure. The method involves using a tensioning member to maintain a curvature in the conduit, allowing for direct connection to the subsea structure. Additional methods for disconnecting and a system for connecting are also provided. GlobalData’s report on Equinor gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Equinor, Oil well fracking was a key innovation area identified from patents. Equinor's grant share as of January 2024 was 53%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Method of connecting conduit to subsea structure using tensioning member

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Equinor ASA

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11867322B2) discloses a method for connecting a conduit to a subsea structure. The method involves providing a tensioning member on the conduit, deflecting a portion of the conduit to create a curvature, maintaining the curvature with the tensioning member, engaging the conduit with a guide assembly adjacent to the subsea structure, and releasing tension in the tensioning member to adjust the position of the conduit for a direct connection with the subsea structure. Additional steps include adjusting the guide assembly for alignment, locking the guide assembly in place, and fluidly coupling the conduit to the subsea structure. The tensioning member can be operated by various means such as a remotely operated underwater vehicle or actuators.

Furthermore, the patent also describes a method for disconnecting the conduit from the subsea structure, involving the use of a tensioning member to pull the conduit away from the structure. A guide assembly on the seabed assists in guiding the conduit during the disconnection process. The system for connecting the conduit to the subsea structure includes the tensioning member and guide assembly, allowing for controlled movement of the conduit for connection or disconnection. Overall, the patent presents innovative methods and systems for efficiently connecting and disconnecting conduits from subsea structures, with a focus on precise positioning and alignment for seamless operations in subsea environments.

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GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.