ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING ELECTRICAL AND DATA TRANSMISSION LINES IN A STEEL RISING PIPE WITH A HUMP CONFIGURATION (SLWR)

Abstract

Arrangement and method for installing electrical and data transmission lines in a steel riser pipe with a hump configuration (SLWR). An arrangement (1) of an umbilical (19) for data communication lines and / or electrical power transmission lines mounted on a catenary riser pipe in a hump configuration (2) is described, wherein the umbilical (19) has a first umbilical section (20) extending from an upper suspension location (4) on the riser pipe (2) continuously downwards to a first installation point (21) on the riser pipe (2), and a second umbilical section (22) extending from a second installation point (23) on the riser pipe (2) continuously downwards to a touch location (16) on the seabed (17), with the first installation point (21) being positioned in an installation region (24) of the riser pipe (2).between a lower descending bend point (7) and a higher ascending bend point (12) of the extension of the catenary ascending tube in a hump configuration (2), and the first umbilical section (20) being tensioned to a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the ascending tube (2), between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21), so that between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21) the first umbilical section (20) is extended a certain distance, and separated, from the ascending tube (2).

Description

1 / 26 ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING ELECTRICAL AND DATA TRANSMISSION LINES IN A STEEL RISING PIPE WITH A HUMP CONFIGURATION (SLWR) DESCRIPTION

[001] The present invention relates to an arrangement and a method of installing electric power transmission and data communication lines on offshore double catenary risers, particularly steel lazy wave risers (SLWRs).

[002] In a typical configuration of an offshore oil and gas production system, a set of valves and fittings used to regulate the entry and exit of products to and from a well, called trees, is positioned on the seabed, and floating units, called Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facilities, are positioned at sea level. The trees are fluidically connected to the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facilities by means of rigid or flexible pipes for transporting oil or gas, called risers, which extend from the seabed to sea level.

[003] The movements of the DAPF installations are linked to those of the riser pipe, and the movements and stresses are transmitted between these two structural subsystems.

[004] To withstand dynamic mechanical loads, internal fluid loads, and corrosive and chemical attack, riser pipes are generally made of carefully selected materials or combinations of materials, such as metallic materials for rigid riser pipes, multiple layers of composite materials for flexible riser pipes, etc., termed umbilical duct structures with dedicated conduit pipes (umbilicals) within an outer protective pipe, or composite polymeric material in pipes that are used in particularly challenging designs.

[005] Among the possible known shapes and boundary conditions of ascending tubes, multiple and compound catenary shapes should be listed, such as Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 111 / 153 2 / 26 example the so-called steel catenary riser pipe in hump configuration (SLWR) or the sleeper riser pipe, in which the stress on the upper portion of the riser pipe is reduced at the cost of increased length.

[006] The shape of the steel catenary rising tube in a hump configuration is defined by: - An upper catenary section extending from an upper suspension point on the DAPF (or generic vessel) installation, having an upper suspension angle (usually measured relative to a vertical reference axis) extending downwards, which then transitions into a downward bend having a lower bend point; - A floating section extending from the highest descending curvature and forming an ascending curvature having opposite curvature relative to the descending curvature, and defining a highest curvature point, such that the descending curvature and the ascending curvature define a double curvature section having a vertical curvature height (the height difference between the lowest descending curvature point and the highest ascending curvature point) and an inflection point between the descending curvature and the ascending curvature; - A lower catenary section extending from a downward-oriented end of the lower floating section, which then transitions to a horizontal direction at a point of contact with the seabed.

[007] To perform monitoring and operational functions in the riser pipe, along the pipe, and in the well on the seabed, it is necessary to provide electrical power and data communication, both along the length of the riser pipe and on the seabed. For this purpose, the process of extending so-called umbilicals along the riser pipe itself is known. The umbilical comprises data signal transmission cables (e.g., copper cables or fiber optic conductors) and / or electrical power cables (e.g., copper cables), protected by an outer armor and normally extended and secured along the riser pipe during its assembly and laying procedure. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 112 / 153 3 / 26

[008] For deep water, the design of such lightweight and dynamic umbilicals presents a significant challenge due to the large external pressure and high bending and tensile loads acting on the umbilical, which subject the copper cables and optical fibers to considerable stress and deformation.

[009] The only previously known way to reduce the stresses acting on the umbilical was to increase the mechanical strength and dimensions of the umbilical, especially the outer layer of the reinforcement, which however causes installation problems (assembly, fixing, settling) and operational problems due to the increased need for space near the riser pipe structure. To reduce stresses on the umbilical, it is also possible to install the umbilical itself in a hump (lazy wave) configuration, at the cost of expensive additional buoyancy and a large clearance relative to other structures.

[010] The objective of the present invention is therefore to propose a new and improved arrangement and method for installing data communication and electrical power transmission lines in offshore double-curved riser pipes, particularly steel catenary riser pipes in a hump configuration (SLWR), in which the stresses acting on the umbilical for data / power transmission can be reduced without oversizing the outer layer of the umbilical armor.

[011] Another objective of the invention is to propose a new and improved arrangement and method for installing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, in which the umbilical for data / power transmission does not interfere with the assembly and laying process of the riser pipe, and the installation of the umbilical for data / power transmission does not need to be coordinated or synchronized with the assembly and laying of the riser pipe.

[012] Another objective of the invention is to propose a new and improved arrangement and method for installing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, in which the umbilical for data / power transmission does not need to follow the entire path and all the dynamic deformations of the riser pipe. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 113 / 153 4 / 26

[013] Another objective of the invention is to propose a new and improved arrangement and method for installing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, wherein the umbilical for data / power transmission is intended to be used independently of the SLWR uptube monitoring, for example, to economically provide a power / communications umbilical for any subsea installation for the purpose of powering, operating and communicating with functional modules of the subsea installation.

[014] Another objective of the invention is to propose a new and improved arrangement and method for installing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, wherein the umbilical for data / power transmission has different longitudinal tension and pre-tension along different sections thereof.

[015] The objectives of the invention are achieved by arranging an umbilical, containing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, in a steel catenary ascending tube in a hump configuration, according to claim 1.

[016] The objectives of the invention are also achieved by means of a method of installing an umbilical, containing data communication and electrical power transmission lines, in a steel catenary ascending pipe in a hump configuration, according to claim 10.

[017] Advantageous and preferred forms of incorporation are the subject of dependent claims.

[018] According to one aspect of the invention, an arrangement of a data communication line umbilical and / or electrical power transmission line mounted on a steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration (SLWR) comprises: A) A steel catenary riser pipe in a hump configuration, having: - An upper catenary section extending from an upper suspension location (intended to be fixed to a DAPF installation or generic vessel) extending downwards, transitioning into a downward bend. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 114 / 153 5 / 26 having a lower bend point and an upward-oriented end section; - A floating section having floating devices attached to the ascending tube and extending from the upward-oriented end section of the upward descending curve, forming an ascending curve opposite to the descending curve and defining a higher ascending curve point and a downward-oriented end section, such that the descending curve and the ascending curve define a double curve section and an inflection point between the descending curve and the ascending curve; - A lower catenary section extending from the downward-oriented end section of the lower ascending curvature, and then converging to a horizontal orientation at a point of contact with the seabed; - Where the ascending tube extension presents, in addition to the vertical component, a horizontal component that increases continuously in a horizontal ascending tube direction, starting from the upper suspension point towards the point of contact with the seabed. B) The umbilical cord having: - A first umbilical section that extends continuously downwards from the upper suspension point to a first installation point on the riser pipe; - A second umbilical section that extends from a second installation point in the ascending tube continuously downwards to the seabed, near the point of contact with the seabed; - In what way: - The first installation point is positioned in a region of the riser pipe installation between the lowest downward bend point and the highest upward bend point; and The first umbilical section is tensioned to present a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the ascending tube between the location of Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 115 / 153 6 / 26 upper suspension and the first installation point, so that between the upper suspension location and the first installation point the first umbilical section extends a certain distance from the riser tube and, preferably, is not connected to the riser tube.

[019] Where, advantageously: - The second installation point is also positioned in the riser pipe installation area between the lowest bend point and the highest bend point; and - The second umbilical section has a catenary shape with a curvature opposite to that of the floating section, so that between the second installation point and the point of contact with the seabed, the second umbilical section extends a certain distance from the riser tube, and preferably is not connected to the riser tube.

[020] Advantageously, the first umbilical section extends a distance above and in the direction of the horizontal ascending tube relative to said tube between the upper suspension location and the first installation point, while the second umbilical section extends a distance below and in the opposite direction of the horizontal ascending tube relative to the ascending tube, between the second installation point and the point of contact on the seabed.

[021] To obtain this configuration, advantageously, the first and second umbilical sections have different pretension (longitudinal) forces, with the first umbilical section having a particularly higher pretension force than the second umbilical section.

[022] The arrangement according to the invention makes the umbilical partially independent of the deformations and movements of the riser tube. Thanks to the division and end fixation of at least two independent umbilical sections, the dynamic loads and movements in the umbilical are reduced, and the individual umbilical sections can be differently configured and pre-tensioned. The mechanical connection and force transmission between the umbilical and the riser tube at the installation points can be done by Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 116 / 153 7 / 26 means dedicated riser tube fixing bodies, regardless of the tube laying process, which simplifies umbilical installation and reduces the overall cost of riser tube and umbilical arrangement.

[023] The first (upper) umbilical section can be conveniently and easily tensioned individually so that it sits above the ascending tube and avoids any space violation. The only smooth movements of the SLWR ascending tube in the ascending curve, particularly near the inflection point between the ascending and descending curves, provide a very convenient anchoring point for the umbilical sections.

[024] The arrangement is very simple, easy to install, equally applicable to new riser pipe installations, and as an upgrade for existing SLWR riser pipes, with significantly reduced costs compared to conventional riser pipe and umbilical arrangements and their installation methods.

[025] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention provided above, and the detailed description of the embodiments provided below, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 shows a steel catenary riser pipe in a hump configuration (SLWR) extending from a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility to the seabed, and an initial installation phase of a first section of an umbilical for data / power transmission from a deployment vessel; - Figs. 2 to 5 show a step in extending and installing the first (upper) section of the umbilical onto an SLWR riser tube, between the DAPF vessel or an upper suspension point of the riser tube and a first installation point on the SLWR tube; Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 117 / 153 8 / 26 Figure 6 shows the steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration (SLWR) extending from the Floating Production Storage Discharge (FPSD) facility to the seabed, with the first (upper) section of the umbilical already installed, and an initial phase of installation of a second umbilical section from the deployment vessel; - Figures 7 to 9 show a step in extending and installing the second (lower) section of the umbilical onto the SLWR riser tube, between the seabed and a second installation point on the SLWR tube; - Figures 10 and 11 show a step in extending and connecting a third (intermediate) section, called a jumper section, of the umbilical in the SLWR ascending tube, between the first umbilical section at the first installation point and the second umbilical section at the second installation point; - Fig. 12 shows a step in extending and installing a branch, or so-called connector cable, from the umbilical in the SLWR riser pipe, from the bridge section, or from the second umbilical section at the second installation point, to a monitored location on the riser bend; - Fig. 13 shows a step in extending and installing an additional branch, or so-called connector cable, from the umbilical in the SLWR ascending tube, from the first umbilical section at the first installation point to an additional monitored location in the descending bend; Figure 14 shows a portion of the steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration (SLWR) and a final installation situation of the umbilical for data / power transmission; Figures 15 and 16 show perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary armored umbilical cord; - Fig. 17 is a lateral view of a portion of the umbilical cord having an external flexion restriction sheath; Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 118 / 153 9 / 26 Figures 18 and 19 are prospective, partial cross-sectional views of an exemplary termination of a Clevis-type umbilical cable having a rotating support and a cable connector; - Figures 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D are perspective and front views of an ascender tube mounting body applicable by a VOR (Remotely Operated Vehicle), having a jaw actuator, multiple umbilical connection sockets, and a jaw actuation interface; - Figures 21A, 21B are perspective views of a C'mud mat foundation structure having umbilical connection sockets intended to be placed on the seabed; Figures 22 and 23 are perspective views of exemplary optical / electrical umbilical connection plugs; - Fig. 24 shows the geometry of a steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration; - Fig. 25 illustrates an alternative incorporation method to the incorporation method shown in Figure 13, in which only one installation structure (fixing body) is provided, and the third (intermediate) section, the so-called bridge section, of the umbilical, may not be used. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INCORPORATION METHODS

[026] With reference to the figures, an arrangement 1 of an umbilical 19 of data communication lines and / or electrical power transmission lines, mounted on a steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration 2, comprises (A) the steel catenary riser tube in a hump configuration 2, having: - An upper catenary section 3 extending from an upper suspension location 4 (intended to be fixed to a DAPF installation 5 or a generic vessel 5) extending downwards, transitioning into a downward bend 6, having a lower downward bend point 7 and an upward-oriented end section 8; - A floating section 9 having floating devices 10, fixed to the rising tube 2 and extending from the upward-oriented end section 8 of the bend. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 119 / 153 10 / 26 descending 6 further upwards, forming an ascending curvature 11 opposite to the descending curvature 6, and defining a higher ascending curvature point 12 and a downward-oriented end section 13, so that the descending curvature 6 and the ascending curvature 11 define a double curvature section and an inflection point 14 between the descending curvature 6 and the ascending curvature 11; - A lower catenary section 15 extending from the downward-oriented end section 13 of the upward curvature 11 further down, then converging to a horizontal orientation at a point of contact 16 on the seabed 17.

[027] Wherein the ascending tube course (shape) presents, in addition to the vertical component, a horizontal component that increases continuously in a horizontal ascending tube direction 18, starting from the upper suspension point 4 towards the point of contact 16 on the seabed.

[028] Arrangement 1 also includes (B) umbilical 19, which has: - A first umbilical section 20 extending continuously downwards from the upper suspension point 4 to a first installation point 21 on the riser tube 2; - A second umbilical section 22 extending from a second installation point 23 in the ascending tube 2 continuously downwards to the seabed 17, near the point of contact 16.

[029] According to one aspect of the invention, the first installation point 21 is positioned in an installation region 24 of the riser tube 2 between the lowest bending point 7 and the highest bending point 12, and the first umbilical section 20 is tensioned so as to present a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the riser tube 2, between the upper suspension point 4 and the first installation point 21, such that between the upper suspension point 4 and the first installation point 21 the first umbilical section 20 extends a certain distance from the riser tube 2, and preferably is not connected to the riser tube 2. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pages 120 / 153 11 / 26

[030] According to one embodiment, the second installation point 23 is also positioned in the installation region 24 of the riser tube 2, between the lowest bending point 7 and the highest bending point 12, and the second umbilical section 22 has a catenary shape having a curvature opposite to the curvature of the floating section 9, so that between the second installation point 23 and the touch point 16 on the seabed 17 the second umbilical section 22 extends a certain distance from the riser tube 2, and preferably is not connected to the riser tube 2.

[031] According to one embodiment, the first umbilical section 20 is mechanically connected to the riser tube 2 at the first installation point 21 and possibly also at the upper suspension location 4 (directly, or both are mechanically connected to the DAPF installation 5 or to the vessel 5). Similarly, the second umbilical section 22 is mechanically connected to the riser tube 2 at the second installation point 23 and possibly also at the touch location 16 (directly, or both are mechanically connected to a foundation structure 44 or to a similar installation structure on the seabed).

[032] According to an alternative embodiment, the first umbilical section 20 is not mechanically connected to the riser tube 2 at the upper suspension location 4, but only at the first installation point 21. In this embodiment, an upper end of the first umbilical section 20 may be mechanically anchored to the DAPF installation 5 or to the vessel 5, which in this case should be interpreted as a whole as being the upper suspension location 4.

[033] Similarly, the second umbilical section 22 may not be mechanically connected to the riser tube 2 at the touch point 16, but only at the second installation point 23. In this embodiment, a lower end of the second umbilical section 22 may be mechanically anchored to an anchoring structure on the seabed which, in this case, will be interpreted as a whole as being the touch point 16 on the seabed.

[034] Advantageously, the first umbilical section 20 extends a certain distance above and in the direction of the horizontal ascending tube 18 relative to the ascending tube 2, Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 121 / 153 12 / 26 between the upper suspension point 4 and the first installation point 21, while the second umbilical section 22 extends a certain distance below and opposite to the direction of the horizontal ascending tube 18 in relation to the ascending tube 2, between the second installation point 23 and the touch point 16.

[035] To obtain this configuration, advantageously, the first and second umbilical sections have different pre-tension forces (longitudinal), and particularly the first umbilical section 20 has a greater pre-tension force than the second umbilical section 22.

[036] The arrangement according to the invention makes the umbilical 19 partially independent of the deformations and movements of the ascending tube 2. Thanks to the division and fixation only at the end of at least two structurally independent umbilical sections 20, 22, the dynamic loads and movements in the umbilical 19 are reduced, and the individual umbilical sections 20, 22 can be configured differently and pre-tensioned differently.

[037] According to one embodiment (figures 2 to 5, 8 to 10), the mechanical connection and power transmission between the umbilical 19 and the riser tube 2 at the installation points 21, 23 can be made by means of dedicated riser tube installation structures 34, 35, 36, such as fixing bodies, independently of the riser tube laying process, which simplifies the installation of the umbilical 19 and reduces the overall cost of the riser tube and umbilical 1 arrangement.

[038] The first (upper) umbilical section 20 can be conveniently and easily tensioned individually to sit above the ascending tube 2 and avoid any space violation. The only smooth movements of the ascending tube SLWR 2 in the ascending curvature 11, particularly near the inflection point 14, between the ascending curvature 11 and the descending curvature 6, provide a very convenient anchoring point for the umbilical sections 20, 22.

[039] Arrangement 1 is very simple, easy to install, equally applicable to new riser pipe installations, and as an upgrade for SLWR riser pipes. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 122 / 153 13 / 26 already existing, with significantly reduced costs compared to conventional riser and umbilical pipe arrangements and their installation methods.

[040] Advantageously, the installation region 24 is confined to a distance from the inflection point 14 less than 2%, preferably less than 1% of the length of the riser pipe 2.

[041] Ideally, installation region 24 is at inflection point 14. This means, for practical applications, that the first installation point 21 and the second installation point 23 are preferably within an exemplary distance of no more than 25 meters, preferably 15 meters, from inflection point 14. The third umbilical section 26 (bridge) may, for example, have an exemplary length of less than 50 meters or about 20 m. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DATA AND ELECTRICAL TRANSMISSION LINE CONFIGURATION

[042] According to one embodiment (figures 11 to 14), the umbilical 19 comprises a third (intermediate) umbilical section 26, called a jumper section, extending between the first installation point 21 and the second installation point 23 and forming an electrical and / or data communication connection between the first umbilical section 20 and the second umbilical section 22.

[043] Preferably, the third umbilical section 26 has a length greater than a straight-line distance between the first installation point 21 and the second installation point 23, to avoid unwanted tensioning of the third umbilical section 26 and to facilitate manipulation of the ends of the third umbilical section 26, for the purpose, for example, of forming a data / electrical connection with the first umbilical section 20 at the first installation point 21 and with the second umbilical section 22 at the second installation point 23.

[044] According to one embodiment (figures 12, 13), arrangement 1 comprises at least one or more branches 27, 28, 30, 32 comprising one or more data transmission cables 47 and electricity cables 46, branching from Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 123 / 153 14 / 26 umbilical 19 and extending to monitoring locations 29, 30 in the ascending tube 2, such as: - A descending bend branch 27 branching off from the umbilical 19, for example, at the first installation point 21, and extending to a descending bend monitoring location 29 on the descending bend 6 of the ascending tube 2; and / or - An upward bending branch 28 branching off from the umbilical 19, for example, at the second installation point 23, and extending to an upward bending monitoring point 30 on the upward bend 11 of the rising pipe 2; and / or - An upper branch 31 branching off from the umbilical 19, for example, at the upper suspension location 4, and extending to an upper monitoring location 32 along a portion of the upper catenary section 3 of the ascending tube 2; and / or - A lower branch 25 branching off from the umbilical 19, for example, at the touchpoint 16 on the seabed 17, and extending to a lower monitoring point 33 along a portion of the lower catenary section 15 of the ascending tube 2.

[045] According to a further embodiment, arrangement 1 does not comprise branches along the length of the ascending tube 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INSTALLATION POINTS

[046] The first installation point 21 and / or the second installation point 23 may be formed by one or more installation structures 34, 35, 36 each having a mechanical (reversible) riser pipe coupler 37 for a mechanical (reversible) connection of the installation structure with the riser pipe 2, and one or more tensile-resistant umbilical couplers 38 (preferably removable), for a mechanical (preferably removable) connection of the installation structure with the umbilical 19, i.e., the first umbilical section 20, and / or the second umbilical section 22, and / or possibly the third umbilical section 26. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 124 / 153 15 / 26

[047] For the purpose of forming an electrical and / or data communication connection between the first, second and possibly third umbilical sections 20, 22, 26, as well as possible branches 27, 28, 30, 32, cable end connectors 39 of the umbilical sections 20, 22, 26, and possible branches 27, 28, 30, 32, such as plug connectors, are connectable (preferably in a removable manner) directly to each other or to corresponding connection sockets 40 of an electrical and data distribution device 41 on board the installation structures 34, 35, 36. The electrical and data distribution device 41 comprises multiple communication connection sockets 40, to allow multiple connections between the umbilical sections 20, 22, 26 and / or branches 27, 28, 30, 32.

[048] According to one form of incorporation (figures 2, 3, 13, 20A to 20D) the first installation point 21 is formed by a first installation structure 34, having: - A mechanical riser tube coupler 37; and - A mechanical umbilical coupler 38 to which the first umbilical section 20 is mechanically coupled, with tensile strength; and - A first electrical and data distribution device 41, to which the cable end connectors 39 of the first umbilical section 20, of the third umbilical section 23, and of at least one down-curve branch TJ (if provided), are or may be connected.

[049] According to another form of incorporation (figures 8, 9, 13, 20A to 20D) the second installation point 23 is formed by a second installation structure 35, having: - A mechanical riser tube coupler 37; and - A mechanical umbilical coupler 38 to which the second umbilical section 22 is mechanically coupled, with tensile strength; and - A second electrical and data distribution device 4Γ to which the cable end connectors 39 of the second umbilical section 22, the third umbilical section 23, and an upward bending branch 28 (if provided), are or may be connected. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 125 / 153 16 / 26

[050] According to an alternative incorporation method (figure 25), the first installation point 21 and the second installation point 22 are both formed by a single installation structure 36, having: - A mechanical riser tube coupler 37; and - A mechanical umbilical coupler 38 to which the first umbilical section 20 and the second umbilical section 22 are mechanically coupled, with tensile strength; and - A data distribution device 41 to which the cable end connectors 39 of the first umbilical section 20, the second umbilical section 22, and an upward bending branch 28 and / or a downward bending branch 27 (if provided), are or may be connected.

[051] According to one form of incorporation (figures 4, 20A to 20D), each of the installation structures 34, 35, 36 is configured as a self-supporting fastening body, also having: - A crane attachment interface 42, to allow the installation structure 34, 35, 36 to be raised, lowered and positioned by a crane; - A coupling actuation interface 43 adapted to be engaged and operated by a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV), for engaging and disengaging the mechanical rising tube coupler 37.

[052] The mechanical riser tube coupler 37 advantageously comprises hydraulically or mechanically actuated opposing jaws.

[053] According to one embodiment (figures 6, 7, 21A, 21B), at the point of contact on the seabed, the umbilical 19, especially the lower end of the second umbilical section 22, is mechanically connected to a foundation structure 44 placed on the seabed 17. Similar to the installation structure 41, the foundation structure 44 may also have a mechanical umbilical coupler 38, and an electrical and data distribution device 41 having multiple connection sockets 40 for the electrical connection and data transmission of the (second umbilical section 22 of) umbilical 19 and possible branches, such as the lower branch 25. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 126 / 153 17 / 26

[054] According to one embodiment, arrangement 1 comprises an ascending tube monitoring instrumentation 45 comprising, for example, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, mechanical stress gauges, optical sensors, cameras, etc., connected to the umbilical 19 and / or to branches 27, 28, 31, 32.

[055] According to one embodiment (figures 15, 16), the umbilical 19 comprises one or more electrical conductors 46, for example, copper cables, and / or one or more data transmission lines 47, for example, electrical signal cables or optical signal cables, protected and wrapped by an outer armor sheath 48.

[056] According to one embodiment (figures 18, 19), for the mechanical tensile-resistant coupling of the first umbilical section 20 and the second umbilical section 22 at the first and second installation points 21, 23, the first umbilical section 20 and the second umbilical section 22 may comprise a reinforced mechanical coupling end portion (e.g., of steel) 49, such as a tubular shackle body, having: - A side opening 50 through which a flexible cable end portion extends outside the mechanical coupling end portion 49; and - A hinged connection portion 52 at one end of the mechanical coupling end portion 49.

[057] According to one embodiment, arrangement 1 is used for monitoring the integrity of the riser tube 2.

[058] As mentioned above, umbilical 19 may be provided for the purpose of powering, operating and communicating with functional modules of the subsea installation. In this case, the provision and connection of branches in the riser tube 2 is not mandatory. Therefore, the described forms of incorporation of arrangement 1 and installation structures 34, 35, 36 should alternatively be understood as having also been described separately and independently of the branches. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INSTALLATION METHOD Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 127 / 153 18 / 26

[059] According to one embodiment, a method for installing an umbilical 19 of data communication lines and / or electrical power transmission lines in a steel catenary riser pipe in a hump configuration 2, to obtain arrangement 1, comprises a step (A) of installing the first umbilical section 20 (figures 1 to 6), through the following actions: - Position a deployment vessel 53, different from the DAPF vessel 5 that defines the upper suspension location 4, above the installation region 24 of the riser tube, and release and lower the first umbilical section 20 from the deployment vessel 53 until a lower end of the first umbilical section 20 reaches the first installation point 21 in the installation region 24; - While the deployment vessel 53 holds one upper end of the first umbilical section 20, mechanically couple the lower end of the first umbilical section 20 with the riser tube 2 at the first installation point 21, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54; - Move deployment vessel 53 to DAPF vessel 5, and simultaneously release an additional length of the first umbilical section 20 from deployment vessel 53; - Transfer the upper end of the first umbilical section 20 from the deployment vessel 53 to the DAPF vessel 5, and fix the upper end of the first umbilical section 20 to the upper suspension location 4 of the ascending tube 2 on the DAPF vessel 5; - Tension the first umbilical section 20 into a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the riser tube 2, between the upper suspension point 4 and the first installation point 21, so that between the upper suspension point 4 and the first installation point 21 the first umbilical section 20 extends a certain distance from the riser tube 2.

[060] According to one form of incorporation, the method comprises a step of (B) installing the second umbilical section 22 (figures 6 to 9), through the following actions: Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 128 / 153 19 / 26 - Position the deployment vessel 53, different from the DAPF vessel 5 which defines the upper suspension location 4, above the touch location 16 of the ascending tube, and release and lower the second umbilical section 22 from the deployment vessel 53 until a lower end of the second umbilical section 22 reaches the touch location 16; - While the deployment vessel 53 holds one upper end of the second umbilical 22, mechanically couple the lower end of the first umbilical section 20 to the touchdown point 16, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54; - Move the deployment vessel 53 to a location above the installation region 24 of the riser tube 2, and simultaneously lower the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 from the deployment vessel 53; - Mechanically couple the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 with the riser tube 2 at the second installation point 23, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54.

[061] According to one embodiment, the method comprises a step (C) of forming an electrical and / or data transmission connection between the first umbilical section 20 and the second umbilical section 22 in the installation region 24, for example, by installing the third umbilical section 26 (figures 10 to 12), through the following actions: - Mechanically couple and make the electrical and / or data transmission connection, connecting one end of the third umbilical section 26 to the first installation point 21, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54; - Mechanically couple and make the electrical and / or data transmission connection, connecting a second end of the third umbilical section 26 to the second installation point 21, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 129 / 153 20 / 26

[062] According to one embodiment, the method comprises a step (D) of connecting one or more branches 27, 28, 30, 32 comprising one or more data transmission cables 47 and electricity cables 46 to the umbilical 19, preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle 54, and extending the branches 27, 28, 30, 32 to monitoring locations 29, 30 in the ascending tube 2 (figures 12 to 14).

[063] According to one embodiment, step (A) comprises a step of coupling the lower end of the first umbilical section 20 to the first installation structure 34 or to the single installation structure 36, before lowering the first umbilical section 20 from the deployment vessel 53, and coupling the lower end of the first umbilical section 20 to the riser tube 2, fixing the first installation structure 34 to the riser tube 2.

[064] Similarly, according to one embodiment, step (B) comprises a step of coupling the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 to the second installation structure 35, before lowering the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 from the deployment vessel 53, and coupling the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 to the riser tube 2, fixing the second installation structure 34 to the riser tube 2.

[065] According to one form of incorporation, step (A) comprises: - Move deployment vessel 53 to a position above installation region 24; - Prepare the deployment vessel 53 to unroll the first umbilical section 20 from an umbilical reel 55 on board the deployment vessel 53; - Connect the first installation structure 34 to a crane rig 56 of the deployment vessel 53; - Connect a coupling end portion 49 (starter head) from the lower end of the first umbilical section 20 to the first installation structure 34; Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pages 130 / 153 21 / 26 - Raise the first installation structure 34 and place the first umbilical section 20 on a tensioner with SAV (Vertical Settlement System) 57 on board the deployment vessel 53; - Lower the first installation structure 34 to the installation region 24 and, at the same time, unroll the first umbilical section 20 from the umbilical reel 55; - Install the first installation structure 34 on the riser pipe 2 at the first installation point 21, using the VOR 54; - Disconnect crane equipment 56 from the first installation structure 34; - Move deployment vessel 53 to DAPF vessel 5, and simultaneously unroll the first umbilical section 20 from the umbilical reel 55; - Connect a coupling end portion 49 (termination head) from the upper end of the first umbilical section 20 to the crane equipment 56 of the launching vessel 53; - Use a crane from deployment vessel 53 to suspend the coupling end portion 49 (termination head) from the upper end of the first umbilical section 20 to the upper suspension location 4 on DAPF vessel 5.

[066] According to one form of incorporation, step (B) comprises: - Move deployment vessel 53 to a position above touchdown point 16; - Prepare deployment vessel 53 to unroll the second umbilical section 22 from an umbilical reel 55 on board deployment vessel 53; - Connect the foundation structure 44 to a crane rig 56 on the deployment vessel 53; - Connect a coupling end portion 49 (starter head) from the lower end of the second umbilical section 22 to the foundation structure 44; Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 131 / 153 22 / 26 - Raise the foundation structure 44 and place the second umbilical section 22 on a tensioner with SAV (Vertical Settlement System) 57 on board the deployment vessel 53; - Lower the foundation structure 44 to a (touch gauge at) touch point 16, and at the same time unroll the second umbilical section 22 from the umbilical reel 55; - Position and place or fix the foundation structure 44 at the touchdown site 16, possibly by means of a VOR 54; - To set the second umbilical section 22, move the launching vessel 53 to a position above the installation region 24 and simultaneously lower the second umbilical section 22 from the deployment vessel 53, possibly by means of an auxiliary support line or using a crane on board the deployment vessel 53.

[067] Or else: - Connect a coupling end portion 49 (termination head) from the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 to a second installation structure 35; - Connect the second installation structure 35 to the crane equipment 56 of the deployment vessel 53, and lower the second installation structure 35 from the deployment vessel towards the second installation point 23; - Install the second installation structure 35 on the riser pipe 2 at the second installation point 23, using a VOR 54; - Disconnect crane equipment 56 from the second installation structure 35.

[068] Or: Connect a coupling end portion 49 (termination head) from the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 to the crane equipment 56 of the launching vessel 53, and lower the coupling end portion. Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 132 / 153 23 / 26 from the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 from the deployment vessel 53 towards the second installation point 23; - Install the coupling end portion 49 of the upper end of the second umbilical section 22 onto the first (and only) installation structure 34 (figure 25), using a VOR 54; - Disconnect crane equipment 56 from the upper end of the second umbilical section 22.

[069] Additional details of the method have already been specified in the detailed description of arrangement 1, and although these details have been described as functional characteristics, they should also be understood as characteristics of the method, similarly described with regard to the installation method, and are therefore not repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[070] Arrangement 1 is advantageously used for: - To provide energy and communication umbilicals to the seabed; and / or - To provide power and communication transmission for an ascending pipe monitoring system; and / or - Modernize an electrical power transmission link (Hnk) and / or a fiber optic signal transmission link between an existing DAPF 5 facility and a location on the coast or on the seabed; - To provide power and communication transmission for resident VSAs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles), and for an underwater IoT (Internet of Things) infrastructure and data processing and transmission equipment.

[071] The catenary riser tube in hump configuration has been described as a steel riser tube for illustrative purposes only. Riser tube 2 may be made of a different material or a combination of materials.

[072] Although the present invention has been illustrated by the description of various embodiments, and although the illustrative embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limit the Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pages 133 / 153 24 / 26 scope of the claims attached to such details. Additional advantages and modifications may readily occur for those skilled in the art. REFERENCE NUMBERS ascending tube arrangement upper catenary section upper suspension location DAPF installation or vessel descending bend lowest descending bend point upward-oriented end section floating section floating devices ascending bend highest ascending bend point downward-oriented end section inflection point lower catenary section touchdown point seabed horizontal ascending tube direction data / power umbilical first umbilical section first installation point second umbilical section second installation point installation region lower branch third umbilical section Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pages 134 / 153 25 / 26 TJ descending curvature branch ascending curvature branch descending curvature monitoring site ascending curvature monitoring site upper branch upper monitoring site lower monitoring site first installation structure second installation structure single installation structure ascending tube mechanical coupler umbilical mechanical coupler cable end connectors connection sockets, 4Γ first and second electrical and data distribution devices crane equipment fixing interface coupling actuation interface foundation structure ascending tube monitoring instrumentation electrical conductor data transmission lines outer armor sheath coupling end portion (shackle) side opening flexible cable end portion articulated connection portion deployment vessel 54VOR umbilical reel Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 135 / 153 26 / 26 tensioning crane equipment with SAV (Vertical Settling System) Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 136 / 153

Claims

1 / 8 Claims 1. Arrangement (1) of an umbilical (19) of data communication lines and / or electrical power transmission lines, mounted on a catenary ascender tube in a hump configuration (2), comprising: A) The catenary ascender tube in a hump configuration (2), having: - an upper catenary section (3) extending downwards from an upper suspension location (4) on a DAPF installation or vessel (5), transitioning into a downward bend (6), having a lower downward bend point (7) and an upward oriented end section (8);- a floating section (9) having floating devices (10), fixed to the ascending tube (2) and extending from the upward-oriented end section (8) of the upward descending curve (6), forming an upward curve (11) opposite to the downward curve (6), and defining a higher upward curve point (12) and a downward-oriented end section (13), such that the downward curve (6) and the upward curve (11) define a double curve section and an inflection point (14) between the downward curve (6) and the upward curve (11); - a lower catenary section (15) extending from the downward-oriented end section (13) of the downward ascending curve (11), then converging to a horizontal orientation at a touch point (16) on the seabed (17);- wherein the course of the ascending tube presents, in addition to the vertical component, a horizontal component that increases continuously in a horizontal ascending tube direction (18), starting from the upper suspension point (4) towards the point of contact (16) on the seabed; B) The umbilical (19), having: Petition 870230102240, of 11 / 21 / 2023, page 137 / 153 2 / 8 - a first umbilical section (20) that extends from the upper suspension point (4) continuously downwards, to a first point of contact (21) on the ascending tube (2); - a second umbilical section (22) that extends from a second point of contact (23) on the ascending tube (2) continuously downwards to the seabed (17), at the point of contact (16);characterized by the first installation point (21) being positioned in an installation region (24) of the riser tube (2) between the lowest descending bend point (7) and the highest ascending bend point (12), and the first umbilical section (20) being tensioned so as to present a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the riser tube (2), between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21), such that between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21) the first umbilical section (20) extends a certain distance, and is separated, from the riser tube (2).; 2. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that the second installation point (23) is positioned in the installation region (24) of the ascending tube (2), between the lowest descending bend point (7) and the highest ascending bend point (12), and the second umbilical section (22) has a catenary shape with curvature opposite to the curvature of the floating section (9), so that between the second installation point (23) and the touch point (16) the second umbilical section (22) extends a certain distance, and is separated, from the ascending tube (2).

3. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to claim 2, characterized in that the first umbilical section (20) extends a certain distance above and in the direction of the horizontal ascending tube (18) relative to the ascending tube (2), between the upper suspension location (4) and the first installation point (21), while the second umbilical section (22) extends a certain distance below, and Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, page 138 / 153 3 / 8 opposite to, the direction of the horizontal ascending tube (18) relative to the ascending tube (2), between the second installation point (23) and the touch location (16).

4. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second umbilical sections (20, 22) have different longitudinal pretension forces, or the first umbilical section (20) has a greater pretension force than that of the second umbilical section (22).

5. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the installation region (24) is confined to a certain distance from the inflection point (14) less than 2%, or less than 1%, of a total length of the ascending tube (2) from the upper suspension point (4) to the touch point (16).

6. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first installation point (21) and the second installation point (23) are preferably at a distance of no more than 25 meters from the inflection point (14), and the third umbilical section (26) has a length of less than 50 meters.

7. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the umbilical (19) comprises a third umbilical section (26) extending between the first installation point (21) and the second installation point (23), forming an electrical connection and / or a data communication connection between the first umbilical section (20) and the second umbilical section (22), with the third umbilical section (26) having a length greater than a straight-line distance between the first installation point (21) and the second installation point (23).

8. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by comprising one or more branches (27, 28, 30, 32) with one or more data transmission cables (47) and electrical cables (46), branching from Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, page 139 / 153 the umbilical (19) and extending to monitoring locations (29, 30) in the ascending tube (2).

9. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to claim 8, characterized in that said branches (27, 28, 30, 32) comprise one or more: - down bend branches (27) extending to a down bend monitoring location (29) on the down bend (6) of the up tube (2); - up bend branches (28) extending to an up bend monitoring location (30) on the up bend (11) of the up tube (2); - upper branches (31) extending to an upper monitoring location (32) along a portion of the upper catenary section (3) of the up tube (2); and - lower branches (25) extending to a lower monitoring location (33) along a portion of the lower catenary section (15) of the up tube (2).

10. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first installation point (21) and the second installation point (23) are each formed by an installation structure (34, 35, 36) having: - a reversible riser pipe mechanical coupler (37) for a mechanical connection of the installation structure with the riser pipe (2); and - one or more tensile-resistant umbilical couplers (38) for a mechanical connection of the installation structure with the umbilical (19); - an electrical and data distribution device (41) comprising multiple communication connection sockets (40), to allow multiple connections between the umbilical sections (20, 22, 26) and / or additional branches (27, 28, 30, 32). Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, p. 140 / 153 5 / 8 11. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to claim 10, characterized in that the installation structure (34, 35, 36) is configured as a self-supporting fastening body further having: - a crane equipment fastening interface (42), to allow the installation structure (34, 35, 36) to be raised, lowered and positioned by a crane; - a coupling actuation interface (43), adapted to be engaged and operated by a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54), to engage and release the mechanical ascending tube coupler (37); wherein the mechanical ascending tube coupler (37) comprises opposing jaws.

12. ARRANGEMENT (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, at the point of contact (16), a lower end of the second umbilical section (22) is mechanically connected to a foundation structure (44) placed on the seabed (17), said foundation structure (44) having: - a mechanical umbilical coupler (38); and - an electrical and data distribution device (41) having multiple connection sockets (40), for the electrical connection and data transmission of the second umbilical section (22) and additional branches (25).

13. Arrangement (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by comprising a monitoring instrumentation (45) having one or more pressure sensors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, strain gauges, optical sensors, cameras, connected to the umbilical (19) and / or to additional branches (27, 28, 31, 32) branching from the umbilical (19).

14. Method for installing an umbilical (19) of data communication lines and / or electrical power transmission lines in a catenary riser pipe in a hump configuration (2), to obtain an arrangement (1) according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a step of installing the first umbilical section (20), through the following actions: Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, page 141 / 153 6 / 8 - positioning a deployment vessel (53), different from the DAPF vessel (5) that defines the upper suspension location (4), above the installation region (24) of the riser pipe (2), and releasing and lowering the first umbilical section (20) from the deployment vessel (53) until a lower end of the first umbilical section (20) reaches the first installation point (21) in the installation region (24);- while the deployment vessel (53) holds one upper end of the first umbilical section (20), mechanically couple the lower end of the first umbilical section (20) with the riser tube (2) at the first installation point (21), using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54); - move the deployment vessel (53) to the DAPF vessel (5), and simultaneously release an additional length of the first umbilical section (20) from the deployment vessel (53); - transfer the upper end of the first umbilical section (20) from the deployment vessel (53) to the DAPF vessel (5), and fix the upper end of the first umbilical section (20) at the upper suspension location (4) of the riser tube (2) on the DAPF vessel (5);- tension the first umbilical section (20) into a flatter catenary shape than the catenary shape of the riser tube (2), between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21), so that between the upper suspension point (4) and the first installation point (21) the first umbilical section (20) extends a certain distance from the riser tube (2).; 15. METHOD, according to claim 14, characterized by comprising a step of installing the second umbilical section (22), through the following actions: - positioning the deployment vessel (53), different from the DAPF vessel (5) that defines the upper suspension location (4), above the touch location (16) of the ascending tube, and releasing and lowering the second umbilical section (22) from Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, page.142 / 153 7 / 8 deployment vessel (53) until a lower end of the second umbilical section (22) reaches the touch point (16); - while the deployment vessel (53) holds an upper end of the second umbilical (22), mechanically couple the lower end of the first umbilical section (20) at the touch point (16), preferably using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54); - move the deployment vessel (53) to a location above the installation region (24) of the riser tube (2), and simultaneously lower the upper end of the second umbilical section (22) from the deployment vessel (53); - mechanically couple the upper end of the second umbilical section (22) with the riser tube (2) at the second installation point (23), using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54).

16. METHOD, according to claim 15, characterized by comprising a step of forming an electrical and / or data transmission connection between the first umbilical section (20) and the second umbilical section (22) in the installation region (24), by installing a third umbilical section (26), through the following actions: - making the electrical and / or data transmission connection by connecting a first end of the third umbilical section (26) to the lower end of the first umbilical section (20), at the first installation point (21), using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54); - making the electrical and / or data transmission connection by connecting a second end of the third umbilical section (26) to the upper end of the second umbilical section (22), at the second installation point (21), using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (54).

17. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized by comprising a step of connecting to the umbilical (19) one or more branches (27, 28, 30, 32) having one or more data transmission cables (47) and electricity cables (46), using a remotely operated underwater vehicle Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, p. 143 / 153 8 / 8 (54), and extending one or more branches (27, 28, 30, 32) to monitoring locations (29, 30, 32, 33) in the ascending tube (2).

18. METHOD, according to claim 14, characterized by comprising a step of coupling the lower end of the first umbilical section (20) to a first installation structure (34), before lowering the first umbilical section (20) from the deployment vessel (53), and coupling the lower end of the first umbilical section (20) to the ascending tube (2), fixing the first installation structure (34) to the ascending tube (2).

19. METHOD, according to claim 15, characterized by comprising a step of coupling the upper end of the second umbilical section (22) to a second installation structure (35), before lowering the upper end of the second umbilical section (22) from the deployment vessel (53), and coupling the upper end of the second umbilical section (22) to the ascending tube (2), fixing the second installation structure (34) to the ascending tube (2). Petition 870230102240, dated 11 / 21 / 2023, pp. 144 / 153

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