Spring

Abstract

To provide a spring, more specifically, a radial load spring for use in a clamp device for fixing an underwater tubular member which is a buoyancy element, particularly, a distributed buoyancy element such as a flow line, a riser and an umbilical.SOLUTION: A spring (5) for a clamp suitable for attachment to a tubular member, the spring comprising an elastic body (6) having first and second ends (8), an inner surface (7) adapted to sit within the clamp member, and an outer surface (9) adapted to contact the outer surface of the tubular member, the inner and outer surfaces extending between the first and second ends, wherein the stiffness of the elastic body of the spring varies over the length of the elastic body between the first and second ends.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2a

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to buoyancy elements, particularly distributed buoyancy elements such as flowlines, risers and umbilicals. Springs for use in clamping devices for securing underwater tubular members, such as More specifically, it relates to radial load springs. [Background technology]

[0002] Oil and gas are typically transported through rigid or flexible tubular structures such as pipes known as risers. The outer diameter of the riser is determined by the manufacturing specifications, Significant damage may occur due to tension, internal pressure, hydrostatic pressure, and temperature of the fluid flowing through the riser. Therefore, the outer diameter of the riser is subject to tight tolerances, among other things, the The length is determined by the hydrostatic pressure and the temperature and pressure of the recovered fluid flowing through the riser. may vary along

[0003] The weight of the riser and the hydrocarbons flowing in it is supported from a surface facility in shallow water. This requires the completion of a long series of risers that can extend over several hundred meters. Strong risers and connections are required to maintain integrity, so additional support is provided. It is more economical to attach buoyancy elements to the risers to provide

[0004] Distributed buoyancy modules protect the subsea terminals from the effects of vessel motion under weather and tidal conditions. riser to separate sections or to keep the riser in the position required for optimum use. For example, a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel and a subsea or floating Known configurations of risers between the subsea structure include, among others, "Lazy S", "Lazy U" It includes compositions called "Wave" and "Lazy W".

[0005] A clamp can be used to fit around the riser and attach the buoyancy module. Alternatively, the clamp may be an integral component of the buoyancy module. However, the clamp attachment to the riser is not suitable for use in the event of a flowline failure or buoyancy model. Avoid any damage to the riser that may result in failure to properly install and position the module. This must be done carefully to avoid

[0006] The outer diameter of the riser increases due to the above-mentioned changes in the internal and external pressures and temperatures of the riser. The width may vary, which may affect the connection to the clamp. The buoyancy module may slide along the outer surface of the riser, causing the position of the buoyancy module to change. This can cause the riser configuration to change away from its intended position. Furthermore, the bending and tensile strains that occur in the riser during use can cause the correct clamping of the rigid clamp. This further hinders dimensional design.

[0007] Known buoyancy modules have semicircular channels that run the entire length of the shell members, an arc-shaped or C-shaped shell member disposed within an inner surface that dimensionally matches the outer surface of the riser; A number of such members are placed around the riser and secured with fastening means such as titanium straps. tension band or aramid such as KEVLAR® or TWARON® Provides a clamp to which a buoyancy module can be secured, held in place by a fabric band. do.

[0008] A semicircular shell member with a clamping component attached to the inside of the shell member An inner circumferential recess may be formed within the channel. The recess may be integral with the lug member or may be formed separately and seated within the recess.

[0009] For example, a bidirectionally loaded buoyancy module is shown in Figure 1. This module consists of two The semicircular shell element is used, and two modules are fitted together along their inner surfaces. Each shell member has an internal semicircular channel on the interior surface of the module so as to surround the tubular member when the module is in operation. It has a chuck.

[0010] In this embodiment, the clamping component is mounted in a circumferential recess in the semicircular channel. Some known designs have a rectangular or cuboid block shape. A plurality of elastic springs are attached to the semicircular channel around the circumferential recess of the semicircular channel. Two buoyancy modules are arranged in a centrally located array around the tubular member. When mated, the outer surface of the spring contacts the tubular member at different points around the circumference of the tubular member, creating a buoyancy mechanism. It provides a resilient cushion between the module and the outer surface of the riser, and creates a buoyancy modulus around the tubular member. This distributes the load from the module and the subsequent contact pressure.

[0011] The number of shell members and corresponding clamping components in a buoyancy module is typically The number of buoyancy modules and clamps can be 2 to 4, but more can be used if necessary. The above components can be used.

[0012] Coping with higher buoyancy loads and deployment in rougher seas, resulting in greater riser strain and tighter riser bend radii, and the ability of risers or other tubular members to bend under operating conditions. This demands on the clamp to accommodate these high rates of change in radius as it expands and contracts. , performance limits have always been challenged.

[0013] Typically, reducing the number of clamping components reduces the radius around the outside of the riser. The distribution of the load changes. Reducing the number of clamping components means that each clamp The spring of the component extends a longer distance around the outer curved surface of the riser. This means that the force and pressure distribution around the tubular member may be uneven. In extreme cases, the buoyancy module and the crankshaft, especially the two components, When the clamp is deployed, it should be positioned towards the center of the clamp component of the buoyancy module. This could theoretically cause the pipe to The clamp segments are crushed in the center and bulged at the outer ends, which leads to the collapse of the riser. There is a possibility of connection.

[0014] Known clamps reduce the capstan effect and are compared to previously known tools in that it evens out the loads applied and received by the While this provides significant advantages, applicant has developed a modified clamp that further mitigates the aforementioned effects. did. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a buoyant boat that overcomes or at least mitigates the above problems. To provide an improved spring for a clamping component of a module.

[0016] Accordingly, the present invention provides a buoyancy module that overcomes or at least mitigates the above-mentioned problems. The present invention provides a clamp for attaching a spring to a tubular member.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a riser configuration capable of providing the necessary buoyancy to maintain a given riser configuration. circumferentially offset clamped around a tubular member such as a riser. The object of the present invention is to provide a buoyancy module that can be formed from members. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spring for a clamp suitable for attachment to a tubular member. The spring has first and second ends and an inner portion adapted to be seated within the clamp member. an elastic body having an inner surface and an outer surface adapted to contact the outer surface of the tubular member; and an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end, and the stiffness of the elastic body of the spring is The elastic varies over the length of the elastic between the end and the second end.

[0019] Optionally, the elastic body of the spring is arc-shaped.

[0020] Optionally, the stiffness is greater towards the first and second ends of the elastic body than towards the center of the elastic body. become.

[0021] Optionally, the stiffness of the elastic body also gradually decreases from the first and second ends towards the center of the elastic body. Change.

[0022] Optionally, the outer surface of the elastic body has a corrugated shape.

[0023] Optionally, this may include a plurality of protrusions or projections having peaks or hills and valleys along the outer surface of the spring. It can take the form of a ridge or undulation.

[0024] Conveniently, each peak on the outer surface of the spring may be the same height as the adjacent valley.

[0025] Alternatively, the height of a peak on the outer surface of the spring relative to an adjacent valley may be different.

[0026] In one embodiment, the height of the peak on the outer surface of the spring closest to the center of the spring relative to the adjacent valley The height is greater than the height of the peaks closer to the first and second ends of the spring relative to the adjacent valleys. It's okay.

[0027] Alternatively, the height of the outer surface peak closest to the center of the spring relative to the adjacent valley is The height may be less than the height of the peaks closer to the first and second ends of the spring relative to the valleys.

[0028] Alternatively, cavities can be formed in the elastic body to vary the stiffness of the elastic body along its length. Complete.

[0029] Conveniently, the cavity varies over the length of the spring between the first end and the second end. It can have a volume and / or a shape.

[0030] Conveniently, the cavities adjacent the first and second ends of the spring are closer to the center of the spring. It may be smaller in volume and / or size than the cavity.

[0031] Optionally, the elastomer comprises rubber, which in some embodiments may be nitrile rubber.

[0032] Optionally or alternatively, the elastomer comprises polyurethane.

[0033] Optionally or alternatively, the elastic body comprises a fiber reinforced plastic.

[0034] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a clamping component for attachment to a tubular member is provided. The clamping component is provided in a housing and seats on the inner surface of the housing. and a spring according to the first aspect of the invention attached thereto.

[0035] Advantageously, the clamping body comprises a plurality of clamping components, each component being The actuator includes a housing and a spring member mounted on the housing.

[0036] Optionally, the clamp may have two, three, four or other number of clamp components. can be done.

[0037] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a clamping device comprising a plurality of clamping components according to the second aspect of the present invention. and a tensioning means for securing the component about the tubular member. It is served.

[0038] Preferably, the tensioning means comprises a band which surrounds the clamp.

[0039] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a buoyancy module incorporating a known bidirectional loading spring; FIG. [Figure 2a] 2 is a schematic diagram of a clamp spring of the first embodiment of the present invention when the spring is brought into contact with a tubular member. FIG. [Figure 2b] FIG. 1 illustrates the deformation of a spring when a load is applied. [Figure 3a]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3b] 10 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the present invention in which the spring is deformed when a load is applied; [Figure 4a] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4b] 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of the present invention in which the spring is deformed when a load is applied. [Figure 5a] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a further alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5b] 10 is a schematic diagram of a further alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the spring is deformed when a load is applied; [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6b] 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the spring is deformed when a load is applied. [Figure 7] Figure 7a is a schematic diagram of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention;Figure 7b is an enlarged detail view of a portion of the spring of Figure 7a; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] Referring now to the drawings, a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 2a. Buoyancy modules are attached around the outer periphery of tubular members such as risers, pipes, and umbilicals. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a segment of a component of a clamp for clamping a vehicle.

[0042] The clamp component 1 is a hand clamp adapted to fit around the outer surface of a tubular member. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamp comprises a second similarly shaped housing 2. Each component has a length extending from the top surface of the component to the bottom surface of the component. It has a semicircular channel 3 extending along the inner surface to the surface.

[0043] When the two clamp components come together around the tubular member, the clamp The tubular member will be enclosed within the channel through which it is held.

[0044] The surface of the semicircular channel 3 of the housing is such that the clamp is secured around the outer surface of the tubular member. It acts as a seat 4 for a spring 5 to absorb forces when

[0045] The spring is an elastic body 6 having an arc-shaped configuration when mounted on the housing of the clamp. The elastic body 6 is preferably made of rubber, nitrile rubber, polyurethane, fiber reinforced plastic, or the like. The clamping components are made of materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or a combination of these materials. The component is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member, and the elastic body is clamped between the clamp housing and the outer surface of the tubular member. This allows the elastic body to absorb forces when crushed between a surface.

[0046] The inner surface 7 of the elastic body 6 is adapted to be mounted within the seat 4 of the housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 4 is provided by the arcuate surface of a semicircular channel. The spring may be mounted equidistant between the top and bottom ends of the housing, but In some embodiments, the spring may extend completely between the top and bottom surfaces of the housing. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the location of the spring between the upper and lower ends of the housing can be changed as needed.

[0047] The spring moves from a position adjacent one end of the semicircular channel 3 to a position adjacent the other end of the semicircular channel. As can be seen in Figure 2a, the spring is located adjacent to the beginning of the semicircular channel. The spring is attached to the housing 4 but spaced apart from its starting point. The length of the concave arcuate surface of the semicircular channel 3 is slightly shorter than the length of the concave arcuate surface of the semicircular channel 3.

[0048] The outer ends 8 of the elastic bodies 6 in the illustrated embodiment (only one of which is shown) are semicircular. The length of the outer surface of the elastic body 6 is tapered inward toward the center of the elastic channel 3. The length of the inner surface of the spring is shorter than the length of the inner surface of the spring. The spring performance can be adjusted by changing the taper angle of the end of the spring. It is Noh.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffness of the spring elastic body 6 is In this embodiment, the outer surface 9 of the elastic body is separated by valleys 11. The ridges 10 have a wavy shape with rounded peaks 10. The thickness of the elastic body 6 from the inner surface 7 to the outer surface 9 at the valley portion 11 of the spring is Furthermore, the width of each individual peak increases from the central peak at the end of the spring to the outer peak. The stiffness of the spring in the peak region is greater than the stiffness of the spring in the valley region. Because it is larger, the stiffness of the spring is higher at the ends than in the center of the spring.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the first valley 11 closest to the outer end 8 of the elastic body is The depth of the valley 11 in this embodiment is shallower than the depth of the valley 11' at the center. In an alternative embodiment, the depth of the valleys is: It may be equal along the length of the elastic.

[0051] As shown, by forming the elastic body to have a wavy outer surface, elastic body 6 The fingers are formed on the clamp, which are then pressed against a solid block of resilient material as described in prior art clamps. It provides greater flexibility to the elastomer than the rubber.

[0052] As shown in Figure 2b, the clamping component 1 is first fitted around the outer surface of the tubular member. Then, the ridges 10 on the outer surface 9 of the spring elastic body come into contact with the outer periphery of the tubular member. When the component is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member, the elastic body 6 The spring is compressed between the housing 2 of the casing and the outer surface of the tubular member. As shown in FIG. 2, the rounded peaks 10 on the outer surface are compressed and stretched around the valleys. 11, substantially closing the valley. This allows the clamp spring and the tube The circumferential length of the interface between the outer surface of the shaped member and the spring is currently available in prior art springs. This provides a longer length than is possible and also provides an even distribution of pressure within the spring from the center to the outer ends 8. This prevents abnormal deformation of the tubular member when the clamping components are tightened.

[0053] Thus, the spring 5 of the clamping component shown in Figures 2a and 2b is currently It provides superior performance to known springs. The tubular member is attached to the tubular member to provide anchor points for the buoyancy modules around the tubular member. It is intended to be attached to the outer surface of a clamping component. The clamping component may be integrally formed within the buoyancy module. The shell 2 may be, for example, a C-shaped buoyant shell member within a bidirectionally loaded module. or form part of a multi-segment buoyancy module, as known in the art. The arcuate shell segment may be intended to

[0054] The above-described embodiments of the present invention have significant advantages over known spring and clamp components. It is believed to provide advantages, but does not provide similar or improved operating characteristics over known designs. Alternative embodiments that provide the same are also envisioned.

[0055] A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 3a and 3b. The reference numbers have been incremented by 100 for ease of reference. The housing 102 of the component is as described in the previous embodiment.

[0056] In this embodiment, the outer surface 109 has a valley 111 with a gradually increasing depth. The depth is modified to increase from a relatively shallow outer valley to a significantly deeper central valley 111'. Therefore, the thickness of the elastic body 106 toward the ends 108 of the elastic body is The stiffness of the elastic body 106 is greater than the thickness, so that the stiffness is greater at the center of the elastic body than at the center of the elastic body. The elastic varies along the length of the elastic between the outer ends 108 so that it is larger towards the outer ends. do.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outer end 108 of the elastic body 106 is still in the clamping position. In this embodiment, the outer ends of the elastic body are semicircular, while the outer ends taper towards the center of the component. Extending beyond the end of the channel 103 in a plane parallel to the outer edge of the clamp housing 102 It will be corrected so that

[0058] As shown in FIG. 3b, the clamping component 101 is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member. When the spring 105 is pressed against the inner surface 107 of the elastic body 106, the inner surface 107 of the elastic body 106 contacts the outer periphery of the tubular member. The pull of the elastic body 106 distributes the load within the elastic body 106 along the length of the elastic body.

[0059] The angle at which the end of the elastic body tapers can be changed to adjust the spring's performance. By changing the taper angle, when the spring is at rest, that is, when the outer surface 109 is in contact with the outer surface of the tubular member, The angular position of the shoulder 112 before contact and when the spring is under load, i.e., when the spring is in the housing, are the subsequent shoulder (relative to the center of the tubular member) when compressed between the ring and the tubular member The angular position of the part can be controlled.

[0060] Yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 4a and 4b. In this embodiment, The reference numbers have been increased by 200 for ease of reference. The housing 202 of the lamp component 201 is as described in the previous embodiment. do.

[0061] In this embodiment, the outer end 208 of the elastic body is approximately perpendicular to the end of the inner surface 207. The outermost peaks of the outer surface 209 are replaced by flat shoulders 212. Rounded tops 210 separated by 211 connect the two flat ends of the elastic body 206. In this embodiment, the inner end of the flat shoulder 212 is A valley is formed between the outermost peak 210 and the relatively shallow outermost peak 210, and the valley is elastically connected to the outermost valley. The depth increases between the center of the body and the genitals.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 4b, the spring is compressed between the housing 202 and the outer surface of the tubular member. When the elastic body is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member, a flat shoulder 212 at the end of the outer surface 209 of the elastic body contacts the outer surface of the tubular member. It provides areas of increased friction between the elastic body and the outer surface of the tubular member. The change in stiffness of the elastic body caused by the change in depth of the elastic body at the point where the elastic The distribution of load and pressure from the center of the body towards the outer ends 208 is improved over prior art springs. do.

[0063] A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 5a and 5b of the drawings. The reference numbers have been increased by 300 for ease of reference. The housing 302 of the clamping component 301 is formed on the outside of the surface of the semicircular channel 303. The end is modified to terminate in a straight section 313 that extends perpendicular to the outer edge of the clamp housing. The inner surface 307 of the elastic body 306 is connected to the straight portion of the housing 313 and the end of the elastic body. and modified to meet at each outer end 308 so as to form a right-angled inner shoulder between Thus, in this embodiment, the outer end 308 of the elastic body is flush with the outer end of the housing. The housing extends inwardly and forms an extension of the outer end of the housing.

[0064] In this embodiment, the spring 305 has a contoured outer surface 309 that is encased within the spring's elastic body 306. It is further modified in that it has been replaced by an embedded cavity 314. In an embodiment, the cavity is generally circular and extends through the elastic body from the top surface to the bottom surface. In some embodiments where the cavity is not formed, the cavity may have a different shape or may be formed from the top surface down. It is not necessary for the elastic body to penetrate all the way to the surface, but the elastic body may be completely enclosed within the elastic body. The volume of the cavity is measured from the outermost cavity in the edge of the elastic body to the cavity at the center of the elastic body. It increases gradually along the length of the elastic.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 5b, the clamping component 301 is connected to the housing 302 and the tubular portion. When compressed between the outer surface of the material, the cavity 314 within the elastic body of the spring 305 allows the spring to control The spring deforms in a controlled manner, distributing the load and pressure over the length of the spring better than prior art springs. This embodiment improves the contact interface between the spring 305 and the outer surface of the tubular member. It provides a further improvement in that it extends over the entire surface 309 .

[0066] The diameter and spacing of the cavities 314 located within the spring are such that they conform to the larger cavities upon compression. The high compression area ensures that the natural peak loads and pressures at the center of the spring are reduced. The stiffness of the spring can be adapted or adjusted to suit the application. As the cavity approaches the cavity diameter gradually decreases, or in some embodiments, These are smaller diameter or is completely removed to create a low compression region consistent with the absence of any voids. Good too.

[0067] A further embodiment is shown in Figures 6a and 6b. In this embodiment, reference numerals has been increased by 400 for ease of reference. The housing 402 of the component 401 is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 5a and 5b above. Therefore, the outer edge of the surface of the semicircular channel 403 is It terminates in a straight section 413 that extends perpendicular to the outer edge of the housing.

[0068] In this embodiment, the inner surface 407 of the elastic body 406 is formed from the arcuate portion of the semicircular channel 403. The outer edges 408 are modified to match and follow the change in direction from the straight section to the straight section. However, in this embodiment, the end of the elastic body 406 is cut off in the middle, and the sheath Although it does not extend completely along the straight portion 413 of the housing 404, the straight portion 413 It terminates before the point where it intersects with the outer end of ring 402.

[0069] The outer end 408 of the elastic body 406 in this embodiment has a flat shoulder 412 at the end of the outer surface 409. However, the flat shoulder is directly connected to the first valley on the outer surface. Unlike the previously described embodiment, in which the elastic body has a flat outer surface, It extends along shoulder 412 and then back towards the outer end of the elastic. The flat shoulder 412 faces downward at a nearly 90 degree angle toward the inner surface 407. The undercut 415 defines an outer surface 409 extending from the open end of the undercut. It is undulated by a series of rounded projections 416 separated by rounded grooves 417. In the illustrated embodiment, each protrusion has a similar height from the inner surface 407 of the elastic body. It is envisioned that in some embodiments, the height of the protrusions may vary. 408 of the elastic body. When the component contacts the outer surface of the tubular member, the flat shoulder 412 on the end of the elastomer first presses against the tubular member. Contact with the outer surface of the member.

[0070] When the clamping component 401 is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member, the ends of the elastic body A flat shoulder is compressed between the end of the elastic body and the outer surface of the tubular member, forming a spring around the tubular member. As the spring is further compressed, the rounded projections 416 extend toward the center of the body. The protrusions are forced to contact the outer surface and deform within the grooves 417. , the load and pressure around the tubular member to which the clamping component 401 is attached, Distributes the force from the center of the component to the outer edges, thus concentrating the force towards the center of the spring Reduces the risk of the tubular members collapsing or buckling under potential spring loads and pressures, To provide a spring having a significantly improved structure.

[0071] A further embodiment is shown in Figures 7a and 7b. In this embodiment, reference numerals has been increased by 500 for ease of reference. The housing 502 of the component 501 is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 6a and 6b above. Therefore, the outer edge of the surface of the semicircular channel 503 is similarly modified. It terminates in a straight section 513 that extends perpendicular to the outer edge of the ring.

[0072] The outer end 508 of the elastic body 506 in this embodiment has a flat shoulder 512 at the end of the outer surface 509. , which has been similarly modified to provide an undercut 515 below the flat shoulder 512. .

[0073] In this embodiment, the outer surface 509 is formed of a series of deep rounded grooves 517 separated by the grooves. The height of the protrusions varies along the length of the elastic body. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the protrusion at the center of the elastic body is In other embodiments, all of the protrusions are at the same height from the inner surface 507 of the elastic body. It can have a thickness.

[0074] The height of each protrusion is lower than the height of the end 508 of the elastic body. When the clamping component contacts the outer surface of the tubular member, the flat shoulder 51 on the end of the elastomer 2 first contacts the outer surface of the tubular member.

[0075] When the clamp component 501 is pressed against the outer surface of the tubular member, the ends of the elastic body A flat shoulder is compressed between the end of the elastic body and the outer surface of the tubular member, forming a spring around the tubular member. Further compression of the spring causes the frustoconical projections 516 to expand toward the center of the body. and pushes the protrusion out so that the protrusion deforms into the groove 517.

[0076] Similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 6a and 6b, this embodiment has a clamping component. The load and pressure around the tubular member to which the component 501 is attached are applied to the The spring load and the force are distributed from the center to the outer ends, so that the force can be concentrated towards the center of the spring. Significantly improved springs that reduce the risk of tubular members collapsing or buckling under pressure to provide.

[0077] The features that affect the stiffness of the spring are, for example, the incorporation of cavities into the spring as shown in Figures 5a and 5b. By modifying the embodiment shown in Figures 2a and 2b, By modifying the ends of the springs of any embodiment with the ends described in any other embodiment, Thus, variations of the above embodiments that may be combined are also envisaged.

[0078] As noted above, in each embodiment, the clamping component comprises a housing and a housing support. and a spring member mounted within the seat of the lug. All of the disclosed embodiments incorporate a clamp to which the buoyancy module is attached. Alternatively, the housing of the clamping component may be properly attached to the buoyancy module itself. integrally formed within the buoyancy module so that it can be replaced by a molded part. It will be clear to one skilled in the art that

[0079] The springs described in connection with any of the above embodiments may be different from those described in connection with prior art devices. By replacing the original spring described above with the modified spring according to the present invention, the current buoyancy module This allows existing stock of buoyancy modules to be retrofitted with the inventive It provides a cost-effective way to provide benefits.

[0080] Each of the above embodiments involves clamping components via a set screw or washer. The openings and / or cavities allow the ends of the elastic body to be mechanically fixed to the Alternatively, the spring may be provided through and / or along the length of the elastic body. In this case, adhesive can be used to bond the clamp component directly. In this case, the opening and / or cavity may not be necessary.

[0081] The above embodiment allows the required circumferential length of the spring to be adjusted by changing the outer diameter of the tubular member. This can be modified by increasing or decreasing the number of protrusions based on the The overall thickness, width and length of the spring are modifiable.

[0082] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention relates to a multibody clamp segment, a riser, an umbilical, and a To provide an improved solution for the distribution of contact pressure between a tubular member such as a pipe This is a pressure concentration that can lead to crushing of the tubular member. This reduces collapse of the tubular member due to uneven distribution of the

[0083] The present invention provides a cost-effective solution in which the contact pressure is more evenly distributed around the outer surface of the tubular member. Provide a solution.

[0084] By reducing the peak pressure, the size, i.e. weight and The lift and uplift pressure can be increased beyond conventional values.

Claims

1. 1. A clamping spring suitable for attachment to a tubular member, the clamping spring having first and second ends; an inner surface adapted to seat within the clamping member and an outer surface adapted to contact the outer surface of the tubular member; and an outer surface adapted to the inner surface and the outer surface of the elastic body of the spring. a surface extending between the first end and the second end, and a stiffness of the elastic body of the spring: A spring that varies over the length of the elastic body between the first end and the second end.

2. The spring of claim 1 , wherein the spring's elastic body is arcuate.

3. The stiffness is greater toward the first and second ends of the elastic body than toward the center of the elastic body.

3. The spring of claim 1, wherein the spring is taller than the spring of claim 1.

4. The stiffness of the elastic body gradually increases from the first and second ends toward the center of the elastic body. The spring of claim 3, wherein the spring is variable.

5. The spring according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer surface of the elastic body has a wavy shape.

6. 6. The spring of claim 5, wherein the outer surface of the resilient body includes a plurality of peaks and valleys along the outer surface of the spring. The spring described.

7. each of the peaks on the outer surface of the spring has the same height as the adjacent valleys; The spring according to claim 6.

8. the height of a peak on the outer surface of the spring relative to the adjacent valley is The spring of claim 6, wherein the spring is variable.

9. The height of the peak on the outer surface of the spring closest to the center of the spring relative to the adjacent valley is the height of the peaks closer to the first and second ends of the spring relative to the adjacent valleys is higher than the height of the peaks closer to the first and second ends of the spring 9. The spring according to claim 8.

10. The spring according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a cavity is formed in the elastic body.

11. The cavity has a different volume over the length of the spring between the first end and the second end. The spring of claim 10 having a volume and / or shape.

12. The cavities adjacent the first and second ends of the spring are larger than the cavities closer to the center of the spring.

12. The spring of claim 11, which has a smaller volume and / or size than the spring of claim 11.

13. The spring of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the elastic body comprises rubber.

14. The spring of claim 13 , wherein the resilient body comprises nitrile rubber.

15. The spring of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the elastic body comprises polyurethane.

16. The elastic body according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the elastic body comprises a fiber-reinforced plastic. hey.

17. A clamping component for attachment to a tubular member, comprising: a housing; and a spring according to any one of claims 1 to 16 mounted in a seat on the inner surface of the housing. , clamping components.

18. The clamp body includes a plurality of clamp components, each of which is 18. The device of claim 17, comprising a housing and a spring member mounted on the housing. Clamp.

19. 17. The clamp according to claim 17, wherein the clamp has two, three or four clamp components.

19. A clamp according to any one of claims 18 to 18.

20. A plurality of clamping components according to any one of claims 17 to 19, and tensioning means for securing the pump component about the tubular member.

21. 21. The clamp of claim 20, wherein the tensioning means includes a band surrounding the clamp. 。

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