PACKER ELEMENT

Abstract

There is disclosed a packer and/or gripper element (10), beneficially for use offshore and/or underwater, the packer and/or gripper (10) comprising an inflatable element or cushion (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d), wherein a periphery of the/each inflatable element or cushion (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) comprises at least one corner, the at least one corner comprising a concave portion (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d). The disclosed packer and/or gripper element (10) comprises a plurality of inflatable elements (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d), each inflatable element (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) being communicably coupled to an adjacent inflatable element (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) by a port (155a, 155b) disposed between the inflatable elements (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d).

Claims

1. A packer and/or gripper member, such as an offshore and/or underwater packer and/or gripper member, comprising at least one inflatable element or cushion, wherein a periphery of the at least one inflatable element or cushion comprises at least one corner, the at least one corner comprising a concave portion.

2. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the at least one inflatable element comprises a plurality of corners and each corner comprises a concave portion.

3. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the periphery of the at least one inflatable element corresponds to a substantially rectilinear shape with concave cut-away portions at each corner.

4. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the at least one concave portion is joined to an adjacent side of the periphery by at least one curved, radiused and/or convex portion.

5. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein a length or extent of the at least one concave portion is greater than a length or extent of a/the curved, radiused and/or convex portion.

6. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the periphery of the at least one inflatable element comprises at least one pair of symmetrical sides and/or each side of the periphery comprises a substantially straight portion, wherein each straight portion is optionally adjoined to an adjacent straight portion by at least one concave portion and at least two curved, radiused or convex portions and/or each straight portion is adjoined to an adjacent straight portion by, in sequence, a convex portion, a concave portion, and a convex portion.

7. (canceled)

8. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the at least one inflatable element comprises two faces or plates, and wherein at least one of: the two faces or plates are adjacent to one another; each face or plate comprises a sheet material; each face or plate is substantially planar; each face or plate comprises, or is made or formed from, a deformable element; each face or plate comprises or is made or formed from a metallic material.

9. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein: the at least one inflatable element is adapted to cooperate with one or more further inflatable elements to form a stack; and/or the at least one inflatable element comprises a port, the port being disposed at a centre of, or substantially at a centre of, a face or plate of the at least one inflatable element.

10. (canceled)

11. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 1, wherein the port is adapted to communicably couple the at least one inflatable element to a further inflatable element.

12. A packer and/or gripper member, such as an offshore and/or underwater packer and/or gripper member, comprising a plurality of inflatable elements, each inflatable element communicably coupled to an adjacent inflatable element by a port disposed between the adjacent inflatable elements.

13. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein: each of the plurality of inflatable elements comprises or defines a chamber for receiving a fluid; and/or each of the plurality of inflatable elements forms a curved shape when the packer and/or gripper member is in the retracted configuration.

14. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein the gripping member comprises a plurality of ports.

15. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein: the port, or a portion of the port, is disposed on or within at least one face or plate of each of the plurality of inflatable elements; the port comprises a coupling member and wherein the coupling member comprises a through-bore or channel; and/or the port comprises at least one hole disposed on or within a face or plate of at least one of the plurality of inflatable elements.

16-17. (canceled)

18. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of inflatable elements are directly and/or communicably coupled and/or arranged in a stack.

19. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the plurality of inflatable elements comprises an inlet for coupling to a line, such as a hydraulic line, and wherein optionally the inlet is disposed at, or around a perimeter of a face or plate of the at least one of the inflatable elements.

20. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 19, wherein at least one of the inflatable elements comprises a spacer member, the spacer member being disposed at, or around, the inlet, wherein optionally the spacer member is configured to separate adjacent faces or plates of an inflatable element when the inflatable element is deflated.

21. (canceled)

22. A packer and/or gripper member according to claim 12, wherein the packer and/or gripper member is configurable between a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration.

23. (canceled)

24. A packer and/or gripper arrangement, such as an offshore packer and/or gripper arrangement, comprising a plurality of gripping members according to claim 1.

25. A packer and/or gripper arrangement according to claim 24 configured for arrangement in an annular space formed between at least one portion of a support structure and at least one portion of a foundation.

26. A structure, such as a support structure or a foundation for mounting a support structure, wherein the structure comprises a packer and/or gripper arrangement according to claim 24.

27. A system, such as an offshore system, for securing a support structure to a foundation, the system comprising: a foundation arranged on a floor of a body of water or a seabed; a support structure, the support structure being configured for attachment to the foundation; and a packer and/or gripper arrangement according to claim 24, wherein when the packer and/or gripper arrangement is in an expanded configuration, the packer and/or gripper arrangement is configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation.

28. A method for securing a support structure to a foundation, the method comprising: arranging a foundation on a floor of a body of water or a seabed; arranging the support structure on the foundation; and securing at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation by actuating a packer and/or gripper arrangement according to claim 24 from a retracted configuration to an expanded configuration.

29. A method for actuating a packer and/or gripper arrangement, such as an offshore packer and/or gripper arrangement, from a retracted configuration to an expanded configuration, the method comprising the steps of: providing a packer and/or gripper arrangement according to claim 24; and supplying pressurised fluid to one of the inflatable elements.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein the step of supplying pressurised fluid to one of the inflatable elements comprises supplying pressurised fluid to a plurality or stack of inflatable elements via an inlet disposed on only one of the inflatable elements.

31. A method of manufacturing a packer and/or gripper arrangement, such as an offshore packer and/or gripper arrangement, the method comprising the step of communicably coupling a first inflatable element to a second inflatable element by a port disposed between the first and second inflatable elements.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0124] These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are:

[0125] FIG. 1 a perspective view of a packing and/or gripping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0126] FIG. 2a a front view of the packing and/or gripping member according to further embodiment of the present invention;

[0127] FIG. 2b a side cross-sectional view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 2a;

[0128] FIG. 3 a perspective, exploded view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 2a;

[0129] FIG. 4 a top, exploded view of a packing and/or gripping member according to a yet further embodiment of the present invention;

[0130] FIG. 5a a cross-sectional front view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 4;

[0131] FIG. 5b a cross-sectional side view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 4;

[0132] FIG. 6 a further exploded perspective view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 2a;

[0133] FIG. 7a a front cross-sectional view of a packing and/or gripping member according to a still further embodiment of the present invention;

[0134] FIG. 7b a side cross-sectional view of the packing and/or gripping member of FIG. 7a;

[0135] FIG. 8 a magnified view of a portion of the package and/or gripping member FIG. 7b;

[0136] FIGS. 9a to e a diagram showing fabrication details and dimensions of an inflatable element of a packing and/or gripping member according an embodiment of the present invention;

[0137] FIG. 10 a representation showing a cross-section of a packing and/or gripping member in an expanded configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0138] FIGS. 11a to d a series of photographs of an inflatable element of a packing and/or gripping member, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable element being in an inflated state;

[0139] FIG. 12 a photograph of a portion of a test rig for use with a packing and/or gripping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0140] FIG. 13 a photograph of an inflatable element on a test rig, wherein the inflatable element is intended for use in packing and/or gripping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0141] FIG. 14a to b schematic representations of a packing and/or gripping arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention in an annular space between a portion of a support structure fixed to a portion of a foundation in the expanded configuration (left) and in the retracted configuration (right); FIG. 15 a schematic representation of another system for securing a support structure to a foundation; and FIGS. 16a and b schematic representation of a packer and/or gripper member according to an embodiment of the present invention in a deflated and inflated state, respectively, shown jacking of a structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0142] Referring to FIG. 1 there is shown a packing and/or gripping member, generally denoted 10. In the example embodiment shown, the packing and/or gripping member 10 comprises four inflatable elements 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments falling within the scope of the invention the packing and/or gripping member 10 may comprise fewer than or greater than four inflatable elements 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d.

[0143] The plurality of inflatable elements 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d may be arranged in a stack, although for illustrative purposes they are shown in a exploded view in FIG. 1.

[0144] Each inflatable element 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d comprises an inlet 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0145] Each inlet 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d is disposed at a perimeter of a face or plate of an inflatable element 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. Each inlet 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be adapted for coupling to a line, such as a hydraulic line (not shown). The inlet may be adapted for supplying fluid, such as a pressurised fluid, to the packing and/or gripping member 10.

[0146] The inflatable elements 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d of the of the packing and/or gripping member 10 are shown in a deflated configuration.

[0147] A periphery 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d of each inflatable element 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d comprises four corners, each corner comprising a concave portion 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d. That is, the periphery 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d of each inflatable element 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d correspond to a substantially rectangular shape with concave cut-away portions 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d at each corner.

[0148] Each concave portion 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d is joined to an adjacent side of the periphery by at least one convex portion 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d. A length or extent of each concave portion 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d is greater than a length or extent of the convex portion 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d.

[0149] The periphery 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d of each inflatable element 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d comprise a pair of symmetrical sides 45a, 45a′, 45b, 45b′, 45c, 45c′ 45d, 45d′. Each side of the periphery 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d comprises a substantially straight portion.

[0150] Each straight portion may be adjoined to an adjacent straight portion by at least one concave portion 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d and at least two convex portions 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d.

[0151] Referring now to FIG. 2a, there is shown a front view of an inflatable element 115a of a packing and/or gripping member according to a further embodiment of the present invention. the packing and/or gripping member is generally denoted 100.

[0152] The periphery 125 of the inflatable element 115a is substantially symmetrical about a first axis A. The periphery of the inflatable element is substantially symmetrical about a second axis B. The second axis B is perpendicular to the first axis A.

[0153] Referring now to FIG. 2b, there is shown a side cross-sectional view of the packing and/or gripping member 100. The packing and/or gripping member 100 is shown in a retracted configuration. That is, the inflatable elements 115a, 115b, 115c are deflated.

[0154] FIG. 3 shows a perspective, exploded view of the packing and/or gripping member 100 of FIG. 2b. The packing and/or gripping member is comprised of three inflatable elements 115a, 115b, 115c. Each inflatable element 115a, 115b, 115c comprises two plates 150a, 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c, 150c′. Each pair of plates 150a, 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c, 150c′ is adjacent to one another. Each plate 150a, 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c, 150c′comprises a sheet material. Each plate 150a, 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c, 150c′is substantially planar.

[0155] FIG. 3 shows two ports 155a, 155b. In the example embodiment of FIG. 3, the first inflatable element 115a can be communicably coupled to the second inflatable element 115b by the first port 155a. The second inflatable element 115b can be communicably coupled to the third inflatable element 115c by the second port 155b.

[0156] A hole 160a, 160a′, 160b, 160b′ corresponding to a portion of each port 155a, 155b is disposed within a plate 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c of each of the plurality of inflatable elements 115a, 115b, 115c.

[0157] Each port 155a, 155b is disposed at a centre of, or substantially at a centre of, the plates 150a′; 150b, 150b′; 150c of the plurality of inflatable elements 115a, 115b, 115c. The outer plates 150a,150c′ do not comprise holes.

[0158] The ports 155a, 155b each comprise a coupling member 165a, 165b. The coupling members 165a, 165b are substantially ring shaped. The coupling members 165a, 165b comprise a throughbore 170a, 170b.

[0159] Referring again to FIG. 2b, an assembled packing and/or gripping member 100 is shown. It can be seen that the first inflatable element 115a, the second inflatable element 115b and the third inflatable element 115c are adjacent to one another. As such, the holes 160a, 160a′, 160b, 160b′ are substantially aligned. The ports 155a, 155b further comprise the coupling members 165a, 165b affixedly attached within the holes 160a, 160a′, 160b, 160b′, thus communicably coupling the inflatable elements 115a, 115b, 115c.

[0160] Also shown in FIG. 3 is an inlet 175. The inlet 175 is disposed at a perimeter of the inflatable element 115a.

[0161] The inflatable element 115a comprising the inlet 175 is disposed at an outer position within the packing and/or gripping member 100. One will appreciate that in alternative embodiments of the invention, the inlet 175 may be disposed on one of the inner inflatable elements 15b, 15c, 115b. In use, the inlet 175 may be adapted for coupling to a line, such as a hydraulic line (not shown). As such, the inlet 175 may be adapted for supplying fluid, such as a pressurised fluid, to the packing and/or gripping member 100.

[0162] The inflatable element 115a comprising the inlet 175 also comprise a spacer member 180.

[0163] When the inflatable element 115a is assembled, the spacer member 180 is disposed at, or around, the inlet 175. The spacer member 180 is disposed between adjacent plates 150a, 150a′ of an inflatable element 115a. The spacer member 180 is configured to separate adjacent plates 150a, 150a′ of the inflatable element 115a when the inflatable element 115a is deflated, i.e. the packing and/or gripping member is in a retracted configuration. The spacer member 180 is generally wedge-shaped.

[0164] Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a top, exploded view of a packing and/or gripping member, generally denoted 200, according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] The packing and/or gripping member 20 is comprised of three inflatable elements 215a, 215b, 215c. Each inflatable element 215a, 215b, 215c comprises two plates 250a, 250a′; 250b, 250b′; 250c, 250c′. Each pair of plates 250a, 250a′; 250b, 250b′; 250c, 250c′ is adjacent to one another. Each plate 250a, 250a′; 250b, 250b′; 250c, 250c′ comprises a sheet material. Each plate 250a, 250a′; 250b, 250b′; 250c, 250c′ is substantially planar.

[0166] FIG. 4 shows two ports 255a, 255b. In the example embodiment of FIG. 4, the first inflatable element 215a can be communicably coupled to the second inflatable element 215b by the first port 255a. The second inflatable element 215b can be communicably coupled to the third inflatable element 215c by the second port 2155b.

[0167] Each port 255a, 255b is disposed at a centre of, or substantially at a centre of, the plates 250a′; 250b, 250b′; 250c of the plurality of inflatable elements 215a, 215b, 215c. The ports 255a, 255b each comprise a coupling member 265a, 265b.

[0168] Also shown in FIG. 3 is an inlet 275. The inflatable element 215a comprising the inlet 275 is disposed at an outer position within the packing and/or gripping member 200. The inflatable element 215a comprising the inlet 275 also comprise a spacer member 280.

[0169] When the inflatable element 215a is assembled, the spacer member 280 is disposed at, or around, the inlet 275. The spacer member 280 is disposed between adjacent plates 250a, 250a′ of an inflatable element 215a. The spacer member 280 is configured to separate adjacent plates 250a, 250a′ of the inflatable element 215a when the inflatable element 215a is deflated, i.e. the packing and/or gripping member is in a retracted configuration. The spacer member 280 is generally wedge-shaped.

[0170] Each inflatable element 215a, 215b, 215c form a curved shape when deflated. Each inflatable element 215a, 215b, 215c of the plurality of inflatable elements comprises a plurality of substantially straight portions 290a, 290b, 290c. Each substantially straight portions 290a, 290b, 290c is inclined at an angle a relative to an adjacent substantially straight portion 290a, 290b, 290c. An angle of inclination between straight portions may typically be in the range of 6 degrees, but may be more or less, depending in particular on a radius of an annular void into which the packing and/or gripping member will be inserted in use.

[0171] FIG. 5a shows a cross-sectional front view of an inflatable element 215a, 215b, 215c of FIG. 4. The coupling member 265a comprises a throughbore 270a. FIG. 5b shows a cross-sectional side view of the packing and/or gripping member 200 of FIG. 4 in an assembled state. The coupling members 265a, 265b are disposed within a hole disposed on each plate 250a′, 250b, 250b′, 250c of the inflatable elements 215a, 215b, 215c. Edge weld 285 secures the plates 250a′, 250b, 250b′, 250c to the coupling members 265a, 265b.

[0172] FIG. 6 shows a further exploded perspective view of the packers and/or gripper member 100 of FIG. 3. In comparison to FIG. 3, FIG. 6 shows the packers and/or gripper member 100 in a partially assembled state. Each of pair of plates 150a′, 150b; 150b′, 150c are communicably coupled by the ports 155a, 155b. Coupling members 165a, 165b comprise throughbores 170a, 170b.

[0173] Spacer member 180 is disposed along an edge, i.e. at the periphery, of plate 150a. The spacer member 180 is disposed at a base of the inlet 175. The spacer member 180 is configured to separate adjacent plates 150a, 150a′ of the inflatable element 115a when the inflatable element 115a is deflated, i.e. the packing and/or gripping member is in a retracted configuration. The spacer member 180 is generally wedge-shaped.

[0174] When the partially assembled packers and/or gripper member 100 of FIG. 6 Is completely assembled, inflatable member 115a is formed by welding plates 150a, 150a′ together. Inflatable member 115b is formed by welding plates 150b, 150b′ together. Inflatable member 115c is formed by welding plates 150c, 150c′ together.

[0175] FIG. 7a shows a front cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of a packers and/or gripper member, generally denoted 300. FIG. 7a shows a plate 350 with a coupling member 365 inserted in a hole in the plate 350, thus forming a port. The coupling member 365, and hence the port, comprises a throughbore 370. FIG. 7b exemplifies how multiple configurations of the packing and/or gripping member 300 may be implemented. For example, an embodiment is shown comprising a single inflatable element 315f. This inflatable element comprises an outer port 370f on a plate 350f of the inflatable element 315f. The outer port 370f comprises an inlet 375f. The inlet 375f may be used to provide pressurised fluid to the inflatable element 315f. It will be appreciated that, in alternative embodiments of the invention, the inlet 375f may instead be disposed at a periphery of the inflatable element 315f, as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2a, 2b, 3 and 6.

[0176] FIG. 7b also exemplifies a further configuration of a packing and/or gripping member 300, wherein two inflatable elements 315d 315e are communicably coupled by a port 370e. Similarly, FIG. 7b also exemplifies a further configuration of a packing and/or gripping member 300 wherein three inflatable elements 315a, 315b, 315c are communicably coupled by ports 370a, 370b. An outer plate 390 e.g. an external sealing plate, of inflatable element 315c does not comprise a hole for mounting a coupling member. FIG. 8 provides a magnified view of FIG. 7b. The packing and/or gripping member 300 is shown in a retracted or deflated state.

[0177] FIGS. 9a to 9e provide technical drawings of an embodiment of an inflatable element, generally denoted 400. Any dimensions shown are for example purposes only. The inflatable element 400 comprises an inlet 475. For illustrative purposes, there is no port shown on the inflatable element 400. As such, the embodiment shown may provide a packing and/or gripping member with a single inflatable element 400. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the inflatable element may comprise a port as exemplified in the embodiments of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 6, 7a, 7b and 8.

[0178] FIG. 9c shows a top view of the inflatable element 400. It can be seen that the inflatable element 400 forms a curved shape when deflated. The inflatable element 400 comprises a plurality of substantially straight portions 490a, 490b, 490c. Each substantially straight portion 490a, 490b, 490c is inclined at an angle a relative to an adjacent substantially straight portion 490a, 490b, 490c. An angle of inclination between straight portions may typically be in the range of 6 degrees, but may be more or less, depending in particular on a radius of an annular void into which the packing and/or gripping member will be inserted in use.

[0179] Spacer member 480 is disposed along an edge, i.e. at the periphery, of the inflatable element 400. The spacer member 480 is disposed at a base of the inlet 475. The spacer member 480 is configured to separate adjacent plates 450a, 450a′ of the inflatable element 400 when the inflatable element 400 is deflated, i.e. the packing and/or gripping member is in a retracted configuration. The spacer member 480 is generally wedge-shaped.

[0180] In some embodiments falling within the scope of the present invention, the spacer member 480 can be formed as part of, or integral to, the inlet.

[0181] Additional information pertaining to FIGS. 9a to 9e is as follows:

1. ALL DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES U.N.O

2. ALL FABRICATION TO BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH PD 5500-2006 UNFRED FUSION WELDED PRESSURE VESSELS

3. WELD INSPECTION TO BE 100% LIQUID DYE PENETRANT INSPECTION (ISO 2059) TO INCLUDE:

PRECLEANING WITH SOLVENT

APPLICATION OF PENETRANT WITH SUITABLE DWELL TIME

EXCESS PENETRANT REMOVAL

APPLICATION OF DEVELOPER

INSPECTION WITH VISIBLE LIGHT WITH INTENSITY OF 1100 LUX OR

[0182] GREATER

4. WELDING PROCEDURE SPECIFICATION (WPS) TO BS EN ISO 156 14-8:2002 (OR EQUIVALENT)

5. A WELDING PROCEDURE QUALIFICATION RECORD (WPQR) FOR WELDERS SHOULD BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH BS 4871-3, (OR EQUIVALENT) INCLUDING MECHANICAL AND NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING RECORDS FOR THE TEST WELDS

6. ALL MATERIAL CERTS TO BE BS EN 10204-3.1, TO INCLUDE

PACKER PLARE

FILLER WIRE (IF USED)

SHIELDING GAS (IF USED)

7. ALL MATERIALS TO ASTM 316/EN 1.4401:

UPPER AND LOWER PLATE 3 MM THICK

INFLATION TUBE 8 MM OD×2 MM WT

INFILL PIEVE FROM 3 MM DISCARD PLATE

8. ZERO WELD GAP ALL OVER

9. MINIMUM THROUT THICKNESS 5 MM ALL OVER

10. LEAK TEST POST WELD WITH A VACUUM TEST. VACUUM TO LESS THAT 5 MILLIBAR ABSOLUTE AND HOLD FOR 15 MINS ONE TEST PER 15 ELEMENTS.

[0183] FIG. 10 is a sketch of a cross-section of a packing and/or gripping member, generally denoted 500, in an expanded configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fluid is input via the inlet 575. Arrows 595a, 595b, 595c show the direction of a flow of fluid input via inlet 575. The fluid passes through each port 555a, 555b and inflates each inflatable element 515a, 515b, 515c.

[0184] FIGS. 11a to 11d are photographs showing an inflatable element 600 in an inflated state. The inlet 675 is disposed at a perimeter of the plates of the inflatable element 600. The inlet is coupled to a line 610. The line 610 supplies fluid to the inflatable element 600.

[0185] FIG. 12 is photograph of a portion of a test rig for use with an embodiment of the present invention. A valve 700 shows a pressure applied to inflate the inflatable element 600, or to maintain the inflatable element 600 in an inflated state. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the pressure is approximately 120 Bar (1740 psi). FIG. 13 shows a device 710 configured to apply a pressure, via a test rig, to the inflatable element 600 for the purposes of testing the inflatable element 600. The device 710 is applying a force of approximately 107 tonnes. It will be appreciated that this is an example, and the inflatable element 600 may be capable of withstanding greater applied forces.

[0186] FIGS. 14a and 14b depict a packing and/or gripping member 800 positioned in an annular space between a leg 810 of a jacket and a seafastening socket 820. The left side of FIGS. 14a and 14b depict the packing and/or gripping member 800 in an expanded configuration, in which all of the inflatable elements 830 of the packing and/or gripping member are expanded, e.g. inflated. In the expanded configuration of the packing and/or gripping member 800, the packing and/or gripping member 800 extends in the annular space 840 and exerts a force and/or load onto the leg 810 of the jacket and the seafastening socket 820. The force and/or load exerted by the packing and/or gripping member 800 can be considered as acting in a radial direction, such as for example a radial inward and/or radial outward direction.

[0187] The force and/or load exerted by the packing and/or gripping member 800 may cause the leg 810 to be secured to the seafastening socket 820 and minimise or prevent any movement of the leg 810 relative to the seafastening socket 820. Once the leg 810 or all legs of the jacket have been secured to the respective seafastening sockets, a curable, settable or fixable material, e.g. cement, (not depicted in FIGS. 14a and 14b) may be injected into the annular space 840 to permanently fix the jacket to the seafastening socket 820.

[0188] The packing and/or gripping member 800 may be left in place after curing of the cement. The packing and/or gripping member 800 may be considered to be sacrificial.

[0189] The right side of FIGS. 14a and 14b depicts the packing and/or gripping member 800 in the retracted configuration. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14a and 14b, the packing and/or gripping member 800, e.g. the inflatable members 830, is arranged on the leg 810 of the jacket. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the packing and/or gripping member may be provided with the seafastening socket.

FIG. 15 depicts another embodiment of a system for securing a support structure to a foundation. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15, the foundation is provided in the form of a monopile 900 that has been driven into the seabed 905, for example by a pile hammer or the like. The monopile 900 may extend above a sea level 910.
In the example embodiment, the support structure for supporting a wind turbine structure is provided in the form of a transition piece 915. The transition piece 915 can be arranged on a free end of monopile 900, such as for example on an end portion of the monopile 900 that extends above the sea level 910, to surround a portion of the monopile 900. The transition piece 915 may comprise a tubular shape. The transition piece 915 may be configured to receive the free end of the monopile 900.

[0190] The system depicted in FIG. 15 comprises a packing and/or gripping member 920. The packing and/or gripping member 920 comprises any of the features of the member 920 described above in relation to FIGS. 1 to 14.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15, the packing and/or gripping member 920 may be arranged in an annular space formed between the monopile 900 and the transition piece 915. The packing and/or gripping member 920 may be arranged in proximity of an opening 925 of the transition piece 915. The packing and/or gripping member 920 may be arranged on and/or around an outer periphery or circumference of the monopile 900, e.g. to fully or partially extend around the outer periphery or circumference of the monopile 900. Alternatively, the packing and/or gripping member 920 may be arranged on and/or around an inner periphery or circumference of the transition piece 915, e.g. to fully or partially extend around the inner periphery or circumference of the transition piece 915.

[0191] The transition piece 915 may comprise one or more levelling actuators. The levelling actuators may be configured to allow for orienting and/or levelling of the transition piece 915 relative to the monopile 900. The one or more levelling actuators may be provided in the form of one or more cylinder and/or piston arrangement 930, such as for example a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder and/or piston arrangement or the like.

[0192] The packing and/or gripping member 920 is configured to secure the transition piece 915 to the monopile 900, when the packing and/or gripping member 920 is in the expanded configuration. This may prevent movement of the transition piece 915 relative to the monopile 900, for example due to waves that may be present at the sea level 910, thereby allowing levelling of the transition piece 915 relative to the monopile 900. Once the transition piece 915 is levelled relative to the monopile 900, the transition piece 915 may be permanently fixed to the monopole 900, for example, by injecting the settable, curable or fixable material into the annular space 935 between the transition piece 915 and the monopile 900 and allowing the settable, curable, or fixable material to become cured.

[0193] The exemplary packing and/or gripping member 920 described herein allows a supporting structure, such as for example a jacket or transition piece, (or a portion thereof) to be secured to a foundation, such as for example seafastening sockets or a monopile, independent of weather condition. Once the supporting structure is secure to the foundation, the supporting structure may be permanently fixed to the foundation, e.g. without having to wait for improved weather conditions. This may allow for reduced costs for installing the supporting structure to the foundation.

[0194] The packing and/or gripping member may secure the supporting structure to the foundation and/or minimise or prevent movement of the supporting structure relative to the foundation, while the settable, curable or fixable material is cured. The settable, curable or fixable material can continue to cure, regardless of the weather conditions. This may provide a strong and robust connection between the supporting structure and the foundation.

[0195] Referring now to FIGS. 16a and 16b, there is shown a packer member 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention in deflated and inflated states respectfully. The packer member 1000 is utilised to jack-up a first structure 1050, e.g. lift the first structure 1050 relative to a second structure 1060.

[0196] For purposes of example only, the packer member 1000 is a packer member according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, e.g. a packer member 1000 comprising a plurality of inflatable elements or cushions 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d, wherein each inflatable element or cushion is communicably coupled to an adjacent inflatable element by a port 1020a, 1020b, 1015c disposed between the inflatable elements or cushions 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d. The plurality of inflatable elements or cushions 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d is arranged in a stack, to form the packer member 1000.

[0197] It will be appreciated that in other example embodiments of the invention, each inflatable element or cushion 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d may be directly inflated/deflated via a port or valve (not shown), such that each inflatable element or cushion 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d is not directly coupled to an adjacent inflatable element by a port disposed between the inflatable elements 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d. For example, in other example embodiments of the invention the packer member 1000 may be a packer member according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, wherein each inflatable element or cushion 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d comprises an inlet disposed at a perimeter of a face or plate of each inflatable element 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d. In such an embodiment, each inlet 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be adapted for coupling to a line, such as a hydraulic line (not shown). The inlet may be adapted for supplying fluid, such as a pressurised fluid, to the packer member 1000.

[0198] In FIG. 16a, the packer member 1000 is positioned in a space or gap between the first structure 1050 and a second structure 1060, e.g. between surfaces of the first and second structures 1050, 1060.

[0199] The first structure 1050 may be any element or arrangement. For example, the packer member 1000 may be employed in the construction industry, e.g., in an on-shore construction industry, wherein the first structure 1050 represents any component of a building or structure, such as a strut or beam or the like. The packer member 1000 may be used for underpinning a structure.

[0200] It will be understood that the second structure 1060 is shown for purposes of example only, to represent a feature or item relative to which the first structure 1050 is jacked-up/lifted. That is, in other examples, the second structure 1060 may alternatively be any of a foundation, a support, a floor, a base or the like. The second structure 1060 represents any surface relative to which the first structure 1050 is jacked-up.

[0201] In FIG. 16a, the packer member 1000 is shown in a deflated configuration. In the deflated configuration, the packer member 1000 can be located and/or fitted/installed within the space or gap. For purposes of example, the space or gap is of a size or dimension represented by Dl.

[0202] In FIG. 16b, the packer member 1000 is shown in an expanded configuration, e.g. an inflated/pressurised configuration, in which all of the inflatable elements 1015a, 1015b, 1015c, 1015d of the packing and/or gripping member are expanded.

[0203] In the expanded configuration the packer member 1000 extends in the space or gap and exerts a force and/or load onto the first structure 1050 and second structure 1060. In the example shown, the force and/or load exerted by the packer member 1000 can be considered as acting in a substantially vertical direction, thus providing a jacking/lifting force to the first structure 1050 relative to the second structure 1060.

[0204] The force exerted by the packer member 1000 may cause the first structure 1050 to be jacked-up/lifted relative to the second structure 1060. As such, in FIG. 16b the space or gap is of a size or dimension represented by D2, wherein D2 is larger than D1.

[0205] In other examples, the packer 1000 may be expanded to provide a stabilizing force, while not necessarily substantially jacking-up or lifting the first structure 1050 relative to the second structure 1060.

[0206] In use, once the first structure 1050 has been jacked-up/lifted/stabilized relative to the second structure 1060, a further structure or support may be disposed between the first structure 1050 and the second structure 1060. In other examples, a curable, settable or fixable material, e.g. cement (not depicted in FIGS. 16a and 16b) may be disposed in the space or gap to permanently fix the first structure 1050 relative to the second structure 1060. The packer member 1000 may be left in situ after curing of the cement. As such, the packer member 1000 may be considered to be sacrificial.

[0207] It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the present invention hereinbefore described are given by way of example only and are not meant to limit the scope of thereof in any way. It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention provide benefits over the prior art.

[0208] It will also be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention may provide a beneficial or advantageously (low) input force (pressure) to inflatable element expansion ratio or “stroke”. It will further be appreciated that while the disclosed embodiments show rectilinear inflatable members, other shapes (closed shapes) of inflatable members may be envisaged, e.g. having three or more corners, wherein at least one of the corners comprises a concave portion.