Connector Assemblies and Processes for Using Same

Abstract

Connector assemblies and processes for using same. In some embodiments, a connector assembly can include a stinger and a sleeve assembly. An outer surface of the stinger can define first and second grooves. The sleeve assembly can include a structural ring, a support ring, and first and second retainer rings. The structural ring can define a first shoulder. The support ring can be connected to the structural ring and can define a second shoulder. The first and second retainer rings can be independently movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. When the stinger is positioned within the sleeve assembly, the first retainer ring can maintain a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder and/or the second retainer ring can maintain a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger comprising a first end and a second end and configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a first groove and a second groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, wherein an inner surface of the structural ring defines a first shoulder, a support ring configured to be connected to the structural ring toward or at a second end of the structural ring, wherein an inner surface of the support ring defines a second shoulder; a first retainer ring that is selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position; and a second retainer ring that is selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein: the first retainer ring and the second retainer ring are independently moveable with respect to one another, when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the first retainer ring is in the locked position, the first retainer ring maintains a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder, and when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, the second retainer ring maintains a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder.

2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector assembly is configured to transfer a load between the stinger and the sleeve assembly (i) when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, (ii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, or (iii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position.

3. The connector assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first actuator configured to move the first retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position and a second actuator configured to move the second retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position.

4. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein: the first groove and the second groove are substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension of the second split ring is less than a longitudinal dimension of the first split ring, or the first split ring and the second split ring are substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension of the second groove is greater than a longitudinal dimension of the first groove.

5. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the first body is a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that are configured to connect the buoy to the seabed, and wherein the second body is a vessel configured to float on a surface of a body of water.

6. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger comprising a first end and a second end and configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a first groove and a second groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, wherein an inner surface of the structural ring defines a load shoulder; a first support ring that is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the structural ring, wherein an inner surface of the first support ring defines a first shoulder; a second support ring configured to be connected to the structural ring toward or at a second end of the structural ring, wherein an inner surface of the second support ring defines a second shoulder; a first retainer ring that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position; and a second retainer ring that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein: when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the first retainer ring is in the locked position, the first retainer ring maintains a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, the second retainer ring maintains a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder, when the first support ring is in the first position, the first support ring abuts against the load shoulder and, when the first support ring is in the second position, the first support ring is located a distance away from the load shoulder.

7. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the connector assembly is configured to transfer a load between the stinger and the sleeve assembly (i) when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, (ii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, or (iii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position.

8. The connector assembly of claim 6, further comprising a first actuator configured to move the first retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position and a second actuator configured to move the second retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position.

9. The connector assembly of claim 6, further comprising a third actuator configured to couple the first support ring to the second support ring and to move the first support ring between the first position and the second position relative to the structural ring.

10. The connector assembly of claim 9, wherein the first actuator, the second actuator, and the third actuator each comprise a plurality of hydraulic cylinders.

11. The connector assembly of claim 9, wherein the third actuator comprises a lockable actuator.

12. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein, when the connector assembly is subjected to a load and the first support ring is in the first position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, at least a portion of the load is transferred between the stinger to the structural ring via the second split ring and the second support ring.

13. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein, when the connector assembly is subjected to a load, the first retainer ring is in the locked position, the second retainer ring is in the locked position, and the first support ring is in the second position, at least a majority of the load is transferred between the stinger and the structural ring via the first split ring, the first support ring, the second support ring, and the third actuator.

14. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein an outer surface of the stinger has a first material hardness and the second split ring has a second material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than seventy percent of the first material hardness.

15. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein: the first groove and the second groove are substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension of the second split ring is less than a longitudinal dimension of the first split ring, or the first split ring and the second split ring are substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension of the second groove is greater than a longitudinal dimension of the first groove.

16. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the first body is a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that are configured to connect the buoy to a seabed, and wherein the second body is a vessel configured to float on a surface of a body of water.

17. A process for connecting the stinger to the sleeve assembly of claim 6, comprising: positioning the first retainer ring and the second retainer ring in the unlocked position; inserting the stinger fully within the sleeve assembly; and moving at least one of the first retainer ring and the second retainer ring to the locked position.

18. A process for disconnecting the stinger from the sleeve assembly of claim 17, comprising: positioning the first support ring in the second position; moving at least one of the first retainer ring and the second retainer ring to the unlocked position so that the first retainer ring and the second retainer ring are both in the unlocked position; and removing the stinger from the sleeve assembly.

19. A process of removing the second retainer ring from the connector assembly of claim 6 while a load is transferred between the stinger and the sleeve assembly, comprising: positioning the first support ring in the second position; moving the first retainer ring to the locked position; moving the second retainer ring to the unlocked position; removing the second retainer ring from the sleeve assembly; and removing the second split ring from the connector assembly.

20. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger comprising a first end and a second end, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a first groove and a second groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising a first end, a second end, a first latching mechanism, and a second latching mechanism, the sleeve assembly configured to receive the stinger and secure the stinger therein via the first latching mechanism and/or the second latching mechanism, wherein: an inner surface of the sleeve assembly defines a first shoulder located toward the first end thereof and a second shoulder located toward the second end thereof, the first latching mechanism and the second latching mechanism are independently moveable between an unlocked position and a locked position with respect to one another, when the first latching mechanism is in the unlocked position and the second latching mechanism is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the first latching mechanism is in a locked position, the first latching mechanism is configured to maintain a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder, and when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the second latching mechanism is in a locked position, the second latching mechanism is configured to maintain a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The subject disclosure is further described in the detailed description that follows in reference to the drawings by way of non-limiting embodiments, in which like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an illustrative connector assembly, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0011] FIG. 2 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0012] FIG. 3 depicts a detailed cross-section elevation view of a portion of a stinger, a first split ring, and a second split ring in the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0013] FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of an illustrative first split ring in the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. 5 depicts a cross-section elevation view of another illustrative connector assembly in a disconnected configuration that includes a sleeve assembly that includes a first support ring in a first position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0015] FIG. 6 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5 in an engaged configuration that includes a first retainer ring and a second retainer ring in an unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0016] FIG. 7 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5 that includes a first retainer ring in a locked position and a second retainer ring in an unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0017] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5 that includes a first retainer ring in an unlocked position and a second retainer ring in a locked position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0018] FIG. 9 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5 that includes first retainer ring in a locked position and a second retainer ring in a locked position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0019] FIG. 10 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5 that includes the first support ring of the sleeve assembly in a second position, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0020] FIG. 11 depicts a detailed cross-section elevation view of a portion of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 10 showing the first support ring in the second position.

[0021] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly in a connected configuration that includes a stinger, a sleeve assembly, a split ring, a retainer ring, and a latching mechanism that includes a manually actuated actuator, according to one or more embodiments described.

[0022] FIG. 13 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly in a connected configuration that includes the stinger, the sleeve assembly, the split ring, and the retainer ring, depicted in FIG. 12, that includes a different latching mechanism that includes a hydraulically actuated actuator instead of the manually actuated actuator, according to one or more embodiments described.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] A detailed description will now be provided. Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references to the invention, in some cases, refer to certain specific or preferred embodiments only. In other cases, references to the invention refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows includes embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact and also includes embodiments in which additional features are formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features are not in direct contact. The exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain features and certain views of the figures can be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic for clarity and/or conciseness.

[0024] Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Also, the naming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. Furthermore, in the following discussion and in the claims, the terms including and comprising are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean including, but not limited to.

[0025] All numerical values in this disclosure are exact or approximate values (about) unless otherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope.

[0026] Further, the term or is intended to encompass both exclusive and inclusive cases, i.e., A or B is intended to be synonymous with at least one of A and B, unless otherwise expressly specified herein. The indefinite articles a and an refer to both singular forms (i.e., one) and plural referents (i.e., one or more) unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms up and down; upward and downward; upper and lower; upwardly and downwardly; above and below; and other like terms used herein refer to relative positions to one another and are not intended to denote a particular spatial orientation since the apparatus and methods of using the same may be equally effective at various angles or orientations.

[0027] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an illustrative connector assembly 10, according to one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 10 can include a stinger 11 and a sleeve assembly 12. In some embodiments, the stinger 11 can be configured to be connected to a first body 13 and the sleeve assembly 12 can be configured to be connected to second body 14. In some embodiments, the first body 13 can be a buoy, a turret or other structure. In some embodiments, the second body 14 can be a floating vessel, a floating platform, or any other floating structure that can be configured to connect to a buoy, a turret, or other structure.

[0028] FIG. 2 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly 100, according to one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can include a stinger 110 and a sleeve assembly 150. In some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be configured to be connected to a first body 120. In some embodiments, the first body 120 can be a buoy or a turret. The stinger 110 can have a first end 111, a second end 112, and an outer surface 113. The outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can define a first groove 114 and a second groove 115. The first groove 114 defined by the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can be located between the first end 111 and the second groove 115 defined by the outer surface of 113 of the stinger 110. The second groove 115 defined by the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can be located between the first groove 114 defined by the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 and the second end 112 of the stinger. In some embodiments, the first groove 114 defined by the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can be located toward the first end 111 of the stinger 110 and the second groove 115 defined by the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can be located toward the second end 112 of the stinger 110.

[0029] In some embodiments, the sleeve assembly 150 can include a structural ring 151 and a support ring 160. In some embodiments, the structural ring 151 can be configured to be connected to a second body 130 and can include a first end 152 and a second end 153. In some embodiments, the second body 130 can be a floating vessel, a floating platform, or any other floating structure that can be configured to connect to a buoy, a turret, or other structure.

[0030] The structural ring 151 can define a shoulder or first shoulder 154. The shoulder 154 can be defined by an inner surface 156 of the structural ring 151. The shoulder 154 can be located between the first end 152 and the second end 153 of the structure ring 151. In some embodiments, the shoulder 154 can be located toward the first end 152 of the structural ring 151. In other embodiments, the shoulder 154 can be located more toward the middle of the structural ring 151 between the first end 152 and the second end 153 of the structural ring 151. In some embodiments, the structural ring 151 can be a continuous ring structure. In other embodiments, the structural ring 151 can be formed from a plurality of ring segments that can be placed adjacent to one another to form the structural ring 151.

[0031] The support ring 160 can be configured to be connected to or disposed on the structural ring 151 toward or at the second end 153 of the structural ring 151. The support ring 160 can include a first end 161 and a second end 162. In some embodiments, the first end 161 of the support ring 160 can be disposed on the second end 153 of the structural ring 151, as shown. In some embodiments, the support ring 160 can be connected to the structural ring 151 via a plurality of fasteners 155. In other embodiments, the support ring 160 can be connected to the structural ring 151 via welding. In some embodiments, the support ring 160 can be a continuous ring structure. In other embodiments, the support ring 160 can be formed from a plurality of ring segments that can be placed adjacent to one another to form the support ring 160.

[0032] In some embodiments, the support ring 160 can define a shoulder or second shoulder 163. The shoulder 163 can be defined by an inner surface 164 of the support ring 160. The shoulder 163 can be located between the first end 161 and the second end 162 of the support ring 160. In some embodiments, the shoulder 161 can be located toward the first end 161 of the support ring 160, toward the second end 162 of the support ring 160, or toward the middle of the support ring 160 between the first end 161 and the second end 162, as shown.

[0033] Although not shown, it should be understood that, in some embodiments, the structural ring 151 and the support ring 160 can be a single unitary body. For example, the structural ring 151 and the support ring 160 can be milled from a single body of material, e.g., steel. In another example, the structural ring 151 and the support ring 160 can be formed via casting. In some embodiments, if the structural ring 151 and the support ring 160 are formed from a plurality of segments, the mating or engagement of adjacent segments making up the structural ring 151 can be arranged such that the mating or engagement of adjacent segments making up support ring 161 are not aligned with one another. For example the mating or engagement of two adjacent segments making up the structural ring 151 can be located below, e.g., in the middle of, a segment making up the support ring 160.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sleeve assembly 150 can include a first retainer ring 170 that can be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, the sleeve assembly 150 can include a second retainer ring 171 that can be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. When the first retainer ring 170 is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring 171 is in the unlocked position, the stinger 110 can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly 150.

[0035] In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 as depicted in FIG. 2, and the first retainer ring 170 is in the locked position (not shown), the first retainer ring 170 can maintain a first split ring 172 in a position partially within the first groove 114 defined by the stinger 110 and partially on the first shoulder 154 defined by the structural ring 151 of the sleeve assembly 150 (not shown). In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 and the first retainer ring 170 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, the first retainer ring 170 can move the first split ring 172 into the position partially within the first groove 114 defined by the stinger 110 and partially onto the first shoulder 154 defined by the structural ring 151 of the sleeve assembly 150. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the first split ring 172 can have a lead in profile 185 that can be configured to facilitate insertion of a portion of the first retainer ring 170 between the first split ring 172 and the inner surface 156 of the structural ring 151. In some embodiments, when the first retainer ring 170 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the first split ring 172 can move into a position that is not within the first groove 114 defined by the stinger 110, as shown. Said another way, when the first retainer ring 170 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the first split ring 172 can move into a position that locates the first split ring 172 outside of the first groove 114 defined by the stinger 110.

[0036] In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 as depicted in FIG. 2, and the second retainer ring 171 is in the locked position (not shown), the second retainer ring 171 can maintain a second split ring 173 in a position partially within the second groove 115 and partially on the second shoulder 163. In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 and the second retainer ring 171 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, the second retainer ring 171 moves the second split ring 173 into the position partially within the second groove 115 and partially on the second shoulder 163. As described in more detail below with regard to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the second split ring 173 can have a lead in profile 186 that can be configured to facilitate insertion of a portion of the second retainer ring 171 between the second split ring 173 and the inner surface 164 of the support ring 160. In some embodiments, when the second retainer ring 171 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the second split ring 172 can move into a position that is not within the second groove 115, as shown. Said another way, when the second retainer ring 171 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the second split ring 173 can move into a position that locates the second split ring 173 outside of the second groove 115 defined by the stinger 110.

[0037] FIG. 3 depicts a detailed cross-section elevation view of a portion of the stinger 110, the first split ring 172, and the second split rings 173 shown in FIG. 2, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of the first split ring 172 in the connector assembly 100 shown in FIG. 2, according to one or more embodiments. The second split ring 173 can be similar to the first split ring 172 shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the main difference between the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 can be that the first split ring 172 has a greater inner and outer diameter than the second split ring 173. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in some embodiments, the first split ring 172 (and the second split ring 173) can each be configured as a discontinuous circular ring having a uniform cross-sectional shape as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 can each have a polygonal cross-sectional shape. As shown, the first and second split rings 172, 173 can each have a polygonal cross-sectional shape that includes six sides or seven sides. In some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the first and second split rings 172, 173 can have at least one set of opposing parallel sides. As shown, in some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the first and second split rings 172, 173 can have a bottom side and a top side that can be parallel with respect to one another and a left side and a right side that can be parallel with respect to one another.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 can have the lead in profile 185 that can engage with the first retainer ring 170 (see FIG. 2) to urge the first split ring 172 at least partially into the first groove 114 when the first retainer ring 170 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position. In some embodiments, the second split ring 173 can have the lead in profile 186 that can engage with the second retainer ring 171 (see FIG. 2) to urge the second split ring 173 at least partially into the second groove 115 when the second retainer ring 171 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position. In some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the first and second split rings 172, 173 can have a left side and a right side that can be parallel to one another, a top side and a bottom side that can be parallel to one another, a fifth side that can be angled between a top of the left side and a left side of the top side, a sixth side that can be angled between a right side of the top side and a top side of the right side, and a seventh side that can be angled between a bottom of the left side and a left side of the bottom side, where a bottom of the right side and the right side of the bottom side can meet at 90 with respect to one another. In such embodiments, the sixth side can be referred to as the lead in profile 185 and 186 of the first and second split rings 172, 173, respectively.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 can have an outer diameter 176 that can be greater than an inner diameter of the first retainer ring 170 when the first split ring 172 is in an undeflected configuration or state. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second split ring 173 can have an outer diameter that can be greater than an inner diameter of the second retainer ring 171 when the second split ring 173 is in an undeflected configuration or state. In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 can be configured to expand or said another way, spring outwardly toward the inner surface 156 of the structural ring 151 and away from or out of the first groove 114 when the first retainer ring 170 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the second split ring 173 can be configured to expand or said another way, spring outwardly, toward the inner surface 164 of the support ring 160 and away from or out of the second groove 115 when the second retainer ring 171 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0041] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional dimensions of the first groove 114 and the cross-sectional dimensions of the second groove 115 can be substantially identical to one another. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional dimensions of the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 can be substantially identical to one another. In some embodiments, a longitudinal dimension 175 of the second split ring 173 can be less than a longitudinal dimension 174 of the first split ring 172. In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 can be dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension 117 of the second groove 115 can be greater than a longitudinal dimension 116 of the first groove 114. In some embodiments, the first groove 114 and the second groove 115 can be dimensionally identical to one another and the longitudinal dimension 175 of the second split ring 173 can be less than the longitudinal dimension 174 of the first split ring 172.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 can be substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension 117 of the second groove 115 can be greater than a longitudinal dimension 116 of the first groove 114. In some embodiments, the first groove 114 and the second groove 115 can be substantially dimensionally identical to one another and a longitudinal dimension 175 of the second split ring 173 can be less than a longitudinal dimension 174 of the first split ring 172. As used herein, the term substantially dimensionally identical means the longitudinal dimensions 174, 175 of the first and second split rings 172, 173 or the longitudinal dimensions 116, 117 of the first and second grooves 114, 115 can be within about 10%, about 7%, about 5%, about 3% or about 1% of one another. For example, if the longitudinal dimensions 174, 175 of the first and second split rings 172, 173 are substantially dimensionally identical and the longitudinal dimension of the first split ring 172 is about 30 cm, the longitudinal dimension of the second split ring 173 can be in a range from about 27 cm, about 27.9 cm, about 28.5 cm, about 29.1 cm, or about 29.7 cm to about 30.3 cm, about 30.9 cm, about 31.5 cm, about 32.1 cm, or about 33 cm.

[0043] In some embodiments, the stinger 110, the first split ring 172, the second split ring 173, the first retainer ring 170, the second retainer ring 171, the structural ring 151, and the support ring 160 can be formed or manufactured from a metallic material, for example steel, a hardened steel, bronze, aluminum, or any other material suitable for the intended application. In some embodiments, the stinger 110 or at least the outer surface 113 of the stinger 110 can have a first material hardness. In some embodiments, the second split ring 173 or at least an outer surface of the second split ring 173 can have a second material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be less than the first material hardness of the stinger 110. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the first material hardness of the stinger 110. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the first material hardness of the stinger 110. In some embodiments, the first material hardness of the stinger 110 and the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be selected such that any wear that occurs resulting from multiple connections and disconnections of the connector assembly 100, for example, from moving the second retainer ring 171 from the unlocked position to the locked position or from moving the second retainer ring 171 from the locked position to the unlocked position, can predominately occur on the second split ring 173 rather than on the stinger 110.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second retainer ring 171 or at least the outer surface of the second retainer ring 171 can have a third material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the third material hardness of the second retainer ring 171. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the third material hardness of the second retainer ring 171.

[0045] In some embodiments, the support ring 160 or at least the inner surface 164 of the support ring 160 can have a fourth material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the fourth material hardness of the support ring 160. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the fourth material hardness of the support ring 160.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first split ring 172 or at least the outer surface of the first split ring 172 can have a fifth material hardness. In some embodiments, the fifth material hardness of first split ring 172 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the first material hardness of the stinger 110. In some embodiments, the firth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the first material hardness of the stinger 110. In some embodiments, the first material hardness of the stinger 110 and the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be selected such that any wear that occurs resulting from multiple connections and disconnections of the connector assembly 100, for example, from moving the first retainer ring 170 from the unlocked position to the locked position or from moving the first retainer ring 170 from the locked position to the unlocked position, can predominately occur on the first split ring 172 rather than on the stinger 110.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first retainer ring 170 or at least an outer surface of the first retainer ring 170 can have a sixth material hardness. In some embodiments, the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the sixth material hardness of the first retainer ring 170. In some embodiments, the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the sixth material hardness of the first retainer ring 170.

[0048] In some embodiments, the structural ring 151 or at least the inner surface 156 of the structural ring 151 can have a seventh material hardness. In some embodiments, the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the seventh material hardness of the of the structural ring 151. In some embodiments, the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the seventh material hardness of the structural ring 151.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first material hardness of the stinger 110, the second material hardness of the second split ring 173, the third material hardness of the second retainer ring 171, the fourth material hardness of the support ring 160, the fifth material hardness of the first split ring 172, the sixth material hardness of the first retainer ring 170, and the seventh material hardness of the structural ring 151 can be obtained by subjecting the outer surfaces of the components to a treatment process. In some embodiments, the treatment process can include carburization, boronization, and/or nitridization. In one or more embodiments, the outer surfaces of the components can be heated in the presence of a carbon source to a temperature below the melting point of the outer surfaces, but sufficiently high to cause carbon to deposit within an outer layer of the outer surfaces exposed to the treatment process. Any suitable form of carbon can be used as the carbon source, for example carbon containing gases, liquids, solids, and/or plasmas. Illustrative gases can include, but are not limited to, carbon dioxide, methane, ethane, propane, or the like.

[0050] In other embodiments, the outer surfaces of the components can be heated in the presence of a boron source to a sufficient temperature below the melting point of the outer surfaces, but sufficiently high to cause boron to diffuse into the outer surface and form borides with the material. In other embodiments, the outer surfaces can be heated in the presence of a nitrogen source to a sufficient temperature below the melting point of the outer surfaces to cause nitrogen to diffuse into the outer surface and form nitrides with the material. Any suitable process can be used to nitride the outer surfaces of the components. For example, gas nitriding, liquid or salt bath nitriding, and/or ion or plasma nitriding can be used.

[0051] In still other embodiments, the outer surfaces can undergo both carburization and nitridization ("carbonitriding") in which both carbon and nitrogen are diffused into the outer surfaces of the components. Subjecting the outer surfaces of the components to carburization, boronization, and/or nitridization can be used to provide the varying material hardnesses of the outer surfaces of the components to control or otherwise provided the desired degree of wear each outer surface of the components encounters during connection and disconnection of the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 150.

[0052] Any suitable test method can be used to measure the material hardness. The same test method used to measure the material hardness should be the same for each component of the connector assembly 100. In some embodiments, the Vickers hardness test can be used to measure the material hardness for each component of the connector assembly 100. In some embodiments, the hardness test method according to Vickers can be as described in standard test methods ISO 6507 (Metallic materials Vickers hardness test Part 1: Test method) and standard test method ASTM E384-22 (Standard Test Method for Microindentation Hardness (1gf - 200 gf) of Materials to Vickers and Knoop).

[0053] Referring again to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can include a first latching mechanism 190 and a second latching mechanism 191. In some embodiments, the first latching mechanism 190 can be selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 and the first latching mechanism 190 is in the locked position, the first latching mechanism 190 can maintain the first split ring 172 in a position partially within the first groove 114 and partially on the first shoulder 154. In some embodiments, the second latching mechanism 191 can be selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 150 and the second latching mechanism 191 is in the locked position, the second latching mechanism 191 can maintain the second split ring 173 in a position partially within the second groove 115 and partially on the second shoulder 161.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first latching mechanism 190 can include a first actuator 180 that can be configured to move the first retainer ring 170 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In some embodiments, the second latching mechanism 191 can include a second actuator 181 that can be configured to move the second retainer ring 171 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In some embodiments, the first actuator 180 can include a plurality of hydraulic cylinders or hydraulic actuators 182 that can be configured to be connected to a hydraulic power unit, not shown. In some embodiments, the second actuator 181 can include a plurality of hydraulic cylinders or hydraulic actuators 183 that can be configured to be connected to a hydraulic power unit, not shown. In other embodiments, the first actuator 180 and the second actuator 181 can each be configured as an electric actuator, a screw jack, or a pneumatic actuator. In still other embodiments, the first actuator 180 and/or the second actuator 181 can be configured as a manually activated activator. For example, the first actuator 180 can be a threaded rod or bolt configured to engage with a threaded bore defined by the support ring 160 and at least a portion of the structural ring 151. Similarly, the second actuator 181 can be a threaded rod or bolt configured to engage with a threaded bore defined by at least a portion of the support ring 160. In some embodiments, the first actuators 180 can be hydraulic actuators, electric actuators, screw jack actuators, pneumatic actuators, manual actuators, or any combination thereof. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second actuators 181 can be hydraulic actuators, electric actuators, screw jack actuators, pneumatic actuators, manual actuators, or any combination thereof.

[0055] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can be configured to transfer a load between the stinger 110 and the sleeve assembly 150. In some embodiments, the load can include any combination of axial load(s), lateral load(s), shear load(s), and/or bending moment(s). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 151 via the first split ring 172 when the first retainer ring 170 is in the locked position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the support ring 160 via the second split ring 173 when the second retainer ring 171 is in the locked position. In still other embodiments, at least a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 151 via the first split ring 172 when the first retainer ring 170 is in the locked position and between the stinger 110 and the support ring 160 via the second split right 173 when the second retainer ring 171 is in the locked position.

[0056] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can be configured to move the first retainer ring 170 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the second retainer ring 171 is in the unlocked position and when the connector assembly 100 is transferring the load between the stinger 110 and the sleeve assembly 150 to disconnect or separate the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 150. Said another way, in some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be disconnected from the sleeve assembly 150 when the connector assembly is transferring the load by moving the first retainer ring 170 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the second retainer ring 171 is in the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can be configured to move the second retainer ring 171 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first retainer ring 170 is in the unlocked position and when the connector assembly 100 is transferring the load between the stinger 110 and the sleeve assembly 150 to disconnect or separate the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 150. Said another way, in some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be disconnected from the sleeve assembly 150 when the connector assembly is transferring the load by moving the second retainer ring 171 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first retainer ring 170 is in the unlocked position.

[0057] As noted above, in some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to the first body 120, such as a buoy, and the sleeve assembly 150 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to a second body 130, e.g., a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of a body of water. In some embodiments, the second body 130 can be any type of floating structure including, but not limited to, ships; tankers; boats; floating, storage, and offloading (FSO) vessels; floating, production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessels, floating liquified natural gas (FLNG) vessels; floating storage regasification units (FSRU), and the like.

[0058] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can be configured to be a structural connector of a disconnectable turret mooring system. In such embodiments, the stinger 110 can be connected to the first body 120, such as a buoy of a disconnectable turret mooring system, and the buoy can be configured to be connected to a seabed via a plurality of anchor legs. In such embodiments, the load can be the mooring loads of the vessel being held on a station via the mooring legs and the buoy. In some embodiments, the disconnectable turret mooring system can include those described in U.S. Patent Nos.: 7,347,156; 7,451,718; and 7,513,208.

[0059] In some embodiments, a process for connecting the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 150 can include positioning the first retainer ring 170 and the second retainer ring 171 each in the unlocked position. The process can further include inserting the stinger 110 into the sleeve assembly 150 and moving first retainer ring 170 to the locked position and/or moving the second retainer ring 171 to the locked position. In some embodiments, a process for disconnecting the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 150 can include moving at least one of the first retainer ring 170 and the second retainer ring 171 to the unlocked position so that the first retainer ring 170 and the second retainer ring 171 are both in the unlocked position and removing the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 150. In some embodiments, the first body 120 can be a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that can be configured to connect the buoy to a seabed, and the second body 130 can be a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the first body 120 can be a buoy floating on the surface of a body of water and in other embodiments, the first body 120 can be a submerged buoy.

[0060] FIG. 5 depicts a cross-section elevation view of another illustrative connector assembly 500 in a disconnected configuration that includes a sleeve assembly 550 that includes a first support ring 555 in a first position, according to one or more embodiments. The connector assembly 500 can include a stinger 110, the sleeve assembly 550, first and second split rings 567, 568, and first and second retainer rings 565, 566. FIG. 6 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 in an engaged configuration that includes the first and second retainer rings 565, 566 in an unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 7 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 that includes the first retainer ring 565 in a locked position and the second retainer ring 566 in the unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 8 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 that includes the first retainer ring 565 in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring 566 in the locked position, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 9 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the portion of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 that includes the first and second retainer rings 565, 566 in the locked position, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 10 depicts a cross-section elevation view of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 that includes the first support ring 555 in a second position, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 11 depicts a detailed cross-section elevation view of the connector assembly 500 shown in FIG. 10 showing the first support ring 555 in the second position.

[0061] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can include the stinger 110 that can be configured to be connected to a first body 520 and can include the sleeve assembly 550 that can include a structural ring 551. In some embodiments, the structural ring 551 can be configured to be connected to a second body 530 and can include a first end 552, a second end 553, and a load shoulder 554. In some embodiments, the load shoulder 554 can be located toward the first end 552 of the structural ring 551. The load shoulder 554 can be defined by an inner surface 559 of the structural ring 551.

[0062] In some embodiments, the sleeve assembly 550 can include the first support ring 555 that can include a first end 556 and a second end 557. The first support ring 555 can be movable between the first position and the second position relative to the structural ring 551. The first support ring 555 can define or include a first shoulder 558. The shoulder 558 can be defined by an inner surface 569 of the first support ring 555. The shoulder 558 can be located between the first end 556 and the second end 557 of the first support ring 555. In some embodiments, the shoulder 558 can be located toward the first end 556 of the first support ring 555. In other embodiments, the shoulder 558 can be located more toward the middle of the first support ring 555 between the first end 556 and the second end 557 of the first support ring 555. In some embodiments, the first support ring 555 can be a continuous ring structure. In other embodiments, the first support ring 555 can be formed from a plurality of ring segments that can be placed adjacent to one another to form the first support ring 555.

[0063] The first end 556 of the first support ring 555, when in the first position, can be configured to abut against the load shoulder 554 of the structural ring 551, e.g., see FIG. 5-9. The first end 556 of the first support ring 555, when in the second position, can be located a distance away from the load shoulder 554 such that a gap or distance 540, e.g., see FIGS. 10 and 11, can be located between the first end of 556 of the first support ring 555 and the load shoulder 554.

[0064] The sleeve assembly 550 can include a second support ring 560 that can include a first end 561 and a second end 562. The second support ring 560 can be configured to be connected to or disposed on the structural ring 551 toward or on the second end 553 of the structural ring 551. In some embodiments, the second support ring 560 can be connected to the structural ring 551 via a plurality of fasteners 564. In other embodiments, the second support ring 560 can be connected to the structural ring 551 via welding. In still other embodiments, the structural ring 551 and the second support ring 560 can be a single unitary body.

[0065] The second support ring 560 can define or include a second shoulder 563. The shoulder 563 can be defined by an inner surface 574 of the second support ring 560. The shoulder 563 can be located between the first end 561 and the second end 562 of the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, the shoulder 563 can be located toward the first end 561 of the second support ring 560. In other embodiments, the shoulder 563 can be located more toward the middle of the second support ring 560 between the first end 561 and the second end 562 of the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, the second support ring 560 can be a continuous ring structure. In other embodiments, the second support ring 560 can be formed from a plurality of ring segments that can be placed adjacent to one another to form the second support ring 560.

[0066] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can include a first latching mechanism 595 and a second latching mechanism 596. In some embodiments, the first latching mechanism 595 can be selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 and the first latching mechanism 595 is in the locked position, the first latching mechanism 595 can maintain the first split ring 567 in a position partially within the first groove 114 defined by the stinter 110 and partially on the first shoulder 558 defined by the first support ring 555. In some embodiments, the second latching mechanism 596 can be selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 and the second latching mechanism 595 is in the locked position, the second latching mechanism 596 can maintain the second split ring 568 in a position partially within the second groove 115 defined by the stinger 110 and partially on the second shoulder 561 defined by the second support ring 560.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first latching mechanism can include the first retainer ring 565 that can be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, the second latching mechanism 596 can include a second retainer ring 566 that can be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. Referring to FIG. 6, when the first retainer ring 565 is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring 566 is in the unlocked position, the stinger 110 can be inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 or removed therefrom. Referring to FIG. 7, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 and the first retainer ring 565 is in the locked position and the second retainer ring 566 is in the unlocked position, the first retainer ring 565 can maintain a first split ring 567 in a position partially within the first groove 114 of the stinger 110 and partially on the first shoulder 558 to connect the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 550. Referring to FIG. 8, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 and the second retainer ring 566 is in the locked position and the first retainer ring 565 is in the unlocked position, the second retainer ring 566 can maintain a second split ring 568 in a position partially within the second groove 115 of the stinger 110 and partially on the second shoulder 561 to connect the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 550. Referring to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, when the stinger 110 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 550 and the first retainer ring 565 is in the locked position, the first retainer ring 565 can maintain the first split ring 567 in the position partially within the first groove 114 of the stinger 110 and partially on the first shoulder 558 and when the second retainer ring 566 is in the locked position, the second retainer ring 566 can maintain the second split ring 568 in the position partially within the second groove 115 of the stinger 110 and partially on the second shoulder 563 to connect the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 550.

[0068] When the first retainer ring 565 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, the first retainer ring 565 moves the first split ring 567 into the position partially within the first groove 114 and partially on the first shoulder 558. When the first retainer ring 565 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the first split ring 567 can move into a position that is not within the first groove 114. Said another way, when the first retainer ring 565 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the first split ring 567 can move into a position that locates the first split ring 567 outside of the first groove 114 defined by the stinger 110.

[0069] When the second retainer ring 566 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, the second retainer ring 566 moves the second split ring 568 into the position partially within the second groove 115 and partially on the second shoulder 563. When the second retainer ring 566 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the second split ring 568 can move into a position that is not within the second groove 115. Said another way, when the second retainer ring 566 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the second split ring 568 can move into a position that locates the second split ring 568 outside of the second groove 115 defined by the stinger 110.

[0070] In some embodiments, the first split ring 567 and the second split ring 568 can each be configured as a discontinuous circular ring having a uniform cross-sectional shape similar to or the same as that shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 that depict the first split ring 172 and the second split ring 173 of the connector assembly 100. In some embodiments, the first split ring 567 and the second split ring 568 can each have a polygonal cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the first split ring 567 can have a lead in profile 585 that can engage with the first retainer ring 565 to facilitate movement of the first retainer ring 565 between the first split ring 567 and the first support ring 555 to urge the first split ring 567 at least partially into the first groove 114 of the stinger 110 when the first retainer ring 565 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position. In some embodiments, the second split ring 568 can have a lead in profile 586 that can engage with the second retainer ring 566 to facilitate movement of the second retainer ring 566 between the second split ring 568 and the second support ring 560 to urge the second split ring 568 at least partially into the second groove 115 of the stinger 110 when the second retainer ring 566 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first split ring 567 can be configured to have an outer diameter that can be greater than an inner diameter of the first retainer ring 565 when the first split ring 567 is in an undeflected state. In some embodiments, the second split ring 568 can be configured to have an outer diameter that can be greater than an inner diameter of the second retainer ring 566 when the second split ring 568 is in an undeflected state. The first split ring 567 can be configured to expand or said another way, spring outwards, toward the first support ring 555 and away from or out of the first groove 114 when the first retainer ring 565 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. The second split ring 568 can be configured expand or said another way, spring outwards, toward the second support ring 560 and away from or out of the second groove 115 when the second retainer ring 566 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first latching mechanism 595 can include a first actuator 570 that can be configured to move the first retainer ring 565 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In some embodiments, the second latching mechanism can include a second actuator 571 that can be configured to move the second retainer ring 566 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In some embodiments, the first actuator 570 can include a plurality of hydraulic cylinders 572 that can be configured to be connected to a hydraulic power unit, not shown. In some embodiments, the second actuator 571 can include a plurality of hydraulic cylinders 573 that can be configured to be connected to a hydraulic power unit, not shown. In some embodiments, not shown, the first actuator 570 and/or the second actuator 571 can each be configured as an electric actuator, a screw jack, or a pneumatic actuator. In still other embodiments, not shown, the first actuator 570 and/or the second actuator 571 can be configured as a manually activated actuator. For example, the first actuator 570 can be a threaded rod or bolt configured to engage with a threaded bore defined by the first support ring 555 or a threaded bore defined by the second support ring 560 and the first support ring 555. Similarly, the second actuator 571 can be a threaded rod or bolt configured to engage with a threaded bore defined by at least a portion of the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, the first actuators 570 can be hydraulic actuators, electric actuators, screw jack actuators, pneumatic actuators, manual actuators, or any combination thereof. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second actuators 571 can be hydraulic actuators, electric actuators, screw jack actuators, pneumatic actuators, manual actuators, or any combination thereof.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, in some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can include a third actuator 575 that can be configured to couple or otherwise connect the first support ring 555 to the second support ring 560 and to move the first support ring 555 between the first position and the second position relative to the structural ring 551. In some embodiments, the first split ring 567, the first retainer ring 565, and the stinger 110 can be configured to move together with the first support ring 555 when the first support ring 555 is moved between the first position and the second position relative to the structural ring 551 via the third actuator 575. As noted above, when the first support ring 555 is in the second position, the first end 561 of the first support ring 555 can be configured to not be in contact with or to not abut against the load shoulder 554 of the structural ring 551. In some embodiments, a gap or a distance 540 between the load shoulder 554 and the first end 561 of the first support ring 555 can be in a range from about 1 mm, about 3 mm, about 5 mm, about 7 mm, or about 10 mm to about 15 mm, about 17 mm, about 20 mm, about 25 mm, about 30 mm or greater when the first support ring 555 is in the second position.

[0074] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can be configured to transfer a load between the stinger 110 and the sleeve assembly 550. In some embodiments, the load can include any combination of axial load(s), lateral load(s), shear load(s), and bending moment(s). In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load and the first support ring 555 is in the first position and the second retainer ring 566 is in the locked position, at least a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the second split ring 568 and the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load, the first retainer ring 565 is in the locked position, and the first support ring 555 is in the second position, at least a majority of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the first split ring 567, the first support ring 555, , the second support ring 560, and the third actuator 575. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load, the first retainer ring 565 is in the locked position, the second retainer ring 566 is in the locked position, and the first support ring 555 is in the second position, at least a majority of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the first split ring 567, the first support ring 555, the second split ring 568, the second support ring 560, and the third actuator 575. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load, the first retainer ring 565 is in the locked position, and the first support ring 555 is in the second position, the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the first split ring 567, the first support ring 555, the third actuator 575, and the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load and the first support ring 555 is in the first position, a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the first split ring 567, the first support ring 555, the third actuator 575 and the second support ring 560. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load, the first retainer ring is in the locked position, and the first support ring 555 is in the first position, a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the first split ring 567 and the first support ring 555. In some embodiments, when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load, the second retainer ring 566 is in the locked position, and the first support ring 555 is in the first position, a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 110 and the structural ring 551 via the second split ring 568, and the second support ring 560.

[0075] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can be configured to move the first retainer ring 565 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the second retainer ring 566 is in the unlocked position and when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load to disconnect or separate the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 550. Said another way, in some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be disconnected from the sleeve assembly 550 when the connector assembly 500 is transferring the load by moving the first retainer ring 565 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the second retainer ring 566 is in the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can be configured to move the second retainer ring 566 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first retainer ring 565 is in the unlocked position and when the connector assembly 500 is subjected to the load to disconnect or separate the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 550. Said another way, in some embodiments, the stinger 110 can be disconnected from the sleeve assembly 550 when the connector assembly 500 is transferring the load by moving the second retainer ring 566 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first retainer ring 565 is in the unlocked position.

[0076] In some embodiments, the third actuator 575 can include a plurality of lockable hydraulic actuators 576. Each lockable hydraulic actuator 576 can include a plurality of hydraulic actuators coupled to hydraulic locking devices, for example the BEAR-LOC developed and marketed by York Precision Machining and Hydraulics. In some embodiments, the third actuators 575 can be lockable hydraulic actuators, electric actuators, screw jack actuators, pneumatic actuators, manual actuators, or any combination thereof.

[0077] As noted above, the stinger 110 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to a first body, e.g., a buoy, 520 and the sleeve assembly 550 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to a second body, e.g., a vessel, 530. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 500 can be configured to be a structural connector of a disconnectable turret mooring system. In such embodiments, the stinger 110 can be connected to a buoy of a disconnectable turret mooring system and the buoy can be configured to be connected to a seabed via a plurality of anchor legs. In such embodiments, the load can be the mooring loads of the vessel being moored on station via the mooring legs and buoy.

[0078] In some embodiments, the second actuator 571 can include a plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits. In some embodiments, the second actuator 571 can include at least two displacement controlled hydraulic circuits. In some embodiments, the second actuator 571 can include three displacement controlled hydraulic circuits, four displacement controlled hydraulic circuits, or even more than four displacement controlled hydraulic circuits. In some embodiments, each displacement controlled hydraulic circuit can be configured to actuate or be fluidly connected to at least two hydraulic cylinders 573. Each displacement controlled hydraulic circuit of the plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits can independently control a displacement of the corresponding hydraulic cylinders 571. In some embodiments, the plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits can be independently operatable with respect to one another. In some embodiments, the plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits can be configured such that the stinger 110 can be disconnected or disengaged from the sleeve assembly 550 while the connector assembly 500 is subject to the load. In some embodiments, the plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits can be configured such that the stinger 110 can be disconnected or disengaged from the sleeve assembly 550 while the connector assembly 500 is subject to uneven loading around a perimeter of the connector assembly 500. In some embodiments, like the second actuator 571, the first actuator 570 and/or the third actuator 575 can include a plurality of displacement controlled hydraulic circuits.

[0079] It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the stinger 110, first split ring 567, the second split ring 568, the first retainer ring 565, the second retainer ring 566, the first support ring 555, the second support ring 560, the structural ring 551 or at least the outer surfaces thereof can have varying material hardnesses with respect to one another, as described above with reference to the connector assembly 100. The various material hardnesses can be selected such that any wear that occurs resulting from multiple connections and disconnections of the connector assembly 500, for example, from moving the second retainer ring 566 from the unlocked position to the locked position or from moving the second retainer ring 566 from the locked position to the unlocked position, can predominately occur on the second split ring 568 rather than on the stinger 110.

[0080] In some embodiments, a process for connecting the stinger 110 to the sleeve assembly 550 can include positioning the first retainer ring 565 and the second retainer ring 566 each in the unlocked position. The process can further include inserting the stinger 110 into the sleeve assembly 550 and moving first retainer ring 565 to the locked position and/or moving the second retainer ring 566 to the locked position. In some embodiments, a process for disconnecting the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 550 can include positioning the first support ring 555 in the second position, moving at least one of the first retainer ring 565 and the second retainer ring 566 to the unlocked position so that the first retainer ring 565 and the second retainer ring 566 are both in the unlocked position, and removing the stinger 110 from the sleeve assembly 550.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first body 520 can be a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that can be configured to connect the buoy to a seabed, and the second body 530 can be a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the first body 520 can be a buoy floating on the surface of a body of water and in other embodiments, the first body 520 can be a submerged buoy.

[0082] In some embodiments, a process of removing the second split ring 568 from the connector assembly 500 while a load is transferred between the stinger 110 and the sleeve assembly 550 can include positioning the first support ring 555 in the second position so that the gap or distance 540 is present between the first end 556 of the first support ring 555 and the load shoulder 554 of the structural ring 551, moving the first retainer ring 565 to the locked position, moving the second retainer ring 566 to the unlocked position, removing the second retainer ring 565 from the sleeve assembly 550, and removing the second split ring 568 from the connector assembly 500. In some embodiments, after the second split ring 568 has been removed, the process can include installing a second split ring 568 and reinstalling the second retainer ring 565 into the connector assembly. In some embodiments, the first body 520 can be a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that can be configured to connect the buoy to a seabed, and the second body 530 can be a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the first body 520 can be a buoy floating on the surface of a body of water and in other embodiments, the first body 520 can be a submerged buoy.

[0083] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly 1200 in a connected configuration that includes a stinger 1210, a sleeve assembly 1250, a split ring 1272, and a retainer ring 1270, and a latching mechanism 1290, according to one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the stinger 1210 can be configured to be connected to a first body 1220. In some embodiments, the first body 1220 can be a buoy or a turret. The stinger 1210 can have a first end 1211, a second end 1212, and an outer surface 1213. The outer surface 1213 of the stinger 1210 can define a groove 1214. The groove 1214 defined by the outer surface 1213 of the stinger 1210 can be located between the first end 1211 and the second end 1212 of the stinger 1210.

[0084] The connector assembly 1200 can include a sleeve assembly 1250 that can include a structural ring 1251. In some embodiments, the structural ring 1251 can be configured to be connected to a second body 1230 and can include a first end 1252 and a second end 1253. In some embodiments, the second body 1230 can be a floating vessel, a floating platform, or any other floating structure that can be configured to connect to the first body 1220, e.g., a buoy, a turret, or other structure.

[0085] The structural ring 1251 can define a shoulder 1254. The shoulder 1254 can be defined by an inner surface 1256 of the structural ring 1251. The shoulder 1254 can be located between the first end 1252 and the second end 1253 of the structure ring 1251. In some embodiments, the shoulder 1254 can be located toward the first end 1252 of the structural ring 1251. In other embodiments, the shoulder 1254 can be located more toward the middle of the structural ring 1251 between the first end 1252 and the second end 1253 of the structural ring 1251. In some embodiments, the structural ring 1251 can be a continuous ring structure. In other embodiments, the structural ring 1251 can be formed from a plurality of ring segments that can be placed adjacent to one another to form the structural ring 1251.

[0086] The retainer ring 1270 can be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. When the retainer ring 1270 is in the unlocked position, the stinger 1210 can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly 1250.

[0087] In some embodiments, when the stinger 1210 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 1250 and the retainer ring 1270 is in the locked position, the retainer ring 1270 can maintain the split ring 1272 in a position partially within the groove 1214 defined by the stinger 1210 and partially on the shoulder 1254 defined by the structural ring 1251 of the sleeve assembly 1250, as shown. In some embodiments, when the stinger 1210 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 1250 and the retainer ring 1270 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, the retainer ring 1270 can move the split ring 1272 into the position partially within the first groove 1214 defined by the stinger 1210 and partially onto the shoulder 1254 defined by the structural ring 1251 of the sleeve assembly 1250. In some embodiments, the split ring 1272 can have a lead in profile 1285 that can be configured to facilitate insertion of a portion of the retainer ring 1270 between the split ring 1272 and the inner surface 1256 of the structural ring 1251. In some embodiments, when the retainer ring 1270 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the split ring 1272 can move into a position that is not within the first groove 1214 defined by the stinger 1210. Said another way, when the retainer ring 1270 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, the split ring 1272 can move into a position that locates the split ring 1272 outside of the first groove 1214 defined by the stinger 1210.

[0088] In some embodiments, the split ring 1272 can have a polygonal cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the and split ring 1272 can have a polygonal cross-sectional shape that includes six sides or seven sides. In some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the split ring 1272 can have at least one set of opposing parallel sides. As shown, in some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the split ring 1272 can have a bottom side and a top side that can be parallel with respect to one another and a left side and a right side that can be parallel with respect to one another.

[0089] In some embodiments, the split ring 1272 can have the lead in profile 1285 that can engage with the retainer ring 1270 to urge the split ring 1272 at least partially into the groove 1214 when the retainer ring 1270 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position. In some embodiments, the polygonal cross-sectional shape of the split ring 1272 can have a left side and a right side that can be parallel to one another, a top side and a bottom side that can be parallel to one another, a fifth side that can be angled between a top of the left side and a left side of the top side, a sixth side that can be angled between a right side of the top side and a top side of the right side, and a seventh side that can be angled between a bottom of the left side and a left side of the bottom side, where a bottom of the right side and the right side of the bottom side can meet at 90 with respect to one another. In such embodiments, the sixth side can be referred to as the lead in profile 1285 of the split ring 1272.

[0090] In some embodiments, the split ring 1272 can have an outer diameter that can be greater than an inner diameter of the retainer ring 1270 when the split ring 1272 is in an undeflected configuration or state. The split ring 1272 can be configured to expand or said another way, spring outwardly toward the inner surface 1256 of the structural ring 1251 and away from or out of the groove 1214 when the retainer ring 1270 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0091] In some embodiments, the stinger 1210, the split ring 1272, the retainer ring 1270, and the structural ring 1251 can be formed or manufactured from a material, for example steel, a hardened steel, bronze, aluminum, or any other material suitable for the intended application. In some embodiments, the stinger 1210 or at least the outer surface 1213 of the stinger 1210 or at least the outer surface 1213 of the stinger 1210 that defines the groove 1214 can have a first material hardness. In some embodiments, the split ring 1272 or at least an outer surface of the split ring 1272 can have a second material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be less than the first material hardness of the stinger 1210. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the first material hardness of the stinger 1210. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the first material hardness of the stinger 1210. In some embodiments, the first material hardness of the stinger 1210 and the second material hardness of the split ring 1273 can be selected such that any wear that occurs resulting from multiple connections and disconnections of the connector assembly 1200, for example, from moving the retainer ring 1270 from the unlocked position to the locked position or from moving the retainer ring 1270 from the locked position to the unlocked position, can predominately occur on the split ring 1272 rather than on the stinger 1210.

[0092] In some embodiments, the retainer ring 1270 or at least the outer surface of the retainer ring 1270 can have a third material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the third material hardness of the retainer ring 1270. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the third material hardness of the retainer ring 1270. Similarly, in some embodiments, the structural ring 1251 or at least the inner surface 1256 of the structural ring 1251 can have a fourth material hardness. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be about 50%, about 55%, or about 60% to about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the material hardness of the structural ring 1251. In some embodiments, the second material hardness of the split ring 1272 can be less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, or less than 60% of the material hardness of the structural ring 1251.

[0093] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 1200 can include a latching mechanism 1290. In some embodiments, the latching mechanism 1290 can be selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In some embodiments, when the stinger 1210 is inserted into the sleeve assembly 1250 and the latching mechanism 1290 is in the locked position, the latching mechanism 1290 can maintain the split ring 1272 in a position partially within the first groove 1214 and partially on the first shoulder 1254.

[0094] In some embodiments, the latching mechanism 1290 can include the manual actuator 1282 that can be configured to move the retainer ring 1270 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In some embodiments, the manual actuator 1282 can include a plurality of threaded rods or bolts configured to engage with a threaded bore 1281 defined by the structural ring 1251. In some embodiments, a bore 1280 defined by the retainer ring 1270 can be threaded or can have a smooth wall of sufficient diameter to permit passage of the threaded rod or bolt therethrough.

[0095] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 100 can be configured to transfer a load between the stinger 1210 and the sleeve assembly 1250. In some embodiments, the load can include any combination of axial load(s), lateral load(s), shear load(s), and/or bending moment(s). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the load can be transferred between the stinger 1210 and the structural ring 1251 via the split ring 1272 when the retainer ring 1270 is in the locked position.

[0096] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 1200 can be configured to move the retainer ring 1270 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the connector assembly 1200 is transferring the load between the stinger 1210 and the sleeve assembly 1250 to disconnect or separate the stinger 1210 from the sleeve assembly 1250. Said another way, in some embodiments, the stinger 1210 can be disconnected from the sleeve assembly 1250 when the connector assembly is transferring the load by moving the retainer ring 1270 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0097] As noted above, in some embodiments, the stinger 1210 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to the first body 1220, such as a buoy, and the sleeve assembly 1250 can be configured to be disposed on or connected to a second body 1230, e.g., a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of a body of water. In some embodiments, the second body 1230 can be any type of floating structure including, but not limited to, ships; tankers; boats; floating, storage, and offloading (FSO) vessels; floating, production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessels, floating liquified natural gas (FLNG) vessels; floating storage regasification units (FSRU), and the like.

[0098] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 1200 can be configured to be a structural connector of a disconnectable turret mooring system. In such embodiments, the stinger 1210 can be connected to the first body 1220, such as a buoy of a disconnectable turret mooring system, and the buoy can be configured to be connected to a seabed via a plurality of anchor legs. In such embodiments, the load can be the mooring loads of the vessel being held on a station via the mooring legs and the buoy. In some embodiments, the disconnectable turret mooring system can include those described in U.S. Patent Nos.: 7,347,156; 7,451,718; and 7,513,208.

[0099] In some embodiments, a process for connecting the stinger 1210 to the sleeve assembly 1250 can include positioning the retainer ring 1270 in the unlocked position. The process can further include inserting the stinger 1210 into the sleeve assembly 1250 and moving retainer ring 1270 to the locked position. In some embodiments, a process for disconnecting the stinger 1210 from the sleeve assembly 1250 can include moving the retainer ring 1270 to the unlocked position so that the retainer ring 1270 and removing the stinger 1210 from the sleeve assembly 1250. In some embodiments, the first body 1220 can be a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that can be configured to connect the buoy to a seabed, and the second body 1230 can be a vessel or other structure floating on a surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the first body 1220 can be a buoy floating on the surface of a body of water and in other embodiments, the first body 1220 can be a submerged buoy.

[0100] FIG. 13 depicts a cross-section elevation view of a portion of another illustrative connector assembly 1300 in a connected configuration that includes the stinger 1210, the sleeve assembly 1250, the split ring 1272, and the retainer ring 1270, depicted in FIG. 12, that includes a latching mechanism 1390 that includes a hydraulically actuated actuator 1382 instead of the manually actuated actuator 1282. The hydraulically actuated actuator 1382 can include a piston 1383 that can be connected to the structural ring 1251 and configured to move the retainer ring 1270 between the locked position (as shown) and the unlocked position. In other embodiments, rather than the hydraulically actuated actuator 1382, the latching mechanism 1390 can include an electric actuator, a screw jack, or a pneumatic actuator.

[0101] The present disclosure further relates to any one or more of the following non-limiting embodiments:

[0102] A1. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger comprising a first end and a second end and configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, wherein an inner surface of the structural ring defines a shoulder; and a retainer ring that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein: when the retainer ring is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, and when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the retainer ring is in the locked position, the retainer ring maintains a split ring in a position partially within the groove defined by the outer surface of the stinger and partially on the shoulder defined by inner surface of the structural ring.

[0103] A2. The connector assembly of A1, wherein an outer surface of the stinger has a first material hardness and an outer surface of the second split ring has a second material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than the first material hardness.

[0104] A3. The connector assembly of A2, wherein the second material hardness is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, or less than 70 percent of the first material hardness.

[0105] A4. The connector assembly of A2 or A3, wherein an outer surface of the retainer ring has a third material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than the third material hardness.

[0106] A5. The connector assembly of A4, wherein the second material hardness is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, or less than 70% of the third material hardness.

[0107] A6. The connector assembly of any one of A2 to A5, wherein the inner surface of the structural ring has a fourth material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than the fourth material hardness.

[0108] A7. The connector assembly of A6, wherein the second material hardness is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, or less than 70% of the fourth material hardness.

[0109] A8. The connector assembly of any one of A1 to A7, further comprising an actuator configured to move the retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position.

[0110] A9. The connector assembly of A8, wherein the actuator comprises a plurality of hydraulic cylinders.

[0111] A10. The connector assembly of A8, wherein the actuator comprises a plurality of manually actuated actuators.

[0112] A11. The connector assembly of any one of A1 to A10, wherein the first body is a buoy configured to be connected to a plurality of mooring legs that are configured to connect the buoy to the seabed, and wherein the second body is a vessel configured to float on a surface of a body of water.

[0113] B1. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger comprising a first end and a second end and configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, wherein an inner surface of the structural ring defines a shoulder; and a latching mechanism that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein: when the latching mechanism is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, and when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the latching mechanism is in the locked position, the latching mechanism maintains a split ring in a position partially within the groove defined by the outer surface of the stinger and partially on the shoulder defined by inner surface of the structural ring.

[0114] B2. The connector assembly of B1, wherein an outer surface of the stinger has a first material hardness and an outer surface of the split ring has a second material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than the first material hardness.

[0115] B3. The connector assembly of B2, wherein the second material hardness is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, or less than 70 percent of the first material hardness.

[0116] B4. The connector assembly of B2 or B3, wherein the inner surface of the structural ring has a third material hardness, and wherein the second material hardness is less than the third material hardness.

[0117] B5. The connector assembly of B4, wherein the second material hardness is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, or less than 70% of the third material hardness.

[0118] C1. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a first groove and a second groove and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, wherein an inner surface of the structural ring defines a first shoulder between a first end and a second end of the structural ring, a support ring configured to be connected to the structural ring toward or at the second end of the structural ring, wherein an inner surface of the support ring defines a second shoulder; a first latching mechanism that is selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position; and a second latching mechanism that is selectively movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein: when the first latching mechanism is in the unlocked position and the second latching mechanism is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the first latching mechanism is in the locked position, the first latching mechanism maintains a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder, and when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the second latching mechanism is in the locked position, the second latching mechanism maintains a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder.

[0119] C2. The connector assembly of C1, wherein, when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the first latching mechanism is in the locked position, a first retainer ring is configured to maintain the first split ring in the position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder.

[0120] C3. The connector assembly of C2, wherein the first latching mechanism comprises a first actuator configured to move the first retainer ring.

[0121] C4. The connector assembly of any one of C1 to C3, wherein, when the stinger is fully positioned within the sleeve assembly and the second latching mechanism is in the locked position, a second retainer ring is configured to maintain the second split ring in the position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder.

[0122] C5. The connector assembly of C4, wherein the second latching mechanism comprises a second actuator configured to move the second retainer ring.

[0123] D1. A connector assembly, comprising: a stinger configured to be connected to a first body, wherein an outer surface of the stinger defines a first groove and a second groove; and a sleeve assembly comprising: a structural ring configured to be connected to a second body, the structural ring defining a load shoulder toward a first end thereof; a first support ring having an inner surface that defines a first shoulder; a second support ring configured to be connected to the structural ring toward or at a second end thereof, wherein an inner surface of the second support ring defines a second shoulder; a first retainer ring that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position; and a second retainer ring that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, a first actuator configured to move the first retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position; a second actuator configured to move the second retainer ring between the unlocked position and the locked position; and a third actuator configured to couple the first support ring to the second support ring, wherein: when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, the stinger can be inserted into or removed from the sleeve assembly, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the first retainer ring is in the locked position, the first retainer ring maintains a first split ring in a position partially within the first groove and partially on the first shoulder, when the stinger is inserted into the sleeve assembly and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, the second retainer ring maintains a second split ring in a position partially within the second groove and partially on the second shoulder, and the connector assembly is configured to transfer a load between the stinger and the sleeve assembly (i) when the first retainer ring is in the unlocked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position, (ii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, or (iii) when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the locked position.

[0124] D2. The connector assembly of D1, wherein: the connector assembly is configured to transfer the load between the stinger and the sleeve assembly when the first retainer ring is in the locked position and the second retainer ring is in the unlocked position, and the connector is configured to transfer a portion of the load between the stinger and the structural ring via the first split ring, the first support ring, the second support ring, and the third actuator.

[0125] Certain embodiments and features have been described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be appreciated that ranges including the combination of any two values, e.g., the combination of any lower value with any upper value, the combination of any two lower values, and/or the combination of any two upper values are contemplated unless otherwise indicated. Certain lower limits, upper limits and ranges appear in one or more claims below. All numerical values are "about" or "approximately" the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art.

[0126] Various terms have been defined above. To the extent a term used in a claim can be not defined above, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication or issued patent. Furthermore, all patents, patent applications, test procedures, and other documents cited in this application are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this application and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.

[0127] While certain preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described in detail above, it can be apparent that modifications and adaptations thereof will occur to those having ordinary skill in the art. It should be, therefore, expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof can be determined by the claims that follow.