NL2020307B1 - Subsea pipeline integrated structure - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a subsea pipeline integrated structure, comprising a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotationally fixed inline to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline and to be connected With subsea equipment and at least one adjustor configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, to align the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection With the subsea equipment. The invention also relates to a system comprising a subsea pipeline integrated structure and a drive for driving the adjustor. Further, the invention relates to a method for fixing the pipe section of a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline.

Description

Octrooicentrum © 2020307Patent center © 2020307

(21) Aanvraagnummer: 2020307(21) Application number: 2020307

Aanvraag ingediend: 23 januari 2018 @ Int. Cl.:Application submitted: January 23, 2018 @ Int. Cl .:

F16L 1/16 (2018.01) F16L 1/20 (2018.01) F16L 1/26 (2018.01)F16L 1/16 (2018.01) F16L 1/20 (2018.01) F16L 1/26 (2018.01)

(4]) Aanvraag ingeschreven: (4]) Application registered: (73) Octrooihouder(s): (73) Patent holder (s): 30 juli 2019 July 30, 2019 Bluemarine Offshore Yard Service B.V. Bluemarine Offshore Yard Service B.V. te Rotterdam. in Rotterdam. (43) Aanvraag gepubliceerd: (43) Application published: (72) Uitvinder(s): (72) Inventor (s): (47) Octrooi verleend: (47) Patent granted: Klaas Wout Mastebroek te Pijnacker. Klaas Wout Mastebroek in Pijnacker. 30 juli 2019 July 30, 2019 Jeroen Rogier den Bieman te Delft. Jeroen Rogier den Bieman in Delft. (45) Octrooischrift uitgegeven: (45) Patent issued: 31 juli 2019 July 31, 2019 (74) Gemachtigde: (74) Agent: ir. P.J. Hylarides c.s. te Den Haag. ir. P.J. Hylarides et al. In The Hague.

(54) SUBSEA PIPELINE INTEGRATED STRUCTURE © The invention relates to a subsea pipeline integrated structure, comprising a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotationally fixed inline to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline and to be connected with subsea equipment and at least one adjustor configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, to align the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment.(54) SUBSEA PIPELINE INTEGRATED STRUCTURE © The invention relates to a subsea pipeline integrated structure, including a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotationally fixed inline to at least one pipe section or a subsea pipeline and to be connected with subsea equipment and at least one adjustor configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, to align the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment.

The invention also relates to a system comprising a subsea pipeline integrated structure and a drive for driving the adjustor.The invention also relates to a system including a subsea pipeline integrated structure and a drive for driving the adjustor.

Further, the invention relates to a method for fixing the pipe section of a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline.Further, the invention relates to a method for fixing the pipe section or a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section or a subsea pipeline.

NL B1 2020307NL B1 2020307

Dit octrooi is verleend ongeacht het bijgevoegde resultaat van het onderzoek naar de stand van de techniek en schriftelijke opinie. Het octrooischrift komt overeen met de oorspronkelijk ingediende stukken.This patent has been granted regardless of the attached result of the research into the state of the art and written opinion. The patent corresponds to the documents originally submitted.

SUBSEA PIPELINE INTEGRATED STRUCTURESUBSEA PIPELINE INTEGRATED STRUCTURE

The invention relates to a subsea pipeline integrated structure comprising a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be fixed to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline.The invention relates to a subsea pipeline integrated structure including a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be fixed at least one pipe section or a subsea pipeline.

A subsea pipeline, also known as marine, submarine or offshore pipeline, is a pipeline that is laid on the seabed or below it inside a trench. Subsea pipelines are used in the offshore industry for carrying fluids. In the offshore petroleum industry subsea pipelines are primarily used for carrying oil or gas.A subsea pipeline, also known as marine, submarine or offshore pipeline, is a pipeline that is laid on the seabed or below it inside a trench. Subsea pipelines are used in the offshore industry for carrying fluids. In the offshore petroleum industry, subsea pipelines are primarily used for carrying oil or gas.

Subsea pipelines are provided with subsea pipeline integrated structures. Pipeline integrated structures include inline structures and pipeline termination structures. Examples of a pipeline termination structure are a Pipeline End Termination (PLET) and a Pipeline End Manifold (PLEM). PLETs and PLEMs are pipeline integrated structures that are integrated at an end of a subsea pipeline where the pipeline terminates or needs to be jumpered to another location, such as a production well, other pipeline, future expansion , FPSO, refinery, holding tank, etc. A PLET is the end or termination of a pipeline and typically includes a hub that serves as an attachment point for a jumper. A PLEM serves as a manifold to split the product flow into multiple routes that may feed into a production well, FPSO, refinery and holding tanks concurrently. An example of an inline structure is an inline tee (ILT). An ILT is an integrated equipment package that creates a branched line tie-in point along a subsea pipeline. By creating a tee along a subsea pipeline, the subsea pipeline operator can connect to a production well or other pipeline as well plan for tie-in points to fit future expansion plans.Subsea pipelines are provided with subsea pipeline integrated structures. Pipeline integrated structures include inline structures and pipeline termination structures. Examples of a pipeline termination structure are a Pipeline End Termination (PLET) and a Pipeline End Manifold (PLEM). PLETs and PLEMs are pipeline integrated structures that are integrated at an end of a subsea pipeline where the pipeline terminates or needs to be jumpered to another location, such as a production well, other pipeline, future expansion, FPSO, refinery, holding tank, etc A PLET is the end or termination of a pipeline and typically includes a hub that serves as an attachment point for a jumper. A PLEM serves as a manifold to split the product flow into multiple routes that may feed into a production well, FPSO, refinery and holding tanks competitively. An example of an inline structure is an inline tee (ILT). An ILT is an integrated equipment package that creates a branched line-in point along a subsea pipeline. By creating a subsea pipeline, the subsea pipeline operator can connect to a production well or other pipeline as well plan for tie-in points to fit future expansion plans.

Pipeline integrated structures, such as an ILT, a PLET, and a PLEM, typically include a support frame having arranged thereon piping configured to be attached to at least one section pipeline end. A PLET and PLEM that serve as pipeline termination structure typically include piping that is configured to be attached to one pipe section of a pipeline, in particular the pipe section at the end of the pipeline. An ILT that serves an inline structure typically includes piping that is configured to be attached to two pipe sections of a pipeline, one pipe section upstream of the ILT and one section downstream of the ILT.Pipeline integrated structures, such as an ILT, a PLET, and a PLEM, typically include a support frame having arranged thereon piping configured to be attached to at least one section pipeline end. A PLET and PLEM that serve as a pipeline termination structure typically include piping that is configured to be attached to a pipeline, in particular the pipe section at the end of the pipeline. An ILT that serves an inline structure typically includes piping that is configured to be attached to two pipe sections or a pipeline, one pipe section upstream of the ILT and one section downstream of the ILT.

Subsea pipelines are generally laid on the seabed by means of pipe lay vessels. On board such vessels sections of pipe are welded the one to the other into a string of pipe sections that is lowered into the water and to the seabed. The piping of Pipeline integrated structures is welded to a section of pipe of the string of sections on board the pipe laying vessel as a termination or inline structure and the pipeline integrated structure is lowered together with the sections of pipe into the water and to the seabed as an integrated part of the string of pipe sections.Subsea pipelines are generally laid on the seabed by means of pipe lay vessels. On board such vessels or pipe sections are the one to the other into a string or pipe sections that is lowered to the water and to the seabed. The piping of Pipeline integrated structures is good for a section of pipe or the string of sections on board the pipe laying vessel as a termination or inline structure and the pipeline integrated structure is lowered together with the sections of pipe into the water and to the seabed as an integrated part of the string or pipe sections.

Before welding the piping of a Pipeline integrated structure to a section of pipe of the string of sections on board the pipe laying vessel the Pipeline integrated structure is brought in a predetermined angular orientation relative to the central axis of the section of pipe. The predetermined angular orientation is calculated such that, once arranged on the seabed, the piping and associated equipment of the Pipeline integrated structure have a certain desired inclination relative to the vertical.Before welding the piping of a Pipeline integrated structure to a section of pipe or the string of sections on board the pipe laying vessel the Pipeline integrated structure is brought in a predetermined angular orientation relative to the central axis of the section of pipe. The predetermined angular orientation is calculated such that, once arranged on the seabed, the piping and associated equipment of the Pipeline integrated structure have a certain desired inclination relative to the vertical.

For proper operation of a Pipeline integrated structure, the piping and associated equipment of the Pipeline integrated structure generally have a certain desired inclination relative to the vertical. A typical component of the piping of a Pipeline integrated structure that has such a requirement is a connector or receiver structure for a connector, a so-called hub, for connecting a rigid or flexible flow line or jumper to the pipeline. Such connectors or hubs are typically upward, sideways or downward facing and may, for example, have a central axis that is perpendicular relative to the central axis of the pipeline. Typically, once the Pipeline integrated structure is arranged on the seabed, a certain inclination of such connectors or hubs is required relative to the vertical. Since connectors or hubs are generally located at the end of a section of pipe, even a small deviation from the desired inclination relative to the vertical may result in the hub or connector being unsuitable for making the desired connection to a flow line or jumper.For proper operation of a Pipeline integrated structure, the piping and associated equipment of the Pipeline integrated structure generally have a certain desired inclination relative to the vertical. A typical component of the piping of a Pipeline integrated structure that has such a requirement is a connector or receiver structure for a connector, a so-called hub, for connecting a rigid or flexible flow line or jumper to the pipeline. Such connectors or hubs are typically upward, sideways or downward facing and may, for example, have a central axis that is perpendicular relative to the central axis or the pipeline. Typically, once the Pipeline integrated structure is arranged on the seabed, a certain inclination or such connectors or hubs is required relative to the vertical. Since connectors or hubs are generally located at the end of a section of pipe, even a small deviation from the desired inclination relative to the vertical may result in the hub or connector being unsuitable for making the desired connection to a flow line or jumper.

An undesired resulting inclination of piping components of the Pipeline integrated structure, such as hubs or connectors, relative to the vertical or any other desired orientation, once arranged on the seabed may be corrected in case the piping is provided with flexible joints that allow for correcting the angular orientation of components of the piping relative to the components of the piping that are fixed to the pipe section(s) of the pipeline. Such flexible joints are expensive and prone to failure. It should be noted here that reaching valves, connections and/or hotstaps can be difficult to reach, some time after initial laying the pipeline, due to natural burial or rotation of Lay-down/start-up head. Also under such circumstances, the invention provides a considerable improvement for reaching such valves, connections and/or hotstaps.An undesired resulting inclination of piping components of the Pipeline integrated structure, such as hubs or connectors, relative to the vertical or any other desired orientation, once arranged on the seabed may be corrected in case the piping is provided with flexible joints that allow for correcting the angular orientation of components of the piping relative to the components of the piping that are fixed to the pipe section (s) of the pipeline. Such flexible joints are expensive and prone to failure. It should be noted here that reaching valves, connections and / or hot steps can be difficult to reach, some time after initial laying the pipeline, due to natural burial or rotation or Lay-down / start-up head. Also under such circumstances, the invention provides a considerable improvement for reaching such valves, connections and / or hotstaps.

The present invention has as one of its objectives to provide an alternative improved solution.The present invention has as one of its objectives to provide an alternative improved solution.

Thereto, the present invention provides a subsea pipeline integrated structure, for example configured to be arranged on a seabed, the structure comprising a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be fixed to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline. The subsea pipeline integrated structure further comprises at least one adjustor that is configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in accordance with the appended independent structure and method claims. In particular the adjustor that is configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline or an axis parallel thereto, while the subsea pipeline integrated structure is arranged on the seabed with the pipe section being fixed to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline. The pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is preferably configured to be fixed to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline with the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure coinciding with the central axis of the pipe section of a subsea pipeline, but may be offset relative thereto. By applying the rotational force to set the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in a desired orientation, and at the same time applying that force on the subsea pipeline, running against a prejudice of the skilled person, proper orientation of the pipe section for aligned connection with additional subsea equipment can be achieved without vulnerable components.Thereto, the present invention provides a subsea pipeline integrated structure, for example configured to be arranged on a seabed, the structure including a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be fixed to at least one pipe section or a subsea pipeline. The subsea pipeline integrated structure further comprises at least one adjustor that is configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in accordance with the appended independent structure and method claims. In particular the adjustor that is configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline or an axis parallel thereto, while the subsea pipeline integrated structure is arranged on the seabed with the pipe section being fixed to at least one pipe section or a subsea pipeline. The pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is preferably configured to be fixed to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline with the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure coinciding with the central axis of the pipe section of a subsea pipeline, but may be offset relative thereto. By applying the rotational force to set the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in a desired orientation, and at the same time applying that force on the subsea pipeline, running against a prejudice of the skilled person, clean orientation of the pipe section for aligned connection with additional subsea equipment can be achieved without vulnerable components.

The present invention furthermore provides a system comprising a subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the invention and a drive for driving the adjustor.The present invention furthermore provides a system including a subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the invention and a drive for driving the adjustor.

The present invention furthermore provides a method comprising: fixing the pipe section of a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline; arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure on the seabed; and adjusting the angular orientation of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure by applying rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure.The present invention furthermore provides a method including: fixing the pipe section or a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section or a subsea pipeline; arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure on the seabed; and adjusting the angular orientation of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure by applying rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis or the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure.

Applying and/or adjusting, according to the invention, rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure after fixing the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline and arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure (together with the subsea pipeline having integrated therein the subsea pipeline integrated structure) on the seabed, allows for adjustment of the orientation of the piping and associated equipment of the subsea pipeline integrated structure that is fixed to the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure without the use of flexible joints or other equipment that allow for correcting such angular orientation.Applying and / or adjusting, according to the invention, rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure after fixing the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section or a subsea pipeline and arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure ( together with the subsea pipeline having integrated therein the subsea pipeline integrated structure) on the seabed, allows for adjustment of the orientation of the piping and associated equipment of the subsea pipeline integrated structure that is fixed to the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure without the use of flexible joints or other equipment that allow for correcting such angular orientation.

Although applying and or adjusting, according to the invention, rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure may results in torsion in the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure and/or torsion in the pipe section(s) of the pipeline that are fixed to the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure, such torsion is found to be acceptable for the required corrections.Although applying and or adjusting, according to the invention, rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure may results in torsion in the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure and / or torsion in the pipe section (s) or the pipeline that are fixed to the pipe section or the subsea pipeline integrated structure, such torsion is found to be acceptable for the required adjustments.

The subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the invention, the system according to the invention, and the method according to the invention, are defined in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are defined in the dependent claims.The subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the invention, the system according to the invention, and the method according to the invention, are defined in the independent claims. Advantageous of the present invention are defined in the dependent claims.

In preferred embodiment of the invention use is made of so-called mud mats for applying and adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure. Pipeline integrated structures typically include mud mats that are attached to a support frame to which the pipe section of the of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed. Such mud mats are support members that are arranged on the seabed as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure. Mud mats of pipeline integrated structures are typically of an extendable design, such that the mud mats can selectively be arranged relative to support frame in the extended state to serve as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure and in an unextended state to make handling of the pipeline integrated structure during laying of the pipeline easier.In preferred embodiment of the invention use is made of so-called mud mats for applying and adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure. Pipeline integrated structures typically include mud mats that are attached to a support frame to which the pipe section or the of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed. Such mud mats are support members that are arranged on the seabed as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure. Mud mats or pipeline integrated structures are typically or an extendable design, such that the mud mats can be selectively arranged relative to support frame in the extended state to serve as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure and in an unextended state to make handling of the pipeline integrated structure during the laying of the pipeline easier.

According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention an adjustor is provided that is configured for adjusting the angular orientation of a mud mat relative to the support frame in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure with the mudmat attached to the support frame in its extended state.According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention an adjustor is provided that is configured for adjusting the angular orientation of a mud mat relative to the support frame in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure with the mudmat attached to the support frame in its extended state.

Adjusting the orientation of the mud mat relative to the support frame with the mud mat attached to the support frame in the extended state of the mud mat allows for exerting a force on the seabed. The reaction force that acts on the support frame to which the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed, can advantageously be used to apply or adjust rotational force on the pipe section.Adjusting the orientation of the mud mat relative to the support frame with the mud mat attached to the support frame in the extended state of the mud mat allows for exerting a force on the seabed. The reaction force that acts on the support frame to which the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed, can advantageously be used to apply or adjust rotational force on the pipe section.

The present invention is not restricted to the use of mud mats for applying and adjusting rotational force on a subsea pipeline integrated structure in accordance with the above described preferred embodiment. Other embodiments are defined in the dependent claims and/or are described in the following description of the figures.The present invention is not restricted to the use of mud mats for applying and adjusting rotational force on a subsea pipeline integrated structure in accordance with the preferred embodiment described above. Other vary are defined in the dependent claims and / or are described in the following description of the figures.

Brief description of the figuresBrief description of the figures

The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate non-limitative preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The above stated and other advantages, features and objectives of the invention will become more apparent, and the invention better understood, from the following detailed description when read in combination with the accompanying drawing, wherein:The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate non-limitative preferred examples of the present invention. The above stated and other advantages, features and objectives of the invention will become more apparent, and the invention better understood, from the following detailed description when read in combination with the accompanying drawing:

- figure 1A and figure IB exhibit a subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure, respectively with and without a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) and rigging;- figure 1A and figure IB exhibit a subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure, respectively with and without a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) and rigging;

- figures 2 and 3. and figures 10 and 12 exhibit schematic representations of the basic functioning of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure;- figures 2 and 3. and figures 10 and 12 exhibit schematic representations of the basic functioning of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure;

- figure 4 exhibits remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) and a basket positioned at a side of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure;- figure 4 exhibits remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) and a basket positioned at a side of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure;

- figures 5, 6, 7, 9 and 11 exhibit details of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure and - where appropriate also interaction with the ROV; and- figures 5, 6, 7, 9 and 11 exhibit details of the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure and - where appropriate also interaction with the ROV; and

- figure 8 exhibits a manifold rack used in conjunction with the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure.- figure 8 exhibits a manifold rack used in conjunction with the subsea pipeline integrated structure according to the present disclosure.

Detailed description of the figuresDetailed description of the figures

Figures 1 A, IB, with and respectively without remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) 75 and rigging, and 2 show a subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 arranged on a seabed 3. The structure 1 has a pipe section 5 that has two ends 7, 9 that are each fixed to a respective pipe section 11, 13 of a pipeline 15. The pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is thus an inline pipe section of the pipeline 15, and the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 therefore may be referred to as an inline structure. In particular the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 may be a so-called inline “T” (ILT) or an inline “Y”(ILY). The pipe section 5 includes a branched off subsection 17 by means of which a branched line tie-in point is created along the subsea pipeline 15. The branched off subsection 17 is bent in upward direction. The branched off subsection 17 is at its upward oriented end 19 provided with a receiver structure 21 for a connector, a so-called hub, for connecting a flow line or jumper to the subsea pipeline 15.Figures 1 A, IB, with and respectively without remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) 75 and rigging, and 2 show a subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 arranged on a seabed 3. The structure 1 has a pipe section 5 that has two ends 7, 9 that are each fixed to a respective pipe section 11, 13 or a pipeline 15. The pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is thus an inline pipe section of the pipeline 15, and the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 therefore may be referred to as an inline structure. In particular the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 may be a so-called inline "T" (ILT) or an inline "Y" (ILY). The pipe section 5 includes a branched off subsection 17 by means of which a branched line tie-in point is created along the subsea pipeline 15. The branched off subsection 17 is in upward direction. The branched off subsection 17 is at its upward oriented end 19 provided with a receiver structure 21 for a connector, a so-called hub, for connecting a flow line or jumper to the subsea pipeline 15.

The pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is arranged on a support frame 23 that is arranged on the seabed 3. The pipe section 5 is fixed to the support frame 23. The subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is provided with four support members 25, 27, 29, 31, that may also be referred to as mud mats. Each support member 25, 27, 29, 31 is rotatable connected to the support frame about a respective axis of rotation a25/a27, a29/a31, that is substantially parallel to the central axis of the pipe section 5. In an embodiment, wherein the support members at opposing sides of the pipe section 5 are rotatable in common hinge points, the rotation axes a25/a27 and a29/a31 will coincide. At each end 23a, 23b of the support frame a pair of support members 25, 27; 29, 31 is arranged. Of each pair of support members 25, 27; 29, 3 f, the support members 25, 27; 29, 31 are arranged on opposite sides of the support frame 23.The pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is arranged on a support frame 23 that is arranged on the seabed 3. The pipe section 5 is fixed to the support frame 23. The subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is provided with four support members 25, 27, 29, 31, that may also be referred to as mud mats. Each support member 25, 27, 29, 31 is rotatable connected to the support frame about a respective axis or rotation a25 / a27, a29 / a31, which is substantially parallel to the central axis or the pipe section 5. In an embodiment, says the support members at opposing sides of the pipe section 5 are rotatable in common hinge points, the rotation axes a25 / a27 and a29 / a31 will coincide. At each end 23a, 23b or the support frame a pair of support members 25, 27; 29, 31 is arranged. Whether each pair or support members 25, 27; 29, 3 f, the support members 25, 27; 29, 31 are arranged on opposite sides of the support frame 23.

For each support member 25, 27, 29, 3f, two braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41,43, 45, 47 are provided. Each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 is at one end thereof coupled to the respective support member 25, 27, 29, 31, and at a second end coupled to a respective upward extending post 49, 51, 53, 55 of the support frame 23. Each brace 33, 35, 37, 39,41,43, 45, 47 comprises two brace sections 57, 59 that are hingeable the one relative to the other about a hinge axis 60 in figure 2. The hinge axis 60 of each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41,43, 45, 47 is parallel to the hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a31 of the respective support member 25, 27, 29, 31. The hingeable brace sections 57, 59 allow the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 to be rotated relative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3f between an extended state shown in figure f and an unextended state. As shown in figure 1, in the extended state the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f extend the bottom support surface of the support frame 23 that is in contact with the seabed 3. By rotating the hingeabie brace sections 57, 59 the one reiative to the other about the hinge axis 60, the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f can be rotated reiative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3 f from the extended state shown in figure f into an unextended state wherein the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f extend substantiaify perpendicuiar to the orientation shown in figure f, to be upright reiative to the down foided situation of figure 2. In the shown extended state, the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 serve as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure 1. In the unextended state of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 handling of the pipeline integrated structure 1 during laying of the pipeline 15 is easier.For each support member 25, 27, 29, 3f, two braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41.43, 45, 47 are provided. Each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 is at one end associated with the respective support member 25, 27, 29, 31, and at a second end coupled with a respective upward extending post 49, 51, 53, 55 of the support frame 23. Each brace 33, 35, 37, 39,41,43, 45, 47 comprises two brace sections 57, 59 that are hingeable the one relative to the other about a hinge axis 60 in figure 2. The hinge axis 60 of each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41.43, 45, 47 is parallel to the hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a31 or the respective support member 25, 27, 29, 31 The hingeable brace sections 57, 59 allow the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 to be rotated relative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3f between an extended state shown in figure f and an unextended state. As shown in figure 1, in the extended state the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f extend the bottom support surface or the support frame 23 that is in contact with the seabed 3. By rotating the hingeabie brace sections 57, 59 the one reiative to the other about the hinge axis 60, the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f can be rotated reiative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3 f from the extended state shown in figure f into an unextended state of the support members 25, 27, 29, 3f extend substantiaify perpendicuiar to the orientation shown in figure f, to be upright reiative to the down foided situation of figure 2. In the shown extended state, the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 serve as a foundation for the pipeline integrated structure 1. In the unextended state of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 handling of the pipeline integrated structure 1 during laying of the pipeline 15 is easier.

The braces 33, 35, 37, 39,41, 43, 45, 47 are arranged between the support frame 23 and a respective one of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 such that the length 1 of the braces defines the angular orientation of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 relative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3L The fength f of each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41,43, 45,47 can be adjusted by means of an adjustor that is embodied by a telescopic arm 61 that is incorporated in one brace section 57 of the two brace sections 57, 59. The telescopic arm 61 comprises two telescopically arranged arm parts 63, 65. One arm part 63 of the arm parts 63, 65 is provided with a series of locking apertures 67. The other arm part 65 is provided with at least one locking apertures (not shown). Locking apertures of the respective arm parts 63, 65 can be aligned by telescopically moving the arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other. A locking member embodied by a locking pin can be arranged in aligned locking apertures of the respective arm parts 63, 65 to lock telescopic movement of the telescopic arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other.The braces 33, 35, 37, 39.41, 43, 45, 47 are arranged between the support frame 23 and a respective one of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 such that the length 1 of the braces defines the angular orientation of the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 relative to the support frame 23 about the respective hinge axis a25, a27, a29, a3L The fength f of each brace 33, 35, 37, 39, 41.43, 45, 47 can be adjusted by means of an adjustor that is embodied by a telescopic arm 61 that is incorporated in one brace section 57 or the two brace sections 57, 59. The telescopic arm 61 comprises two telescopically arranged arm parts 63, 65. One arm part 63 or the arm parts 63, 65 is provided with a series of locking apertures 67. The other arm part 65 is provided with at least one locking apertures (not shown). Locking apertures of the respective arm parts 63, 65 can be aligned by telescopically moving the arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other. A locking member embodied by a locking pin can be arranged in aligned locking apertures of the respective arm parts 63, 65 to lock telescopic movement of the telescopic arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other.

By means of figure 3 is illustrated that by adjusting the length 1 of braces 33, 35, 37, 39,By means of figure 3 is illustrated that by adjusting the length 1 or braces 33, 35, 37, 39,

41, 43, 45, 47 the angular orientation of the support members 25, 27,29, 31 in the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 15 that coincides with the central axis of the pipeline 15 can be adjusted. In figure 3 is shown that increasing the length 1 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on the right side of the support frame 23, causes the support members 25, 27 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a25/a27 in the direction of arrow A refative to the support frame 23. Decreasing the fength f of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on the right side of the support frame 23, woufd cause the support members 25, 27 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a25/a27 in the direction of arrow B refative to the support frame 23. In figure 3 is shown that decreasing the length 1 of the braces 41, 43, 45,47 on the left side of the support frame 23, causes the support members 29, 31 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a29/a31 in the direction of arrow C relative to the support frame 23. Increasing the length 1 of the braces 41, 43,45, 47 on the left side of the support frame 23, woufd cause the support members 29, 3f to rotate about the respective hinge axis a29/a3f in the direction of arrow D refative to the support frame 23. It is furthermore illustrated in figure 3 that the locking apertures in the arm parts 63, 65, of the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 are arranged such that the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 can be locked in a desired number, for example fifteen predefined angular orientations in the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 5 that coincides with the central axis of the pipeline 15. The positions and orientations for locking the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 may be distributed evenly within a predetermined range, and more or less than 15 are possible within the scope of the invention.41, 43, 45, 47 the angular orientation of the support members 25, 27,29, 31 in the plane perpendicular to the central axis or the pipe section 15 that coincides with the central axis or the pipeline 15 can be adjusted. Figure 3 shows that increasing the length 1 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on the right side of the support frame 23, causes the support members 25, 27 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a25 / a27 in the direction of arrow A refative to the support frame 23. Decreasing the fength f of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on the right side of the support frame 23, woufd cause the support members 25, 27 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a25 / a27 in the direction of arrow B refative to the support frame 23. Figure 3 shows that decreasing the length 1 of the braces 41, 43, 45.47 on the left side of the support frame 23, causes the support members 29 , 31 to rotate about the respective hinge axis a29 / a31 in the direction of arrow C relative to the support frame 23. Increasing the length 1 of the braces 41, 43.45, 47 on the left side of the support frame 23, woufd cause the support members 29, 3f to rotate about the respective hinge axis a29 / a3f in the direction of arrow D refative to the support frame 23. It is furthermore illustrated in Figure 3 that the locking apertures in the arm parts 63, 65, or the telescopic arms 61 or the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 are arranged such that the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 can be locked in a desired number, for example fifteen predefined angular orientations in the plane perpendicular to the central axis or the pipe section 5 that coincides with the central axis or the pipeline 15. The positions and orientations for locking the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 may also be distributed within a predetermined range, and more or less than 15 are possible within the scope of the invention.

By means of figures 1 and figures 4 to 12 it is illustrated how, according to the presented invention, the adjustors that are embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 are used for adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 relative to the central axis of the pipeline 15 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipeline 15.By means of figures 1 and figures 4 to 12 it is illustrated how, according to the presented invention, the adjustors that are embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 are used for adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 relative to the central axis of the pipeline 15 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipeline 15.

In figure 1 it is shown that a basket 69 is arranged on the seabed 3 next to the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1. In the basket 69 are arranged a plurality of jacks. Each jack comprises two jack parts 71a, 71b, that can be displaced the one relative to the other by means of a set of hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b. The jacks embody external drives for driving the adjustors embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47. For driving the adjustors embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 each jack is arranged on a respective telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43,45, 47, wherein the jack parts 71a, 71b are engaged with a respective one of the arm parts 63, 65. As illustrated by figure 1, a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) 75 is used for arranging the jacks on the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43,45, 47.In figure 1 it is shown that a basket 69 is arranged on the seabed 3 next to the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1. In the basket 69 are arranged a plurality of jacks. Each jack comprises two jack parts 71a, 71b, which can be displaced from the one relative to the other by means of a set of hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b. The jacks embody external drives for driving the adjusters embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47. For driving the adjusters embodied by the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35 , 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47 each jack is arranged on a respective telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43.45, 47, being the jack parts 71a, 71b are engaged with a respective one of the arm parts 63, 65. As illustrated by figure 1, a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) 75 is used for arranging the jacks on the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41 , 43.45, 47.

In figure 4 is shown that a gripper 77 at the end of an arm 79 of the ROV 75 is used to couple lifting cables of one of the jacks, to a hoisting cable 81 to be able to lift the jack out of the basket 69 and transport the jack to one of the telescopic arms 61.Figure 4 shows that a gripper 77 at the end of an arm 79 of the ROV 75 is used to couple lifting cables or one of the jacks, to a hoisting cable 81 to be able to lift the jack out of the basket 69 and transport the jack to one of the telescopic arms 61.

In figures 5 and 6 is shown that one jack part 71 of the jack parts 71a, 71b is about to be brought in engagement with arm part 65 of the telescopic arm 61 of the brace 33. For engaging the jack part 71a with the arm part 65, pins 83 provided on the arm part 65 are accommodated in slots 84 arranged in the jack part 71a. After engaging the jack part 71a with the arm part 65, the hoisting cable 81 is payed out such that the jack rotates about a rotation axis defined by the pins 83, and that pins 85 provided on the arm part 63 are accommodated in slots 87 arranged in the jack part 71b. In figure 7 the jack is shown in its engaged state, wherein jack part 71a engages arm part 65 and jack part 71b engages arm part 67.Figures 5 and 6 show that one jack part 71 of the jack parts 71a, 71b is about to be brought in engagement with arm part 65 of the telescopic arm 61 of the brace 33. For engaging the jack part 71a with the arm part 65 pin 83 provided on the arm part 65 are accommodated in slots 84 arranged in the jack part 71a. After engaging the jack part 71a with the arm part 65, the hoisting cable 81 is payed out such that the jack rotates about a rotation axis defined by the pins 83, and that pins 85 provided on the arm part 63 are accommodated in slots 87 arranged in the jack part 71b. In figure 7 the jack is shown in its engaged state, in which part 71a engage arm part 65 and part 71b engage arm part 67.

In figure 8 is shown that a respective jackis arranged on the telescopic arm 61 of each of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on one side of the pipeline 15. Furthermore, it is shown that the hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b of the respective jacksare connected by means of hydraulic hoses 89 to a hydraulic power source provided on and controlled by the ROV 75. In particular the hydraulic hoses are connected to the ROV 75 via a hydraulic manifold that is mounted on a rack 97 that is arranged on the seabed beside the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 that was used to lower the hydraulic hoses from the sea surface to the seabed.Figure 8 shows that a respective jack is arranged on the telescopic arm 61 or each of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 on one side of the pipeline 15. Furthermore, it is shown that the hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b of the respective jacksare connected by means of hydraulic hoses 89 to a hydraulic power source provided on and controlled by the ROV 75. In particular the hydraulic hoses are connected to the ROV 75 via a hydraulic manifold that is mounted on a rack 97 that is arranged on the seabed beside the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 that was used to lower the hydraulic hoses from the sea surface to the seabed.

In figure 9 is shown that after relieving a locking pin 91 that locks telescopic movement of the arms parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other, by hydraulically powering the hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b of a jack, the locking pin 91 is pulled out of locking apertures 93 arranged in the arms parts 63, 65 by a second ROV. After unlocking each of the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, the jacks can be used for adjusting the length 1 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39.Figure 9 shows that after relieving a locking pin 91 that locks telescopic movement of the arms parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other, by hydraulic powering the hydraulic cylinders 73a, 73b or a jack, the locking pin 91 is pulled out of locking apertures 93 arranged in the arms parts 63, 65 by a second ROV. After unlocking each of the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, the jacks can be used for adjusting the length 1 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39.

Like the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, on one side of the support frame 23, the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 41, 43, 45, 47, on the other side of the support frame 23 can also be provided with a drive embodied by a respective jack. After arranging a jack on each of the telescoping arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, and unlocking each of the telescoping arms 61, the jacks can be used for adjusting the length 1 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47. As will be explained under reference to figures 10 and 11, by adjusting the length of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45,47, a rotational force can be applied and adjusted on pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 for adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe line that coincides with the central axis of pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1. These central axes are respectively designated in figures 10 and 12 as CA5 and CA15.Like the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, on one side of the support frame 23, the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 41, 43, 45, 47, on the other side of the support frame 23 can also be provided with a drive embodied by a respective jack. After arranging a jack on each of the telescoping arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, and unlocking each of the telescoping arms 61, the jacks can be used for adjusting the length 1 or the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47. As will be explained under reference to figures 10 and 11, by adjusting the length of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45 47, a rotational force can be applied and adjusted on pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 for adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe line that coincides with the central axis of pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1. These central axes are respectively designated in figures 10 and 12 as CA5 and CA15.

In figure 10 the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is shown with the support membersIn figure 10 the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1 is shown with the support members

25, 27, 29, 31 on both sides of the support frame 23 in predefined angular orientations g in the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 15 that coincides with the central axis of the pipeline 15. Starting from the situation shown in figure 10, the jacks (not shown in figure 10) that drive the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, can be used to push the arm parts 63, 65 the one away from the other, thereby exerting a force Fl on the posts 49, 51, 53, 55 of the support frame 23 and a force F2 on the support members 25, 27. By at the same time, operating the jacks (not shown in figure 10) that drive the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 41, 43, 45, 47, a rotational force M is applied on the pipe section 5 that is fixed to the support frame 23 about the central axis of the pipe section 5. The rotational force M is counteracted by the sections of pipe 11, 13 of the pipeline 15 that are fixed to the ends 7, 9 of the pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integrated structure 1. If the rotational force is high enough, the rotational force M will cause a rotation of at least the part of the pipe section 5 that is fixed to the support frame 23 about its central axis in the direction of arrow E, thereby rotating the branched off subsection 17 about the central axis of the pipe section 5 in the direction of arrow E and thereby adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 5. The jacks are operated until the required adjustment of the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 is achieved and until the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 are in one of a plurality of predefined angular orientations shown in figure 3. In the predefined angular orientations shown in figure 3 a respective one of the locking apertures 67 of the arm part 63 aligns with a locking aperture in the other arm part 65. Once both conditions are fulfilled, a locking pin 95 is introduced in the aligned locking apertures, as shown in figure 11, for locking telescopic movement of the arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other. Once all the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 are locked by means of a respective locking pin 95, the jacks can be removed from the telescopic arms 61 and returned in the basket 69.25, 27, 29, 31 on both sides of the support frame 23 in predefined angular orientations g in the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 15 that coincides with the central axis of the pipeline 15. Starting from the situation shown in figure 10, the jacks (not shown in figure 10) that drive the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 33, 35, 37, 39, can be used to push the arm parts 63, 65 the one away from the other, expire a force Fl on the posts 49, 51, 53, 55 of the support frame 23 and a force F2 on the support members 25, 27. By the same time, operating the jacks (not shown in figure 10) that drive the telescopic arms 61 of the braces 41, 43, 45, 47, a rotational force M is applied on the pipe section 5 that is fixed to the support frame 23 about the central axis or the pipe section 5. The rotational force M is counteracted by the sections or pipe 11, 13 of the pipeline 15 that are fixed to the ends 7, 9 of the pipe section 5 of the subsea pipeline integr ated structure 1. If the rotational force is high enough, the rotational force M will cause a rotation or at least the part of the pipe section 5 that is fixed to the support frame 23 about its central axis in the direction of arrow E, rotating the branched off subsection 17 about the central axis of the pipe section 5 in the direction of arrow Adjusting the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the pipe section 5. The jacks are operated until the required adjustment of the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 is achieved and until the support members 25, 27, 29, 31 are in one of a variety of predefined angular orientations shown in figure 3. In the predefined angular orientations shown in figure 3 a respective one of the locking apertures 67 of the arm part 63 aligns with a locking aperture in the other arm part 65. Once both conditions are fulfilled, a locking pin 95 has been introduced in the aligned locking apertures, as shown in figure 11, for locking telescopic movement of the arm parts 63, 65 the one relative to the other. Once all the telescopic arms 61 or the braces 33, 35, 37, 39 are locked by means of a respective locking pin 95, the jacks can be removed from the telescopic arms 61 and returned in the basket 69.

In figure 12 the result is shown, wherein the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 represented by axis bl7 has been adjusted relative to its original orientation represented by axis al7. The support members 25, 27 on one side of the support frame 23 are locked in angular orientation relative to the support frame 23 (see figure 3). The support members 29, 31 on the other side of the support frame 23 are locked in angular orientation relative to the support frame 23 (see figure 3).In figure 12 the result is shown, with the angular orientation of the branched off subsection 17 represented by axis bl7 has been adjusted relative to its original orientation represented by axis al7. The support members 25, 27 on one side of the support frame 23 are locked in angular orientation relative to the support frame 23 (see figure 3). The support members 29, 31 on the other side of the support frame 23 are locked in angular orientation relative to the support frame 23 (see figure 3).

Although the principles of the invention have been set forth above with reference to specific embodiments, it must be understood that this description is given solely by way of example and not as limitation to the scope of protection, which is defined by the appended claims.Although the principles of the invention have been set forth above with reference to specific, it must be understood that this description is given solely by way of example and not as limitation to the scope of protection, which is defined by the appended claims.

Claims (18)

CLAUSESCLAUSES 1. Subsea pipeline integrated structure, comprising:1. Subsea pipeline integrated structure, including: - a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotationally fixed inline to at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline and to be connected with subsea equipment;- a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotationally fixed inline to at least one pipe section or a subsea pipeline and to be connected with subsea equipment; - at least one adjustor configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, to align the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment.- at least one adjustor configured for applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, to align the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment. 2. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 1, comprising2. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 1, including - a support frame;- a support frame; whereinwill - the pipe section is rotationally fixed to the support frame; and- the pipe section is rotationally fixed to the support frame; and - the adjustor is configured to act between the support frame and the seabed.- the adjustor is configured to act between the support frame and the seabed. 3. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 2, comprising3. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 2, including - at feast one support pad that is configured to be arranged on the seabed; and- at feast one support path that is configured to be arranged on the seabed; and - the adjustor is configured to dispiace the support pad reiative to the support frame for adjusting the anguiar position of the support frame reiative to the seabed.- the adjustor is configured to dispiace the support path to the support frame for adjusting the anguiar position of the support frame to the seabed. 4. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 3, wherein4. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 3, where - the support pad is rotatabie connected to the support frame about an axis of rotation, wherein the adjustor is configured for rotating the support pad about the axis of rotation.- the support pad is rotatabie connected to the support frame about an axis of rotation, the adjustor is configured for rotating the support pad about the axis of rotation. 5. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 4, wherein5. Subsea pipefine integrated structure according to ciaim 4, where - at feast one brace is arranged between the support frame and the support pad such that the iength of the brace defines the anguiar position of the support pad reiative to the support frame about the axis of rotation; and- at feast one brace is arranged between the support frame and the support pad such that the iength of the brace defines the anguiar position of the support pad reiative to the support frame about the axis of rotation; and - the adjustor is configured to adjust the iength of the brace.- the adjustor is configured to adjust the year of the brace. 6. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 5, wherein6. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 5, where - the brace comprises at least two brace sections that are hingeable the one relative to the other for allowing the support pad to be rotated about the axis of rotation between an unextended state and an extended state, wherein the adjustor is configured to adjust the length of one of the brace sections.- the brace comprises at least two brace sections that are hingeable the one relative to the other for allowing the support path to be rotated about the axis of rotation between an unextended state and an extended state, the adjustor is configured to adjust the length of one of the brace sections. 7. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein7. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 7, - the adjustor comprises a drive or is engageable by an external drive.- the adjustor comprises a drive or is engageable by an external drive. 8. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 7, wherein8. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 7, where - the adjustor is provided with a lock for locking the adjustor for allowing the drive to stop driving the adjuster.- the adjustor is provided with a lock for locking the adjustor for allowing the drive to stop driving the adjuster. 9. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein9. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 8, where - the adjustor comprises a telescopic arm.- the adjustor comprises a telescopic arm. 10. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claims 8 and 9, wherein the telescopic arm comprises:10. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claims 8 and 9, including the telescopic arm comprises: - two telescopically arranged arm parts, both arm parts being provided with a series of locking apertures that are arranged such that locking apertures of the respective arm parts can be aligned by telescopically moving the arm parts the one relative to the other, the adjustor further comprising a locking insert that is configured to be inserted in aligned locking apertures to lock telescopic movement of the telescopic arm parts the one relative to the other.- two telescopically arranged arm parts, both arm parts being provided with a series of locking apertures that are arranged such that locking apertures or the respective arm parts can be aligned by telescopically moving the arm parts the one relative to the other, the adjustor further included a locking insert that is configured to be inserted in aligned locking apertures to lock telescopic movement of the telescopic arm parts the one relative to the other. 11. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 1, wherein11. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to claim 1, where - the adjustor comprises at least one weight arranged on a rotational force arm forming distance from the central longitudinal axis of the pipe section, wherein the weight is removable or the weight is displaceable for adjusting the distance from the central longitudinal axis of the pipe section.- the adjustor comprises at least one weight arranged on a rotational force arm forming distance from the central longitudinal axis or the pipe section, the weight is removable or the weight is displaceable for adjusting the distance from the central longitudinal axis or the pipe section. 12. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein12. Subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 10, where - the subsea equipment comprises a connector or a receiver structure for a connector; and preferably wherein- the subsea equipment comprises a connector or a receiver structure for a connector; and preferably where - the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a first end that is configured to be rotationally fixed to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline , and a second end that has arranged thereon the connector or the receiver structure for a connector, wherein the pipe section has at least one bend such that the second end is bent away from the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline;- the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a first end that is configured to be rotationally fixed to a pipe section or a subsea pipeline, and a second end that has been arranged thereon the connector or the receiver structure for a connector, pipe section has at least one bend such that the second end is away from the central axis or the pipe section of the subsea pipeline; or whereinor where - the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a first end and a second end that are configured to be rotationally fixed to a respective pipe section of a subsea pipeline, wherein the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a branched off subsection that has arranged thereon the subsea equipment embodied by a connector or a receiver structure for a connector.- the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a first end and a second end that are configured to be rotationally fixed to a respective pipe section or a subsea pipeline, where the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure comprises a branched off subsection that has arranged thereon the subsea equipment embodied by a connector or a receiver structure for a connector. 13. System comprising:13. System including: - subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 12; and- subsea pipeline integrated structure according to any of claims 1 to 12; and - a drive for driving the adjustor.- a drive for driving the adjustor. 14. System according to claim 13, wherein14. System according to claim 13, - the drive is configured for subsea operation.- the drive is configured for subsea operation. 15. System according to claim 14, wherein15. System according to claim 14, - the drive is an external drive, configured to be connected to the adjustor for driving the adjustor in order to apply and/or adjust rotational force on the pipe section, and configured to be disconnected from the adjustor.- the drive is an external drive, configured to be connected to the adjustor for driving the adjustor in order to apply and / or adjust rotational force on the pipe section, and configured to be disconnected from the adjustor. 16. System according to claim 15, wherein16. System according to claim 15, - the adjustor comprises a telescopic arm; and- the adjustor comprises a telescopic arm; and - the drive is a jack that is configured to engage the telescopic arm and move telescopically arranged arm parts the one relative to the other.- the drive is a jack that is configured to engage the telescopic arm and move telescopically arranged arm parts the one relative to the other. 17. Method,17. Method, 5 comprising5 including - fixing the pipe section of a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline;- fixing the pipe section or a subsea pipeline integrated structure to a pipe section or a subsea pipeline; - arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure on the seabed;- arranging the subsea pipeline integrated structure on the seabed; - applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated- applying an adjusting rotational force on the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated 10 structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, thereby aligning the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment.10 structure about the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, continuously aligning the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure for connection with the subsea equipment. 18. Method according to claim 17,18. Method according to claim 17, 15 wherein15 - the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed to the pipe section of a subsea pipeline such that the central axes of the pipe sections coincide.- the pipe section of the subsea pipeline integrated structure is fixed to the pipe section or a subsea pipeline such that the central axes or the pipe sections coincide. CONCLUSIESCONCLUSIONS 1. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie, omvattende:An integrated submarine pipeline construction, comprising: - een pijpsectie, welke pijpsectie is geconfigureerd om roteerbaar op één lijn te worden gefixeerd aan ten minste één pijpsectie van een onderzeese pijpleiding en om te worden verbonden met onderzeese apparatuur;- a pipe section, which pipe section is configured to be rotatably aligned on at least one pipe section of a subsea pipeline and to be connected to subsea equipment; - ten minste één aanpasser, welke is geconfigureerd voor het uitoefenen van een aanpassende rotationele kracht op de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie rond de centrale as van de pijpsectie van de onderzeese pijpleiding, of een as parallel daaraan, om de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie uit te lijnen voor het verbinden met de onderzeese apparatuur.- at least one adjuster, which is configured to exert an adaptive rotational force on the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline construction around the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, around the pipe section of the integrated subsea align pipeline construction for connection to subsea equipment. 2. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 1, omvattendeAn integrated subsea pipeline construction according to claim 1, comprising - een steunframe;- a support frame; waarbijat which - de pijpsectie roteerbaar gefixeerd is aan het steunframe; en- the pipe section is rotatably fixed to the support frame; and - de aanpasser is geconfigureerd om te functioneren tussen het steunframe en de zeebodem.- the adjuster is configured to function between the support frame and the seabed. 3. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 2, omvattendeAn integrated submarine pipeline construction as claimed in claim 2, comprising - ten minste één steunblok, dat is geconfigureerd om aangebracht te worden op de zeebodem; en- at least one support block configured to be mounted on the sea floor; and - waarbij de aanpasser is geconfigureerd om het steun blok ten opzichte van het steunframe te verplaatsen voor het aanpassen van de hoekpositie van het steunframe ten opzichte van de zeebodem.- wherein the adjuster is configured to move the support block relative to the support frame to adjust the angular position of the support frame relative to the sea floor. 4. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 3, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to claim 3, wherein - het steunblok roteerbaar is verbonden aan het steunframe rond een rotatie-as, waarbij de aanpasser is geconfigureerd voor het roteren van het steunblok rond de rotatie-as.- the support block is rotatably connected to the support frame about a rotation axis, wherein the adjuster is configured to rotate the support block around the rotation axis. 5. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 4, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to claim 4, wherein - ten minste één beugel is aangebracht tussen het steunframe en het steunblok, zodat de lengte van de beugel de hoekpositie van het steunblok ten opzichte van het steunframe rond de rotatie-as definieert; en- at least one bracket is arranged between the support frame and the support block, so that the length of the bracket defines the angular position of the support block relative to the support frame about the axis of rotation; and - de aanpasser is geconfigureerd om de lengte van de beugel aan te passen.- the adjuster is configured to adjust the length of the bracket. 6. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 5, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to claim 5, wherein - de beugel ten minste twee beugelsecties omvat, die ten opzichte van elkaar scharnierbaar zijn om het mogelijk te maken dat het steunblok wordt geroteerd rond een rotatie-as tussen een niet-uitgestrekte toestand en een uitgestrekte toestand, waarbij de aanpasser is geconfigureerd om de lengte van één van de beugelsecties aan te passen.the bracket comprises at least two bracket sections which are pivotable with respect to each other to allow the support block to be rotated about an axis of rotation between an unstretched state and an extended state, the adjuster being configured to the length of one of the bracket sections. 7. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens een willekeurige van conclusies 1 tot en met 7, waarbijAn integrated submarine pipeline construction according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein - de aanpasser een aandrijving omvat of aangrijpbaar is door een externe aandrijving.- the adjuster comprises a drive or can be engaged by an external drive. 8. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 7, waarbijThe integrated subsea pipeline construction according to claim 7, wherein - de aanpasser is voorzien van een vergrendeling voor het vergrendelen van de aanpasser, om het voor de aandrijving mogelijk te maken het aandrijven van de aanpasser te staken.- the adjuster is provided with a lock for locking the adjuster, to enable the drive to stop driving the adjuster. 9. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens een willekeurige van conclusies 1 tot en met 8, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein - de aanpasser een telescopische arm omvat.- the adjuster comprises a telescopic arm. 10. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusies 8 en 9, waarbij de telescopische arm omvat:The integrated submarine pipeline construction according to claims 8 and 9, wherein the telescopic arm comprises: - twee telescopisch aangebrachte armonderdelen, waarbij beide armen zijn voorzien van een reeks vergrendelaperturen, die dusdanig zijn aangebracht dat vergrendelaperturen van de respectievelijke armonderdelen uitgelijnd kunnen worden door het telescopisch, ten opzichte van elkaar, verplaatsen van de armonderdelen, waarbij de aanpasser verder een vergrendelinzetstuk omvat, dat is geconfigureerd om ingebracht te worden in de uitgelijnde vergrendelaperturen om telescopische beweging van de telescopische armonderdelen ten opzichte van elkaar te vergrendelen.two telescopically arranged arm parts, wherein both arms are provided with a series of locking apertures, which are arranged such that locking apertures of the respective arm parts can be aligned by moving the arm parts telescopically relative to each other, the adjuster further comprising a locking insert , which is configured to be inserted into the aligned locking apertures to lock telescopic movement of the telescopic arm members relative to each other. 11. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens conclusie 1, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to claim 1, wherein - de aanpasser ten minste één gewicht omvat, welke is aangebracht op een rotationele krachtarm, welke afstand vormt van de centrale longitudinale as van de pijpsectie, waarbij het gewicht verwijderbaar is of het gewicht verplaatsbaar is voor het aanpassen van de afstand van de centrale longitudinale as van de pijpsectie.- the adjuster comprises at least one weight, which is arranged on a rotational force arm, which distance from the central longitudinal axis of the pipe section, wherein the weight is removable or the weight is displaceable for adjusting the distance from the central longitudinal axis of the pipe section. 12. Geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens een willekeurige van conclusies 1 tot en met 10, waarbijThe integrated submarine pipeline construction according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein - de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie een connector of een opneemconstructie voor een connector omvat;- the integrated subsea pipeline construction comprises a connector or a connector construction for a connector; en bij voorkeur waarbijand preferably wherein - de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie omvat: een eerste uiteinde, dat is geconfigureerd om roteerbaar gefixeerd te worden aan een pijpsectie van een onderzeese pijpleiding, en een tweede uiteinde, dat daarop aangebracht de connector of de ontvangconstructie voor een connector omvat, waarbij de pijpsectie ten minste een bocht omvat, zodat het tweede uiteinde af is gebogen van de centrale as van de pijpsectie van de onderzeese pijpleiding;- the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline construction comprises: a first end configured to be rotatably fixed to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline, and a second end mounted thereon to the connector or receiving structure for a connector, the pipe section includes at least one bend such that the second end is bent away from the central axis of the pipe section of the subsea pipeline; of waarbijor where - de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie een eerste uiteinde en een tweede uiteinde omvat, die zijn geconfigureerd om rotationeel gefixeerd te worden op een respectievelijke pijpsectie van een onderzeese pijpleiding, waarbij de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie een afgetakte deelsectie omvat, die daarop aangebracht de onderzeese apparatuur omvat, welke is belichaamd door een connector of een ontvangconstructie voor een connector.- the pipe section of the integrated submarine pipeline construction comprises a first end and a second end, which are configured to be rotationally fixed on a respective pipe section of a subsea pipeline, the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline construction comprising a branched subsection mounted thereon comprises the undersea equipment embodied by a connector or receiving structure for a connector. 13. Systeem omvattende:13. System comprising: - geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie volgens een willekeurige van conclusies- integrated submarine pipeline construction according to any of claims 1 tot en met 12; en1 to 12; and - een aandrijving voor het aandrijven van de aanpasser.- a drive for driving the adjuster. 14. Systeem volgens conclusie 13, waarbijThe system of claim 13, wherein - de aandrijving is geconfigureerd om onderzees te functioneren.- the drive is configured to function undersea. 15. Systeem volgens conclusie 14, waarbijThe system of claim 14, wherein - de aandrijving een externe aandrijving is, die is geconfigureerd om verbonden te worden met de aanpasser voor het aandrijven van de aanpasser, ten einde het uitoefenen en/of aanpassen van rotationele kracht op de pijpsectie, en welke is geconfigureerd om losgemaakt te worden van de aanpasser.- the drive is an external drive that is configured to be connected to the adapter for driving the adapter, in order to exert and / or adjust rotational force on the pipe section, and which is configured to be released from the adjuster. 16. Systeem volgens conclusie 15, waarbijThe system of claim 15, wherein - de aanpasser een telescopische arm omvat; en- the adjuster comprises a telescopic arm; and - de aandrijving een krik is, die is geconfigureerd om de telescopische arm aan te grijpen en telescopisch aangebrachte armonderdelen ten opzichte van elkaar te verplaatsen.- the drive is a jack configured to engage the telescopic arm and move telescopic arm members relative to each other. 17. Werkwijze, omvattende17. A method comprising - het fixeren van de pijpsectie van een geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie aan een pijpsectie van een onderzeese pijpleiding;- fixing the pipe section of an integrated subsea pipeline construction to a pipe section of a subsea pipeline; - het aanbrengen van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie op de zeebodem;- the installation of the integrated submarine pipeline construction on the seabed; - het uitoefenen van een aanpassende rotationele kracht op de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie rond de centrale as van de onderzeese pijpleidingsectie van de pijpleiding, of een as parallel daaraan, waardoor de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie wordt uitgelijnd om verbonden te worden met de onderzeese apparatuur.exerting an adaptive rotational force on the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline structure around the central axis of the subsea pipeline section of the pipeline, or an axis parallel thereto, whereby the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline construction is aligned to be connected to the submarine equipment. 18. Werkwijze volgens conclusie 17, waarbijThe method of claim 17, wherein - de pijpsectie van de geïntegreerde onderzeese pijpleidingconstructie is gefixeerd aan de pijpsectie van een onderzeese pijpleiding, zodat de centrale assen van de pijpsecties met elkaar samenvallen.- the pipe section of the integrated subsea pipeline construction is fixed to the pipe section of a subsea pipeline, so that the central axes of the pipe sections coincide. 1/131/13 2/132/13 3/133/13 I Did ο η t~D η ετ/tzI Did ο η t ~ D η ετ / tz 5/135/13 6/136/13 O *78O * 78 7/137/13 8/138/13 10/1310/13 01 '9IJ01 '9IJ 11/1311/13 13/1313/13 IX DidIX Did