WO2016008006A1

WO2016008006A1 - Jacket assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2016008006A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/050394
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Hamish Alexander Pettigrew; Thomas David Percy; Rhys Jon THOMAS
Original assignee: Joinlock Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2014-07-14
Filing date: 2015-07-14
Publication date: 2016-01-21

Abstract

A jacket assembly (10) for an object such as a concrete, timber or steel structural member (5) such as a pile. The jacket assembly (10) includes: jacket components (20) adapted to extend around the pile (5); spacers (30) extending from each jacket component (20) towards the pile (5) so as to correctly position each jacket component (20) relative to the pile (5) and define a void/annulus (40) between the pile (5) and the jacket component (20); connecting mechanisms (60) for joining longitudinal edges of each jacket component (20) together; and a bottom seal including a sealing skirt (80) and/or clamp (90) and sealing member (100) for sealing a lower- most end of a jacket component (20). The jacket assembly (10) optionally further includes a settable filler (50) for filling and setting within the void/annulus (40).

Description

JACKET ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a jacket assembly and to methods of using the jacket assembly. In an embodiment, the invention concerns a jacket assembly for use in protecting, repairing and/or strengthening objects such as piles and pipes, particularly those that are subject to weathering, corrosion, erosion, rotting, borer or algae attack or other degrading effects. In another embodiment, the invention concerns a jacket assembly for use as formwork. In another embodiment, the invention concerns a jacket assembly and method for structurally strengthening objects such as piles and pipes and other structures.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Objects such as, for example, marine structures including piles, supports, pipes and pipelines, oil rig columns, risers and footings, jetty piles, bridge pilings and like concrete, steel and timber structures are typically exposed to harsh marine or dry environments and as a result are prone to deteriorate overtime, thereby compromising the integrity and life of the object.

[0003] A proven in situ solution to repair and protect piles from such deterioration is to install a protective sleeve or jacket around the compromised pile and fill the space in between with filler, such as a cementitious or epoxy grout, thereby repairing and bolstering the pile.

[0004] Such a solution is effective in extending the life of compromised piles. However, the process of installing the protective sleeve or jacket and pumping in the filler can be time- consuming, costly and complicated. For instance, some existing protective sleeves or jackets:

• require extensive preparatory work to the pile and in some instances the installation of a support frame to the pile or structure prior to installation of the protective sleeve or jacket;

• include complicated installation, application techniques and joins requiring the use of temporary and/or permanent strapping together with multiple screws, rivets or nuts and bolts; and

• have to be filled with filler in stages because the join is unable to withstand pump and hydrostatic pressures associated with a single fill. [0005] Further complicating the above problems is that in many instances the protective sleeve or jacket is being installed in a partially underwater environment requiring a specialist diver to install the protective sleeve or jacket and pump-in the filler over the course of multiple dives and at considerable expense.

[0006] Conventional formwork usually comprises sections being installed using conventional temporary formwork methods to provide an ability to create a concrete encapsulation repair. Given the marine conditions and harsh environment it is costly and also a safety risk to remove traditional formwork in such conditions. This method then leaves the concrete repair exposed to the environment and thus at risk of the same issues as the original object that caused the degradation.

[0007] Objects such as those stated above require protection. Conventionally the following protection systems are used: Concrete encapsulation (see above), flexible fabrics and sheets made from plastic (eg. HDPE), and tapes and bandage-style wraps. Whilst these conventional systems have demonstrated protection in some instances, most are subject to such issues as being very time-consuming and therefore costly to install underwater and are very prone to installer human error and often do not provide an effective, long term protective system for as long as the asset owners would ideally like.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] It is a general object of the present invention to provide a jacket assembly and/or a method of using a jacket assembly.

[0009] One object of the present invention is to provide a jacket assembly and method for protecting, repairing and/or structurally strengthening an object, which may minimize or overcome at least one of the problems mentioned above, or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0010] An alternative object of the present invention is to provide a jacket assembly for use as formwork which may minimize or overcome at least one of the problems mentioned above, or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0011] Yet another alternative object of the present invention is to provide a jacket assembly for use as an outer protective layer for an object which may minimize or overcome at least one of the problems mentioned above, or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0012] With the foregoing in view, a first aspect of the present invention resides broadly in a jacket assembly:

(1) for use with an object, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object and define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void;

(2) for use as formwork, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend as a perimeter to define a void; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void; or

(3) for use as an outer protective layer for an object, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object so as to provide protection and optionally define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

[0013] The object may be one or more structural members or one or more non-structural members. Examples of structural members and non- structural members include structures such as marine piles, pipes, pipelines, oil rig columns, risers and footings, jetty piles, bridge pilings and like concrete, steel and timber structures.

[0014] The object may preferably be a structural member such as a pile, such as a jetty pile, bridge piling or like concrete, steel and timber structural members. The object may be a newly installed pile. That is, the jacket assembly need not be used only for the protection or repair of old or degraded/weathered/corroded/rotted/eroded/borer- or algae- attacked piles.

[0015] It is to be appreciated however that the object can be other than what would typically be referred to as a pile. For example, the object may be a column, footing, foundation, pipeline, a leg of an oil rig or the base of an offshore turbine.

[0016] A preferred example of a non-structural member is a pipe or pipeline. All of the above-mentioned objects may be in a marine-based or land-based environment.

[0017] The object may be any object requiring an outer layer of protection such as a mechanical barrier or barriers made up of one or more protective layers that may be hard but can also remain soft, such as gels, pastes, mastics, high build paints or similar. Examples include pipes, pipelines, cables, connections, ducting, casing and other similar applications.

[0018] The at least one jacket component may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed of any suitable material or materials to extend around the object, or to extend as a perimeter. The at least one jacket component may extend completely and preferably sealingly around the object or sealingly as a perimeter. In this regard, the at least one jacket component may be adapted to extend completely around an object or as a perimeter of any cross sectional shape, for example, an object or perimeter with a circular-, oval-, square-, octagonal- or any polygonal- shaped cross section, even, for example, the cross sectional shape of an I-beam. Preferably, the at least one jacket component may be resistant to U.V. damage and harsh marine environments and typically have a service life of between about 20 and 25 years.

[0019] The at least one jacket component may be formed from any material suitably adapted to be both durable and withstand pumping and pour pressures associated with the addition of filler between the at least one jacket component and the object, or within the formwork perimeter. The at least one jacket component may be formed from a material that is lightweight yet strong and durable. Typically, the at least one jacket component may be formed from a metal, resin or polymer, such as a plastics material. The jacket component may be of single layer construction or of multi-layer construction. Preferably, the at least one jacket component may be formed from a fibre reinforced polymer such as glass fibre reinforced polymer, and be of a full composite construction with no metallic parts thereby being resistant to corrosion and removing any need for cathodic protection.

[0020] The at least one jacket component may have a thickness of between about 1mm and 10mm, about 2mm and 8mm, about 2mm and 6mm, about 2mm and 5mm, or about 3mm and 5mm. Preferably, the at least one jacket component may have a thickness of between about 3mm and 5mm. More preferably, the at least one jacket may have a thickness of about 3mm.

[0021] The at least one jacket component may be of unitary construction or may include one or more connectable component pieces in the form of panels, arcuate members or sections. The panels, arcuate members or sections may be of any size, shape and construction to suitably be connected together and extend around the object or as a perimeter. For example, the panels or sections may be planar and yet flexible such that they may be connected together to extend around a curved object, or form a curved perimeter.

[0022] If of unitary construction, the at least one jacket component may include a hinge portion, such as, for example, a barrel or pin hinge or a fold line or weakened region, to allow the at least one jacket component to be assembled and extend around the object or as a perimeter, preferably longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge. Alternatively, the at least one jacket component may be extended around the object or as a perimeter under flexion and connected or joined edge to edge, preferably longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge.

[0023] If the at least one jacket component includes one or more connectable component pieces, the component pieces may be connectable edge to edge or end to end to sealingly extend around the object or as a perimeter, preferably longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge. Any number of the connectable component pieces may be connected edge to edge or end to end (preferably longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge) to sealingly extend around an object or as a perimeter.

[0024] The at least one jacket component may be of any suitable length to extend along a longitudinal length of the object or as a perimeter. The at least one jacket component may be formed to fit a specific longitudinal length of the object, i.e., custom made.

[0025] Alternatively, the at least one jacket component may be formed in standard or predefined lengths. The at least one jacket component may be connectable end to end to one or more like jacket components to extend along a longitudinal length of the object.

[0026] The at least one jacket component may be formed to any suitable standard longitudinal length. Each jacket component or component pieces thereof may have a standard longitudinal length of between about 500mm to about 12,000mm in any size increment as may be required, including about 120mm to about 10,000mm, about 140mm to about 10,000mm, about 160mm to about 10,000mm, about 180mm to about 10,000mm, about 200mm to about 10,000mm, about 220mm to about 10,000mm, about 240mm to about 10,000mm, about 260mm to about 10,000mm, about 280mm to about 10,000mm, about 300mm to about 10,000mm, about 320mm to about 10,000mm, about 340mm to about 10,000mm, about 360mm to about 10,000mm, about 380mm to about 10,000mm, about 400mm to about 10,000mm, about 420mm to about 10,000mm, about 440mm to about 10,000mm, about 460mm to about 10,000mm, 480mm to about 10,000mm, or about 500mm to about 10,000mm. [0027] Preferably, the at least one jacket component may be formed in standard longitudinal lengths of about 2,900mm.

[0028] The assembly may further include a connecting mechanism for connecting the edges or ends of the at least one jacket component or one or more component pieces together, preferably to rapidly connect the longitudinal edges together. The connecting mechanism may be of any suitable size, shape and construction. For example, the connecting mechanism may in the form of a clamp, key and keyway arrangement, or portions that friction fit together. For example, connecting mechanism may include a male portion engageable with a female portion. Examples of preferred connecting mechanisms are described in the following PCT applications: PCT/AU2008/000839; PCT/AU2010/000240; PCT/AU2011/001463 and

PCT/AU2013/000474. Preferably, the connecting mechanism may be resistant to U.V. damage and harsh marine environments and typically have a service life of between about 20 and 25 years.

[0029] The connecting mechanism may provide a water-tight seal or not. The connecting mechanism may include a gasket or sealing member and/or a sealing agent that is attached to or applied along one or both of the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces thereof to be joined to form a substantially water-tight seal. For example, the gasket or sealing member may be in the form of a strip of foam attached to one or both of the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces to be joined. Any suitable sealing agent such as mastic sealant or the like may be used.

[0030] In a first embodiment, the connecting mechanism may include at least one key arrangement extending along each longitudinal edge to be joined and at least one key connector including at least one longitudinal keyway passage. The key arrangements located on the respective longitudinal edges may be configured to align generally in line with a common axis when the respective longitudinal edges are joined or adjacently positioned. The at least one longitudinal keyway passage of the key connector may then be extended over the aligned key arrangements to retain the aligned key arrangements and clamp the longitudinal edges together. This connecting mechanism is further described PCT/AU2008/000839 and PCT/AU2010/000240, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The at least one key connector may further include a handle or tool knock lug to drive the at least one key connector into place. [0031] Regarding the first embodiment, each key arrangement may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made of any suitable material or materials, provided that they can extend within the keyway passage and be retained by the key connector so as to clamp together to form a secure joint. In a preferred embodiment, at least one or each key is in the form of a hook or node and the keyway passage/key connector is shaped so as to be retained by the hook or node.

[0032] Typically, the key arrangements may be planar and extend from or be attached at or near the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces thereof. Preferably, the key arrangements may be bonded, layered, or adhered with an adhesive with any of these methods also possibly being used in addition to mechanically fixing or connecting or integrally manufactured to the at least one jacket component at or near the longitudinal edges. Alternatively, each key arrangement may be of integral/unitary construction with the at least one jacket component or component piece thereof.

[0033] The keys of the key arrangements may intermesh with one another in any suitable way. The keys when intermeshed may be supported beneath by a longitudinal edge region of an opposing longitudinal edge of the jacket component or component pieces.

[0034] Each key arrangement may consist of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), plastics material, polyurethanes, ceramics or rubber, including alloy, metal or steel, or any combination of these, but preferably a non-metal material. Due to the longitudinal lengths each key arrangement may extend along an object and in order to keep the weight down, each key arrangement may include an inner-foam core or strengthening materials or members.

[0035] Each key arrangement may include any suitable number of keys and the keys may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, provided that they can engage and preferably be retained by the key connector so as to lock and form a secure joint. In a preferred embodiment, at least one or each key is in the form of a hook. The keys of the key arrangements may intermesh with one another or not.

[0036] The key connector may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made of any suitable material or materials. The key connector may consist of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), plastics material, polyurethanes, ceramics or rubber, including alloy, metal or steel, or any combination of these, but preferably a non-metal material. The key connector may be of unitary construction or may comprise two or more detachably connected pieces. An end of a first key connector piece may interference fit with an end of an adjacent second key connector piece. Alternatively, one end of an annular key connector may interference fit with the other end of the same connector.

[0037] Preferably, the key connector has an elongate body and the longitudinal keyway passage extends the entire length of the body (from end to end of the body), although this need not be the case. The keyway passage could be discontinuous in one or more places between opposed ends of the body.

[0038] The key connector may have more than one keyway passage, such as, for example, two keyways. If so, then preferably a keyway passage extends along each longitudinal side of the body.

[0039] The keys may be retained by the key connector in any suitable way. Preferably, the key connector has one or more key retainers - preferably hooks or nodes - for retaining the keys on opposed longitudinal sides of the key connector body. Preferably, the key retainers and keys hook together.

[0040] Preferably, the keys individually engage and are retained by individual said key retainers of the key connector to clamp the first and second components together.

[0041] In one embodiment, a single hook may extend along one or each opposing longitudinal side of the key connector body. In another embodiment, each side of the key connector body may have a plurality of hooks extending within the same plane and the hooks may be spaced apart from one another in accordance with the spacing of the keys. The position of the hooks may alternate from one side of the body to the other along a length of the body, or the hooks of one longitudinal side of the body may directly oppose hooks of the other longitudinal side of the body. With the hooks in this arrangement, the hooks may be slid into locking engagement with the keys or slid out of locking engagement with the keys. If the key connector body has spaced apart hooks, then the key connector may be removed from clamping engagement with the keys in a lateral direction between the keys when not in locking engagement with the keys (by moving the hooks of the key connector between adjacent keys - ie. one key /pitch length).

[0042] The keys and key connector may engage so that they may releasably unlock or they may engage so that they cannot be unlocked without destroying the joint. This may be achieved in any suitable way.

[0043] The key connector may comprise a handle, lobe, tool/finger opening or grip surface extending from or along the connector body. The connector may have any suitable type of handle. The handle may extend almost the length of the body but for some applications it may be located at or near one end only. The handle may have openings for fingers located between an upper surface of the handle and an upper surface of the body. The handle may be removable or engage with a variety of gripping surfaces that can be formed onto a suitable face of the connector body.

[0044] In one embodiment, the key connector may have a planar body and at least one appropriately shaped cut out or formation in the planar body that provides a keyway passage with key retainers engageable with the keys to retain the keys.

[0045] Each key connector retainer, hook or node and each key can comprise, on one or both of its ends, a smooth rounded, arcuate, filleted, tapered, chamfered or angular lead-in edge or surface. This lead-in edge or surface on one or both ends can provide an important self- aligning function during assembly and also provide a means to function without hindrance by dimensional tolerance issues and alignment differences either from manufacture, transport, handling, fitment or during assembly. The lead-in edge or surface also enables the key and key retainer to apply the required load for the specified joint by moving the keys relative to the key retainers only one pitch length.

[0046] In a second embodiment, the connecting mechanism may include at least one keyway arrangement including keyways spaced apart from one another extending along each longitudinal edge to be joined. The respective keyways of the keyway arrangements may be configured to intermesh when the keyway arrangements are aligned to define at least one continuous keyway passage extending longitudinally between the intermeshed keyways. At least one keyway connector including an arrangement of keys may be insertable within the keyway passage and may be slid relative to the keyways until the keys engage with the keyways so as to lock the keyway arrangements together and thereby clamp the longitudinal edges together. Typically, the keyway connector may be inserted and slid in a longitudinal direction within the keyway passage, preferably in one direction only. This connecting mechanism is further described in PCT/AU2011/001463 and PCT/AU2013/000474, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0047] Regarding the second embodiment, each keyway arrangement may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made of any suitable material or materials.

[0048] Typically, the keyway arrangements may be planar and extend from or be attached at or near the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces thereof. Preferably, the keyway arrangements may be adhered with an adhesive to the at least one jacket component at or near the longitudinal edges. Alternatively, each keyway arrangement may be of integral/unitary construction with the at least one jacket component or component piece thereof.

[0049] Each keyway arrangement may consist of metal, an alloy, plastics material, ceramics or rubber, including steel or polyurethanes, or any combination of these, preferably a non-metal material. Due to the longitudinal lengths each keyway arrangement may extend along an object and in order to keep the weight down, each keyway arrangement may include an inner-foam core.

[0050] Each keyway arrangement may include any suitable number of keyways and the keyways may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, provided that they can engage and preferably retain the keys of the keyway connector so as to lock and form a secure join. In a preferred embodiment, at least one or each keyway is in the form of a hook and at least one or each key is shaped so as to be retained by the hook.

[0051] Each keyway may have a connector- support portion and a key -retaining portion. The connector-support portion may extend beneath the keyway connector and the key-retaining portion may extend around or partway around a key. The key -retaining portion may be arcuate, angular or both.

[0052] The keyways of the keyway arrangements may intermesh with one another in any suitable way. The keyways when intermeshed may be supported beneath by a longitudinal edge region of an opposing longitudinal edge of the jacket component or component pieces.

[0053] The keyway connector may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made in any suitable material or materials. The keyway connector may consist of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), plastics material, polyurethanes, ceramics or rubber, including alloy, metal or steel, or any combination of these. Preferably, however, as with the keyway arrangements, the keyway connector may consist of a non-metal material.

[0054] The keyway connector may include an arrangement of keys, and may be insertable and slideable within the keyway passage relative to the keyways at least one pitch length such that the keys engage with the keyways so as to lock the keyway arrangements together and clamp the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces together. The keyway connector may further include a handle portion or tool-knock lug to assist a user in driving the keyway connector into place. Furthermore, the keyway connector may include one or more travel stops to prevent the keyway connector from being overdriven into the keyway passage.

[0055] The keyway connector may be of unitary construction or may comprise two or more detachably connected pieces. An end of a first keyway connector piece may interference fit with an end of an adjacent second keyway connector piece.

[0056] For example, when more than one of the at least one jacket component is joined end to end to extend along a portion of a longitudinal length of an object, the jacket components may be joined such that the keyway arrangements substantially align to form a continuous keyway passage to receive one or more serially inserted keyway connector pieces. Preferably, the respective ends of the keyway connector pieces may then interference fit with one another.

[0057] The keyways and keyway connector pieces may engage so that they may be releasably unlocked or they may engage so that they cannot be unlocked without destroying the joint. This may be achieved in any suitable way.

[0058] For example, an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece may be locked in place by one or more locking bolts adapted to be received in coinciding apertures located in the upper end of the uppermost keyway connector piece and in the underlying keyway arrangements and/or the at least one jacket component.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, a locking device may be secured to an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece to lock the aligned keyway connector pieces in place and prevent disengagement of the keyway connector pieces from the joined keyways by being slid in an upwards longitudinal direction. The locking device may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0060] Typically, the locking device may be an elongate member with two opposed end portions including a first end portion that engages or extends over an upper end of the uppermost keyway connector piece and a second end portion that extends into the void defined between the at least one jacket component and the object or perimeter. The second end portion may extend into the void to any suitable depth such that it may be at least partially immersed in the settable filler once poured or pumped into the void. The second end portion may further include one or more apertures configured to receive settable filler and mechanically key in the locking device with the settable filler thereby providing a more integrated bond between the locking device and the settable filler.

[0061] The jacket components may be joined end to end to extend along a length of the object or to extend as a perimeter in any suitable manner. The method of joining may be like the connecting mechanism generally or specifically described above. The connecting mechanism may of integral construction with the jacket pieces or not. The connecting mechanism may provide a water-tight seal or not. The connecting mechanism may include a gasket or sealing member and/or sealing agent as described above.

[0062] For example, adjacent jacket component ends may each include mateable flange portions or include a spigot and socket joint.

[0063] Typically, an end of a first jacket component or component pieces thereof may include a spigot insertable into a socket end of an adjacent second jacket component or component pieces thereof. The socket end will preferably be sized and shaped to snugly receive the spigot.

[0064] The jacket assembly may include at least one spacer extendible from the at least one jacket component towards the object to correctly position the at least one jacket component relative to the object and define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and formed from any suitable material or materials. The at least one spacer may be manufactured using pultrusion, extrusion or a similar continuous linear method, and then cut to the desired length. The length may be, for example, 100, 125, 150mm or any other suitable length, including up to the full at least one jacket component length (or length of jacket components connected end to end). The at least one spacer may have a cross section which is, for example, substantially T-shaped, triangular or wedge shaped, C-shaped or I-shaped. For example, the spacer may be as illustrated in the figures of this specification.

[0065] The at least one spacer may be connected or connectable to the at least one jacket component in any suitable way. The at least one spacer may be of integral construction/unitary construction with the at least one jacket component, or the at least one spacer may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. For example, the at least one spacer may extend from an inner surface of the least one jacket component. For example, the least one spacer may be affixed directly to an inner surface of the at least one jacket component by adhesive, resin or other mechanical fastening mechanism (eg. clip or screw).

[0066] Preferably, by correctly positioning the at least one jacket component relative to the object and defining the void, the at least one spacer accelerates the fitting of the jacket assembly to the object. Advantageously, the at least one spacer also mechanically keys in the at least one jacket component via the spacer into the settable filler, once added to the void, to provide a more integrated bond between the object and the at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly.

[0067] It is to be understood that, when used as formwork, one or more spacers may be used to also mechanically key the at least one jacket component via the spacer into the settable filler, once added to the void, to provide a more integrated bond between the filler and the at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly

[0068] The at least one spacer may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made in any suitable material or materials. The at least one spacer may consist of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), plastics material, polyurethanes, ceramics or rubber, including alloy, metal or steel, or any combination of these, but preferably a non-metal material. Preferably, the at least one spacer may consist of a non-metal material and may be resistant to U.V. damage and harsh marine environments and typically have a service life of between about 20 and 25 years.

[0069] The at least one spacer may be of unitary construction or may include two or more spacer pieces. The at least one spacer may include a bracket piece attachable to, engageable with, or mountable to an inner surface of the at least one jacket component or component pieces thereof and an arm piece configured to radially extend from the bracket piece/at least one jacket component toward the structural member/object.

[0070] Preferably, the arm piece may extend substantially perpendicularly from the bracket piece to correctly position the at least one jacket component relative to the object and define the void between the object and the at least one jacket component. [0071] The bracket piece and arm piece may be connected together by any suitable means. For example, the bracket piece and arm piece may be spot welded or fastened together with, for examples, nuts and bolts. For example, a tongue in groove arrangement or retaining slot arrangement may be used. For example, the arm piece may have a narrow section or neck that extends within and is retained relative to a groove or slot of the bracket piece. For example, an adjacent T-shaped end of the arm piece may be fitted into a corresponding groove or slot defined in an inwardly facing face of the bracket piece (relative to the object).

[0072] Preferably, the at least one spacer may be of adjustable radial length. This may be achieved by for instance unfastening the arm piece from the bracket piece, adjusting the radial length of the arm piece and re-fastening the arm piece to the bracket piece. Alternatively, this may be achieved by having one or more exchangeable arm pieces of differing radial lengths that may be interchangeably fitted or fastened to the bracket piece.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the bracket piece may be an elongate member having an open-ended groove extending partway along the longitudinal length of the bracket piece. The bracket may be attachable to the inner surface of the at least one jacket component by opposed longitudinal edges, which may also define a channel between a central portion of the bracket piece including the open-ended groove and the inner surface of the at least one jacket component.

[0074] The arm piece may be of unitary, one piece construction and have a substantially T- shaped cross section. The arm piece may include an elongate retention member or plate having outer longitudinal edges and a spacing member or plate intersecting and extending outwardly and intermediate the outer longitudinal edges of the retention member or plate. The retention member or plate of the arm piece may be suitably sized and shaped to be received within the channel defined between the central portion of the bracket piece and the inner surface of the at least one jacket component.

[0075] Likewise, the open-ended groove may be suitably sized and shaped to receive the spacing member when the retention portion is received in the defined space. In use, the radial length of the spacers may be adjusted by interchangeably fitting arm pieces as described above of desired radial lengths to the bracket pieces as described above.

[0076] Preferably, the arm piece, as with the second end portion of the locking device, may define one or more apertures configured to receive settable filler, once added, and mechanically key in the at least one jacket component via the arm piece into the settable filler to provide a more integrated bond between the at least one jacket component and the settable filler.

[0077] Typically, the assembly may include a plurality of spacers extending from the at least one jacket component towards the object or generally within the void defined by the perimeter. The spacers may be positioned such that the spacers are spaced equidistantly around the object (or along the perimeter) relative to the longitudinal axis of the object. However, this spacing need not be equidistant and will depend on the shape of the object or shape of the perimeter.

[0078] The settable filler may be any filler suitably adapted to fill and set within the void defined between the at least one jacket component and the object, or perimeter.

[0079] For instance, in the case of an object in the form of a structural member, the filler may be concrete, concrete aggregate, a cementitious or epoxy grout, a sealant or an adhesive. The type of filler may be dependent on the nature of the object/structural member - e.g., wood, concrete or steel. Preferably, the filler may be any suitable water-displacing filler able to provide a durable well bonded repair to concrete, steel or timber objects/structural members above or below water.

[0080] For instance, in the case of another type of object, no filler may be needed. However, if needed, the filler may be concrete, concrete aggregate, a cementitious or epoxy grout, a sealant, a corrosion retardant, an inhibitor or an adhesive. The concrete or grout may or may not include other admixtures and fibrous materials. The sealant or adhesive may be insoluble, non-conducting or corrosion resistant. It is preferably a liquid, although it need not be free-flowing. Examples include silicone-based sealants, drying adhesives (eg. solvent based adhesives and polymer dispersion adhesives), contact adhesives (eg. natural rubber and polychloroprene), one-part adhesives (eg. cyanoacrylates and urethanes) and multi-part adhesives (polyester resin - polyurethane resin, polyols - polyurethane resin, and acrylic polymers - polyurethane resins).

[0081] In the case of a formwork perimeter, the filler may be concrete or concrete aggregate, for example. The type of filler may be dependent on the nature of the task at hand. For example, the formwork perimeter may be used for casting concrete piles in-situ.

[0082] The filler may be poured or pumped into the void defined between the at least one jacket component and the object or perimeter void.

[0083] If poured, the filler may be poured into the void over a top edge at an upper open end of the at least one jacket component.

[0084] If pumped, the filler may be pumped using any suitable pumping system into the void by one or more inlets defined at various locations in the at least one jacket component, preferably via one or more inlets located at or near a lowermost end of the at least one jacket component. Each inlet may be sealable or include a one-way valve to prevent unintentional egress of filler.

[0085] To ensure an even distribution of filler around the object or within the perimeter, the filler may be poured or pumped from various locations around a circumference of the at least one jacket component. Furthermore, to prevent the ingress of water, the filler may be poured or pumped until a downward gradient is formed from the object to an outer uppermost edge of the at least one jacket component.

[0086] The assembly may further include a bottom seal when a lowermost jacket component is unable to form a seal with a ground substrate/surface. The bottom seal may be of any suitable size, shape and construction, and may be made of any suitable material or materials.

[0087] The bottom seal may include a clamp. The clamp may extend around the jacket component and/or object. The clamp may be in the form of a clamping collar, and preferably the clamping collar comprises two or more clamping collar pieces that may be connected together. In an embodiment, the clamping collar pieces may have longitudinally extending flanges that are connectable together with fasteners, such as screws, nuts and bolts or rivets. In another embodiment, the clamping collar pieces may further include radially extending flanges for supporting an end of the jacket component. For example, this could be useful for mid- object/structural member installations above a ground substrate/surface. If abutting a ground substrate/surface, a clamp may not be required.

[0088] The bottom seal may include a sealing member. The sealing member may extend around the object and between the jacket component and the object. The sealing member may be in the form of a sealing collar or ring, and the sealing collar or ring may include two or more sealing pieces that may be connected together. In an embodiment, the sealing pieces may have longitudinally extending flanges for connecting the sealing pieces together. In another embodiment, the sealing pieces may further have radially extending flanges for sealing against like radial flanges of the clamping collar pieces and a lowermost end of a jacket component.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the bottom seal comprises a clamp and a sealing member, whereby the clamp secures the sealing member and/or jacket component to the object. For mid- structural member/object installations, the sealing member may extend between the clamp and the structural member/object. Alternatively, the sealing member may extend between the structural member/object and the jacket component, and the clamp may extend around the sealing member between the structural member/object and the jacket component.

[0090] The clamp may be permanently clamped or releasably clamped to the structural member/object, preferably releasably clamped.

[0091] In one preferred embodiment, the bottom seal includes a clamp and sealing member, wherein the sealing member may extend between the object and the jacket component, and the clamp may extend around the sealing member between the object and the jacket component.

[0092] The clamp may be in the form of a clamping collar including at least two clamping collar pieces that may be extended around the object and be connected together, preferably via longitudinally extending flanges that are connectable together with fasteners, such as screws, nuts and bolts or rivets. Each clamping collar piece may include a radially extending flange portion which when connected with one or more like radially extending flange portions from other clamping collar pieces forms a flange portion suitably sized and shaped to receive and support a jacket assembly placed atop the clamp.

[0093] The sealing member may be in the form of a sealing collar or ring adapted to fit between the at least two clamping collar pieces and the object and between the at least two clamping collar pieces and a lowermost end of a jacket component. The sealing member may include at least two connectable sealing collar pieces that may be extended around the structural member or object and be connected together, preferably via longitudinally extending flanges that are connectable together with the same fasteners used to fasten the longitudinally extending flanges of the clamping collar pieces.

[0094] Each sealing collar piece may further include a radially extending flange portion adapted to sit atop the radially extending flange portion of a corresponding clamping collar piece. To ensure a substantially water-tight seal, an edge of the radially extending flange portion of a sealing collar piece may, when connected together with a like sealing collar piece, lie atop or overlap the radially extending flange portion of the like sealing collar piece.

[0095] Preferably, the sealing member may provide a substantially water-tight seal between the connectable collar pieces and the object and between the connectable collar pieces and the jacket assembly. The sealing member may be formed from any suitable material or materials such as, for example, closed foam, rubber, expanding resin or a like material suitably adapted to form a seal.

[0096] In another preferred embodiment, the clamp may be in the form of a strap or band adapted to sealingly extend and clamp around the object, and the sealing member may be in the form of a sealing skirt extending from the strap or band (or hem of the sealing skirt) to sealingly engage with a lowermost end of the at least one jacket component.

[0097] The sealing skirt may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and formed from any suitable material or materials to sealingly surround the object and sealingly engage with the at least one jacket component. For instance, the sealing skirt may formed from closed foam, rubber, expanding resin or a like material suitably adapted to form a seal between the object and a lowermost end of the at least one jacket component. Preferably, the sealing skirt may be formed from a flexible and durable material able to withstand the weight of the filler being added to the void between the at least one jacket component and the object. For example, the sealing skirt may be formed from a material such as neoprene.

[0098] The strap or band may be formed from any suitable material and may include a mechanism to tighten and loosen the strap or band around the object, such as, for example, a ratchet mechanism, teethed strap or draw string.

[0099] The clamp and sealing skirt may be pre-fitted to the at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly prior to being assembled around an object or may be initially fitted to the object and subsequently fitted to the at least one jacket component. Preferably the sealing skirt is pre-fitted to the at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly.

[00100] Typically the sealing skirt may further define a split with connectable edges extending from the hem of the skirt to the lowermost end of the at least one jacket component for positioning the sealing skirt around the object. Preferably, the split substantially aligns with the longitudinal edges of the at least one jacket component or component pieces to be joined. The connectable edges of the split may be connected together in any suitable manner. For example, the edges may be connected by a zip fastener or a hook-and-loop fastener, preferably by a zip fastener. Whilst it is to be appreciated that the zip fastener may be formed from any suitable material, preferably the material is marine stable, i.e., typically a non-metal material.

[00101] Typically, once the sealing skirt is in place and the at least one jacket component has been fitted, the at least one jacket component may be slid down over the strap or band with the sealing skirt extending between the strap or band and the at least one jacket component.

[00102] The jacket assembly may further include reinforcement. Reinforcement may provide structural strengthening as well as prevent cracking of the settable filler. Any suitable type of reinforcement, including admixtures and micro-reinforcement fibres, may be used.

[00103] In an embodiment, reinforcement may extend along an inner surface of the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be of integral construction with the at least one jacket component or separate from, but connectable to, the at least one jacket component using adhesives or mechanical connectors (such as clips). For example, reinforcing strips or ribs may extend along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component to provide additional axial structure strengthening. Such reinforcing strips or ribs in combination with the radial or hoop strength of the at least one jacket component itself, can reduce or even eliminate need for additional strengthening members, mesh or similar. Such strips or ribs may not inhibit or restrict outward flex in a circumferential direction during installation around an object.

[00104] The reinforcement (reinforcing strips or ribs) may be of any suitable cross -section. The strip or rib may be, for example, I-shaped, H-shaped, C-shaped or U-shaped. The strip or rib may also be a circle, half circle, quarter circle, circular section, parabolic, parabolic half, ellipse, elliptical half, triangle, rectangle, isosceles trapezoid or trapezoid, for example.

[00105] The reinforcement may provide mechanical keying into settable filler to provide significant structural strengthening advantages. The reinforcement may have profiles similar to those of the at least one spacer.

[00106] In an embodiment, the reinforcement is of integral construction with the at least one jacket component, thereby saving considerable time and cost of site works and methods to fit on site.

[00107] In another embodiment, the reinforcement is in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh. The mesh can be, for example, carbon fibre grid mesh, glass fibre grid mesh, geomesh, polymer grid mesh, or conventional steel reinforcement grid mesh.

[00108] Reinforcing mesh may be fitted to the object, made to extend within the void between the object and the at least one jacket component, or connected to the inner surface of the least one jacket component. If fitted to an object prior to installation of the at least one jacket component, then the settable filler can be added to the void. If connected to the inner surface of the at least one jacket component, it can be connected in any suitable way, including using an adhesive, resin or mechanical fastening mechanism (eg. clip or screw).

[00109] In use, the jacket assembly of the present invention may be fitted along any portion of a longitudinal length of an object. If fitted to a portion adjacent a ground substrate able to form a seal with the at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly, a bottom seal may not be needed. Otherwise, a bottom seal such as sealing skirt and clamp or a clamp and sealing member or object may be used to fix the at least one jacket component in place. Typically, a bottom seal in the form of a clamp and sealing skirt may be used unless the dead load from the settable filler, once added, is likely to cause structural failure, in which case a bottom seal in the form of a clamping collar together with an inner sealing collar may be used instead.

[00110] The at least one jacket component or component pieces thereof may then be fitted to the object by extending the jacket component or component pieces around the object and connecting the longitudinal edges together with the connecting mechanism. The keyway arrangements of the connecting mechanism may be locked together by two or more keyway connector pieces that are serially inserted and slid, preferably downwards, into the continuous keyway passage defined by the intermeshed keyway arrangements to clamp the longitudinal edges together.

[00111] Typically, at least one spacer extending from the inner face of the jacket component toward the structural member ensures the at least one jacket component is correctly positioned relative to the object. That is, the at least one jacket component is concentrically or in a sense concentrically positioned relative to the object. Furthermore, the at least one spacer may facilitate in defining a void between the object and the at least one jacket component. [00112] Depending on the longitudinal length of the portion of the object, more than one jacket component may need to be fitted end to end to extend along the longitudinal length of the portion of the object.

[00113] If necessary, a reinforcing mesh or other type of reinforcement may be fitted.

[00114] Once the desired longitudinal length has been covered with one or more jacket components, the settable filler is added either by pouring over an open upper end of the uppermost jacket component or by pumping the filler via one more inlets located at or near a lower end of the lowermost jacket component.

[00115] The settable filler may be poured or pumped into the void defined between the one or more jacket components and the object until a downward gradient is formed from the structural member to an outer upper edge of the uppermost jacket component to prevent the ingress of water.

[00116] Optionally, prior to completely filling the void with the settable filler, a locking device may be secured to an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece to lock the aligned keyway connector pieces in place and prevent disengagement of the keyway connector pieces from the joined keyway arrangements by being slid in an upwards longitudinal direction relative to the keyway arrangements.

[00117] According to second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of installing a jacket assembly to an object, the method including:

fitting to the object at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object, said at least one jacket component defining a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and

pumping a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

[00118] The object may be a structural member or a non- structural member as described above according to the first aspect. If a structural member, it may be a previously installed pile, or a newly installed pile. That is, the jacket assembly need not be used only for the protection or repair of old or weathered/degraded/corroded/rotted/eroded piles. Other steps of the method can be gleaned from the assembly as described according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[00119] For example, the method may further include the step of installing a bottom seal such as clamp and/or a sealing skirt for when the jacket assembly is to be fitted in a position along the longitudinal length of the object other than against a ground substrate, e.g., for mid- structural member/object installations, or when a seal in unable to be formed between the ground substrate and the jacket assembly.

[00120] For example, the method may further include the step of installing a locking device to an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece to lock the aligned keyway connector pieces in place and prevent disengagement of the keyway connector pieces from the joined keyway arrangements by being slid in an upwards longitudinal direction relative to the keyway arrangements.

[00121] According to third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of installing a jacket assembly to an object, the method including:

fitting to the object at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object, said at least one jacket component optionally defining a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally, using a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

[00122] Other steps of the method can be gleaned from the first aspect of the present invention.

[00123] According to fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a jacket assembly as formwork, the method including:

extending at least one jacket component as a perimeter to define a void; and optionally

filling the void with a settable filler.

[00124] The jacket assembly may be in the form of reusable formwork. That is, it may be removed from the settable filler (once set) for re-use. It can be used to encapsulate old piles with, say, concrete repairs but excludes the jacket remaining in-situ. Alternatively, the jacket may also be used as a cast-in-place formwork for casting concrete piles in-situ.

[00125] Other steps of the method can be gleaned from the first aspect of the present invention.

[00126] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a jacket component, a bottom seal, at least one spacer or other assembly components (as described above) when used in the jacket assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention or the method according to the second, third or fourth aspects of the present invention.

[00127] The assembly may overcome conventional issues of being able to withstand pumping/pouring pressures during installation without need for straps, ties, bracing or supports.

[00128] In one or more embodiments, the assembly may be faster and more convenient to install than other conventional means (half-moon shells fitted with metallic fasteners (bolted flanges, tongue and groove joints etc), non-metallic jackets that still require steel screws, fasteners, straps etc).

[00129] The at least one jacket component may stay in its intended shape during installation, pumping and filler processes.

[00130] In one or more embodiments, the assembly may be completely non-metallic in construction.

[00131] In one or more embodiments, the assembly may be used to provide structural strengthening of the object, with or without additional reinforcement.

[00132] In one or more embodiments, the assembly may be fully manufactured in a factory environment and delivered to site ready to use immediately with only few steps to complete installation. No mixing/application of harsh chemicals, pre-assembly required prior to use or multiple processes to fit such as multiple fasteners, screws, straps and similar. This also reduces the risk of human or applicator errors.

[00133] Preferred definitions of the invention are recited below together with preferred features of the invention. However, is to be understood that the preferred features recited below can be features of other aspects or embodiments of the invention (as recited here, above or elsewhere in this specification). It is also to be understood that features of other aspects or embodiments of the invention (as recited above, here or elsewhere in this specification) can be features of these preferred definitions of the invention. This means that features of a recited method can be features of a recited assembly, and vice versa. Put another way, any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[00134] A preferred definition of the invention relates to a method of installing a jacket assembly to protect, repair and/or structurally strengthen an object, the method including: extending at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly around the object, wherein the at least one jacket component has opposed edges; and connecting the opposed edges together such that the at least one jacket component extends completely around the object.

[00135] The method may further include the step of providing a void between the object and the at least one jacket component. The method may further include the step of using a settable filler to fill and set within the void. The method may further include the step of using at least one spacer of the jacket assembly to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component toward the object. The method may further include the step of using a bottom seal of the jacket assembly when the at least one jacket component is unable to form a seal with a ground substrate/surface.

[00136] The jacket assembly may include reinforcement and the method may include the step of using the reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler. The jacket assembly may include at least one connecting mechanism for connecting the opposed edges of the least one jacket component together. The at least one jacket component may comprise connectable jacket component pieces that are connectable together to extend around the object. The method may include the step of extending more than one said at least one jacket component around the object such that the jacket components are connected end to end.

[00137] The at least one spacer may extend substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component toward the object. The at least one spacer may be of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may mechanically key in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler. The method may include using a plurality of spacers extending from the at least one jacket component towards the object. The method may include the step of using a plurality of said at least one spacer such that the spacers are spaced substantially around the object.

[00138] The settable filler may be concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant or an adhesive. The reinforcement may be in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is fitted to the object, made to extend within the void between the object and the at least one jacket component, or connected to the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may extend along an inner surface of the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be of integral construction with the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may provide mechanical keying into the settable filler.

[00139] The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism may extend along each said opposed edge. The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges may correspond with each side of the split. The jacket component pieces may be connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism, The jacket components may be connected end to end using a connecting mechanism comprising mateable flange portions or a spigot and socket joint. The method may further include the step of using a locking device such that the at least one jacket component cannot be removed from the object.

[00140] The object may be at least one structural member or at least one non- structural member. The object may be a pile, pipe, pipeline, column, footing, foundation, riser, cable, ducting or casing located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment. The object may be located in a marine environment or at least partially submerged in water.

[00141] The at least one jacket component may be formed from a fibre reinforced polymer. The at least one jacket component may have a thickness of about 3mm. The settable filler may be for use underwater. The settable filler may be poured into the void. The settable filler may be pumped into the void via one or more inlets in the at least one jacket component. The jacket assembly may be completely non-metallic in construction.

[00142] Another preferred definition of the invention relates to a method of using a jacket assembly as formwork, the method including: extending at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly as a perimeter, wherein the at least one jacket component has opposed edges; connecting the opposed edges together to define a void; and filling the void with a settable filler.

[00143] The method may include the step of using at least one spacer of the jacket assembly to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component to with the void. The jacket assembly may include reinforcement and the method may include the step of using the reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler. The jacket assembly may include at least one connecting mechanism for connecting the opposed edges of the least one jacket component together. The at least one jacket component may comprise connectable jacket component pieces. The method may include the step of extending more than one said at least one jacket component such that the jacket components are connected end to end.

[00144] The least one spacer may extend substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may mechanically key in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler. The method may include using a plurality of spacers extending from the at least one jacket component. The method may include the step of using a plurality of said at least one spacer such that the spacers are spaced substantially around the perimeter.

[00145] The settable filler may be concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant or an adhesive. The reinforcement may be in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is made to extend within the void or connected to the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may extend along an inner surface of the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be of integral construction with the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may provide mechanical keying into the settable filler.

[00146] The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism may extend along each said opposed edge. The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges may correspond with each side of the split. The component pieces may be connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism. The at least one jacket component may be formed from a fibre reinforced polymer. The at least one jacket component may have a thickness of about 3mm. The at least one jacket component may be reusable.

[00147] The method may be for casting a concrete object in-situ. The object may be a pile, column, footing, casing, manhole or foundation located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment.

[00148] The jacket assembly and the settable filler may be used to protect and structurally strengthen the object.

[00149] Yet another preferred definition of the invention relates to a jacket assembly: (1) for protecting, repairing and/or structurally strengthening an object, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object and define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void; (2) for use as formwork, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend as a perimeter to define a void; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void; or (3) for use as an outer protective layer for an object, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object so as to provide protection and optionally define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

[00150] The jacket assembly may further include at least one spacer adapted to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component. The jacket assembly may further include a bottom seal for use when the at least one jacket component is unable to form a seal with a ground substrate/surface. The jacket assembly may further include reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler. The jacket assembly may further include at least one connecting mechanism for connecting opposed edges of the least one jacket component together. The at least one jacket component may comprise connectable jacket component pieces that are connectable together. The jacket assembly may further include two or more said at least one jacket components that are connectable end to end.

[00151] The at least one spacer may extend substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The at least one spacer may mechanically key in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler. A plurality of said at least one spacer may extend from the at least one jacket component

[00152] The jacket assembly may be adapted to contain settable filler such as concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant or an adhesive. The reinforcement may be in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is fitted to the object, may be made to extend within the void between the object and the at least one jacket component, or may be connected to the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may extend along an inner surface of the least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be of integral construction with the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be connectable to the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may be in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component. The reinforcement may provide mechanical keying into the settable filler.

[00153] The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism may extend along each said opposed edge. The at least one jacket component may be in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges may correspond with each side of the split. The component pieces may be connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism. The said jacket components may be connected end to end using a connecting mechanism comprising mateable flange portions or a spigot and socket joint. The jacket assembly may further include a locking device such that the at least one jacket component cannot be removed from the object.

[00154] The object may be at least one structural member or at least one non- structural member. The object may be a pile, pipe, pipeline, column, footing, foundation, cable, ducting or casing located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment. The object may be located in a marine environment or at least partially submerged in water. The at least one jacket component may be formed from a fibre reinforced polymer. The at least one jacket component may have a thickness of about 3mm. The jacket assembly may be completely non-metallic in construction. The jacket assembly and the settable filler may be used to protect and structurally strengthen the object.

[00155]

[00156] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00157] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00158] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a jacket component and connecting mechanism of a jacket assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00159] Figure 2 is a side view of the jacket component and connecting mechanism shown in Figure 1 ;

[00160] Figure 3A is perspective view of two jacket components like the one shown in Figures 1 and 2 connected together end to end;

[00161] Figure 3B is an exploded view of the end to end connected jacket components shown in Figure 3 A;

[00162] Figure 4 A is a top perspective view of a portion of the jacket component and connecting mechanism shown in Figures 1 and 2 but fitted with a spacer of the assembly, said spacer including a bracket piece and an arm piece;

[00163] Figure 4B is an end view of Figure 4 A but showing more than one spacer of the assembly situated relative to an object that is shown in broken outline;

[00164] Figure 4C is the end view as shown in Figure 4B showing only the bracket pieces of the spacers (i.e., with the arm pieces of the spacers removed);

[00165] Figure 5A is a perspective view of one of the bracket pieces shown in Figure 4C;

[00166] Figure 5B is a front view of the bracket piece shown in Figure 5 A;

[00167] Figure 5C is an end view of the bracket piece shown in Figures 5 A and 5B;

[00168] Figure 6A is a perspective view showing the arm piece of the spacer as shown in Figure 4 A;

[00169] Figure 6B is an end view of the arm piece shown in Figure 6A;

[00170] Figure 6C is a side view of the arm piece shown in Figures 6A and 6B;

[00171] Figure 7A shows an end view of two intermeshed keyway members that form part of a connecting mechanism of the jacket assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention; [00172] Figure 7B is a front view of one of two intermeshed keyway members of the connecting mechanism shown in Figure 7A;

[00173] Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of the keyway member shown in Figure 7B;

[00174] Figure 8 A is a perspective view of a keyway connector piece that forms another part of the connecting mechanism and engages with the keyway members shown in Figure 7A;

[00175] Figure 8B is a front view of the keyway connector piece shown in Figure 8A;

[00176] Figure 8C is a side view of the keyway connector piece shown in Figures 8A and 8B;

[00177] Figure 8D is an end view of the keyway connector piece shown in Figures 8A to 8C;

[00178] Figure 9A is a side view of the connected jacket components shown in Figure 3A but further showing a bottom seal in the form of a clamp and sealing skirt of the assembly in an initial install position and fitted to an object/structural member such as a concrete pile;

[00179] Figure 9B is an enlarged sectional side view of the sealing skirt shown in Figure 9A;

[00180] Figure 10A is the connected jacket components with the sealing skirt shown in Figure 9A but in a final install position;

[00181] Figure 10B is an enlarged sectional side view of the sealing skirt shown in Figure 10A and further showing part of an object/structural member;

[00182] Figure 11A is a perspective view of a jacket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when fitted to an object/structural member such as a concrete pile;

[00183] Figure 1 IB is a sectional side view of the jacket assembly shown in Figure 11A fitted to an object/structural member;

[00184] Figure 12A is a top view of a bottom seal including a clamp according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00185] Figure 12B is a perspective view of the clamp shown in Figure 12A together with a sealing member;

[00186] Figure 12C is an exploded view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figure 12B;

[00187] Figure 12D is a side view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figures 12B and 12C;

[00188] Figure 12E is another side view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figures 12B to 12D;

[00189] Figure 13 A is a top view of a bottom seal including a clamp and sealing member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00190] Figure 13B is a perspective view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figure 13A;

[00191] Figure 13C is an exploded view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figures 13A and 13B;

[00192] Figure 13D is a side view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figures 13 A to 13C;

[00193] Figure 13E is another side view of the clamp and sealing member shown in Figures 13A to 13D;

[00194] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00195] Figure 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a locking device fitted to an upper end of a key way connector piece as shown in Figures 8 A to 8C;

[00196] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an upper end of a key way connector piece as shown in Figures 8 A to 8C but with two locking bolts;

[00197] Figure 17A is a cross sectional view of the jacket assembly as shown in Figures 11 A and 1 IB fitted to an object/structural member having a circular cross section;

[00198] Figure 17B is another cross sectional view of the jacket assembly as shown in Figure 17A but fitted to an object/structural member having an octagonal cross section;

[00199] Figure 17C is another cross sectional view of the jacket assembly as shown in Figure 17A but fitted to an object/structural member having an I-shaped cross section (an I- beam);

[00200] Figure 17D is another cross sectional view of the jacket assembly as shown in Figure 17A but fitted to an object/structural member having a square-shaped cross section;

[00201] Figure 18 is a cross sectional view of a jacket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention fitted to an object/structural member with an I-shaped cross section (an I-beam);

[00202] Figure 19 is a cross sectional view of a jacket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention fitted to an object/structural member with a square-shaped cross section;

[00203] Figure 20A is a top view of a jacket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention including a plurality of jacket component pieces joined longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge to extend around an object/structural member having a large circular cross- sectional area;

[00204] Figure 20B is a perspective view of the jacket assembly shown in Figure 20A;

[00205] Figure 20C is a side view of the jacket assembly shown in Figures 20A and 20B;

[00206] Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of another type of connecting mechanism for joining longitudinal edges of jacket components together;

[00207] Figure 22 is a detailed side elevation view of a reinforced jacket component and connecting mechanism of a jacket assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00208] Figure 23 is an end view of that shown in Figure 22;

[00209] Figure 24 shows, in part, cross-sectional views of different types of reinforced jacket components;

[00210] Figure 25 is a cross sectional view of a jacket assembly and cylindrical object, including a jacket component, connecting mechanism and mesh reinforcement;

[00211] Figure 26 shows the mesh reinforcement of Figure 25 in greater detail;

[00212] Figure 27 is a cross sectional view of a jacket assembly and cylindrical object, including a mesh reinforced jacket component and connecting mechanism;

[00213] Figure 28 shows the mesh reinforcement of Figure 27 in greater detail; and

[00214] Figure 29 shows cross-sectional views of various spacers of the jacket assembly, according to embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00215] Figures 9 to 11, for example, show a jacket assembly (10) for an object such as a concrete, timber or steel structural member (5) such as a pile (hereafter referred to as a "pile"). The jacket assembly (10) includes: jacket components (20) adapted to extend around the pile (5); spacers (30) extending from each jacket component (20) towards the pile (5) so as to correctly position each jacket component (20) relative to the pile (5) and define a void/annulus (40) between the pile (5) and the jacket component (20); connecting mechanisms (60) for joining longitudinal edges of each jacket component (20) together; and a bottom seal including a sealing skirt (80) and/or clamp (90) and sealing member (100) for sealing a lower-most end of a jacket component (20). The jacket assembly (10) optionally further includes a settable filler (50) for filling and setting within the void/annulus (40).

[00216] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, each jacket component (20) is in the form of a longitudinally split tube/pipe. Two longitudinal halves of the jacket component (20) are in essence two jacket component pieces/regions (22) longitudinally hinged together. The jacket component pieces/regions (22) can flex apart and toward one another because of the longitudinal hinge. This enables the jacket pieces/regions (22) to be flexed apart and receive a pile.

[00217] Each split tube/pipe (20) has longitudinal edges that are connectable together using a connecting mechanism (60) of the assembly (10) such that the jacket component (20) extends completely and sealingly around the pile. Each jacket component (20) is of single layer construction and formed from a fibre reinforced polymer such as glass fibre reinforced polymer. [00218] Each jacket component (20) has a thickness of about 3mm and is of modular design (i.e., formed in standard longitudinal lengths).

[00219] Referring to Figures 3 A and 3B, each jacket component (20) is connectable end to end to one or more like jacket components (20) to extend along the longitudinal length of a pile.

[00220] Best shown in Figure 3A, the jacket components (20) are connectable end to end by way of a spigot and socket joint. An end of a first jacket component (20) includes a spigot (24) insertable into a socket end (26) of the adjacently positioned jacket component (20).

[00221] Best shown in Figure 4B, the spacers (30) extend inwards from each jacket component (20) to correctly position each jacket component (20) relative to the pile (5) and to define the void/annulus (40) between the jacket components (20) and the pile (5). The spacers (30) are equidistantly spaced around an inner surface of the jacket component (20).

[00222] As best shown in Figures 5A to 5C and 6A to 6C, each spacer (30) is of two-part construction including a bracket piece (31), which is attached to an inner surface of the jacket component (20), and an arm piece (32) configured to extend toward the pile (5).

[00223] Referring to Figures 5A to 5C, each bracket piece (31) is an elongate plate-like member having an open-ended groove (34) extending partway along the longitudinal length of the elongate member.

[00224] Best shown in Figure 5C, the bracket piece (31) is adhered with adhesive to the inner surface of the jacket component (20) by the opposed longitudinal edges (36), which also define a channel between a central portion of the bracket piece (31) including the open-ended groove (34) and the inner surface of the jacket component (20).

[00225] Referring to Figures 6A to 6C, the arm piece (32) is of unitary, one piece construction and as best shown in Figure 6B has a substantially T-shaped cross section.

[00226] Referring to Figure 6A, the arm piece (32) includes an elongate retention plate (37) having outer longitudinal edges (39) and a spacing plate (38) intersecting and extending outwardly and intermediate the edges (39) of the retention plate (37). Each spacing plate (38) defines two apertures (38a) configured to receive settable filler, once added, to mechanically key in the jacket component via the arm piece (32) into the settable filler and provide a more integrated bond between the jacket component and the settable filler. [00227] In use, the arm piece (32) is releasably connected to the bracket piece (31) by aligning and inserting the retention plate (37) into the channel defined between the central portion of the bracket piece (31) and the inner surface of the jacket component (20) such that the spacing plate (38) is received in the corresponding groove (34). In this way the radial length of the spacers (30) can be adjusted; that is, arm pieces (32) with spacing plates (38) of differing radial lengths can be interchangeably fitted to bracket pieces (31).

[00228] Figures 7A to 7C and 8A to 8D show a connecting mechanism (60) for connecting the longitudinal edges of the jacket component (20) together. The connecting mechanism (60) includes two keyway arrangements (62) as shown in Figures 7A to 7C, and a keyway connector (65) as shown in Figures 8A to 8D. The keyway arrangements (62) are adhered to the longitudinal edges of the jacket component (20) by a high performance adhesive, such as, for example, a methacrylate adhesive.

[00229] Referring to Figures 7A to 7C, the keyway arrangements (62) include keyways (63) spaced apart from one another and which extend along each longitudinal edge to be joined.

[00230] Best shown in Figures 7A, the respective keyways (63) of the keyway arrangements

(62) intermesh when the longitudinal edges to be joined are brought together to define a continuous keyway passage (64) extending longitudinally between the intermeshed keyways

(63) . The keyways (63) are supported/backed by opposed longitudinal edge regions of the jacket component (20).

[00231] Referring to Figures 8 A to 8D, the keyway connector (65) includes an arrangement of keys (66), and is insertable and slideable within the keyway passage (64) relative to the keyways (63) one pitch length such that the keys (66) engage with the keyways (63) so as to lock the keyway arrangements (62) together and clamp the longitudinal edges of the jacket component (20) together. That is, each key (66) engages an individual keyway (63), and since each keyway (63) hooks partway around each key (66), the keys (66) join the keyways (63) together.

[00232] As best shown in Figure 8D, the keyway connector (65) includes a tool-knock lug portion (67) to assist a user in driving the keyway connector (65) into place relative to the keyway arrangements (62).

[00233] As seen in Figures 8A and 8B, the keyway connector (65) includes travel stops (68 - only some of which have been labelled), so that the keys (66) correctly position relative to the keyways (63).

[00234] Figure 21 shows another type of connecting mechanism (200) for joining longitudinal edges (201, 202) of jacket components together. The connecting mechanism (200) includes a key connector (204), a first key arrangement comprising a plurality of regularly spaced keys (205) extending along a first edge, and a second key arrangement comprising a plurality of regularly spaced keys (206) extending along a second edge.

[00235] The key connector (204) comprises a longitudinal body (207) and a longitudinal keyway passage (208) extending between longitudinal sides (209, 210) of the body (207). Each longitudinal side has a series of spaced key retainers/hooks (211, 212). The hooks (211, 212) extend in a common plane and are regularly spaced from one another. The spacing of hooks (211, 212) matches the spacing of keys (205, 206). Each key (205, 206) also is in the form of a hook that engages a hook (211, 212) of the key connector (204).

[00236] The key arrangements can be aligned such that aligned keys (205, 206) of the key arrangements extend generally in line with a common axis and the jacket edges (201, 202) abut. In order to clamp the edges (201, 202) together, the key connector body (207) is extended over the aligned keys (205, 206) generally in line with the common axis so that the keys (205, 206) extend within the keyway passage (208) and are retained by the hooks (211, 212) of the key connector (204). This mechanism is further described in PCT/AU2011/001463.

[00237] Figures 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A and 11B show the jacket assembly fitted to a pile (5) and using a bottom seal in the form of a sealing skirt (80).

[00238] Best shown in Figures 9B, 10B and 11B, the sealing skirt (80) includes a strap or band (82) located at a hem (83) of the sealing skirt (80) that extends around the pile (5) and can be tightened or loosened by mechanical means, such as, e.g., a ratchet mechanism or drawstring. The sealing skirt (80) extends from the hem (83) of the sealing skirt (80) to sealingly engage with the jacket component (20) at or near a lowermost end of the jacket component (20).

[00239] The sealing skirt (80) further defines a split with connectable edges for extending the sealing skirt (80) around the pile (5). The connectable edges of the split are connected together with a zip-fastener. [00240] Figures 12A to 12E and 13A to 13E show other embodiments of a bottom seal including a clamp (90) and sealing member (100) for securing the jacket assembly in a position along the longitudinal length of a pile other than against a ground substrate.

[00241] Figures 12A to 12E show an embodiment of the clamp (90) and sealing member (100; shown in Figures 12B to 12E) adapted to be fitted to a pile having a substantially circular profile. The clamp (90) includes two connectable clamping collar halves (92; i.e., clamping collar pieces) that are positioned on opposite sides of a pile and connected together.

[00242] Best shown in Figure 12D, each clamping collar half (92) has a radially extending flange portion (94).

[00243] Referring to Figure 12C, the radially extending flange portion (94) when connected with a like radially extending flange portion (94) from the other clamping collar half (92) forms a flange portion (95) suitably sized and shaped to receive and support a jacket assembly placed atop the clamp (90).

[00244] Best shown in Figures 12C and 12E, the clamping collar halves (92) extend around the pile and can be connected together via longitudinally extending flanges (97) that are connectable together with fasteners, such as screws, nuts and bolts or rivets, received in apertures (98) defined in each flange (97).

[00245] Best shown in Figure 12C, a sealing member (100) is fitted between the clamp (90) and the pile. The sealing member (100) as with the clamp (90) includes two connectable sealing sleeve halves (102; i.e., sealing collar pieces). Each sealing sleeve half (102) is fitted between a clamp half (92) and the pile and between the clamp half (92) and a jacket assembly placed atop the clamp (90).

[00246] To ensure a substantially water-tight seal, a radially extending flange portion (104) of each sealing sleeve half (102) overlaps a radially extending flange portion (104) of the other sealing sleeve half (102).

[00247] The sealing sleeve halves (102) are connected together in the same fashion as the clamping collar halves (92), via longitudinally extending flanges (107) that are connectable together with the same fasteners used to fasten the longitudinally extending flanges (97) of the clamping collar halves (92). [00248] Figures 13A to 13E show another embodiment of the clamp (90) and sealing member (100) as shown in Figures 12A to 12E. In this embodiment, the clamp (90) and sealing member (100) is adapted to be fitted to a pile having a polygonal cross sectional shape.

[00249] Figures 14 and 15 show a locking device (110) for securing an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece (65) in place and preventing disengagement of the keyway connector piece (65) from the joined keyways by being slid in an upward longitudinal direction. The locking device (110) is an elongate member with two opposed end portions. A first end portion (112), which either extends over an upper end of the keyway connector piece as shown in Figure 14 or engages with the upper end of the keyway connected piece (65) as shown in Figure 15, and a second end portion (114), which extends into the void/annulus such that it is at least partially immersed in the settable filler, once added. The second end portion (114) defines one or more apertures (115) for receiving the settable filler, once added, to mechanically key in the locking device (110) in the settable filler to provide a more integrated bond between the locking device (110) and the settable filler.

[00250] Figure 16 shows an alternative way to secure an upper end of an uppermost keyway connector piece (65) in place and preventing disengagement of the keyway connector piece (65) from the joined keyways by being slid in an upward longitudinal direction. The upper end of the uppermost keyway connector piece (65) can include two locking bolts (120) adapted to be driven into and received in corresponding apertures (122) defined in the uppermost keyway connector piece (65) and, in use, in the underlying keyway arrangements and/or the jacket component.

[00251] In use, the jacket assembly (10) can be fitted along any portion of a damaged pile (5). If fitted to a portion adjacent a ground substrate able to form a seal with the jacket component (20) of the jacket assembly (10), a bottom seal is not required.

[00252] Otherwise, a bottom seal in the form of a clamp (90) and sealing member (100) and/or a sealing skirt (80) can be used to secure the jacket assembly (10) in a desired location along the longitudinal length of the pile (5). A clamp (90) with a sealing member (100) will typically only be used instead of a sealing skirt (80) when the dead load from the settable filler (50), once added, will be too great for a sealing skirt (80).

[00253] The jacket component (20) is fitted to the damaged pile (5) by extending the jacket component (20) around the damaged pile (5) and connecting the longitudinal edges together with the connecting mechanism (60). The key way arrangements (62) of the connecting mechanism (60) are locked together with two or more keyway connector pieces (65) that are serially inserted and slid downwards into the continuous keyway passage (64) defined by the intermeshed keyway arrangements (62) to clamp the longitudinal edges together. The travel stops (68) correctly position the keys (66) within hooks of the keyways (63).

[00254] Spacers (30) fitted to the inner surface of each jacket component (20) position the jacket component (20) relative to the pile (5) and define a void/annulus (40) between the pile (5) and the jacket component (20).

[00255] Once the first jacket component (20) is fitted, the sealing skirt (80) is sealingly engaged or attached to the lowermost end of the jacket component (20) if not pre-fitted to the jacket component (20) prior to assembly and, with reference to Figures 10A, 10B and 11B, the jacket component (20) is then slid down over the strap or band (82) to protectively cover the strap or band (82) with the sealing skirt (80) extending between the strap or band (92) and the jacket component (20).

[00256] Depending on the length of the portion of the damaged pile (5), more than one jacket component (20) may need to be fitted end to end to cover the length of the portion of the damaged pile (5).

[00257] Once the damaged portion of the pile (5) is covered with one or more jacket components (20), a settable filler (50) is either poured over an open upper end of the uppermost jacket component (20) or pumped via one or more inlets (28; best shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 9A and 10A) located at or near a lower end of the lowermost jacket component (20).

[00258] The settable filler (50) is poured or pumped into the void/annulus (40) until a downward gradient is formed from the pile (5) to an outer upper edge of the uppermost jacket component (20) to prevent the ingress of water.

[00259] Optionally, prior to completely filling the void/annulus (40) with the settable filler (50), a locking device may be secured to an upper end of the uppermost keyway connector piece (65) to lock the aligned keyway connector pieces (65) in place and prevent disengagement of the keyway connector pieces (65) from the joined keyway arrangements (62) by being slid in an upwards longitudinal direction relative to the joined keyway arrangements (62).

[00260] Figures 17A to 17D, 18, 19 and 20A to 20C further exemplify embodiments of the present invention, particularly in association with piles or other types of objects such as nonstructural or structural members (5) having irregular cross sections.

[00261] Figures 17A to 17D exemplify the jacket assembly (10) of the present invention including jacket components (20) and spacers (30) being fitted around piles (5) of various cross sectional shape. The spacers (30) in all examples can be seen to ensure that the jacket component (20) in each example is correctly positioned relative to the pile (5), i.e., concentrically positioned relative to the pile (5).

[00262] Figures 18 and 19, respectively, exemplify the jacket assembly (10) of the present invention including two jacket components (20) custom made to fit a pile (5) with an I-shaped profile shape and a pile (5) with a square-shaped profile shape. In each example, the two jacket components (20) are joined longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge using two connecting mechanisms (60).

[00263] Figures 20A to 20C further exemplify the fitting of the jacket assembly (20- only some of which have been labelled) of the present invention to irregular profile shapes. In this example, a plurality of jacket components (20) are joined longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge to extend around an object/structural member (5) that has a large circumference. Each jacket component (20) is joined to longitudinal edge to longitudinal edge with the other jacket components (20) using the connecting mechanism (60- only some of which have been labelled) of the present invention.

[00264] Referring now to Figures 22 to 28, these show that a jacket assembly may further include reinforcement for structural strengthening as well as prevent cracking of settable filler.

[00265] Figures 22 and 23 each show a jacket component (320) and a connecting mechanism (321, as described previously herein). In this embodiment, reinforcement in the form of axially extending/longitudinal extending ribs or strips (322) extends along an inner surface of the jacket component (320). The ribs or strips (322) are connected to the jacket component (320) using an adhesive or mechanical connectors, such as clips. Such reinforcing strips or ribs (322) in combination with the flexural, radial or hoop strength of the jacket component (320) itself, can reduce or even eliminate need for additional strengthening members, mesh or similar.

[00266] As illustrated in Figure 24, the reinforcing strips or ribs (322a to 322f) can be of any suitable cross-section (ie. trapezoid, H-shaped, U-shaped, rectangle, circle or half circle).

[00267] The reinforcing strips or ribs (322a to 322f) can provide mechanical keying into settable filler to provide significant structural strengthening advantages.

[00268] In the embodiment of Figures 22-24, the reinforcing strips or ribs (322a to 322f) are of integral construction with the jacket component (320), thereby saving considerable time and cost of site works and methods to fit on site.

[00269] Referring now to Figures 25 to 28, in this embodiment the reinforcement is in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh (331, 332). The mesh (331, 332) can be, for example, carbon fibre grid mesh, glass fibre grid mesh, geomesh, polymer grid mesh or conventional steel reinforcement grid mesh.

[00270] Figures 25 and 27 each show a cylindrical object (340), a jacket component (320) and a connecting mechanism (321).

[00271] In the embodiment of Figures 25 and 26, flexible reinforcing mesh (331) is fitted around the object (340) prior to installation of the jacket component (320), and then settable filler is added to the annular void (343). The mesh (331) can contact the object (340) or be spaced from the object (340).

[00272] In the embodiment of Figures 27 and 28, flexible reinforcing mesh (332) is either manufactured into the jacket component (320) or as affixed, glued, resined or otherwise connected to an inner surface of the jacket component (320).

[00273] Referring now to Figure 29, different embodiments of spacers (350a to 350e) are shown. Rather than a bracket piece and arm piece arrangement as described previously, the spacers (350) are manufactured using pultrusion, extrusion or a similar continuous linear method, and then cut to the desired length. The length may be, for example, 100, 125, 150mm or any other suitable length. As can be seen in the figure, the spacers (350) have differing cross sections (substantially T-shaped, triangular or wedge shaped, C-shaped or I-shaped). The spacers (350) can be affixed directly to an inner surface of a jacket component by adhesive, resin or other mechanical fastening mechanism. For example, one or more of the spacers (350) may be affixed using the bracket piece (31) described above.

[00274] Further details of the various connecting mechanisms can be found in the following PCT applications: PCT/AU2008/000839; PCT/AU2010/000240; PCT/AU2011/001463 and PCT/AU2013/000474 - the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated.

[00275] The assembly as exemplified may overcome conventional issues of being able to withstand pumping/pouring pressures during installation without need for straps, ties, bracing or supports.

[00276] The assembly as exemplified may be faster and more convenient to install than other conventional means (half-moon shells fitted with metallic fasteners (bolted flanges, tongue and groove etc), non-metallic jackets that still require steel screws, fasteners, straps etc).

[00277] The at least one jacket component may stay in its intended shape during installation, pumping and filler processes.

[00278] The assembly as exemplified may be completely non-metallic in construction.

[00279] The assembly as exemplified may be fully manufactured in a factory environment and delivered to site ready to use immediately with only few steps to complete installation. No mixing/application of harsh chemicals, pre-assembly required prior to use or multiple processes to fit such as multiple fasteners, screws, straps and similar.

Example 1 - A method of installing a jacket assembly to a damaged pile

[00280] This example describes a method of installing a jacket assembly to a pile according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00281] Step 1. Clean the existing pile using a high-pressure washer of a minimum of 30 MPa (4,000 psi) or other mechanical means of clearing the pile of marine growth, rust, scaling, spalling and other contaminants.

[00282] Step 2. Fit a first jacket component around the pile and apply a bead of mastic or a similar sealer along the length of the longitudinal edges to be joined.

[00283] Step 3. Join the longitudinal edge portions of the first jacket component together such that the keyways of the keyway arrangements intermesh and define a continuous keyway passage extending longitudinally between the intermeshed keyways. Then insert a first keyway connector piece one pitch length from the lowermost end of the continuous keyway passage and move the first keyway connector piece down one pitch length. Insert further keyway connector pieces in the same manner as the first until the keyway connector pieces are serially aligned entirely along the continuous keyway passage.

[00284] Step 4. Lower the first jacket component to the ground substrate.

[00285] Step 5a. Pump a settable filler into the void/annulus defined between the first jacket component and the pile using an appropriate pumping system commencing from the bottom via the designated pumping inlets (ports). Fill evenly around the pile moving if needed from one pumping port to another until the settable filler is 50mm from the uppermost edge of the first jacket component.

[00286] Step 5b (alternative to step 5a). Pour a settable filler over the uppermost edge of the first jacket component into the void/annulus defined between the first jacket component and the pile. Fill evenly around the pile pouring from different locations around the uppermost edge if needed until the settable filler is 50mm from the uppermost edge of the first jacket component.

[00287] Step 6. Insert a top locking device over the uppermost end of the top keyway connector piece and into the void/annulus and then completely fill the void/annulus with settable filler until a downward sloping gradient is formed from the pile to the uppermost edge of the first jacket component (to ensure there is no ingress of water and that any water runs off the pile cap). Ensure pumping ports are capped off on completion of use.

[00288] Comparative Example of jacket assembly of present invention and other available products. Table 1 - A table of comparison of the installation of the jacket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in comparison with other available products.

[00289] Advantages of the present invention as exemplified include:

• the jacket assembly can be rapidly assembled to fit an object/non- structural member/structural member of any size or shape without the need for extensive preparatory work thereby reducing installation time and associated costs;

• the reduction in installation time is in part due to the connecting mechanism, which apart from allowing the at least one jacket component to be rapidly assembled around the object/non-structural member/structural member provides a high join strength allowing the void/annulus between the at least one jacket component and the object/non- structural member/structural member to optionally be filled in a single step;

• the at least one spacer in addition to ensuring that the at least one jacket is correctly positioned relative to the object/non- structural member/structural member bolsters the bond between the jacket component and the object/non- structural member/structural member by integrating with the filler added therebetween; and

• the clamp and sealing skirt of the jacket assembly allow for rapid mid-length installation or installation where a suitable seal is unable to be formed with a ground substrate thereby reducing installation time and associated costs.

[00290] Specific advantages of an embodiment of the jacket assembly of the present invention in comparison with other available products are listed in the following table. Table 2 - comparative advantages of the jacket assembly in comparison with other available products.

[00291] As will be appreciated, the jacket assembly (or components thereof) as exemplified may be used to extend around other types of objects requiring protection or a hard exterior. This may involve fitting to the object at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object, the at least one jacket component optionally defining a void between the object and the at least one jacket component, and optionally, using a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

[00292] As will also be appreciated, the jacket assembly (or components thereof) as exemplified may also be used as formwork. This would involve extending at least one jacket component as a perimeter to define a void; and optionally filling the void with a settable filler.

[00293] The jacket assembly may be in the form of reusable formwork. That is, it may be removed from the settable filler (once set) for re-use. It may be used to encapsulate old piles with, say, concrete repairs but excludes the jacket remaining in-situ. Alternatively, the jacket may also be used as a cast-in-place formwork for casting concrete piles in-situ.

[00294] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00295] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00296] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A method of installing a jacket assembly to protect, repair and/or structurally strengthen an object, the method including:

extending at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly around the object, wherein the at least one jacket component has opposed edges; and

connecting the opposed edges together such that the at least one jacket component extends completely and protectively around the object.

2. The method of claim 1, further including the step of providing a void between the object and the at least one jacket component.

3. The method of claim 2, further including the step of using a settable filler to fill and set within the void.

4. The method of claim 3, further including the step of using at least one spacer of the jacket assembly to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component toward the object.

5. The method of claim 3 or claim 4, further including the step of using a bottom seal of the jacket assembly when the at least one jacket component is unable to form a seal with a ground substrate/surface.

6. The method of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the jacket assembly includes reinforcement and the method includes the step of using the reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler.

7. The method of any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the jacket assembly includes at least one connecting mechanism for connecting the opposed edges of the least one jacket component together.

8. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one jacket component comprises connectable jacket component pieces that are connectable together to extend around the object.

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method includes the step of extending more than one said at least one jacket component around the object such that the jacket components are connected end to end.

10. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one spacer extends substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component toward the object.

11. The method of claim 4 or claim 10, wherein the at least one spacer is of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component.

12. The method of claim 4 or claim 10, wherein the at least one spacer is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

13. The method of any one of claims 4 and 10 to 12, wherein the at least one spacer mechanically keys in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler.

14. The method of any one of claims 4 and 10 to 13, wherein the method includes using a plurality of spacers extending from the at least one jacket component towards the object.

15 The method of any one of claims 4 and 10 to 14, wherein the method includes the step of using a plurality of said at least one spacer such that the spacers are spaced substantially around the object.

16. The method of claim 3, wherein the settable filler is concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant or an adhesive.

17. The method of claim 6, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is fitted to the object, made to extend within the void between the object and the at least one jacket component, or connected to the least one jacket component.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the reinforcement extends along an inner surface of the least one jacket component.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the reinforcement is of integral construction with the at least one jacket component.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the reinforcement is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

21. The method of claim 6, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component.

22. The method of any one of claims 6 and 17 to 21, wherein the reinforcement provides mechanical keying into the settable filler.

23. The method of claim 7, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism extends along each said opposed edge.

24. The method of claim 7 or claim 23, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges correspond with each side of the split.

25. The method of claim 8, wherein the jacket component pieces are connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism.

26. The method of claim 9, wherein the said jacket components are connected end to end using a connecting mechanism comprising mateable flange portions or a spigot and socket joint.

27. The method of any one of the preceding claims, further including the step of using a locking device such that the at least one jacket component cannot be removed from the object.

28. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the object is at least one structural member or at least one non-structural member.

29. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the object is a pile, pipe, pipeline, column, footing, riser, manhole, foundation, cable, ducting or casing located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment.

30. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the object is located in a marine environment or at least partially submerged in water.

31. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one jacket component is formed from a fibre reinforced polymer.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least one jacket component has a thickness of about 3 mm.

33. The method of claim 3, wherein the settable filler is for use underwater.

34. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the jacket assembly and the settable filler are used to protect and structurally strengthen the object.

35. The method of claim 3, wherein the settable filler is poured into the void via an open end of the at least one jacket component, or wherein the settable filler is pumped into the void via one or more inlets in the at least one jacket component.

36. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jacket assembly is completely non-metallic in construction.

37. A method of using a jacket assembly as formwork, the method including:

extending at least one jacket component of the jacket assembly as a perimeter, wherein the at least one jacket component has opposed edges; connecting the opposed edges together to define a void; and

filling the void with a settable filler.

38. The method of claim 37, further including the step of using at least one spacer of the jacket assembly to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component to with the void.

39. The method of claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the jacket assembly includes reinforcement and the method includes the step of using the reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler.

40. The method of any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein the jacket assembly includes at least one connecting mechanism for connecting the opposed edges of the least one jacket component together.

41. The method of any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein the at least one jacket component comprises connectable jacket component pieces.

42. The method of any one of claims 37 to 41, wherein the method includes the step of extending more than one said at least one jacket component such that the jacket components are connected end to end.

43. The method of claim 38, wherein the at least one spacer extends substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component.

44. The method of claim 38 or claim 43, wherein the at least one spacer is of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component.

45. The method of claim 38 or claim 43, wherein the at least one spacer is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

46. The method of any one of claims 38 and 43 to 45, wherein the at least one spacer mechanically keys in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler.

47. The method of any one of claims 38 and 43 to 46, wherein the method includes using a plurality of spacers extending from the at least one jacket component

48. The method of any one of claims 38 and 43 to 47, wherein the method includes the step of using a plurality of said at least one spacer such that the spacers are spaced substantially around the perimeter.

49. The method of claim 37, wherein the settable filler is concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant or an adhesive.

50. The method of claim 39, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is made to extend within the void or connected to the least one jacket component.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the reinforcement extends along an inner surface of the least one jacket component.

52. The method of claim 50, wherein the reinforcement is of integral construction with the at least one jacket component.

53. The method of claim 50, wherein the reinforcement is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

54. The method of claim 39, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component.

55. The method of any one of claims 39 and 50 to 54, wherein the reinforcement provides mechanical keying into the settable filler.

56. The method of claim 40, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism extends along each said opposed edge.

57. The method of claim 40 or claim 56, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges correspond with each side of the split.

58. The method of claim 41, wherein the component pieces are connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism.

59. The method of any one of claims 37 to 58, wherein the at least one jacket component is formed from a fibre reinforced polymer.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the at least one jacket component has a thickness of about 3 mm.

61. The method of any one of claims 37 to 60, wherein the at least one jacket component is reusable.

62. The method of any one of claims 37 to 61, wherein the method is for casting a concrete object in-situ.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the object is a pile, column, casing, manhole, riser, footing or foundation located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment. jacket assembly:

(1) for protecting, repairing and/or structurally strengthening an object, said assembly including: at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object and define a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and optionally a settable filler for filling and setting within the void;

65. The jacket assembly of claim 64, further including at least one spacer adapted to extend from an inner surface of the at least one jacket component.

66. The jacket assembly of claim 64 or claim 65, further including a bottom seal for use when the at least one jacket component is unable to form a seal with a ground substrate/surface.

67. The jacket assembly of claim 64, 65 or 66, further including reinforcement for structural strengthening and/or prevent cracking of the settable filler.

68. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 67, further including at least one connecting mechanism for connecting opposed edges of the least one jacket component together.

69. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 68, wherein the at least one jacket component comprises connectable jacket component pieces that are connectable together.

70. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 69, wherein the jacket assembly includes two or more said at least one jacket components that are connectable end to end.

71. The jacket assembly of claim 65, wherein the at least one spacer extends substantially perpendicularly from the at least one jacket component.

72. The jacket assembly of claim 71, wherein the at least one spacer is of unitary construction with the at least one jacket component.

73. The jacket assembly of claim 71, wherein the at least one spacer is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

74. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 71 to 73, wherein the at least one spacer mechanically keys in the at least one jacket component into the settable filler.

75. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 71 to 74, wherein a plurality of said at least one spacer extends from the at least one jacket component

76. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 75, adapted to contain settable filler such as concrete, concrete aggregate, cementitious grout, epoxy grout, sealant, corrosion retardant or inihibitor, or an adhesive.

77. The jacket assembly of claim 67, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of a reinforcing grid mesh that is fitted to the object, made to extend within the void between the object and the at least one jacket component, or connected to the least one jacket component.

78. The jacket assembly of claim 77, wherein the reinforcement extends along an inner surface of the least one jacket component.

79. The jacket assembly of claim 77 or 78, wherein the reinforcement is of integral construction with the at least one jacket component.

80. The jacket assembly of claim 77, wherein the reinforcement is connectable to the at least one jacket component.

81. The jacket assembly of claim 77 or 80, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of reinforcing strips or ribs extending along a longitudinal length of the at least one jacket component.

82. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 67 and 77 to 81, wherein the reinforcement provides mechanical keying into the settable filler.

83. The jacket assembly of claim 68, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a flexible sheet and a part of the connecting mechanism extends along each said opposed edge.

84. The jacket assembly of claim 68, wherein the at least one jacket component is in the form of a split cylindrical tube and the opposed edges correspond with each side of the split.

85. The jacket assembly of claim 69, wherein the component pieces are connectable together using at least one connecting mechanism.

86. The jacket assembly of claim 70, wherein the said jacket components are connected end to end using a connecting mechanism comprising mateable flange portions or a spigot and socket joint.

87. The jacket assembly of claim 64, further including a locking device such that the at least one jacket component cannot be removed from the object.

88. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 87, wherein the object is at least one structural member or at least one non- structural member.

89. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 88, wherein the object is a pile, pipe, pipeline, column, manhole, riser, footing, foundation, cable, ducting or casing located in a marine environment and/or a terrestrial environment.

90. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 89, wherein the object is located in a marine environment or at least partially submerged in water.

91. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 90, wherein the at least one jacket component is formed from a fibre reinforced polymer.

92. The jacket assembly of claim 91, wherein the at least one jacket component has a thickness of about 3mm.

93. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64 to 92, wherein the jacket assembly is completely non-metallic in construction.

94. The jacket assembly of any one of claims 64-75, wherein the jacket assembly and the settable filler are used to protect and structurally strengthen the object.

95. A jacket assembly:

96. A method of installing a jacket assembly to an object, the method including: fitting to the object at least one jacket component adapted to extend around the object, said at least one jacket component defining a void between the object and the at least one jacket component; and

pumping a settable filler for filling and setting within the void.

97. A method of installing a jacket assembly to an object, the method including:

98. A method of using a jacket assembly as formwork, the method including:

filling the void with a settable filler.

99. A jacket component, a bottom seal, at least one spacer or other assembly components when used in the jacket assembly or method according to any one of the preceding claims.

100. A jacket assembly or method of protecting, repairing and/or structurally strengthening an object as hereinbefore described.