WO2024015069A1

WO2024015069A1 - Subsea structure monitoring systems and methods

Info

Publication number: WO2024015069A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/037244
Authority: WO
Inventors: Baha Tulu TANJU; Charles Schaub
Original assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
Priority date: 2022-07-15
Filing date: 2022-07-15
Publication date: 2024-01-18

Abstract

A subsea structure monitoring system can include a base device configured to be secured to a subsea structure. The subsea structure monitoring system can also include a release mechanism disposed within the base device, where the release mechanism has a default state and a released state. The subsea structure monitoring system can further include a buoy detachably coupled to the release mechanism, where the buoy includes a housing that houses a communication module and a switch. The subsea structure monitoring system can also include a trigger that is configured to convert the release mechanism from the default state to the released state. The release mechanism can be converted from the default state to the released state when the trigger exerts a minimum force on the release mechanism.

Description

SUBSEA STRUCTURE MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application is related to subsea structures and, more particularly, to monitoring systems and methods for subsea structures.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Certain subsea structures (e.g., pipelines, mooring lines) are located in water, sometimes at great depths, for long periods of time. Normally, these subsea structures experience very little, if any, movement. However, at times, a subsea structure (or a portion thereof) can experience some displacement that causes damage to the subsea structure. For example, a ship dragging an anchor can catch on part of a pipeline (a type of subsea structure), resulting in significant displacement of and potential damage to that part of the pipeline. As another example, a large number of thermal cycles experienced by a subsea structure can cause significant displacement of part of the subsea structure. Because these subsea structures (or portions thereof) are left in place with no inspection or other interaction for long periods of time (e.g., years), initial displacement of the subsea structure is not detected until more catastrophic problems develop over time.

SUMMARY

[0003] In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a subsea structure monitoring system that can include a base device configured to be secured to a subsea structure. The subsea structure monitoring system can also include a release mechanism disposed within the base device, where the release mechanism has a default state and a released state. The subsea structure monitoring system can further include a buoy coupled to the release mechanism, where the buoy comprises a housing that houses a communication module and a switch. The subsea structure monitoring system can also include a trigger that is configured to convert the release mechanism from the default state to the released state. The release mechanism can be converted from the default state to the released state when the trigger exerts a minimum threshold force on the release mechanism, where the minimum threshold force is applied by the trigger when the subsea structure moves a threshold distance from a default position, where the release mechanism, when in the released state, releases the buoy, and where the buoy, upon being released, is configured to float toward a surface of the water and activate the communication module using the switch

[0004] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a buoy of a subsea structure monitoring system for a subsea structure. The buoy can include a non-metallic housing configured to be disposed in water without letting the water enter therein. The buoy can also include a control circuit disposed at least in part within the non-metallic housing. The control circuit can include an energy storage device configured to provide power to the control circuit. The control circuit can also include a communication device configured to store a location of a base device of the subsea structure monitoring system and to send communication signals. The control circuit can further include a first switch configured to have an open position when the non-metallic housing is disposed proximate to the base device and a closed position after the non-metallic housing is released toward a surface of the water. The control circuit can also include a second switch configured to be normally closed. The buoy can further include an activation device configured to open the second switch until the base device is placed in position relative to the subsea structure. [0005] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for monitoring a subsea structure. The method can include affixing a base device of a subsea structure monitoring system to the subsea structure, where the subsea structure monitoring system further includes a release mechanism, a buoy, and a trigger. The method can also include securing the trigger to the release mechanism, where the trigger is configured to convert the release mechanism from a default state to a released state when the trigger exerts a minimum threshold force on the release mechanism, where the minimum threshold force is applied to the release mechanism when the subsea structure moves a threshold distance from a default position, where the release mechanism, when in the released state, releases the buoy, and where the buoy, upon being released, is configured to float toward a surface of the water and activate the communication module using the switch. The method can further include activating, after affixing the base device to the subsea structure, a control circuit comprising a switch, an energy storage device, and a communication module of the buoy, where the control circuit remains open when the release mechanism holds the buoy proximate to the base device, and where the control circuit opens after the release mechanism achieves the released state and releases the buoy.

[0006] These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The drawings illustrate only example embodiments and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope, as the example embodiments may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments. Additionally, certain dimensions or positions may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings, reference numerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements.

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a system that includes a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments.

[0009] FIGS. 2A through 2C show various views of a system that includes a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 3 shows another system that includes multiple subsea structure monitoring systems according to certain example embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of a buoy of a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 5 shows components of a buoy of a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 6 shows a computing device according to certain example embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of a method for monitoring a subsea structure according to certain example embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of the system that includes the system of FIG. 1 after the release mechanism of the subsea structure monitoring system is in a released state according to certain example embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a subsystem that includes the release mechanism of FIG. 2B in a default or non-activated state or position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems, methods, and devices for monitoring subsea structures. Example embodiments can be used with any of a number of different subsea structures. Examples of such subsea structures can include, but are not limited to, subsea pipelines, mooring lines for marine vessels, and risers extending from marine vessels. The subsea structures that are monitored using example embodiments can be subject to geohazards, thermal events, and/or human-caused hazards. Thermal events are excursions between hot and cold temperatures repeated over time that can cause stresses in the material of a subsea structure. Human-caused events are caused directly or indirectly by a human act. Examples of a human-caused event can include, but are not limited to, an anchor dragging from a ship passing over a subsea structure and interference from the setting of another subsea structure (e.g., a cable). [0018] Geo-hazards can include sudden, one-time events or gradual long-term processes that can result in damage to the subsea structure over time. Examples of geo-hazards that are sudden events can include, but are not limited to, mudflows, mudslides, earthquakes, and earthquake- induced soil liquefaction, all of which can cause sudden shifting in the seabed. Examples of geohazards that are gradual processes that can result in damage to a subsea structure can include, but are not limited to, seabed settling over time.

[0019] Example embodiments disclosed herein can be employed to respond or react to a triggering event. The triggering event can be a geo-hazard, a predictive event leading to a geohazard (such as increase in current magnitude), or a change in design conditions to the subsea structure that requires some mitigation. The deployment of the mitigation can be sudden, almost immediately after the triggering event, or the deployment of the mitigation can be planned and implemented over a period of time after the triggering event or after a warning sign has been identified and communicated. Alternatively, example embodiments disclosed herein can be employed on a proactive, planned basis to avoid stresses or fatigue loading associated with geohazards, environmental loading, and operating loading. Example embodiments disclosed herein can be employed either temporarily or permanently. Example embodiments for monitoring subsea structures can be rated for use in hazardous environments.

[0020] An example system for monitoring subsea structures includes multiple components that are described herein, where a component can be made from a single piece (as from a mold or an extrusion). When a component (or portion thereof) of an example subsea structure monitoring system is made from a single piece, the single piece can be cut out, bent, stamped, and/or otherwise shaped to create certain features, elements, or other portions of the component. Alternatively, a component (or portion thereof) of an example subsea structure monitoring system can be made from multiple pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other. In such a case, the multiple pieces can be mechanically coupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods, including but not limited to adhesives, welding, fastening devices, compression fittings, mating threads, and slotted fittings. One or more pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other can be coupled to each other in one or more of a number of ways, including but not limited to fixedly, hingedly, rotatably, removably, slidably, and threadably.

[0021] Components and/or features described herein can include elements that are described as coupling, fastening, securing, or other similar terms. Such terms are merely meant to distinguish various elements and/or features within a component or device and are not meant to limit the capability or function of that particular element and/or feature. For example, a feature described as a “coupling feature” can couple, secure, abut against, fasten, and/or perform other functions aside from merely coupling. In addition, each component and/or feature described herein (including each component of an example subsea structure monitoring system) can be made of one or more of a number of suitable materials, including but not limited to metal (e.g., stainless steel), ceramic, rubber, glass, and plastic.

[0022] A coupling feature (including a complementary coupling feature) as described herein can allow one or more components (e.g., a housing) and/or portions of an example subsea structure monitoring system to become mechanically coupled, directly or indirectly, to another portion of the subsea structure monitoring system and/or a subsea structure. A coupling feature can include, but is not limited to, a portion of a hinge, an aperture, a recessed area, a protrusion, a slot, a spring clip, a tab, a detent, and mating threads. One portion of an example subsea structure monitoring system can be coupled to another portion of the subsea structure monitoring system and/or a component of a subsea structure by the direct use of one or more coupling features.

[0023] In addition, or in the alternative, a portion of an example subsea structure monitoring system can be coupled to another portion of the subsea structure monitoring system and/or a component of a subsea structure using one or more independent devices that interact with one or more coupling features disposed on a component of the subsea structure monitoring system. Examples of such devices can include, but are not limited to, a pin, a hinge, a fastening device (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet), an adapter, and a spring. One coupling feature described herein can be the same as, or different than, one or more other coupling features described herein. A complementary coupling feature as described herein can be a coupling feature that mechanically couples, directly or indirectly, with another coupling feature. [0024] When used in certain systems (e.g., for certain subterranean field operations), example embodiments can be designed to help such systems comply with certain standards and/or requirements. Examples of entities that set such standards and/or requirements can include, but are not limited to, the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the American Petroleum Institute (API), Del Norske Veritas (DNV), the International Standards Organization (ISO), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Also, as discussed above, example subsea structure monitoring systems can be used in hazardous environments, and so example subsea structure monitoring systems can be designed to comply with industry standards that apply to hazardous environments.

[0025] If a component of a figure is described but not expressly shown or labeled in that figure, the label used for a corresponding component in another figure can be inferred to that component. Conversely, if a component in a figure is labeled but is not described, the description for such component can be substantially the same as the description for the corresponding component in another figure. The numbering scheme for the various components in the figures herein is such that each component is a three-digit number and corresponding components in other figures have the identical last two digits. For any figure shown and described herein, one or more of the components may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments shown in a particular figure should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in such figure.

[0026] Further, a statement that a particular embodiment (e.g., as shown in a figure herein) does not have a particular feature or component does not mean, unless expressly stated, that such embodiment is not capable of having such feature or component. For example, for purposes of present or future claims herein, a feature or component that is described as not being included in an example embodiment shown in one or more particular drawings is capable of being included in one or more claims that correspond to such one or more particular drawings herein.

[0027] Example embodiments of subsea structure monitoring systems will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of subsea structure monitoring systems are shown. Subsea structure monitoring systems may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of subsea structure monitoring systems to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like, but not necessarily the same, elements (also sometimes called components) in the various figures are denoted by like reference numerals for consistency.

[0028] Terms such as “first”, “second”, “outer”, “inner”, “top”, “bottom”, “distal”, “proximal”, “above”, “below”, “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “end”, “side”, “on”, and “within”, when present, are used merely to distinguish one component (or part of a component or state of a component) from another. This list of terms is not exclusive. Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particular orientation, and they are not meant to limit embodiments of subsea structure monitoring systems. In the following detailed description of the example embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.

[0029] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a system 199 that includes a subsea structure monitoring system 150 according to certain example embodiments. In addition to the subsea structure monitoring system 150, the system 199 includes a subsea structure 148 that is located in water 194. Specifically, in this case, the subsea structure 148 is disposed on the seabed floor 102, which is non-planar. The seabed floor 102 is at the top end of the subterranean formation 110. The subsea structure 148 can be a pipeline, an assembly, or some other man-made structure.

[0030] When the subsea structure 148 is sufficiently large (e.g., long, tall), multiple subsea structure monitoring systems 150 can be used to monitor different parts of the subsea structure 148. Each subsea structure monitoring system 150 can include one or more of a number of components. For example, in this case, the subsea structure monitoring system 150 includes a base device 120, a buoy 140, a tether 170, a release mechanism 160, and a trigger 180. When there are multiple subsea structure monitoring systems 150 used to monitor a single subsea structure 148, one subsea structure monitoring system 150 can be configured the same as, or different from, one or more of the other subsea structure monitoring systems 150.

[0031] The base device 120 of the subsea structure monitoring system 150 of FIG. 1 is configured to be secured to part of the subsea structure 148. For example, the base device 120 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the subsea structure 148. In such a case, the base device 120 can be clamped to, bolted to, welded to, and/or otherwise coupled to part of the subsea structure 148. The base device 120 can contact some or all of the part of the subsea structure 148 to which the base device 120 is coupled. For example, if the subsea structure 148 is a pipeline, then the base device 120 can clamp around some, most, or all of the circumference of the portion of the pipeline to which the base device 120 is secured.

[0032] The base device 120 can also be configured to provide a space for the release mechanism 160 to be disposed. The release mechanism 160 is configured to detect movement in the subsea structure 148. When the movement of the subsea structure 148 exceeds a threshold value (e.g., in terms of distance, in terms of force applied thereto), the release mechanism 160 activates, which allows the buoy 140 to be released. The release mechanism 160 can have a default state and a released state. In the default state, the release mechanism 160 keeps the buoy 140 coupled to the base device 120. In the released state, the release mechanism 160 releases (decouples) the buoy 140 from the base device 120. While the release mechanism 160 is disposed within the base device 120, the state of the release mechanism 160 can change as the base device 120 remains fixedly coupled to the subsea structure 148. The release mechanism 160 can have any of a number of configurations. For example, the release mechanism 160 can be or include a single piece that breaks. Alternatively, the release mechanism 160 can be or include multiple pieces that are detachably coupled to each other. An example of a release mechanism 160 is shown below with respect to FIG. 2B.

[0033] The force applied to a release mechanism 160 can be applied by one or more base device tether assemblies 180. A trigger 180 is configured to provide a reference point for the base device 120 (and so also the associated portion of the subsea structure 148). When the base device 120 (and so also the associated portion of the subsea structure 148) moves in a certain direction or in any direction, depending on the configuration and arrangement of the one or more base tether assemblies 180, beyond a certain amount, one or more of the base device tether assemblies 180 applies a sufficient force to the release mechanism assembly 180 to activate (e.g., break, decouple) the release mechanism 160.

[0034] A trigger 180 can have one or more of any of a number of configurations. For instance, a trigger 180 can be made of a single piece or of multiple pieces. Also, one trigger 180 or multiple triggers 180 can be coupled to a release mechanism 160. One configuration of a trigger 180 is a base device tether assembly, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2C, and 8. Another configuration of a trigger 180 is discussed below with respect to FIG. 9. [0035] When a trigger 180 is in the form of a base device tether assembly, the trigger 180 can have one end that is coupled to the release mechanism 160 and an opposite end that serves as an anchor or reference point. A portion between the ends of the trigger 180 can have some flexibility (e.g., slack, elasticity, expandable capability) to allow for small amounts of movement of the subsea structure 148 that can be considered naturally occurring (e.g., thermal expansion and contraction, small shifts in the subsea bed 102). In such a case, the middle part of the trigger 180 can be sized, calibrated, and/or otherwise configured to retain a relatively constant distance between the two ends of the trigger 180 once the distance between the two ends reaches a threshold value.

[0036] In this way, as the subsea structure 148 begins to move from its default position, the distal end of the trigger 180, coupled to the release mechanism 160, moves with the subsea structure 148. When the subsea structure 148 moves in certain directions relative to the proximal end (the anchor) of the trigger 180, some of the slack in the middle part of the trigger 180 decreases. At some point, if the subsea structure 148 continues to move away from the anchor of the trigger 180, the slack in the middle of the trigger 180 is eliminated. At that point, the proximal end of the trigger 180, coupled to the release mechanism 160, imposes a force on the release mechanism 160 that opposes the movement of the subsea structure 148. When this force reaches a threshold value, the release mechanism activates.

[0037] The buoy 140 is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the release mechanism 160. The buoy 140 is configured to rise toward the water surface 193. Under normal conditions (e.g., when the subsea structure 148 has not moved significantly from its default position), the buoy 140 is held in the water 194 proximate to the release mechanism 160. When the release mechanism 160 activates, the buoy 140 is no longer constrained and floats toward the water surface 193. The buoy 140 is configured to send (e.g., broadcast, transmit, call, text, email) communications once released by the release mechanism 160. Such communications can include various information, including but not limited to the location of the base device 120 in the water 194 and the amount of time that has lapsed since the buoy 140 was released.

[0038] The buoy 140 can include one or more of a number of components. Examples of such components of the buoy 140 can include, but are not limited to, an energy storage device (e.g., batteries), a communication module, a controller, a switch, and an activation mechanism. More details and examples of a buoy 140 are discussed below with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5. The buoy 140 can also include a housing that is waterproof and can withstand the various conditions (e.g., high pressure, low temperatures) that exist in the water 194 where the base device 120 is located. The housing of the buoy 140 is also configured to be buoyant, even when some or all of the components of the buoy 140 are disposed therein. In this case, the buoy 140 is indirectly coupled to the release mechanism 160 using a tether 170. The tether 170 can be made of any material sufficient to maintain the coupling to the buoy 140 and the release mechanism 160 for long periods of time (e.g., years, decades) and can withstand the various conditions (e.g., high pressure, low temperatures) that exist in the water 194 where the base device 120 is located.

[0039] FIGS. 2A through 2C show various views of a system 299 that includes a subsea structure monitoring system 250 according to certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2A shows front view of the system 299. FIG. 2B shows a cross-sectional view of the release mechanism 260 of the subsea structure monitoring system 250 in a default or non-activated state or position. FIG. 2C shows a top view of the system 299. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 2C, in addition to the subsea structure monitoring system 250, the system 299 of FIGS. 2A through 2C includes a subsea structure 248 located in the water 294. The subsea structure monitoring system 250 (including its various components, discussed below) and the subsea structure 248 are substantially the same as the subsea structure monitoring system 150 (including its various components) and the subsea structure 148 discussed above with respect to FIG. 1.

[0040] In this case, the subsea structure 248 is in the form of a pipeline that rests on the seabed floor 202 within a body of water 294 (e.g., an ocean, a lake). While the system 299 of FIGS. 2A and 2C only show one subsea structure monitoring system 250, one or more other example subsea structure monitoring systems can be part of the system 299 and coupled to other parts of the subsea structure 248 not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C. The subsea structure monitoring system 250 of FIGS. 2A through 2C includes a buoy 240, a tether 270, a base device 220, a release mechanism 260, and two triggers 280 (trigger 280-1 and trigger 280-2).

[0041] The base device 220 of the subsea structure monitoring system 250 of FIGS. 2A through 2C is in the form of a clamp that clamps directly around most (except the bottom) of the circumference of the subsea structure 248. The base device 220 remains fixedly coupled to the subsea structure 248 over time, regardless of how much the subsea structure 248 moves relative to its default position and/or how long the base device 220 remains submerged in the water 294 in service with the rest of the subsea structure monitoring system 250. The base device 220 can includes a platform 225 that extends from one side of the base device 220, just below the hinge of the base device 220. The platform 225 can include a coupling feature (e.g., an aperture that traverses therethrough) to which the release mechanism 260 can be directly or indirectly coupled. [0042] The release mechanism 260 in this case is made up of multiple pieces. Specifically, the release mechanism 260 in this example includes a frame 267, a shear mechanism 255, and a shear pin assembly 265. The frame 267 of the release mechanism 260 is configured to position the shear mechanism 255 and the shear pin assembly 265 with respect to each other. The frame 267 in this example has a top frame portion 267-2 and a bottom frame portion 267-1. The top frame portion 267-2 and the bottom frame portion 267-1 each are in the form of a plate with an aperture 268 that traverses therethrough in the approximate center. In this case, aperture 268-1 traverses bottom frame portion 267-1, and aperture 268-2 traverses bottom frame portion 267-2. Each aperture 268 is sufficiently large to receive a portion of the shear pin assembly 265 along its length. The top frame portion 267-2 and the bottom frame portion 267-1 are rigid components and are separated from each other by the shear mechanism 255, which is disposed therebetween.

[0043] The shear mechanism 255 is a component that is configured to couple to one or more of the base device tether assemblies 280. To accomplish this function, the shear mechanism 255 can include one or more coupling features 258. For example, in this case, the shear mechanism 255 has two extensions 257 that extend from either side of a body 259 of the shear mechanism 255. Specifically, extension 257-1 extends from one side of the body 259, and extension 257-2 extends from the opposite side of the body 259. Each extension 257 includes a coupling feature 258 in the form of an aperture that traverses the extension 257. In this case, coupling feature 258- 1 is an aperture that traverses extension 257-1, and coupling feature 258-2 is an aperture that traverses extension 257-2.

[0044] While there are two extensions 257 and associated coupling features 258 in this case, one for each of the two base device tether assemblies 280, in alternative embodiments the shear mechanism 255 can be have single coupling feature 258 or more than two coupling features 258. When the shear mechanism 255 has multiple coupling features 258, the coupling features 258 can be arranged symmetrically (as in this example), randomly, or in some other fashion around the shear mechanism 255 with respect to each other. When the shear mechanism 255 has multiple coupling features 258, one coupling feature 258 can have one or more configurations (e.g., shape, size, coupling feature) that are the same as (as in this case), or different than, the corresponding configurations of one or more of the other coupling features 258.

[0045] The number of coupling features 258 of the shear mechanism 255 can be the same as (as in this case) or different than the number of base device tether assemblies 280. In this case, each coupling feature 258 is configured to remain coupled to the distal end of a trigger 280, regardless of how much force (e.g., pulling force) is applied to the coupling feature 258 by the trigger 280. In certain example embodiments, the configuration of a coupling feature 258 can be configured to complement the coupling feature at the distal end of the associated trigger 280.

[0046] The shear mechanism 255 is also configured to apply a force against a portion of the shear pin assembly 265. When the force applied by the shear mechanism 255 against a portion of the shear pin assembly 265 is sufficiently large, the shear pin assembly 265 (or portion thereof) breaks, which activates the release mechanism 260. The body 259 of the shear mechanism 255 has an aperture 256 that traverses therethrough in its approximate center. The aperture 256 can be sufficiently large to receive a portion of the shear pin assembly 265 along its length. The aperture 256 in the body 259 can have any of a number of shapes (e.g., cylindrical, conical (as in this example)). The conical shape of the aperture 256 in this case is used so that a pulling force applied to one of the coupling features 258 by a trigger 280 must be sufficiently strong (meet a minimal threshold force value) in order to break the shear pin assembly 265.

[0047] The shear pin assembly 265 of the release mechanism 260 can include one or more features and/or include multiple pieces. For example, in this case, the shear pin assembly 265 includes a shear pin 261, a top stop 263, and a bottom stop 262. The shear pin 261 of the shear pin assembly 265 is an elongated, substantially linear piece that has a length that is greater than the sum of the thickness of the top frame portion 267-2, the height of the body 259 of the shear mechanism 255, and the thickness of the bottom frame portion 267-1. The top (e.g., the proximal end) of the shear pin 261 has an extension 266 that has a coupling feature 264 disposed therein. In this case, the coupling feature 264 is in the form of an aperture that traverses the middle of the extension 266.

[0048] The top stop 263 is located toward or at the top (proximal end) of the shear pin 261, just below the extension 266. The top stop 263 has an outer diameter that exceeds the outer diameter of the shear pin 261. The outer diameter of the top stop 263 is also configured to be larger than the diameter of the aperture 268-2 that traverses the thickness of the top frame portion 267-2. The location of the top stop 263 along the shear pin 261 can be fixed or adjustable. In some cases, as with this example where the platform 225 is used to secure the release mechanism

260, the top stop 263 can abut against the top surface of the platform 225, which is disposed between the top stop 263 and the top frame portion 267-2. In such a case, the coupling feature (in this case, an aperture that traverses the thickness of the platform 225) is configured to have a sufficiently large diameter to receive the shear pin 261 while also being less than the outer diameter of the top stop 263.

[0049] The bottom stop 262 is located toward or at the bottom (distal end) of the shear pin

261, just below the extension 266. The bottom stop 262 has an outer diameter that exceeds the outer diameter of the shear pin 261. The outer diameter of the bottom stop 262 is also configured to be larger than the diameter of the aperture 268-1 that traverses the thickness of the bottom frame portion 267-1. The location of the bottom stop 262 along the shear pin 261 can be fixed or adjustable.

[0050] The trigger 280-1 includes multiple components. Specifically, in this example, the trigger 280-1 includes an anchor 286-1 and a tether 287-1. The anchor 286-1 is configured to penetrate a non-transient object (e.g., the subsea floor 202, as in this case, some non-transient structure) that is not expected to move substantially over time. When the object is the subsea floor 202, the anchor 286-1 can extend into the subterranean formation 210 to remain in a substantially fixed position over time. The anchor 286-1 can be or include one or more of a number of features (e.g., angled spikes, expandable portions) that achieve the purpose of the anchor 286-1. The tether 287-1 is coupled to the top portion of the anchor 286-1. The tether 287-1 is an elongated component that is configured to have some flexibility (e.g., slack, elasticity, expandable capability) to allow for relatively small amounts of movement of the subsea structure 248 that can be considered naturally occurring (e.g., thermal expansion and contraction, small shifts in the subsea bed 202).

[0051] One end of the tether 287-1 is coupled to the anchor 286-1, and the other end of the tether 287-1 is coupled to a coupling feature 258 (e.g., coupling feature 258-1) of the shear mechanism 255 of the release mechanism 260. The tether 287-1 of the trigger 280-1 can be sized, calibrated, and/or otherwise configured to retain a relatively constant distance between the two ends of the trigger 280 once the distance between the two ends reaches a threshold value that is designed to account for any natural movement of the subsea structure 248. [0052] In this way, as the subsea structure 248 begins to move from its default position, the distal end of the trigger 280-1, coupled to the coupling feature 258-1 of the release mechanism 260, moves with the subsea structure 248 to the extent that the tether 287-1 has slack in it. When the subsea structure 248 moves in certain directions relative to the anchor 286-1 of the trigger 280- 1, the slack in the tether 287-1 decreases. At some point, if the subsea structure 248 continues to move away from the anchor 286-1 of the trigger 280-1, the slack in the tether 287-1 is eliminated. At that point, the tether 287-1, coupled to the coupling feature 258-1 of the shear mechanism 255 of the release mechanism 260, imposes a force on the shear mechanism 255 that opposes, at least to some extent, the movement of the subsea structure 248. When this force reaches a threshold value, the shear mechanism 255, pulled by the trigger 280-1, breaks the shear pin 261 of the shear pin assembly 265 of the release mechanism 260, thereby activating the release mechanism 260.

[0053] The trigger 280-2 in this case is substantially similar (e.g., in configuration, in function) to the trigger 280-1. For example, the trigger 280-2 includes an anchor 286-2 (substantially similar to the anchor 286-1) and a tether 287-2 (substantially similar to the tether 287-1). In alternative embodiments, the configuration of the trigger 280-2 can differ from the configuration of the trigger 280-1. When the subsea structure monitoring system 250 includes multiple base device tether assemblies 280, the base device tether assemblies 280 can be arranged around the release mechanism 260 in such a way as to capture excessive movements of the subsea structure 248 in one of multiple directions (e.g., horizontal, vertical) or in any direction. In this example, the trigger 280-1 and the trigger 280-2 are positioned diagonally opposite each other with respect to the release mechanism 260.

[0054] The buoy 240 is coupled in this case indirectly to the release mechanism 260. The buoy 240 is configured to rise in the water 294 toward the water surface. Under normal conditions (e.g., when the subsea structure 248 has not moved significantly from its default position), the buoy 240 is held in the water 294 proximate to the release mechanism 260 by the tether 270. When the release mechanism 260 activates, the buoy 240 is no longer constrained and floats toward the water surface.

[0055] The buoy 240 is configured to send communications once released by the release mechanism 160. Such communications can include various information, including but not limited to the location of the base device 120 in the water 194 and the amount of time that has lapsed since the buoy 140 was released. The tether 270 can be made of any material sufficient to maintain the coupling to a coupling feature of the buoy 240 at one end of the tether 270 and the release mechanism 260 (specifically, the coupling feature 264 of the release mechanism 260) for long periods of time (e.g., years, decades) and can withstand the various conditions (e.g., high pressure, low temperatures) that exist in the water 294 where the base device 220 is located. The buoy 240 can include a housing that is waterproof and can withstand the various conditions (e.g., high pressure, low temperatures) that exist in the water 294 where the base device 220 is located. The housing of the buoy 240 is configured to be buoyant.

[0056] FIG. 3 shows another system 399 that includes multiple subsea structure monitoring systems 350 according to certain example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, in addition to the subsea structure monitoring systems 350, the system 399 includes multiple (in this case, four) subsea structures 348, all in the form of mooring lines, that are located in water 394. Subsea structure 348-1 has one end (in this case, a top end) coupled to the pontoon 301 of a floating vessel 303, and the opposite end of the subsea structure 348-1 is anchored, using an anchor 381-1, to the subterranean formation 310 under the seabed floor 302.

[0057] Subsea structure 348-2 has one end (in this case, a top end) coupled to the pontoon 301 of the floating vessel 303, and the opposite end of the subsea structure 348-2 is anchored, using an anchor 381-2, to the subterranean formation 310 under the seabed floor 302. Subsea structure 348- 3 has one end (in this case, a top end) coupled to the pontoon 301 of the floating vessel 303, and the opposite end of the subsea structure 348-3 is anchored, using an anchor 381-3, to the subterranean formation 310 under the seabed floor 302. Subsea structure 348-4 has one end (in this case, a top end) coupled to the pontoon 301 of the floating vessel 303, and the opposite end of the subsea structure 348-4 is anchored, using an anchor 381-4, to the subterranean formation 310 under the seabed floor 302.

[0058] Part of the floating vessel 303 sits above the water line 393, and the remainder, including the pontoon 301, is located in the water 394. The part of the floating vessel 303 that is above the water line 393 can include a platform on which a number of structures (e.g., a chemical shed, an office) and/or field equipment (e.g., motors, a derrick, piping, a crane) can be located. Also located on the platform can be one or more users 371, which can also include one or more user systems 372.

[0059] A user 371 can be any person that interacts, directly or indirectly, with a subsea structure 375 and/or any other component of the system 399. Examples of a user 371 can include, but are not limited to, a business owner, an engineer, a company representative, a geologist, a consultant, a contractor, and a manufacturer’s representative. A user 371 can use one or more user systems 372, which may include a display (e.g., a GUI). A user system 372 of a user 371 can interact with (e.g., send data to, obtain data from) the control engine of a communication module of a buoy (discussed below with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5) of a subsea structure monitoring system 350 using an application interface and using communication links 305. Auser 371 can also interact directly or indirectly (e.g., through a user interface (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touchscreen), using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV)) with one or more of the subsea structure monitoring systems 350 (or portion thereof).

[0060] A user system 372 of a user 371 interacts with (e.g., sends data to, receives data from) the one or more of the subsea structure monitoring systems 350 (or portion thereof) and/or another user system 372 via an interface. Examples of a user system 372 can include, but are not limited to, a cell phone with an app, a laptop computer, a handheld device, a smart watch, a desktop computer, and an electronic tablet. A user system 372 can interact with one or more of the subsea structure monitoring systems 350 (or portion thereof) and/or another user system 372 using one or more communication links. Each communication link can include wired (e.g., Class 1 electrical cables, Class 2 electrical cables, electrical connectors) and/or wireless (e.g., amplitude modulation (AM) radio frequency (RF) signals, frequency modulation (FM) radio frequency (RF) signals, cellular signals, satellite signals, LoRa, LoRaWAN, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, visible light communication, cellular networking, Bluetooth, ultrawide band (UWB)) technology.

[0061] The subsea structure monitoring system 350-1 is coupled to the subsea structure 348-1 at the seabed floor 302 and is configured to monitor for excessive movement in the subsea structure 348-1. The subsea structure monitoring system 350-2 is coupled to the subsea structure 348-2 at the seabed floor 302 and is configured to monitor for excessive movement in the subsea structure 348-2. The subsea structure monitoring system 350-3 is coupled to the subsea structure 348-3 at the seabed floor 302 and is configured to monitor for excessive movement in the subsea structure 348-3. The subsea structure monitoring system 350-4 is coupled to the subsea structure 348-4 at the seabed floor 302 and is configured to monitor for excessive movement in the subsea structure 348-4. The subsea structure monitoring systems 350 (including its various components) of the system 399 of FIG. 3 are substantially the same as the subsea structure monitoring systems (including their corresponding components) discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1 through 2C. [0062] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of a buoy 440 of a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, the buoy 440 has a housing 441 that forms a cavity 442. The housing 441 can be waterproof so that the components disposed within the cavity 442 remain dry when the buoy 440 is submerged in water. In certain example embodiments, the housing 441 of the buoy 440 is made of one or more of a number of non-metallic materials (e.g., carbon fiber, fiberglass, ceramic). In this way, the housing 441 of the buoy 440 can avoid interfering with any communication signals sent from within the cavity 442. [0063] Within the cavity 442 are disposed multiple components. Specifically, in this case, a switch 443, a communication module 445, one or more energy storage devices 446, and an activation mechanism 447 are located, at least in part, within the cavity 442. The switch 443, the communication module 445, the one or more energy storage devices 446, and the activation mechanism 447 can be electrically connected to each other to form a control circuit. An example of each of these components of the buoy 440 is discussed below with respect to FIG. 5.

[0064] The switch 443 is configured to remain open until the buoy 440 is released upon activation of the release mechanism (e.g., release mechanism 260). By remaining open during the time that the subsea structure (e.g., subsea structure 248) being monitored does experience anything beyond what may be normal shifts and movements, the energy storage device 446 is not used, thereby saving power until the time that the power is needed. In other words, the switch 443 is configured to keep the control circuit de-energized until communication signals need to be sent to indicate that the associated subsea structure has moved beyond a threshold distance. The switch 443 can consist of an electrical contact within its structure. The electrical contact of the switch 443 can have a default position (in this case, an open position) and an actuated position (in this case, a closed position). The switch 443 can also consist of an actuation component, which causes the electrical contact to close from its normally open position. An actuation component can be or include a sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor, a motion sensor, a depth sensor).

[0065] The communication module 445 of the buoy 440 is configured to generate and send communication signals to inform a user that the subsea structure being monitored has experienced significant movement. The communication signals generated and sent by the communication module 445 can also include the location of the base device (e.g., base device 220), which remains attached to the subsea structure after the buoy 440 is released. The one or more energy storage devices 446 of the buoy 440 are configured to provide power to one or more of the other components of the buoy 440. Examples of an energy storage device 446 can include, but are not limited to, a battery, a supercapacitor, and a fuel cell.

[0066] The activation mechanism 447 of the buoy 440 is configured to activate or commission the communication circuit of the buoy 440 when the buoy 440, along with the rest of the associated subsea structure monitoring system, is put into service in the water to monitor the subsea structure. The activation mechanism 447 can be operated manually or automatically (e.g., upon the occurrence of a condition, upon the passage of a period of time). The activation mechanism 447, when operated, can establish and cause certain information to be stored within the buoy 440. Such information can include, but is not limited to, the location (e.g., depth, GPS coordinates) of the buoy 440 and the date/time of activation. In addition, or in the alternative, the activation mechanism 447 can open the control circuit within the buoy 440.

[0067] FIG. 5 shows components of a buoy 540 of a subsea structure monitoring system according to certain example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 5, the buoy 540 has a housing 541 that forms a cavity 542. The buoy 540 of FIG. 5 includes a switch 543, a communication module 545, one or more energy storage devices 546, and an activation mechanism 547 are located, at least in part, within the cavity 542. The housing 541, the switch 543, the communication module 545, the energy storage devices 546, and the activation mechanism 547 of the buoy 540 of FIG. 5 can be substantially the same as the housing 441, the switch 443, the communication module 445, the energy storage devices 446, and the activation mechanism 447 of the buoy 440 of FIG. 4.

[0068] The components shown in FIG. 5 are not exhaustive, and in some embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 5 may not be included in the buoy 540. Any component of the example buoy 540 can be discrete or combined with one or more other components of the buoy 540. Also, one or more components of the buoy 540 can have different configurations. For example, the sensor 551 of the switch 543 can be disposed an outer surface of the housing 541 of the buoy 540. As another example, the timer 535 can be part of the control engine 506.

[0069] The switch 543 of the buoy 540 in this case includes a sensor 551 (a form of actuation component) and a contact 552. The contact 552 is part of the control circuit 549 of the buoy 540. The contact 552 in this case is normally open and only becomes closed when the sensor 551 is actuated. In this example, the sensor 551 is or includes a pressure sensor that measures the pressure currently experienced by the buoy 540. When the pressure measured by the sensor 551 falls within a range of pressure values (e.g., at or near atmospheric pressure), the sensor 551 can be activated, thereby closing the contact 552. When the pressure (such as the pressure under water at the seabed floor 202) measured by the sensor 551 falls outside the range of pressure values, the sensor 551 can be deactivated, thereby leaving the contact 552 in its default (normally open) position. In alternative embodiments, the sensor 551 is configured to additionally or alternatively measure one or more other parameters (e.g., vibration, motion, orientation) that can directly or indirectly cause the contact 552 to close.

[0070] The activation mechanism 547 of the buoy 540 in this case includes a magnet 553 and a reed switch 554. The reed switch 554 is located within the cavity 542 of the buoy 540 and is part of the control circuit 549. The magnet 553 is located outside (e.g., on the outer surface of) the housing 541 of the buoy 540. In certain example embodiments, the magnet 553 is movable. In such a case, when the magnet 553 is placed proximate to the reed switch 554, the magnetic field generated by the magnet 553 can emanate over the reed switch 553. When this occurs, the reed switch 553 opens, which creates an open electrical contact in the control circuit 549.

[0071] When the buoy 540, along with the rest of the subsea structure monitoring system, is installed the magnet 553 can be placed proximate to the reed switch 554. Once the subsea structure monitoring system is installed, the magnet 553 can be moved away from the buoy 540. When this occurs, and the resulting magnetic field is removed from the reed switch 554, the reed switch 554 closes. This initiates the control circuit 549 by leaving the circuit open, which means that the energy in the one or more energy storage devices 546 is conserved until the switch 543 is closed by the change in pressure. In certain example embodiments, the depth, GPS data, and/or other location information of the base device or other component of the subsea structure monitoring system can be saved to the communication module 545 before or shortly after the magnet 553 is removed to close the reed switch 554.

[0072] Each of the one or more energy storage devices 546 of the buoy 540 can be or include one or more batteries, supercapacitors, and/or other components that can store and subsequently release power. The power provided by the energy storage device 546 can be of a type (e.g., direct current, alternating current) and of a level (e.g., 12V, 24V) that is used by the recipient component (e.g., the communication module 545) of the control circuit 549 of the buoy 540. There can be any number of energy storage devices 546. When an energy storage device 546 includes battery units, the battery units can use one or more of any number of battery technologies. Examples of such technologies can include, but are not limited to, nickel -cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion, and alkaline. In certain example embodiments, each battery unit can be rechargeable. The energy storage devices 546 can be configured to hold a full charge with little or no leakage for long periods of time (e.g., years, decades) before being put into use (in this case, when the buoy 540 is released and is at or near the water line 193).

[0073] The communication module 545 of the buoy 540 can include multiple components. In this case, the communication module 545 includes a control engine 506, a power module 530, a position module 539, a hardware processor 521, memory 522, a transceiver 524, an antenna 527, a timer 535, and a storage repository 531. The communication module 545 can correspond to a computer system as described below with regard to FIG. 6.

[0074] The storage repository 531 of the buoy 540 can be a persistent storage device (or set of devices) that stores software and data used to assist the control engine 506 in communicating with one or more other components of the communication module 545 and with intended recipients of the communication signals sent by the communication module 545. In one or more example embodiments, the storage repository 531 stores one or more protocols 532, one or more algorithms 533, and stored data 534. The protocols 532 of the storage repository 531 can be any procedures (e.g., a series of method steps) and/or other similar operational processes that the control engine 506 of the communication module 545 follows based on certain conditions at a point in time. The protocols 532 can include any of a number of communication protocols that are used to send and/or obtain data between the control engine 506 and/or other components (e.g., users) of a system (e.g., system 199).

[0075] The algorithms 533 of the storage repository 531 can be any formulas, mathematical models, forecasts, simulations, and/or other similar tools that the control engine 506 uses to reach a computational conclusion. For example, one or more algorithms 533 can be used, in conjunction with one or more protocols 532, to assist the control engine 506 to determine when to initiate sending communication signals, the content (e.g., the serial number of the communication module 545, the GPS coordinates of the base device (e.g., base device 120), the GPS coordinates in real time of the buoy 540) of those communication signals, the frequency at which the communication signals are sent, the format (e.g., email, text message, phone call) of the communication signals, how often communication signals are sent, and/or any other characteristic associated with the communication signals.

[0076] Stored data 534 of the storage repository 531 can be any data associated with the other components of the communication module 545, the other components of the buoy 540, other components (e.g., a user system) external to the buoy 540, measurements made by the sensor 551, threshold values, tables, phone numbers, email addresses, results of previously run or calculated algorithms 533, updates to protocols 532, user preferences, serial numbers (e.g., of the base device, of the communication module 545), and/or any other suitable data. Such data can be any type of data, including but not limited to historical data, present data, and future data (e.g., forecasts). The stored data 534 can be associated with some measurement of time derived, for example, from the timer 535.

[0077] Examples of a storage repository 531 can include, but are not limited to, a database (or a number of databases), a file system, cloud-based storage, a hard drive, flash memory, some other form of solid-state data storage, or any suitable combination thereof. The storage repository 531 can be located on multiple physical devices or machines, each storing all or a portion of the communication protocols 532, the algorithms 533, and/or the stored data 534 according to some example embodiments. Each storage unit or device can be physically located in the same or in a different geographic location. For example, the storage repository 1531 can include a microchip that is coupled to a printed circuit board inside the cavity 542 of the buoy 540.

[0078] The storage repository 531 can be operatively connected to the control engine 506. In one or more example embodiments, the control engine 506 includes functionality to communicate with the users (e.g., user 371) (including associated user systems (e.g., user system 372)), the sensor 551, and the other components of the communication module 545. More specifically, the control engine 506 sends information to and/or obtains information from the storage repository 531 in order to communicate with the users (including associated user systems), the sensor 551, the other components of the buoy 540, and the other components of a system.

[0079] In certain example embodiments, the control engine 506 controls the operation of one or more components (e.g., the position module 539, the timer 535, the transceiver 524) of the communication module 545. For example, the control engine 506 can determine, using one or more protocols 532, when to generate, using the position module 539 and the stored data 534, and sent, using a transmitter of the transceiver 524, a communication signal. As another example, the control engine 506 can determine, using one or more protocols 532 and the timer 535, how often to send a communication signal.

[0080] The control engine 506 can also determine, using one or more protocols 532, the form (e.g., text message, email, phone call) that a communication signal takes and how the communication signal is sent. In some alternative embodiments, the control engine 506 can use one or more protocols 532 to facilitate communication with the sensor 551 to obtain data (e.g., measurements of various parameters, such as pressure), whether in real time or on a periodic basis and/or to instruct the sensor 551 to take a measurement.

[0081] In certain example embodiments, the control engine 506 can include an interface that enables the control engine 506 to communicate with the sensor 551 and the user systems (e.g., user system 372). For example, if a user system operates under IEC Standard 62386, then the user system can have a serial communication interface that will receive data from the control engine 506. Such an interface can operate in conjunction with, or independently of, the protocols 532 used to communicate between the control engine 506, the user systems, and the sensor 551. Such a situation may occur if a user system sends a communication signal instructing the communication module 545 to resend the communication signal that was previously sent by the communication module 545.

[0082] The control engine 506 can also determine and implement the communication protocol (e.g., from the protocols 532 of the storage repository 531) that is used when the control engine 506 communicates with (e.g., sends signals to, obtains signals from) the user systems and the sensor 551. In some cases, the control engine 506 accesses the stored data 534 to determine which communication protocol is used to communicate with another component. In alternative embodiments, the control engine 506 can also identify and/or interpret the communication protocol of a communication obtained by the control engine 506 so that the control engine 506 can interpret the communication. The control engine 506 can also provide one or more of a number of other services with respect to data sent from and obtained by the control engine 506. Such services can include, but are not limited to, data packet routing information and procedures to follow in the event of data interruption.

[0083] The control engine 506 can also include one or more hardware components and/or software elements to perform its functions. Such components can include, but are not limited to, a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART), a serial peripheral interface (SPI), a direct- attached capacity (DAC) storage device, an analog-to-digital converter, an inter-integrated circuit (I2C), and a pulse width modulator (PWM).The position module 539 of the communication module 535 can be configured to determine and/or retain the position (e.g., GPS coordinates, depth in the water 194) of the subsea structure monitoring system (e.g., subsea structure monitoring system 150) or portion thereof. The position module 539 can be or include a global positioning system and/or a depth sensor. The position module 539 can be configured to retain position information of the subsea structure monitoring system (or portion thereof) when the control circuit 549 is open, especially for extended periods of time (e.g., years, decades). When the control circuit 549 is closed so that power is flowing, the control engine 506 can retrieve the information stored and/or actively read in the position module 539 and include such information in communication signals sent by the communication module 545.

[0084] The timer 535 of the communication module 545 can track clock time, intervals of time, an amount of time, and/or any other measure of time. The timer 535 can also count the number of occurrences of an event, whether with or without respect to time. Alternatively, the control engine 506 can perform a counting function. The timer 535 is able to track multiple time measurements and/or count multiple occurrences concurrently. The timer 535 can track time periods based on an instruction obtained from the control engine 506, based on an instruction obtained from a user (e.g., user 371), based on an instruction programmed in the software for the control engine 506, based on some other condition (e.g., the occurrence of an event) or from some other component, or from any combination thereof. In certain example embodiments, the timer 535 can provide a time stamp for each packet of data obtained from another component (e.g., the sensor 551) of the system.

[0085] The power module 530 of the communication module 545 obtains power from a power supply (e.g., the energy storage device 546) and manipulates (e.g., transforms, rectifies, inverts) that power to provide manipulated power to one or more other components (e.g., the timer 535, the control engine 506) of the communication module 545, where the manipulated power is of a type (e.g., alternating current, direct current) and level (e.g., 12V, 24V, 120V) that can be used by the other components of the communication module 545.

[0086] The power module 530 can include one or more of a number of single or multiple discrete components (e.g., transistor, diode, resistor, transformer) and/or a microprocessor. The power module 530 may include a printed circuit board, upon which the microprocessor and/or one or more discrete components are positioned. In addition, or in the alternative, the power module 530 can be a source of power in itself to provide signals to the other components of the communication module 545. For example, the power module 530 can be or include an energy storage device (e.g., a battery).

[0087] The hardware processor 521 of the communication module 545 executes software, algorithms (e.g., algorithms 533), and firmware in accordance with one or more example embodiments. Specifically, the hardware processor 521 can execute software on the control engine 506 or any other portion of the communication module 545. The hardware processor 521 can be or include an integrated circuit, a central processing unit, a multi-core processing chip, SoC, a multi-chip module including multiple multi-core processing chips, and/or other hardware processor in one or more example embodiments. The hardware processor 521 can be known by other names, including but not limited to a computer processor, a microprocessor, and a multi-core processor.

[0088] In one or more example embodiments, the hardware processor 521 executes software instructions stored in memory 522. The memory 522 includes one or more cache memories, main memory, and/or any other suitable type of memory. The memory 522 can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory. The memory 522 can be discretely located within the communication module 545 relative to the hardware processor 521. In certain configurations, the memory 522 can be integrated with the hardware processor 521.

[0089] In certain example embodiments, the communication module 545 does not include a hardware processor 521, In such a case, the communication module 545 can include, as an example, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), one or more insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), and/or one or more integrated circuits (ICs). Using FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or other similar devices known in the art allows the communication module 545 (or portions thereof) to be programmable and function according to certain logic rules and thresholds without the use of a hardware processor. Alternatively, FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or similar devices can be used in conjunction with one or more hardware processors 521.

[0090] The transceiver 524 of the communication module 545 can include a transmitter and, in some cases, also a receiver. In this way, the transceiver 524 can send (and in some cases also receive) control and/or communication signals. Specifically, the transceiver 524 can be used to transfer data between the communication module 545 and the users (including associated user systems). The transceiver 524 can use wireless technology. The transceiver 524 can be configured in such a way that the control and/or communication signals sent and/or obtained by the transceiver 524 can be obtained and/or sent by another transceiver that is part of a user system. The transceiver 524 can send and/or obtain any of a number of signal types, including but not limited to radio frequency signals, cellular signals, satellite signals, and sound waves.

[0091] When the transceiver 524 uses wireless technology, any type of wireless technology can be used by the transceiver 524 in sending and obtaining signals. Such wireless technology can include, but is not limited to, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, LoRa, LoRaWAN, VLC, cellular networking, satellite networking, BLE, UWB, and Bluetooth. The transceiver 524 can use one or more of any number of suitable communication protocols (e.g., ISA100, HART) when sending and/or obtaining signals.

[0092] The communication module 545 can include one or more antennas 527. An antenna 527 is an electrical device that converts electrical power to RF signals (for transmitting) and RF signals to electrical power (for receiving). In transmission, a radio transmitter (e.g., transceiver 524) supplies an electric current oscillating at radio frequency (e.g., a high frequency alternating current (AC)) to the terminals of the antenna 527, and the antenna 527 radiates the energy from the current as RF signals. In reception, an antenna 527 intercepts some of the power of RF signals in order to produce a tiny voltage at its terminals, that is applied to a receiver (e.g., transceiver 524) to be amplified.

[0093] An antenna 527 can typically consist of an arrangement of electrical conductors that are electrically connected to each other (often through a transmission line) to create a body of the antenna 527. The body of the antenna 527 is electrically coupled to the transceiver 524. An oscillating current of electrons forced through the body of an antenna 527 by the transceiver 524 will create an oscillating magnetic field around the body, while the charge of the electrons also creates an oscillating electric field along the body of the antenna 527. These time-varying fields radiate away from the antenna 527 into space as a moving transverse RF signal (often an electromagnetic field wave). Conversely, during reception, the oscillating electric and magnetic fields of an incoming RF signal exert force on the electrons in the body of the antenna 527, causing portions of the body of the antenna 527 to move back and forth, creating oscillating currents in the antenna 527. [0094] An antenna 527 can be disposed at, within, or on any portion of the buoy 540. For example, an antenna 527 can be disposed on the housing 541 of the buoy 540 and extend away from the buoy 540. As another example, an antenna 527 can be insert molded into the housing 541 of the buoy 540. As yet another example, an antenna 527 can be adhesive mounted to the inner surface of the housing 541 of the buoy 540. As still another example, an antenna 527 can be pad printed onto a circuit board of the communication module 545 within the cavity 542 formed by the housing 541 of the buoy 540. As still another example, an antenna 527 can be a wire antenna.

[0095] The communication module 545, the contact 552 of the switch 543, the reed switch 554 of the activation mechanism 547, and the one or more energy storage devices 546 can be interconnected with each other in series using electrical conductors 587 to form the control circuit 549. The order of the various components of the control circuit 549 can vary relative to what is shown in FIG. 5 without changing the functionality of those components. The electrical conductors 587 can be wires, leads on a printed circuit board, and/or any other type of component capable of transmitting electrical signals.

[0096] FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a computing device 618 that implements one or more of the various techniques described herein, and which is representative, in whole or in part, of the elements described herein pursuant to certain example embodiments. For example, the communication module 545 (including components thereof, such as a control engine 506, a hardware processor 521, a storage repository 531, a power module 530, a position module 539, and a transceiver 524) can be considered a computing device 618. Computing device 618 is one example of a computing device and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to scope of use or functionality of the computing device and/or its possible architectures. Neither should the computing device 618 be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated in the example computing device 618.

[0097] The computing device 618 includes one or more processors or processing units 614, one or more memory/storage components 615, one or more input/output (VO) devices 616, and a bus 617 that allows the various components and devices to communicate with one another. The bus 617 represents one or more of any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. The bus 617 includes wired and/or wireless buses. [0098] The memory/storage component 615 represents one or more computer storage media. The memory/storage component 615 includes volatile media (such as random access memory (RAM)) and/or nonvolatile media (such as read only memory (ROM), flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks, and so forth). The memory/storage component 615 includes fixed media (e.g., RAM, ROM, a fixed hard drive, etc.) as well as removable media (e.g., a Flash memory drive, a removable hard drive, an optical disk, and so forth).

[0099] One or more I/O devices 616 allow a user to enter commands and information to the computing device 618, and also allow information to be presented to a user and/or other components or devices. Examples of input devices 616 include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a microphone, a touchscreen, and a scanner. Examples of output devices include, but are not limited to, a display device (e.g., a monitor or projector), speakers, outputs to a lighting network (e.g., DMX card), a printer, and a network card.

[0100] Various techniques are described herein in the general context of software or program modules. Generally, software includes routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and so forth that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. An implementation of these modules and techniques are stored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media. Computer readable media is any available non-transitory medium or non-transitory media that is accessible by a computing device. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media includes “computer storage media”.

[0101] “Computer storage media” and “computer readable medium” include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, computer recordable media such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which is used to store the desired information and which is accessible by a computer.

[0102] The computer device 618 is connected to a network (not shown) (e.g., a LAN, a WAN such as the Internet, cloud, or any other similar type of network) via a network interface connection (not shown) according to some example embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many different types of computer systems exist (e.g., desktop computer, a laptop computer, a personal media device, a mobile device, such as a cell phone or personal digital assistant, or any other computing system capable of executing computer readable instructions), and the aforementioned input and output means take other forms, now known or later developed, in other example embodiments. Generally speaking, the computer system 618 includes at least the minimal processing, input, and/or output means necessary to practice one or more embodiments.

[0103] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more elements of the aforementioned computer device 618 is located at a remote location and connected to the other elements over a network in certain example embodiments. Further, one or more embodiments is implemented on a distributed system having one or more nodes, where each portion of the implementation is located on a different node within the distributed system. In one or more embodiments, the node corresponds to a computer system. Alternatively, the node corresponds to a processor with associated physical memory in some example embodiments. The node alternatively corresponds to a processor with shared memory and/or resources in some example embodiments.

[0104] FIG. 7 shows a flowchart 789 of a method for monitoring a subsea structure according to certain example embodiments. While the various steps in this flowchart 789 are presented sequentially, one of ordinary skill will appreciate that some or all of the steps may be executed in different orders, may be combined or omitted, and some or all of the steps may be executed in parallel. Further, in one or more of the example embodiments, one or more of the steps shown in this example method may be omitted, repeated, and/or performed in a different order.

[0105] In addition, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that additional steps not shown in FIG. 7 may be included in performing this method. Accordingly, the specific arrangement of steps should not be construed as limiting the scope. Further, a particular computing device, such as the computing device discussed above with respect to FIG. 6, can be used to perform one or more of the steps for the method shown in FIG. 7 in certain example embodiments. Any of the functions performed below by a communication module (e.g., communication module 545), or control engine (e.g., control engine 506) thereof,) can involve the use of one or more protocols (e.g., protocols 532), one or more algorithms (e.g., algorithms 533), and/or stored data (e.g., stored data 534). Alternatively, a user (e.g., user 371), including an associated user system (e.g., user system 372) can perform some or all of the method set forth in FIG. 7. For illustrative purposes, the method shown in FIG. 7 is an example that can be performed by using the example system 100 of FIG. 1 (or specific variations thereof, such as system 299 and system 399). Further, systems for monitoring a subsea structure can perform other functions using other methods in addition to and/or aside from those shown in FIG. 7.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 7, the method shown in the flowchart 789 of FIG. 7 begins at the START step and proceeds to step 781, where a base device 120 is affixed to a subsea structure 148. The base device 120 can be part of a subsea structure monitoring system 150. The base device 120 can be affixed to the subsea structure 148 when the subsea structure 148 is in situ (e.g., in the water 194, near the seabed floor 102). The base device 120 can be affixed to the subsea structure 148 by one or more of any of a number of entities, including but not limited to one or more people (e.g., divers), a ROV, and an automated underwater installation vehicle. When the base device 120 is affixed to the subsea structure 148, one or more other components (e.g., the release mechanism 160, the buoy 140) of the subsea structure monitor system can be coupled, directly or indirectly, to the base device 120.

[0107] In step 782, a trigger 180 is secured to the release mechanism 160. When the trigger 180 is in the form of a base device tether assembly, as in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2C above, the trigger 180 is anchored proximate to the base device 120. The trigger 180 can be anchored using an anchor (e.g., anchor 286). Specifically, the anchor 286 can be driven into, affixed to, and/or otherwise coupled to a non-transient object (e.g., the seabed floor 102, the subterranean formation 110, a subsea platform) under the water surface 193 in such a way that the anchor 286 does not move substantially over time. The trigger 180 can be anchored when the subsea structure 148 is in situ (e.g., in the water 194, near the seabed floor 102). The trigger 180 can be anchored by one or more of any of a number of entities, including but not limited to one or more people (e.g., divers), a ROV, and an automated underwater installation vehicle.

[0108] The location of the anchor 286 relative to the release mechanism 160 can be based on one or more of a number of factors, including but not limited to the configuration (e.g., the length, the extendibility, the elasticity) of the tether 287, the minimum threshold distance of movement recognized as an unnatural movement of the subsea structure 148, and the direction of movement of the subsea structure 148. To the extent that some or all of the tether 287 of the trigger 180 is not coupled to the release mechanism 160 and/or the anchor 286, such action can be performed in this step 782. When the subsea structure monitoring system 150 includes multiple base device tether assemblies 180, then all of the base device tether assemblies 180 can be anchored proximate to the base device 120 in this step 782. In such a case, the position of each anchor 286 relative to the release mechanism 160 and/or the other anchors 286 can be planned so that the movement of the subsea structure 150 in certain directions is monitored.

[0109] When a trigger 180 has a different configuration, such as the pressure-activated mechanical device of FIG. 9 below, the trigger 180 can be secured to the release mechanism 160 in any of a number of other suitable ways. For example, as explained below, the trigger 980 of FIG. 9 is coupled to a side of the release mechanism 260, and the distal end of the plunger 976 of the trigger 980 is coupled to one of the two extensions 257 (e.g., extension 257-1) of the shear mechanism 255. Further, the distal chamber 937-2 of the trigger 980 is filled with a fluid (e.g., nitrogen gas) at a prescribed pressure (e.g., 1 atmosphere).

[0110] In step 783, the control circuit 549 of the buoy 540 is activated. The control circuit 549 can be activated by implementing the activation mechanism 547. For example, if the activation mechanism 547 includes a magnet 553 and a reed switch 554 that is held open when the magnet

553 is positioned substantially proximate to the reed switch 554, then the activation mechanism 547 can be activated by removing the magnet 553, thereby closing the reed switch 554. The control circuit 549 can be activated by one or more of any of a number of entities, including but not limited to one or more people (e.g., divers), a ROV, and an automated underwater installation vehicle.

[0111] In certain example embodiments, the magnet 553 is placed proximate to the reed switch

554 topsides (e.g., at or above the water level 193) and remains so until the buoy is in place, along with the rest of the subsea structure monitoring system, in the water 194. At that time, the magnet 553 is removed so that the reed switch 554 closes, which makes the normally-open contact 552 of the switch 543 the only obstacle to activating the control circuit 549. Once the magnet 553 is removed, when the sensor 551 closes the contact 552 of the switch 543, the energy storage device 546 begins to provide power to the control circuit 549, and the communication module 545 operates (e.g., sends communication signals). The amount of time between removing the magnet 553 and the contact 552 of the switch 543 closing can be decades or longer.

[0112] Activating the control circuit 549 can include any of a number of functions, including but not limited to establishing the depth of the subsea structure 148 with the position module 539 of the communication module 545, establishing the GPS coordinates of the base device 120 with the position module 539 of the communication module 545, and setting the time with the timer 535 of the communication module 545. In certain example embodiments, when the control circuit 549 of the buoy 540 is activated, the contact 552 of the switch 543 within the control circuit 549 is open and remains so until the buoy 540 is released by the release mechanism 160 and floats toward the water surface 193. When the control circuit 549 is powered up, the communication module 545 sends communication signals that are configured to inform the recipient that the subsea structure 150 at the location of the base device 150 has moved an unnatural amount and requires attention. When step 783 is complete, the process can proceed to the END step.

[0113] FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of a system 899 that includes the system 199 of FIG. 1 after the release mechanism 160 of the subsea structure monitoring system 150 is in a released state according to certain example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 8, when the tether 887 (substantially similar to the tethers 287 discussed above) of the trigger 180 loses its slack and imposes enough of an opposing force on a coupling feature (e.g., coupling feature 258) of the release mechanism 160, the release mechanism 160 breaks into multiple pieces as it converts to a released state. In this example, release mechanism piece 160-1 remains coupled to the base device 120, and release mechanism piece 160-2 remains coupled to the tether 170 (and so also the buoy 140). In alternative embodiments, release mechanism piece 160-1 can fall away from the base device 120.

[0114] When the buoy 140 gets close enough to the water surface 193, the control circuit (e.g., control circuit 549) within the buoy 140 becomes energized, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 5. When this occurs, the communication module (e.g., communication module 545) of the buoy 140 can send communication signals 877 using one or more communication links 878 (discussed above with respect to FIG. 5). Eventually, a user 871, including possibly an associated user system 872 (substantially the same as the user 371 and user system 382 discussed above with respect to FIG. 3), receives one or more of the communication signals 877 (e.g., text messages, phone calls, emails, RF signal), which informs the user 871, directly or indirectly, as to the location of the base device 120 (e.g., using GPS coordinates of the base device 120, using current GPS coordinates of the buoy 540, using the serial number or other information to identify the subsea structure monitoring system 150) so that the subsea structure 148 can be evaluated at that location. In some cases, the communication signals 877 can lead to an automatic identification of the buoy 140 and its original location relative to the subsea structure 148 using an automatic identification system (AIS) and/or a satellite automatic identification system (S-AIS). [0115] For example, if the communication signal 877 is an email sent to an email account of a user 871, the user 871 can access the email on a user system 872 (e.g., alaptop computer, a desktop computer, a smart phone). The email can include the GPS coordinates and depth of the base device 120 so that the user 871 can arrange for the subsea structure 148 to be inspected at the base device 120. As another example, if the communication signal 877 is phone call with a recorded message sent to a user system 872 (e.g., a cell phone, a desktop phone), the recorded message can provide the current GPS coordinates of the buoy 140. When the user 871 retrieves the buoy 140, a serial number of the buoy 140 can be matched to a depth and location of the base device 120 on the subsea structure 148 so that the subsea structure 148 can be inspected at that location.

[0116] The fact that the buoy 140 has surfaced and is transmitting the communication signals 887 indicates that the subsea structure at the location of the associated base device 120 may have moved a distance that jeopardizes the integrity of the subsea structure 148. The user 871 and/or the user system 872 can be located any distance above the water line 193 and/or any distance from the base device 120 when the buoy 140 sends the communication signals 877. The user 871 and/or the user system 872 can be located on land or in a different body of water.

[0117] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a subsystem 999 that includes the release mechanism 260 of FIG. 2B in a default or non-activated state or position. Referring to FIGS. 1 through 9, in addition to the release mechanism 260 of FIG. 2B, the subsystem 999 of FIG. 9 includes a trigger 980, this time in the form of a pressure-activated mechanical device. The release mechanism 260 of the subsystem 999 of FIG. 9 includes the frame 267, the shear mechanism 255, and the shear pin assembly 265. The frame 267 has a top frame portion 267-2 and a bottom frame portion 267-1. The top frame portion 267-2 and the bottom frame portion 267-1 each are in the form of a plate with an aperture 268 that traverses therethrough. In this case, the aperture 268 extends through the top frame portion 267-2 and the bottom frame portion 267-1 toward the distal end so that the proximal end of the top frame portion 267-2 and the bottom frame portion 267-1 can couple to and/or abut against the trigger 980.

[0118] The shear mechanism 255 has two extensions 257 that extend from either side of the body 259 of the shear mechanism 255. Specifically, extension 257-1 extends from one side of the body 259, and extension 257-2 extends from the opposite side of the body 259. Each extension 257 includes a coupling feature 258 in the form of an aperture that traverses the extension 257. In this case, coupling feature 258-1 is an aperture that traverses extension 257-1, and coupling feature 258-2 is an aperture that traverses extension 257-2. The distal end of the plunger 976 of the trigger 980 is coupled to the extension 257-1 using the coupling feature 258-1.

[0119] The shear mechanism 255 is also configured to apply a force against a portion of the shear pin assembly 265. When the force applied by the shear mechanism 255 against a portion of the shear pin assembly 265 is sufficiently large, the shear pin assembly 265 (or portion thereof) breaks, which activates the release mechanism 260. The body 259 of the shear mechanism 255 has an aperture 256 that traverses therethrough in its approximate center. The aperture 256 can be sufficiently large to receive a portion of the shear pin assembly 265 along its length. The conical shape of the aperture 256 in the body 259 in this case is used so that a pulling force applied to the coupling features 258-1 by the trigger 980 must be sufficiently strong (meet a minimal threshold force value) in order to break the shear pin assembly 265.

[0120] The shear pin assembly 265 of the release mechanism includes a shear pin 261, a top stop 263, and a bottom stop 262. The shear pin 261 of the shear pin assembly 265 is an elongated, substantially linear piece that has a length that is greater than the sum of the thickness of the top frame portion 267-2, the height of the body 259 of the shear mechanism 255, and the thickness of the bottom frame portion 267-1. The top (e.g., the proximal end) of the shear pin 261 has an extension 266 that has a coupling feature 264 disposed therein. In this case, the coupling feature 264 is in the form of an aperture that traverses the middle of the extension 266.

[0121] The top stop 263 is located toward or at the top (proximal end) of the shear pin 261, just below the extension 266. The top stop 263 has an outer diameter that exceeds the outer diameter of the shear pin 261, The outer diameter of the top stop 263 is also configured to be larger than the diameter of the aperture 268-2 that traverses the thickness of the top frame portion 267-2. The location of the top stop 263 along the shear pin 261 can be fixed or adjustable. In some cases, as with this example where the platform 225 is used to secure the release mechanism

[0122] The bottom stop 262 is located toward or at the bottom (distal end) of the shear pin

[0123] As stated above, the trigger 980 in this case is a pressure-activated mechanical device that includes a plunger 973, a resilient device 979, and a barrier 984 disposed within a body. The body of the trigger 980 includes a back wall 988, a side wall 936, and a front wall 938, all of which form a cavity 937. The cavity 937 is divided into two parts in this case. The back wall 988, a proximal part of the side wall 936, and the barrier 984 form cavity part 937-2, and the front wall 938, the remainder of the side wall 936, and the barrier 984 form cavity part 937-1. The barrier 984 in this case is or includes a rupture disc that is configured to rupture at a threshold pressure, which can correspond to a particular subsea depth.

[0124] The cavity part 937-2 is filled with a fluid (e.g., nitrogen gas) at a particular pressure (e.g., one atmosphere) or range of pressures. Within the cavity part 937-1, the proximal end of the plunger 973 abuts against the barrier 984. The plunger 973 has a lateral extension 974 that extends outward toward the side wall 936 of the body of the trigger 980. In this way, the diameter of the lateral extension 974 exceeds the diameter of the plunger 973. The plunger 973 also has an axial extension 976 that extends distally from the distal end of the plunger 973. The axial extension 976 shares the same longitudinal axis as the plunger 973 but has a smaller diameter relative to the diameter of the plunger 973. As discussed above, the distal end of the axial extension 976 of the trigger 980 is coupled to the extension 257-1 of the release mechanism 260 using the coupling feature 258-1.

[0125] The resilient device 979 of the trigger 980 is also located inside the cavity part 937-1. Specifically, the resilient device 979 is disposed around the axial extension 976 and the distal end of the plunger 973. The distal end of the resilient device 979 abuts against the inner surface of the front wall 938 of the trigger 980, and the proximal end of the resilient device 979 abuts against the distal surface of the lateral extension 974 of the plunger 973. The diameter of the resilient device 979 is greater than the diameters of the axial extension 976 and the plunger 974, but is less than the diameter of the lateral extension 974.

[0126] The resilient device 979 can take any of a number of forms. In this case, the resilient device 979 is a compression spring. Other example of a resilient device 979 can include, but are not limited to, a piston, a tension spring, and a hydraulic pump. The resilient device 979 can be positioned at another location within the cavity 937 to accommodate the configuration of the resilient device 979. Further, the trigger 980 can have additional components, fewer components, and/or one or more modified components compared to what is shown in FIG. 9 if the resilient device 979 and/or other parts of the trigger 980 has a different configuration.

[0127] The barrier 984 of the trigger 980 in this case is designed to keep the resilient device 979 compressed in a default condition. If the trigger 980 is subjected to a higher pressure than the threshold pressure of the rupture disc, then the barrier 984 weakens (e.g., breaks apart) to the point that the plunger 973 is pushed toward the back wall 988 by the resilient device 979. When this occurs, the shear mechanism 255 of the release mechanism 260, which is coupled to the axial extension 976 of the plunger 973, is pulled toward the back wall 988 by the resilient device 979. The force exerted by the resilient device 979 is sufficiently strong, and the distance that the shear mechanism 255 has to travel before contacting the front wall 938 of the body of the trigger 980 is sufficiently long, that the release mechanism 260 is converted from the default state to the released state.

[0128] Example embodiments can be used to monitor a subsea structure at one or more particular locations. Example embodiments can remain in place for long periods of time (e.g., years, decades) before detecting an abnormally large movement in a subsea structure. Example embodiments can be configured to detect abnormal movement of the subsea structure in any of a number of directions (e.g., up and down, laterally). The amount of movement of the subsea structure that is required to release the buoy of an example subsea structure monitoring system can be specifically configured. Example embodiments only rely on electrical power when the buoy is released. Other benefits of example embodiments can include, but are not limited to, less use of resources, time savings, and compliance with applicable industry standards and regulations.

[0129] Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to example embodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications are well within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the example embodiments described herein are not limited to any specifically discussed application and that the embodiments described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the example embodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing other embodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves to practitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the example embodiments is not limited herein.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A subsea structure monitoring system comprising: a base device configured to be secured to a subsea structure; a release mechanism disposed within the base device, wherein the release mechanism has a default state and a released state; a buoy coupled to the release mechanism, wherein the buoy comprises a housing that houses a communication module and a switch; and a trigger that is configured to convert the release mechanism from the default state to the released state, wherein the release mechanism is converted from the default state to the released state when the trigger exerts a minimum threshold force on the release mechanism, wherein the minimum threshold force is applied by the trigger when the subsea structure moves a threshold distance from a default position, wherein the release mechanism, when in the released state, releases the buoy, and wherein the buoy, upon being released, is configured to float toward a surface of the water and activate the communication module using the switch.

2. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1 , wherein the buoy further comprises an energy storage device disposed within the housing, wherein the energy storage device is configured to be inactive when the switch is open, and wherein the energy storage device is configured to provide power, triggered by the switch closing, to the communication module.

3. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the switch comprises a pressure switch, wherein the pressure switch is configured to be open when the pressure switch is exposed to pressure above a threshold value, and wherein the pressure switch is configured to be closed when the pressure switch is exposed to pressure below the threshold value.

4. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1 , wherein the buoy further comprises an activation mechanism disposed within the housing, wherein the activation mechanism is configured to initiate the communication module when the base device is secured to the subsea structure.

5. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 4, wherein the activation mechanism comprises a reed switch and a removable magnet, wherein the magnet opens the reed switch when the magnet is positioned proximate to the reed switch, and wherein the reed switch is closed when the magnet is removed from the activation mechanism.

6. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 5, wherein the magnet is configured to be removed from the activation mechanism once the base device is secured to the subsea structure.

7. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the housing of the buoy comprises a non-metallic material.

8. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the switch comprises a pressure-activated switch that is configured to close when the pressure-activated switch detects a pressure that approaches atmospheric pressure.

9. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the trigger comprises a pressure-activated mechanical device that releases a resilient device when a pressure within the pressure-activated mechanical device falls below a threshold value, wherein the resilient device, when released, pushes a plunger attached to the release mechanism away from the release mechanism to convert the release mechanism from the default state to the released state.

10. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the subsea structure moves the threshold amount from the default position in any direction.

11. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, further comprising: a buoy tether having one end coupled to the release mechanism and an opposite end coupled to the buoy.

12. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the communication module is configured to communicate a position of the base device on the subsea structure.

13. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the subsea structure comprises a pipeline, and wherein the base device comprises a pipe clamp that clamps around the pipeline.

14. The subsea structure monitoring system of Claim 1, wherein the trigger comprises a base device tether assembly having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the release mechanism, and wherein the second end is configured to be anchored to a non-transient object.

15. A buoy of a subsea structure monitoring system for a subsea structure, the buoy comprising: a non-metallic housing configured to be disposed in water without letting the water enter therein; a control circuit disposed at least in part within the non-metallic housing, wherein the control circuit comprises: an energy storage device configured to provide power to the control circuit; a communication device configured to store a location of a base device of the subsea structure monitoring system and to send communication signals; a first switch configured to have an open position when the non-metallic housing is disposed proximate to the base device and a closed position after the non-metallic housing is released toward a surface of the water; and a second switch configured to be normally closed; and an activation device configured to open the second switch until the base device is placed in position relative to the subsea structure.

16. The buoy of Claim 15, wherein the activation device comprises a magnet having a first polarity, wherein the second switch comprises a reed switch having a second polarity that opposes the first polarity.

17. The buoy of Claim 15, wherein the first switch comprises a pressure-activated switch that closes as the pressure-activated switch experiences a pressure that is substantially similar to atmospheric pressure.

18. A method for monitoring a subsea structure, the method comprising: affixing a base device of a subsea structure monitoring system to the subsea structure, wherein the subsea structure monitoring system further comprises a release mechanism, a buoy, and a trigger; securing the trigger to the release mechanism, wherein the trigger is configured to convert the release mechanism from a default state to a released state when the trigger exerts a minimum threshold force on the release mechanism, wherein the minimum threshold force is applied to the release mechanism when the subsea structure moves a threshold distance from a default position, wherein the release mechanism, when in the released state, releases the buoy, and wherein the buoy, upon being released, is configured to float toward a surface of the water and activate the communication module using the switch; and activating, after affixing the base device to the subsea structure, a control circuit comprising a switch, an energy storage device, and a communication module of the buoy, wherein the control circuit remains open when the release mechanism holds the buoy proximate to the base device, and wherein the control circuit opens after the release mechanism achieves the released state and releases the buoy.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein activating the control circuit comprises removing a magnetic device from proximity of an additional switch in the control circuit, wherein the additional switch closes when the magnetic device is removed, and wherein the switch is open at pressures near the non-transient object.

20. The method of Claim 18, wherein the trigger comprises a base device tether assembly having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the release mechanism, and wherein the second end is configured to be anchored to a non-transient object proximate to the base device, wherein the release mechanism is configured to convert from the default state to the released state when the base device tether assembly exerts the minimum threshold force on the release mechanism.