PIPE ASSEMBLY METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING UNDERWATER PIPELINES, AND UNDERWATER- PIPELINE LAYING VESSEL COMPRISING SUCH A SYSTEM

摘要

A method of assembling pipes (3) for producing an underwater pipeline (2) includes aligning, along the path (P) of an assembly system supported by a structure (5), an assembled portion of pipeline (2), and a given number of pipes (3) to define an in-process pipeline (2); jogging the structure (5) forward parallel to the path (P) and with respect to the in-process pipeline (2); working end portions of the pipes (3) by means of a work unit (13; 14; 15; 16) of the assembly system (8); and moving the work unit (13; 14; 15; 16) with respect to the structure (5) and in-process pipeline (2) by means of a powered assembly (27) for guiding and supporting the work unit (13; 14; 15; 16), and as a function of control signals (Et; EA; Cs; CR; Cc; CA).