Importance

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Abstract

A method of deactivating an underwater hydraulic device provides a hydraulic device that is capable of being operated under water, the device having a hydraulic cylinder with a pushrod and a piston. The device is lowered below a water surface with a hose reel that is located at the water surface area such as on a marine vessel. The hose reel includes first and second hydraulic hoses that connect to the cylinder on opposing sides of the piston. Fluid flow in the first and second hydraulic hoses is continuously monitored. The ratio of the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from one side of the piston to the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from the other side of the piston is continuously calculated with a computer or controller. The hydraulic device is deactivated if the ratio varies from a preset value. One embodiment includes a plurality of flow meters for measuring fluid flow to and from one or more hydraulically powered apparatuses. In one embodiment outputs of the flow meters are analyzed to determine if the hydraulic system has a leak, and if a leak is detected, a warning is issued and/or one or more of the connected hydraulically powered apparatuses are shut down, and/or the hydraulic power supply is shut down. In one embodiment, the flow lines are jointed flow lines comprised of hose joints connected end to end. Some or all of the hoses have check valves. In one embodiment, the check valves stop flow in either direction if the flow pressure drops below a selected pressure.

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First Claim