EP3558808B1 - Line intended to be immersed in an aquatic environment - Google Patents

Line intended to be immersed in an aquatic environment Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3558808B1
EP3558808B1 EP17825206.0A EP17825206A EP3558808B1 EP 3558808 B1 EP3558808 B1 EP 3558808B1 EP 17825206 A EP17825206 A EP 17825206A EP 3558808 B1 EP3558808 B1 EP 3558808B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
line
frame
buoy
center
aquatic environment
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17825206.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3558808A1 (en
Inventor
Denis GOURMELON
Michaël JOURDAN
Dominique BRECHET
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Thales SA
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Thales SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3558808A1 publication Critical patent/EP3558808A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B22/00—Buoys
    • B63B22/18—Buoys having means to control attitude or position, e.g. reaction surfaces or tether
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
    • B63C11/00—Equipment for dwelling or working underwater; Means for searching for underwater objects
    • B63C11/48—Means for searching for underwater objects
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10K—SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES; METHODS OR DEVICES FOR PROTECTING AGAINST, OR FOR DAMPING, NOISE OR OTHER ACOUSTIC WAVES IN GENERAL; ACOUSTICS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G10K11/00—Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in general; Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
    • G10K11/004—Mounting transducers, e.g. provided with mechanical moving or orienting device
    • G10K11/006—Transducer mounting in underwater equipment, e.g. sonobuoys
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B22/00—Buoys
    • B63B2022/006—Buoys specially adapted for measuring or watch purposes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B2211/00—Applications
    • B63B2211/02—Oceanography

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a line intended to be submerged in an aquatic environment, similar to that presented in the document CA 2 189 805 A1 .
  • a line can be implemented to maintain an object at a determined depth relative to the surface.
  • an object can for example be a passive or active sonar antenna.
  • Sonar antennas can be towed behind a surface building. It may also be useful to have an antenna whose location remains fixed. To do this, it is known to use sonar buoys released from an airplane. Once the buoy has reached the surface of the water after its release, it deploys a sonar antenna to a given depth. The buoy is connected to the antenna by an electro-carrying cable. The antenna receives sound information from the aquatic environment. The antenna transmits this information to the buoy via the electro-carrying cable. In turn, the buoy transmits over the air the information received from the sonar antenna, for example, to the aircraft which released the buoys.
  • This type of buoy has a drawback.
  • the sonar antenna is only connected to the buoy and in the presence of sea currents the assembly formed by the buoy and the antenna drifts with the current. In addition, sea currents can be different at the surface and at the depth of the antenna's immersion.
  • the electro-carrying cable is then inclined causing the antenna in its inclination.
  • the inclination of the antenna with respect to the vertical is detrimental to its mission. Indeed, the inclination of the antenna causes the inclination of the sound lobes in reception and possibly in transmission for an active antenna. The inclination of the sound lobes degrades the performance of the sonar because of their possible interference with the bottom or with the surface.
  • the invention aims to overcome all or part of the problems mentioned above by providing a line submerged in an aquatic environment, anchored at one of its ends and having a buoy at the other of its ends, an object being hung between the anchor and buoy.
  • the line includes means for maintaining the object vertically even in the presence of current in the aquatic environment.
  • At least one fin is fixed to the frame.
  • the object comprises for example an upper part configured to receive and / or send information to the aquatic environment and a lower part comprising easements.
  • the at least one fin faces the lower part without facing the upper part.
  • the pivot connection advantageously comprises two coaxial bearings connecting the object to the frame, the two bearings being arranged on either side of the hydrodynamic center.
  • the line advantageously comprises a swivel arranged between the dead body and the frame.
  • the swivel can be placed between the first section of line and the frame.
  • the object may include an acoustic transmitter and an acoustic receiver.
  • the second line section advantageously comprises a cable configured to transmit information from the object to the buoy and the buoy comprises a transmitter configured to transmit in the air the information received from the object.
  • the figure 1 schematically represents an aquatic environment 10 in which it is sought to detect the presence of a submarine 11 likely to threaten a surface vessel 12.
  • a sonar antenna 14 In the area where the surface vessel 12 is navigating, several sonar antennas 14 are arranged , each having a fixed position relative to the bottom.
  • Each antenna 14 may be active and includes an acoustic transmitter and an acoustic receiver, the receiver receiving an echo of a sound wave from the transmitter.
  • the desired echo is of course returned by the hull of the submarine 11.
  • the antenna can be passive. It then does not include a sound transmitter and is content to capture the sound waves in order to distinguish those coming from the desired submarine 11 or more generally from any threat approaching the area of interest where the surface vessel 12 is located.
  • the sonar system comprising the different antennas 14 can operate in bistatic mode in which each antenna is configured to receive an echo of a sound wave that it transmits.
  • the sonar system can operate in a multistatic mode in which each antenna is configured to receive an echo of a sound wave from another antenna in the system.
  • Each sonar antenna 14 is arranged on a submerged line between an anchor point and a floating buoy.
  • the buoy can receive information from the antenna and transmit this information to a station at the ground 15 for example by means of a satellite 16.
  • the buoy can also transmit the information received from the antenna to other stations allowing the processing of information, for example placed on board the surface vessel 12 or an airplane flying over the area where the antennas 14 are submerged.
  • the different antennas 14 are arranged in a circle around the surface building 12.
  • the invention is not limited to this arrangement. It is for example possible to arrange the antennas in a straight line. More generally, the invention can be implemented for a single antenna 14 and even for any object that it is desired to have submerged at a determined position and depth. Another mission of the object may be to measure the speed of a sea current at a predefined depth. The object is then equipped with a speed sensor of a water flow.
  • Line 20 comprises a dead body 22 (well known in the Anglo-Saxon literature under the name of "sinker") configured to land on the bottom 23 of the aquatic environment 10 so as to immobilize the line 20 relative to the bottom 23.
  • the term “dead body” is understood to mean any device capable of remaining stationary on the bottom 23.
  • the dead body 22 may be an inert mass, for example made of concrete. The weight of this inert mass is sufficient to immobilize the line 20. Any other means making it possible to immobilize the line 20 relative to the bottom 23 can be implemented.
  • the dead body 22 can be an anchor which can be hooked onto the bottom 23. It is possible to combine various means of immobilization, inert mass and anchor.
  • the dimensioning of the dead body 22 is carried out so that the dead body 22 remains motionless on the bottom 23 under the effect of a given current 25 tending to exert a force on the line 20.
  • a given current 25 tending to exert a force on the line 20.
  • the definition of the dead body 22 is made as a function of the maximum drag force that line 20 undergoes under the effect of the maximum current existing in the zone where line 20 is used.
  • Line 20 comprises a buoy 27 configured to float on the surface 28 of the aquatic environment 10 and a frame 30 making it possible to maintain the vertical orientation of an object which in the example shown is the sonar antenna 14.
  • the line 20 comprises a section of line 34 connecting the dead body 22 to the frame 30 and a section of line 36 connecting the frame 30 to the buoy 27. Both sections 34 and 36 can be cables or ropes.
  • the sonar antenna or more generally the object 14 can be autonomous.
  • the object 14 can be provided with a sensor and with a memory recording data entered by the sensor at predefined intervals. Periodically, line 20 can be raised to retrieve the recorded data.
  • the object 14 can exchange in real time the data that it receives to a station outside the line 20.
  • the line section 36 comprises a cable configured to transmit information coming from the object 14 and for example from its acoustic receiver to the buoy 27.
  • the section of line 36 can be electro-carrying and include, for example, electrical conductors forming a core surrounded by a load-bearing frame.
  • the line section 36 can be formed by a carrier cable around which an electric cable winds its way transmitting information between the object 14 and the buoy 27.
  • the buoy 27 comprises a transmitter 38 configured to transmit the information in the air. received from the object 14.
  • the transmitter can be of any kind, for example wireless or optical.
  • the length L of the line 20 between the dead body 22 and the buoy 27 is defined as a function of the depth P of the aquatic medium 10 where the line is intended to be implemented.
  • the depth P separates the surface 28 from the bottom 23.
  • the aquatic environment 10 may be subject to tides and the length L of line 20 must take account of the tidal range.
  • the buoy 27 floats permanently on the surface 28 in order to continuously transmit its information by means of its transmitter 38.
  • the length L of the line 20 is then greater than the depth P during the highest. sea.
  • each of the two line sections 34 and 36 can also be adjusted as a function of the bathy-celerity profiles of the area where line 20 is submerged.
  • the object 14 and the buoy 27 will move around the dead body 22 at the option of the current 25. This in particular creates an oscillation around the position of the dead body 22.
  • the line sections 34 and 36 are thus inclined relative to the vertical. This inclination poses difficulties in maintaining the orientation of the object 14 relative to the vertical direction. Maintaining the object 14 is useful, as we have seen previously, for a sonar listening mission. This hold is also useful for a sea current measurement mission. These difficulties are solved by the invention.
  • the object 14 has external shapes making it possible to define a center of equilibrium of hydrodynamic forces when the object 14 is subjected to a horizontal water current.
  • This center is more simply called the hydrodynamic center 40.
  • the position of the hydrodynamic center 40 does not depend on the intensity of the current but only on the shapes of the object 14.
  • the hydrodynamic forces exerted by a horizontal current above the hydrodynamic center 40 balance the same forces exerted below the hydrodynamic center 40.
  • the hydrodynamic center 40 is located at mid height of the object 14.
  • the position of the hydrodynamic center 40 may depend on the surface condition of the object 14. It is possible to determine its position by tests in a reference aquatic environment with a predetermined current of intensity.
  • the object 14 also has a center of gravity 42.
  • the object 14 is configured so that its center of gravity 42 is vertically distant from its hydrodynamic center 40.
  • At least one pivot connection 43 of substantially horizontal axis 45 passing through the hydrodynamic center 40 connects the frame 30 and the object 14.
  • the distance between the axis of the pivot connection 43, passing through the hydrodynamic center 40, and the center of gravity 42 naturally causes a stable position of the object 14 which is maintained vertically whether without current or in the presence of a current 25, the center of gravity 42 being located under the hydrodynamic center 40.
  • the frame 30 surrounds the object 14.
  • the line section 34 is attached to the frame 30 at an attachment point 44 and the line section 36 is attached to the frame 30 at an attachment point 46.
  • the hydrodynamic center 40, the center of gravity 42 and the two attachment points 44 and 46 are also aligned along a vertical axis 47 of the object 14.
  • the various vertical forces applied to the frame 30, the forces of the two sections of lines 34 and 36 and the force of the weight of the object 14, are all aligned. This alignment makes it possible to maintain the axis of the horizontal pivot connection.
  • the pivot connection 43 is produced by means of two coaxial bearings 48 and 50 allowing the rotation of the object 14 relative to the frame 30 around the axis 45.
  • the two bearings 48 and 50 are arranged on either side of the hydrodynamic center 40. The presence of these two bearings 48 and 50 prevents the object 14 from overhang with respect to the frame 30.
  • This arrangement of the hydrodynamic center 40, of the center of gravity 42 and the pivot link 43 allows the object 14 to be held vertically. In other words, the axis 47 passing through the hydrodynamic center 40 and the center of gravity 42 is maintained vertically. It is still possible to rotate the object 14 around its axis 47.
  • the line sections 34 and 36 can have significant lengths and twist of these sections is possible.
  • the axis 45 of the pivot link 43 can be oriented with the same azimuth as the current 25. With this orientation, if the frame 30 is inclined with respect to the vertical, the axis 45 of the pivot link 43 n 'is more horizontal and the axis 47 of the object 14 passing through its hydrodynamic center 40 and its center of gravity 42 is not maintained vertically. To stabilize the object 14 in rotation about its axis 47, it is possible to equip the object 14 with at least a vertical fin. In the presence of a current 25, this fin is oriented in the direction of the current 25 and makes it possible to keep the axis 45 of the pivot connection 43 perpendicular to the current.
  • the presence of fins fixed on the object 14 has another drawback linked to the fact that these fins modify the hydrodynamic behavior of the object 14.
  • the fins fixed to the object 14 object 14 entail a risk of instability in the position of the hydrodynamic center 40. In the event of turbulence in the current, the presence of fins on the object 14 could degrade its maintenance in a vertical position.
  • At least one fin extending vertically is fixed to the frame 30.
  • the frame 30 In the presence of a current 25, the frame 30 is oriented in the same direction.
  • the axis of the stream 25 and the object 14 follows the frame 30 in its orientation.
  • the frame 30 is equipped with two fins 52 and 54 each located in the vicinity of one of the bearings 48 and 50.
  • the figure 3 represents the object 14 and the frame 30.
  • the object 14 comprises an upper part 60 called the active part comprising sound transmitters and / or receivers or other types of sensors and a lower part 62 comprising easements, such as a battery and electronic modules ensuring in particular the formatting of information received from the sensors or receivers, or in the direction of the transmitters.
  • the presence of a battery in the lower part 62 tends to lower the position of the center of gravity 42.
  • the active part 60 receives and / or transmits information to the aquatic environment 10, such as sound waves for example, while the lower part 62 only communicates internally to the object 14 or to the electro-carrying cable of the section 36.
  • the fins 52 and 54 face the lower part 62 without facing the upper part 60.
  • the fins 52 and 54 face the lower part 62 without facing the upper part 60. fins do not hinder the propagation of information in the aquatic environment 10.
  • the fins 52 and 54 are located in the lower part of the frame 30 under the bearings 48 and 50.
  • the line 20 comprises a swivel 64 (well known in the Anglo-Saxon literature under the name of "swivel") arranged between the dead body 22 and the frame 30.
  • the swivel 64 ensures a rotational freedom of the frame 30 relative to the dead body 22 about a longitudinal axis of the line section 34.
  • the swivel 64 is advantageously disposed between the line section 34 and the frame 30 and forms the attachment point 44 in order to to avoid any twisting of the section of line 34. It is also possible to have another swivel arranged between the frame 30 and the buoy 27, for example to allow the buoy 27 to rotate freely around the section of line 36. In practice , this other swivel can be put in place in the absence of an electric carrier cable connecting the buoy 27 to the object 14. For this, it is possible to have a recorder in the object 14 in order to allow a subsequent collection of information processed in object 14, such as for example e information received from a sonar antenna belonging to the object.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Measurement Of Velocity Or Position Using Acoustic Or Ultrasonic Waves (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne une ligne destinée à être immergée en milieu aquatique, similaire à celle présentée dans le document CA 2 189 805 A1 . Une telle ligne peut être mise œuvre pour maintenir un objet à une profondeur déterminée par rapport à la surface. Un tel objet peut par exemple être une antenne sonar passive, ou active.The invention relates to a line intended to be submerged in an aquatic environment, similar to that presented in the document CA 2 189 805 A1 . Such a line can be implemented to maintain an object at a determined depth relative to the surface. Such an object can for example be a passive or active sonar antenna.

Les antennes sonar peuvent être tractées derrière un bâtiment de surface. Il peut être également utile de disposer d'une antenne dont la localisation reste fixe. Pour ce faire, il est connu d'utiliser des bouées sonar larguées à partir d'un avion. Une fois que la bouée a atteint la surface de l'eau après son largage, elle déploie une antenne sonar à une profondeur donnée. La bouée est reliée à l'antenne par un câble électro porteur L'antenne reçoit des informations sonores du milieu aquatique. L'antenne transmet à la bouée ces informations par le câble électro porteur. A son tour, la bouée émet par voie hertzienne les informations reçues de l'antenne sonar par exemple vers l'avion ayant largué les bouées.Sonar antennas can be towed behind a surface building. It may also be useful to have an antenna whose location remains fixed. To do this, it is known to use sonar buoys released from an airplane. Once the buoy has reached the surface of the water after its release, it deploys a sonar antenna to a given depth. The buoy is connected to the antenna by an electro-carrying cable. The antenna receives sound information from the aquatic environment. The antenna transmits this information to the buoy via the electro-carrying cable. In turn, the buoy transmits over the air the information received from the sonar antenna, for example, to the aircraft which released the buoys.

Ce type de bouée présente un inconvénient. L'antenne sonar n'est reliée qu'à la bouée et en présence de courants marins l'ensemble formé par la bouée et l'antenne dérive au gré du courant. De plus, les courants marins peuvent être différents en surface et à la profondeur d'immersion de l'antenne. Le câble électro porteur est alors incliné entrainant l'antenne dans son inclinaison. L'inclinaison de l'antenne par rapport à la verticale est préjudiciable à sa mission. En effet, l'inclinaison de l'antenne entraine l'inclinaison des lobes sonores en réception et éventuellement en émission pour une antenne active. L'inclinaison des lobes sonores dégradent les performances du sonar du fait de leur possible interférence avec le fond ou avec la surface.This type of buoy has a drawback. The sonar antenna is only connected to the buoy and in the presence of sea currents the assembly formed by the buoy and the antenna drifts with the current. In addition, sea currents can be different at the surface and at the depth of the antenna's immersion. The electro-carrying cable is then inclined causing the antenna in its inclination. The inclination of the antenna with respect to the vertical is detrimental to its mission. Indeed, the inclination of the antenna causes the inclination of the sound lobes in reception and possibly in transmission for an active antenna. The inclination of the sound lobes degrades the performance of the sonar because of their possible interference with the bottom or with the surface.

Pour améliorer le maintien en position de l'antenne sonar, on a tenté d'ancrer la bouée et son antenne au fond. L'ancrage rend l'antenne encore plus sensible au courant.To improve the positioning of the sonar antenna, an attempt was made to anchor the buoy and its antenna to the bottom. The anchor makes the antenna even more sensitive to current.

L'invention vise à pallier tout ou partie des problèmes cités plus haut en proposant une ligne immergée en milieu aquatique, ancrée à l'une de ses extrémités et possédant une bouée à l'autre de ses extrémités, un objet étant accroché entre l'ancrage et la bouée. La ligne comprend des moyens de maintien de l'objet verticalement même en présence de courant dans le milieu aquatique.The invention aims to overcome all or part of the problems mentioned above by providing a line submerged in an aquatic environment, anchored at one of its ends and having a buoy at the other of its ends, an object being hung between the anchor and buoy. The line includes means for maintaining the object vertically even in the presence of current in the aquatic environment.

Plus précisément, l'invention a pour objet une ligne destinée à être immergée dans un milieu aquatique caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend :

  • un corps mort configuré pour se poser sur le fond du milieu aquatique et à immobiliser la ligne par rapport au fond,
  • une bouée configurée pour flotter à la surface du milieu aquatique,
  • un objet s'étendant selon un axe vertical, possédant un centre d'équilibre de forces hydrodynamiques lorsque l'objet est soumis à un courant aquatique horizontal et appelé centre hydrodynamique, et possédant un centre de gravité distant verticalement du centre hydrodynamique,
  • un cadre relié à l'objet par une liaison pivot d'axe sensiblement horizontal passant par le centre hydrodynamique,
  • au moins une ailette s'étendant verticalement et permettant à l'objet de s'orienter par rapport à un courant aquatique horizontal,
  • un premier tronçon de ligne reliant le corps mort au cadre,
  • un second tronçon de ligne reliant le cadre à la bouée.
More specifically, the subject of the invention is a line intended to be immersed in an aquatic environment characterized in that it comprises:
  • a dead body configured to land on the bottom of the aquatic environment and to immobilize the line in relation to the bottom,
  • a buoy configured to float on the surface of the aquatic environment,
  • an object extending along a vertical axis, having a center of equilibrium of hydrodynamic forces when the object is subjected to a horizontal water current and called the hydrodynamic center, and having a center of gravity vertically distant from the hydrodynamic center,
  • a frame connected to the object by a pivot link with a substantially horizontal axis passing through the hydrodynamic center,
  • at least one fin extending vertically and allowing the object to orient itself in relation to a horizontal water current,
  • a first section of line connecting the dead body to the frame,
  • a second section of line connecting the frame to the buoy.

Avantageusement l'au moins une ailette est fixée au cadre.Advantageously, at least one fin is fixed to the frame.

L'objet comprend par exemple une partie supérieure configurée pour recevoir et/ou émettre des informations vers le milieu aquatique et une partie inférieure comprenant des servitudes. Avantageusement, l'au moins une ailette fait face à la partie inférieure sans faire face à la partie supérieure.The object comprises for example an upper part configured to receive and / or send information to the aquatic environment and a lower part comprising easements. Advantageously, the at least one fin faces the lower part without facing the upper part.

La liaison pivot comprend avantageusement deux paliers coaxiaux reliant l'objet au cadre, les deux paliers étant disposés de part et d'autre du centre hydrodynamique.The pivot connection advantageously comprises two coaxial bearings connecting the object to the frame, the two bearings being arranged on either side of the hydrodynamic center.

La ligne comprend avantageusement un émerillon disposé entre le corps mort et le cadre.The line advantageously comprises a swivel arranged between the dead body and the frame.

L'émerillon peut être disposé entre le premier tronçon de ligne et le cadre.The swivel can be placed between the first section of line and the frame.

L'objet peut comprendre un émetteur acoustique et un récepteur acoustique.The object may include an acoustic transmitter and an acoustic receiver.

Le second tronçon de ligne comprend avantageusement un câble configuré pour transmettre une information issue de l'objet vers la bouée et la bouée comprend un émetteur configuré pour transmettre dans l'air l'information reçue de l'objet.The second line section advantageously comprises a cable configured to transmit information from the object to the buoy and the buoy comprises a transmitter configured to transmit in the air the information received from the object.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée d'un mode de réalisation donné à titre d'exemple, description illustrée par le dessin joint dans lequel :

  • la figure 1 représente un exemple d'utilisation d'une ligne immergée conforme à l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 représente une ligne immergée conforme à l'invention ;
  • la figure 3 représente plus en détail la ligne de la figure 2 au niveau d'un objet accroché à la ligne.
The invention will be better understood and other advantages will appear on reading the detailed description of an embodiment given by way of example, description illustrated by the accompanying drawing in which:
  • the figure 1 represents an example of use of a submerged line in accordance with the invention;
  • the figure 2 represents a submerged line in accordance with the invention;
  • the figure 3 represents in more detail the line of the figure 2 at the level of an object hooked to the line.

Par souci de clarté, les mêmes éléments porteront les mêmes repères dans les différentes figures.For the sake of clarity, the same elements will bear the same references in the different figures.

La figure 1 représente schématiquement un milieu aquatique 10 dans lequel on cherche à détecter la présence d'un sous marin 11 susceptible de menacer un bâtiment de surface 12. A cet effet, dans la zone où navigue le bâtiment de surface 12, plusieurs antennes sonar 14 sont disposées, chacune ayant une position fixe par rapport au fond. Chaque antenne 14 peut être active et comprend un émetteur et un récepteur acoustiques, le récepteur recevant un écho d'une onde sonore provenant de l'émetteur. L'écho recherché est bien entendu renvoyé par la coque du sous-marin 11. Alternativement, l'antenne peut être passive. Elle ne comprend alors pas d'émetteur sonore et se contente de capter les ondes sonores afin de discerner celles provenant du sous-marin 11 recherché ou plus généralement de toute menace approchant de la zone d'intérêt où se situe le bâtiment de surface 12. De façon plus générale, le système sonar comprenant les différentes antennes 14 peut fonctionner en mode bistatique dans lequel chaque antenne est configurée pour recevoir un écho d'une onde sonore qu'elle émet. Le système sonar peut fonctionner en mode multistatique dans lequel chaque antenne est configurée pour recevoir un écho d'une onde sonore provenant d'une autre antenne du système.The figure 1 schematically represents an aquatic environment 10 in which it is sought to detect the presence of a submarine 11 likely to threaten a surface vessel 12. For this purpose, in the area where the surface vessel 12 is navigating, several sonar antennas 14 are arranged , each having a fixed position relative to the bottom. Each antenna 14 may be active and includes an acoustic transmitter and an acoustic receiver, the receiver receiving an echo of a sound wave from the transmitter. The desired echo is of course returned by the hull of the submarine 11. Alternatively, the antenna can be passive. It then does not include a sound transmitter and is content to capture the sound waves in order to distinguish those coming from the desired submarine 11 or more generally from any threat approaching the area of interest where the surface vessel 12 is located. More generally, the sonar system comprising the different antennas 14 can operate in bistatic mode in which each antenna is configured to receive an echo of a sound wave that it transmits. The sonar system can operate in a multistatic mode in which each antenna is configured to receive an echo of a sound wave from another antenna in the system.

Chaque antenne sonar 14 est disposée sur une ligne immergée entre un point d'ancrage et une bouée flottante. La bouée peut recevoir des informations de l'antenne et transmettre ces informations vers une station au sol 15 par exemple par l'intermédiaire d'un satellite 16. La bouée peut également transmettre les informations reçues de l'antenne vers d'autres stations permettant le traitement des informations, par exemple disposées à bord du bâtiment de surface 12 ou d'un avion survolant la zone où les antennes 14 sont immergées. Pour une transmission vers le bâtiment de surface 12 ou un avion, il est possible de réaliser la transmission directement sans passer par le satellite 16, en utilisant par exemple une transmission hertzienne dans la bande VHF.Each sonar antenna 14 is arranged on a submerged line between an anchor point and a floating buoy. The buoy can receive information from the antenna and transmit this information to a station at the ground 15 for example by means of a satellite 16. The buoy can also transmit the information received from the antenna to other stations allowing the processing of information, for example placed on board the surface vessel 12 or an airplane flying over the area where the antennas 14 are submerged. For transmission to the surface building 12 or to an airplane, it is possible to carry out the transmission directly without going through the satellite 16, for example by using microwave transmission in the VHF band.

Sur la figure 1, les différentes antennes 14 sont disposées en cercle autour du bâtiment de surface 12. L'invention n'est pas limitée à cette disposition. Il est par exemple possible de disposer les antennes en ligne droite. De façon plus générale, l'invention peut être mise en œuvre pour une seule antenne 14 et même pour tout objet que l'on souhaite disposer de façon immergé à une position et une profondeur déterminée. Une autre mission de l'objet peut être de mesurer la vitesse d'un courant marin à une profondeur prédéfinie. L'objet est alors équipé d'un capteur de vitesse d'un flux d'eau.On the figure 1 , the different antennas 14 are arranged in a circle around the surface building 12. The invention is not limited to this arrangement. It is for example possible to arrange the antennas in a straight line. More generally, the invention can be implemented for a single antenna 14 and even for any object that it is desired to have submerged at a determined position and depth. Another mission of the object may be to measure the speed of a sea current at a predefined depth. The object is then equipped with a speed sensor of a water flow.

La figure 2 représente plus en détail la ligne immergée portant la ici la référence 20. La ligne 20 comprend un corps mort 22 (bien connu dans la littérature anglo-saxonne sous le nom de « sinker ») configuré pour se poser sur le fond 23 du milieu aquatique 10 de façon à immobiliser la ligne 20 par rapport au fond 23. Par corps mort, on entend tout dispositif susceptible de rester immobile sur le fond 23. Le corps mort 22 peut être une masse inerte par exemple réalisée en béton. Le poids de cette masse inerte suffit à immobiliser la ligne 20. Tout autre moyen permettant d'immobiliser la ligne 20 par rapport au fond 23 peut être mis en œuvre. Le corps mort 22 peut être une ancre pouvant s'accrocher sur le fond 23. Il est possible de cumuler différents moyens d'immobilisation, masse inerte et ancre. Le dimensionnement du corps mort 22 est réalisé de façon à ce que le corps mort 22 reste immobile sur le fond 23 sous l'effet d'un courant 25 donné tendant à exercer un effort sur la ligne 20. En mer, on peut être confronté à des courants de marée qui peuvent, dans des zones particulières, dépasser les 5 nœuds lors de grandes marées. La définition du corps mort 22 se fait en fonction de l'effort de trainée maximum que subit la ligne 20 sous l'effet du courant maximum existant dans la zone où la ligne 20 est mise en œuvre.The figure 2 shows in more detail the submerged line bearing the reference 20 here. Line 20 comprises a dead body 22 (well known in the Anglo-Saxon literature under the name of "sinker") configured to land on the bottom 23 of the aquatic environment 10 so as to immobilize the line 20 relative to the bottom 23. The term “dead body” is understood to mean any device capable of remaining stationary on the bottom 23. The dead body 22 may be an inert mass, for example made of concrete. The weight of this inert mass is sufficient to immobilize the line 20. Any other means making it possible to immobilize the line 20 relative to the bottom 23 can be implemented. The dead body 22 can be an anchor which can be hooked onto the bottom 23. It is possible to combine various means of immobilization, inert mass and anchor. The dimensioning of the dead body 22 is carried out so that the dead body 22 remains motionless on the bottom 23 under the effect of a given current 25 tending to exert a force on the line 20. At sea, one can be confronted with tidal currents which can, in particular areas, exceed 5 knots during high tides. The definition of the dead body 22 is made as a function of the maximum drag force that line 20 undergoes under the effect of the maximum current existing in the zone where line 20 is used.

La ligne 20 comprend une bouée 27 configurée pour flotter à la surface 28 du milieu aquatique 10 et un cadre 30 permettant de maintenir l'orientation verticale d'un objet qui dans l'exemple représenté est l'antenne sonar 14. Pour maintenir la bouée 27, le cadre 30 et le corps mort 22 solidaires les uns des autres, la ligne 20 comprend un tronçon de ligne 34 reliant le corps mort 22 au cadre 30 et un tronçon de ligne 36 reliant le cadre 30 à la bouée 27. Les deux tronçons 34 et 36 peuvent être des câbles ou des cordages.Line 20 comprises a buoy 27 configured to float on the surface 28 of the aquatic environment 10 and a frame 30 making it possible to maintain the vertical orientation of an object which in the example shown is the sonar antenna 14. To hold the buoy 27, the frame 30 and the dead body 22 integral with each other, the line 20 comprises a section of line 34 connecting the dead body 22 to the frame 30 and a section of line 36 connecting the frame 30 to the buoy 27. Both sections 34 and 36 can be cables or ropes.

L'antenne sonar ou plus généralement l'objet 14 peut être autonome. L'objet 14 peut être muni d'un capteur et d'une mémoire enregistrant à intervalle prédéfini des données saisies par le capteur. Périodiquement, la ligne 20 peut être relevée pour récupérer les données enregistrées.The sonar antenna or more generally the object 14 can be autonomous. The object 14 can be provided with a sensor and with a memory recording data entered by the sensor at predefined intervals. Periodically, line 20 can be raised to retrieve the recorded data.

Alternativement, l'objet 14 peut échanger en temps réel les données qu'il capte vers une station extérieure à la ligne 20. A cet effet, le tronçon de ligne 36 comprend un câble configuré pour transmettre une information issue de l'objet 14 et par exemple de son récepteur acoustique vers la bouée 27. Le tronçon de ligne 36 peut être électro porteur et comprendre par exemple des conducteurs électriques formant une âme entourée par une armature porteuse. Alternativement, le tronçon de ligne 36 peut être formé par un câble porteur autour duquel serpente un câble électrique transmettant les informations entre l'objet 14 et la bouée 27. La bouée 27 comprend un émetteur 38 configuré pour transmettre dans l'air l'information reçue de l'objet 14. L'émetteur peut être de toute nature, par exemple hertzien ou optique.Alternatively, the object 14 can exchange in real time the data that it receives to a station outside the line 20. For this purpose, the line section 36 comprises a cable configured to transmit information coming from the object 14 and for example from its acoustic receiver to the buoy 27. The section of line 36 can be electro-carrying and include, for example, electrical conductors forming a core surrounded by a load-bearing frame. Alternatively, the line section 36 can be formed by a carrier cable around which an electric cable winds its way transmitting information between the object 14 and the buoy 27. The buoy 27 comprises a transmitter 38 configured to transmit the information in the air. received from the object 14. The transmitter can be of any kind, for example wireless or optical.

La longueur L de la ligne 20 entre le corps mort 22 et la bouée 27 est définie en fonction de la profondeur P du milieu aquatique 10 où la ligne est destinée à être mise en œuvre. La profondeur P sépare la surface 28 du fond 23. Le milieu aquatique 10 peut être soumis aux marées et la longueur L de la ligne 20 doit tenir compte du marnage. Avantageusement, la bouée 27 flotte en permanence à la surface 28 afin de transmettre de façon continue ses informations au moyen de son émetteur 38. La longueur L de la ligne 20 est alors supérieure à la profondeur P lors de la plus haute mer. Alternativement, il est possible de réduire la longueur L afin de ne laisser flotter la bouée 27 que par moment, par exemple au moment de la basse mer. Cette longueur réduite peut être utile dans le cas d'un objet 14 muni d'un enregistreur. La récupération des données se faisant lorsque la bouée 27 flotte. La longueur de chacun des deux tronçons de ligne 34 et 36 peut également être ajustée en fonction des profils de bathycélérité de la zone où la ligne 20 est immergée. Lorsque la longueur L de la ligne 20 est supérieure à la profondeur P, l'objet 14 et la bouée 27 vont se déplacer autour du corps mort 22 au gré du courant 25. Ceci crée notamment une oscillation autour de la position du corps mort 22 lorsque la ligne 20 est immergée dans un milieu où les marées génèrent des courants alternatifs. Les tronçons de lignes 34 et 36 sont ainsi inclinés par rapport à la verticale. Cette inclinaison pose des difficultés de maintien de l'orientation de l'objet 14 par rapport à la direction verticale. Le maintien de l'objet 14 est utile, comme on l'a vu précédemment, pour une mission d'écoute sonar. Ce maintien est également utile pour une mission de mesure de courants marins. Ces difficultés sont résolues par l'invention.The length L of the line 20 between the dead body 22 and the buoy 27 is defined as a function of the depth P of the aquatic medium 10 where the line is intended to be implemented. The depth P separates the surface 28 from the bottom 23. The aquatic environment 10 may be subject to tides and the length L of line 20 must take account of the tidal range. Advantageously, the buoy 27 floats permanently on the surface 28 in order to continuously transmit its information by means of its transmitter 38. The length L of the line 20 is then greater than the depth P during the highest. sea. Alternatively, it is possible to reduce the length L in order to only let the buoy 27 float at times, for example at low tide. This reduced length can be useful in the case of an object 14 provided with a recorder. Data retrieval takes place when buoy 27 is floating. The length of each of the two line sections 34 and 36 can also be adjusted as a function of the bathy-celerity profiles of the area where line 20 is submerged. When the length L of the line 20 is greater than the depth P, the object 14 and the buoy 27 will move around the dead body 22 at the option of the current 25. This in particular creates an oscillation around the position of the dead body 22. when line 20 is submerged in an environment where the tides generate alternating currents. The line sections 34 and 36 are thus inclined relative to the vertical. This inclination poses difficulties in maintaining the orientation of the object 14 relative to the vertical direction. Maintaining the object 14 is useful, as we have seen previously, for a sonar listening mission. This hold is also useful for a sea current measurement mission. These difficulties are solved by the invention.

L'objet 14 possède des formes extérieures permettant de définir un centre d'équilibre de forces hydrodynamiques lorsque l'objet 14 est soumis à un courant aquatique 25 horizontal. Ce centre est plus simplement appelé centre hydrodynamique 40. En première approche la position du centre hydrodynamique 40 ne dépend pas de l'intensité du courant mais uniquement des formes de l'objet 14. Lorsque l'objet 14 est maintenu par son centre hydrodynamique 40, les forces hydrodynamiques exercées par un courant horizontal au dessus du centre hydrodynamique 40 équilibrent les mêmes forces exercées en dessous du centre hydrodynamique 40. Par exemple lorsque l'objet 14 est un cylindre orienté verticalement, le centre hydrodynamique 40 est situé à mi hauteur de l'objet 14. La position du centre hydrodynamique 40 peut dépendre de l'état de surface de l'objet 14. Il est possible de déterminer sa position par des essais dans un milieu aquatique de référence avec un courant d'intensité prédéterminé.The object 14 has external shapes making it possible to define a center of equilibrium of hydrodynamic forces when the object 14 is subjected to a horizontal water current. This center is more simply called the hydrodynamic center 40. In first approach the position of the hydrodynamic center 40 does not depend on the intensity of the current but only on the shapes of the object 14. When the object 14 is maintained by its hydrodynamic center 40 , the hydrodynamic forces exerted by a horizontal current above the hydrodynamic center 40 balance the same forces exerted below the hydrodynamic center 40. For example when the object 14 is a vertically oriented cylinder, the hydrodynamic center 40 is located at mid height of the object 14. The position of the hydrodynamic center 40 may depend on the surface condition of the object 14. It is possible to determine its position by tests in a reference aquatic environment with a predetermined current of intensity.

L'objet 14 possède également un centre de gravité 42. L'objet 14 est configuré pour que son centre de gravité 42 soit distant verticalement de son centre hydrodynamique 40.The object 14 also has a center of gravity 42. The object 14 is configured so that its center of gravity 42 is vertically distant from its hydrodynamic center 40.

Au moins une liaison pivot 43 d'axe sensiblement horizontal 45 passant par le centre hydrodynamique 40 relie le cadre 30 et l'objet 14. La distance entre l'axe de la liaison pivot 43, passant par le centre hydrodynamique 40, et le centre de gravité 42 entraine naturellement une position stable de l'objet 14 qui se maintient verticalement que ce soit sans courant ou en présence d'un courant 25, le centre de gravité 42 étant situé sous le centre hydrodynamique 40.At least one pivot connection 43 of substantially horizontal axis 45 passing through the hydrodynamic center 40 connects the frame 30 and the object 14. The distance between the axis of the pivot connection 43, passing through the hydrodynamic center 40, and the center of gravity 42 naturally causes a stable position of the object 14 which is maintained vertically whether without current or in the presence of a current 25, the center of gravity 42 being located under the hydrodynamic center 40.

Dans l'exemple représenté, le cadre 30 entoure l'objet 14. Le tronçon de ligne 34 est fixé au cadre 30 en un point de fixation 44 et le tronçon de ligne 36 est fixé au cadre 30 en un point de fixation 46. En l'absence de courant, lorsque les deux tronçons de lignes 34 et 36 sont alignés verticalement, le centre hydrodynamique 40, le centre de gravité 42 et les deux points de fixation 44 et 46 sont également alignés selon un axe vertical 47 de l'objet 14. Ainsi les différents efforts verticaux appliqués au cadre 30, efforts des deux tronçons de lignes 34 et 36 et effort du poids de l'objet 14, sont tous alignés. Cet alignement, permet de maintenir l'axe de la liaison pivot horizontal. Avantageusement, comme dans l'exemple représenté, la liaison pivot 43 est réalisée au moyen de deux paliers 48 et 50 coaxiaux permettant la rotation de l'objet 14 par rapport au cadre 30 autour de l'axe 45. Les deux paliers 48 et 50 sont disposés de part et d'autre du centre hydrodynamique 40. La présence de ces deux paliers 48 et 50 évite un porte-à-faux de l'objet 14 par rapport au cadre 30. Cette disposition du centre hydrodynamique 40, du centre de gravité 42 et de la liaison pivots 43 permet de maintenir l'objet 14 verticalement Autrement dit l'axe 47 passant par le centre hydrodynamique 40 et le centre de gravité 42 se maintient verticalement. Une rotation de l'objet 14 est encore possible autour de son axe 47. Les tronçons de lignes 34 et 36 peuvent avoir des longueurs importantes et une torsion de ces tronçons est possible. Il est possible de connaitre cette rotation en équipant l'objet 14 d'un compas. Cependant, l'axe 45 de la liaison pivot 43 peut s'orienter avec le même azimut que le courant 25. Avec cette orientation, si le cadre 30 est incliné par rapport à la verticale, l'axe 45 de la liaison pivot 43 n'est plus horizontal et l'axe 47 de l'objet 14 passant par son centre hydrodynamique 40 et son centre de gravité 42 ne se maintient pas verticalement. Pour stabiliser l'objet 14 en rotation autour de son axe 47, il est possible d'équiper l'objet 14 d'au moins une ailette verticale. En présence d'un courant 25, cette ailette s'oriente dans la direction du courant 25 et permet de garder l'axe 45 de la liaison pivot 43 perpendiculaire au courant.In the example shown, the frame 30 surrounds the object 14. The line section 34 is attached to the frame 30 at an attachment point 44 and the line section 36 is attached to the frame 30 at an attachment point 46. the absence of current, when the two sections of lines 34 and 36 are vertically aligned, the hydrodynamic center 40, the center of gravity 42 and the two attachment points 44 and 46 are also aligned along a vertical axis 47 of the object 14. Thus the various vertical forces applied to the frame 30, the forces of the two sections of lines 34 and 36 and the force of the weight of the object 14, are all aligned. This alignment makes it possible to maintain the axis of the horizontal pivot connection. Advantageously, as in the example shown, the pivot connection 43 is produced by means of two coaxial bearings 48 and 50 allowing the rotation of the object 14 relative to the frame 30 around the axis 45. The two bearings 48 and 50 are arranged on either side of the hydrodynamic center 40. The presence of these two bearings 48 and 50 prevents the object 14 from overhang with respect to the frame 30. This arrangement of the hydrodynamic center 40, of the center of gravity 42 and the pivot link 43 allows the object 14 to be held vertically. In other words, the axis 47 passing through the hydrodynamic center 40 and the center of gravity 42 is maintained vertically. It is still possible to rotate the object 14 around its axis 47. The line sections 34 and 36 can have significant lengths and twist of these sections is possible. It is possible to know this rotation by equipping the object 14 with a compass. However, the axis 45 of the pivot link 43 can be oriented with the same azimuth as the current 25. With this orientation, if the frame 30 is inclined with respect to the vertical, the axis 45 of the pivot link 43 n 'is more horizontal and the axis 47 of the object 14 passing through its hydrodynamic center 40 and its center of gravity 42 is not maintained vertically. To stabilize the object 14 in rotation about its axis 47, it is possible to equip the object 14 with at least a vertical fin. In the presence of a current 25, this fin is oriented in the direction of the current 25 and makes it possible to keep the axis 45 of the pivot connection 43 perpendicular to the current.

La présence d'une ou plusieurs ailettes fixées à l'objet 14 présente cependant un inconvénient en modifiant la forme de l'objet 14. De telles ailettes peuvent par exemple gêner la propagation d'ondes acoustiques et il est avantageux de conserver pour l'objet 14 une symétrie de révolution autour de son axe vertical 47. La présence d'ailettes fixées sur l'objet 14 présente un autre inconvénient lié au fait que ces ailettes modifient le comportement hydrodynamique de l'objet 14. Les ailettes fixées à l'objet 14 entrainent un risque d'instabilité dans la position du centre hydrodynamique 40. En cas turbulence dans le courant, la présence d'ailettes sur l'objet 14 pourraient dégrader son maintien en position verticale. Pour assurer la stabilité de l'orientation de l'objet 14 sans lui adjoindre un quelconque appendice, au moins une ailette s'étendant verticalement est fixée au cadre 30. En présence d'un courant 25, le cadre 30 s'oriente dans l'axe du courant 25 et l'objet 14 suit le cadre 30 dans son orientation. Dans l'exemple représenté, le cadre 30 est équipé de deux ailettes 52 et 54 chacune située au voisinage d'un des paliers 48 et 50.The presence of one or more fins attached to the object 14, however, has a drawback by modifying the shape of the object 14. Such fins can for example hinder the propagation of acoustic waves and it is advantageous to keep for the object 14 symmetry of revolution about its vertical axis 47. The presence of fins fixed on the object 14 has another drawback linked to the fact that these fins modify the hydrodynamic behavior of the object 14. The fins fixed to the object 14 object 14 entail a risk of instability in the position of the hydrodynamic center 40. In the event of turbulence in the current, the presence of fins on the object 14 could degrade its maintenance in a vertical position. To ensure the stability of the orientation of the object 14 without adding any appendage to it, at least one fin extending vertically is fixed to the frame 30. In the presence of a current 25, the frame 30 is oriented in the same direction. The axis of the stream 25 and the object 14 follows the frame 30 in its orientation. In the example shown, the frame 30 is equipped with two fins 52 and 54 each located in the vicinity of one of the bearings 48 and 50.

La figure 3 représente l'objet 14 et le cadre 30. L'objet 14 comprend une partie supérieure 60 dite partie active comprenant des émetteurs et/ou des récepteurs sonores ou d'autres types de capteurs et une partie inférieure 62 comprenant des servitudes, telles qu'une batterie et des modules électroniques assurant notamment la mise en forme d'informations reçues des capteurs ou récepteurs, ou en direction des émetteurs. La présence d'une batterie dans la partie inférieure 62 tend à abaisser la position du centre de gravité 42. La partie active 60 reçoit et/ou émet des informations vers le milieu aquatique 10, telles que des ondes sonores par exemple, tandis que la partie inférieure 62 ne communique qu'en interne à l'objet 14 ou vers le câble électro porteur du tronçon 36. Avantageusement, les ailettes 52 et 54 font face à la partie inférieure 62 sans faire face à la partie supérieure 60. Ainsi, les ailettes ne gênent pas la propagation des informations dans le milieu aquatique 10. Les ailettes 52 et 54 sont situées en partie basse du cadre 30 sous les paliers 48 et 50.The figure 3 represents the object 14 and the frame 30. The object 14 comprises an upper part 60 called the active part comprising sound transmitters and / or receivers or other types of sensors and a lower part 62 comprising easements, such as a battery and electronic modules ensuring in particular the formatting of information received from the sensors or receivers, or in the direction of the transmitters. The presence of a battery in the lower part 62 tends to lower the position of the center of gravity 42. The active part 60 receives and / or transmits information to the aquatic environment 10, such as sound waves for example, while the lower part 62 only communicates internally to the object 14 or to the electro-carrying cable of the section 36. Advantageously, the fins 52 and 54 face the lower part 62 without facing the upper part 60. Thus, the fins 52 and 54 face the lower part 62 without facing the upper part 60. fins do not hinder the propagation of information in the aquatic environment 10. The fins 52 and 54 are located in the lower part of the frame 30 under the bearings 48 and 50.

L'orientation de l'objet 14 en fonction du courant 25 grâce aux ailettes 52 et 54 peut être freinée par le tronçon de ligne 34. En effet, cette orientation nécessite une torsion du tronçon de ligne 34. De légères torsions sont souvent possibles. Néanmoins des renverses de courant 25 sont possibles entrainant la nécessite de torsion de 180°, voire de plusieurs tours. Pour faciliter l'orientation de l'objet, la ligne 20 comprend un émerillon 64 (bien connu dans la littérature anglo-saxonne sous le nom de « swivel ») disposé entre le corps mort 22 et le cadre 30. L'émerillon 64 assure une liberté en rotation du cadre 30 par rapport au corps mort 22 autour d'un axe longitudinal du tronçon de ligne 34. L'émerillon 64 est avantageusement disposé entre le tronçon de ligne 34 et le cadre 30 et forme le point de fixation 44 afin d'éviter toute torsion du tronçon de ligne 34. Il est également possible de disposer un autre émerillon disposé entre le cadre 30 et la bouée 27, par exemple pour permettre à la bouée 27 de tourner librement autour du tronçon de ligne 36. En pratique, cet autre émerillon peut être mis en place en l'absence de câble électro porteur reliant la bouée 27 à l'objet 14. Pour cela, il est possible de disposer un enregistreur dans l'objet 14 afin de permettre une collecte ultérieure d'informations traitées dans l'objet 14, comme par exemple d'informations reçues d'une antenne sonar appartenant à l'objet.The orientation of the object 14 as a function of the current 25 by virtue of the fins 52 and 54 can be braked by the line section 34. Indeed, this orientation requires a twist of the line section 34. Slight twists are often possible. However, reversals of current 25 are possible resulting in the need for a 180 ° twist, or even several turns. To facilitate the orientation of the object, the line 20 comprises a swivel 64 (well known in the Anglo-Saxon literature under the name of "swivel") arranged between the dead body 22 and the frame 30. The swivel 64 ensures a rotational freedom of the frame 30 relative to the dead body 22 about a longitudinal axis of the line section 34. The swivel 64 is advantageously disposed between the line section 34 and the frame 30 and forms the attachment point 44 in order to to avoid any twisting of the section of line 34. It is also possible to have another swivel arranged between the frame 30 and the buoy 27, for example to allow the buoy 27 to rotate freely around the section of line 36. In practice , this other swivel can be put in place in the absence of an electric carrier cable connecting the buoy 27 to the object 14. For this, it is possible to have a recorder in the object 14 in order to allow a subsequent collection of information processed in object 14, such as for example e information received from a sonar antenna belonging to the object.

Claims (8)

  1. A line intended to be submerged in an aquatic environment (10), which comprises:
    • a mooring (22) configured to be placed on the bottom (23) of the aquatic environment (10) and for immobilizing the line (20) relative to the bottom (23),
    • a buoy (27) configured to float on the surface (28) of the aquatic environment (10),
    • an object (14) extending along a vertical axis (47), having a center of balance of hydrodynamic forces when the object (14) is subjected to a horizontal water current (25) and called the hydrodynamic center (40), and having a center of gravity (42) vertically remote from the hydrodynamic center (40),
    • a frame (30) connected to the object (14) by a pivoting link (43) with a substantially horizontal axis (45) passing through the hydrodynamic center (40),
    • at least one fin (52, 54) extending vertically, whereby the object can be oriented relative to a horizontal water current (25), the at least one fin (52, 54) being secured to the frame (30),
    • a first section of line (34) connecting the mooring (22) to the frame (30),
    • a second section of line (36) connecting the frame (30) to the buoy (27).
  2. The line as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the object (14) comprises an upper part (60) that is configured to receive and/or transmit information to the aquatic environment (10) and a lower part (62) that comprises utilities, and in that the at least one fin (52, 54) faces the lower part (62) without facing the upper part (60).
  3. The line as claimed in either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pivoting link (43) comprises two bearings (48, 50) connecting the object (14) to the frame (30), the two bearings (48, 50) being coaxial and arranged on either side of the hydrodynamic center (40).
  4. The line as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a swivel (64) arranged between the mooring (22) and the frame (30).
  5. The line as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that the swivel (64) is arranged between the first section of line (34) and the frame (30).
  6. The line as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the object (14) comprises an acoustic transmitter.
  7. The line as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the object (14) comprises an acoustic receiver.
  8. The line as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that the second section of line (36) comprises a cable that is configured to send information from the object (14) to the buoy (27), and in that the buoy (27) comprises a transmitter (38) that is configured to send, through the air, the information received from the object (14).
EP17825206.0A 2016-12-20 2017-12-19 Line intended to be immersed in an aquatic environment Active EP3558808B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1601811A FR3060521B1 (en) 2016-12-20 2016-12-20 LINE INTENDED TO BE IMMERSEED IN AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT
PCT/EP2017/083620 WO2018114997A1 (en) 2016-12-20 2017-12-19 Line intended to be immersed in an aquatic environment

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EP3558808A1 EP3558808A1 (en) 2019-10-30
EP3558808B1 true EP3558808B1 (en) 2021-10-27

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US (1) US10926842B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3558808B1 (en)
AU (1) AU2017384386B2 (en)
CA (1) CA3047653A1 (en)
FR (1) FR3060521B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2018114997A1 (en)

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FR3100219B1 (en) 2019-08-26 2023-01-13 Flex N Gate France Air flow management device and vehicle comprising such a device
CN110745213B (en) * 2019-10-26 2021-04-27 中国海洋大学 Anchoring system performance on-site monitoring system suitable for deep sea buoy elastic looseness formula

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US3027539A (en) * 1959-05-14 1962-03-27 Jr Stephen L Stillman Hydrodynamically balanced towing apparatus for maintaining hydrophones vertically orientated
US3329015A (en) * 1963-06-07 1967-07-04 Douglas Aircraft Co Inc Stabilized buoy assembly
US3455159A (en) * 1966-07-06 1969-07-15 Donald G Gies Sr Nautical weather station
US3660807A (en) * 1968-03-14 1972-05-02 Sparton Corp Towed body vertical attitude stabilization system
US3590635A (en) * 1970-05-01 1971-07-06 Us Navy Pycnocline follower apparatus
US3935592A (en) * 1974-02-22 1976-01-27 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Recording instrument adapted for use in remote unattended locations
DE4226614C2 (en) * 1992-08-08 2003-02-13 Stiftung A Wegener Inst Polar Arrangement for the stationary positioning of measuring devices in water flows
CA2189805C (en) * 1996-11-07 2006-10-17 George A. Fowler Streamlined buoyancy package for subsurface moorings
WO2003062044A1 (en) * 2002-01-22 2003-07-31 Bruce Kendall Main Method of and apparatus for monitoring underwater conditions

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US10926842B2 (en) 2021-02-23
FR3060521B1 (en) 2019-07-12
CA3047653A1 (en) 2018-06-28
US20190315441A1 (en) 2019-10-17
AU2017384386B2 (en) 2023-04-27
AU2017384386A1 (en) 2019-07-11
EP3558808A1 (en) 2019-10-30
FR3060521A1 (en) 2018-06-22
WO2018114997A1 (en) 2018-06-28

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