GB2624178A

GB2624178A - Support apparatus for a mooring device

Info

Publication number: GB2624178A
Application number: GB2216608.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Smith David; Taylor Richard; William Mckay Raymond
Original assignee: Flintstone Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Flintstone Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2022-11-08
Filing date: 2022-11-08
Publication date: 2024-05-15
Also published as: GB202216608D0; WO2024100398A1

Abstract

A support apparatus 105a for a mooring device 110 comprises at least one member (140a, 140b, Fig 2) comprising a track (145, Fig 2) for guiding the mooring device. The member is configured to permit movement of the mooring device along at least a portion of the track in a first direction and inhibit movement of the mooring device along the at least a portion of the track in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Also disclosed is a corresponding mooring system 100, and a method of use of the mooring system.

Description

SUPPORT APPARATUS FOR A MOORING DEVICE

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a support apparatus for a mooring device, a mooring system, and a method of use of the mooring system. The support apparatus together with the mooring device may be for mooring a vessel, an offshore structure, a floating structure, an anchor, buoy or the like.

BACKGROUND TO INVENTION

Offshore structures, such as floating structures or platforms, may be moored by one or more mooring lines. A tension may be applied to the one or more mooring lines, for example by the use of a tensioning apparatus. The application of tension may serve to moor the floating structure or platform at a desired location.

A mooring system for coupling mooring lines to a floating structure may require assembly and/or configuration before a substantial mooring tension is applied to the mooring lines. Assembly and/or configuration may include direct or indirect connection of at least one mooring line to the structure to be moored and direct, or indirect, coupling of each mooring line to another structure, such as an anchor or pile located on the seabed.

Methods for assembling mooring systems may be complex, and may require manipulation, orientation, configuration and operation of various components and subsystems. For example, known mooring systems may require use of multiple lines, such as pull-in lines, to correctly orientate features of the system during an installation process.

Such manipulation of components may increase an overall cost of installation, and may incur risks to operators and personnel. Furthermore, accessibility to components may be limited in use, or may be affected by environmental conditions such as weather, currents, tides, temperatures, or the like. In some instances, divers and/or underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) may be required to access components, which may incur substantial costs in addition to risks to the safety of personnel. Use of divers and/or ROVs may also be limited by environmental conditions.

It is therefore an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate one or more problems in the prior art.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to provide a technically simple and/or commercially more cost effective method and apparatus for mooring than in the prior art.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

This disclosure relates to a support apparatus for a mooring device, a mooring system, and a method of use of the mooring system. According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a support apparatus for a mooring device. The support apparatus comprises at least one member comprising a track for guiding the mooring device. The member may be configured to permit movement of the mooring device along at least a portion of the track in a first direction. The member may be configured to inhibit movement of the mooring device along the at least a portion of the track in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

That is the track, or at least a portion of the track, may function as a one-way track. Advantageously, by operating such a one-way track, pulling forces for pulling the mooring device along the track during a process of installing the mooring device on the support apparatus may be in substantially the same direction as pulling forces applied for uninstalling the mooring device, as described in more detail below.

Furthermore, use of such a one-way configuration may substantially simplify an installation/uninstallation process, and may obviate a requirement for multiple lines for orienting the mooring device during the installation/uninstallation process. As such, costs and risks associated with use of such a support apparatus may be reduced relative to known mooring systems.

The track may comprise at least one ramp for inhibiting movement of the mooring device along the track in at least one direction.

The track may comprise at least one step for inhibiting movement of the mooring device along the track in at least one direction.

The track may comprise at least one gate for inhibiting movement of the mooring device along the track in at least one direction.

The track may comprise at least one corner for inhibiting movement of the mooring device along the track in at least one direction.

That is, the ramp and/or gate and/or step may effectively define a point of no return for a mooring device that is motivated along the track past such a ramp and/or gate and/or step.

The at least one member may comprise a surface, which may be a planar, or substantially planar surface. At least a portion of the surface may be a planar or substantially planar surface. The surface may define a level that is distinct from a raised/recessed level of at least a portion of the track.

The at least one member may comprise a plate, or plate-like structure. The at least one member may comprise a cheek-plate.

The track may comprise a recessed and/or raised portion formed on the surface, e.g. the planar surface.

In examples, a raised portion of the track may be moulded, welded, adhered, fused, cast, or otherwise coupled to the surface of the at least one member.

In examples, a recessed portion of the track may be machined, ground, cut, drilled, or the like, to the surface of the at least one member.

A recessed portion may be a groove, a conduit, a channel, or the like.

The track may comprise a first portion recessed and/or raised to a first level relative to the surface, e.g. the planar surface. Optionally, the first portion may be for guiding the mooring device at least partway towards an installation position during installation of the mooring device in the support apparatus.

The track may comprise a second portion recessed and/or raised to a second level different from the first level relative to the surface, e.g. the planar surface. Optionally, the second portion may be for guiding the mooring device at least partway away from the installation position during uninstallation of the mooring device from the support apparatus.

By implementing a change in level, e.g. from the first level to the second level, a point of no return may be defined for the mooring device on the track, wherein the mooring device may be able to step down from the first level to the second level, but may not be readily able to step up from the second level to the first level.

The at least one member may be configured to receive the mooring device onto the first portion of the track via a first edge portion of the at least one member during installation of the mooring device.

The at least one member may be configured to enable the mooring device to leave the second portion of the track via a second edge portion of the at least one member during uninstallation of the mooring device.

In use, one of the first and second edge portions of the at least one member may be an upper portion and the other of the first and second edge portions may be a lower portion.

That is, in some examples the mooring device may enter the support apparatus at a first location defined by the first edge portion of the at least one member and, after following the track, e.g. a one-way route defined by the track, during a process of installation and subsequent uninstallation, leave the support apparatus at a second location defined by the second edge portion of the at least one member.

In yet further examples the mooring device may enter the support apparatus at a first location defined by the first edge portion of the at least one member and, after following the track, e.g. a one-way route defined by the track, during a process of installation and subsequent uninstallation, leave the support apparatus at the same first location defined by the first edge portion of the at least one member.

The at least one member may be configured to receive the mooring device onto the first portion of the track via a first edge portion of the at least one member during installation.

The at least one member may be configured to restrict movement of the mooring device along at least a portion of the track to a single direction.

The at least one member may be configured to enable the mooring device to leave the first portion of the track via the first portion of the at least one member during uninstallation of the mooring device.

The first and/or second edge portions of the at least one member may comprise a curved and/or sloping portion relative to the surface, e.g. the planar surface. Advantageously, the curved and/or sloping portion may bias an element, e.g. a spring-loaded element, of the mooring device during installation of the mooring device in the support apparatus. Such a curved and/or sloping portion may act as a ramp.

The at least one member may comprise a seat or pocket for supporting the mooring device.

The mooring device may comprise trunnion or pins or the like configured to sit in the seat or pocket. In examples, the mooring device may be rotatably seated in the seat or pocket.

As such, the seat or pocket may be configured to withstand at least a mooring tension of a mooring line coupled to the mooring device seated in the seat or pocket. The seat or pocket and the track may be integrally formed with the at least one member.

That is, in examples the at least one member comprising the seat or pocket and the track may be moulded or casts as a single element. This may substantially simplify manufacturing costs. Furthermore, an absence of moving parts or of assembled features may make the support apparatus particularly low-maintenance and suitable for harsh environmental conditions.

The support apparatus may comprise a guide portion for guiding a line for pulling the mooring device along the track. The guide portion may comprise a guide-piece, bending shoe, conduit, sheave, or chain wheel configured to orient the line.

The line may be a chain. Advantageously, by correctly orienting the line during a process of pulling the mooring device into the support apparatus, the mooring device itself may be correctly oriented. This may simplify an installation process, and may obviate a requirement for further lines and or processes to correctly orient the mooring device during an installation procedure.

The at least one member may comprise a first member and a second member.

Each member may comprise a respective track for guiding the mooring device.

The first member and the second member may face each other such that, in use, the mooring device may be disposed between the first and second members as the mooring device is guided by the respective tracks.

The first member and the second member may form a porch structure for receiving the mooring device.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a mooring device for use with the support apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the mooring device is receivable and/or retainable in the support apparatus.

The mooring device may comprise a uni-joint. The mooring device may be known in the art as a "Pull-In Uni-Joint".

The mooring device may comprise at least one pin or trunnion configured to be received in a seat or pocket of the support apparatus.

The mooring device may comprise a pair of pins or trunnions. The pair of pins or trunnions may define an axis about which the mooring device may rotate when installed in the support apparatus, e.g. when seated on respective seats or pockets of the support apparatus.

The mooring device may comprise an element biased to extend, e.g. selectively extend, from the at least one pin or trunnion.

The element may be configured to engage with the track for guiding the mooring device.

The element may comprise a plunger, e.g. a sprung plunger.

The mooring device may comprise a first line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device to a pull-in line.

The mooring device may comprise a second line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device to a mooring line.

The mooring device may comprise a lever arm disposed between the first and second line-engaging apparatuses.

According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a mooring system comprising: the support apparatus according to the first aspect; and the mooring device according to the second aspect.

The mooring system may comprise a floating structure. The mooring system may comprise an anchor or pile. The support apparatus may be coupled to the floating structure. The mooring device may be coupled to the anchor or pile by a mooring line. The mooring device may be installed in the support apparatus.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of use of the mooring system according to the third aspect. The method may comprise installing the mooring device on the support apparatus by applying a pulling force to a line coupled to the mooring device to pull the mooring device along the track.

The method may comprise uninstalling the mooring device from the support apparatus by applying a pulling force to the line coupled to the mooring device to pull the mooring device along the track.

The pulling force applied to the line for installing the mooring device on the support apparatus may be in a same direction as the pulling force applied to the line for uninstalling the mooring device on the support apparatus.

Applying the pulling force to the line may comprise applying a first pulling force and a subsequent second pulling force, the second pulling force being less than the first pulling force.

That is, the subsequent second pulling force may correspond to a reduction in the first pulling force sufficient to alter a direction of movement of the mooring device relative to the support apparatus.

A mooring tension may be applied to the mooring device by a mooring line during installation and uninstallation of the mooring device on the support apparatus.

The mooring system may be at least partially submerged in use.

In an example, the support apparatus may be mounted on, e.g. coupled to, a hull of a floating vessel such that the support apparatus is submerged in use.

The above summary is intended to be merely exemplary and non-limiting. The disclosure includes one or more corresponding aspects, embodiments or features in isolation or in various combinations whether or not specifically stated (including claimed) in that combination or in isolation. It should be understood that features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present disclosure or below relating to any specific embodiment of the disclosure may be utilized, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

These and other aspects of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 depicts a mooring system, according to an embodiment of the

disclosure;

Figure 2 depicts an example of a support apparatus, according to an embodiment

of the disclosure;

Figure 3 depicts plan and perspective views of an example of a member for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 4 depicts a plan view of the member of Figure 3; Figure 5 depicts another plan view of the member of Figure 3; Figure 6 depicts plan and perspective views of a further example of a member for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 7 depicts a plan view of the member of Figure 6; Figure 8 depicts plan and perspective views of a further example of a member for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 9 depicts plan and perspective views of a further example of a member for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 10 depicts plan and perspective views of a mooring device, according to an

embodiment of the disclosure;

Figure 11a depicts a perspective view of a uni-joint portion of the mooring device of Figure 10; Figure 11b depicts a cross-sectional view of the uni-joint portion of Figure 11a; Figure 12a depicts a sequence of steps of installing the mooring device in the support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 12b depicts a sequence of steps of uninstalling the mooring device from the support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 13a depicts a first example of a mooring operation according to an

embodiment of the disclosure; and

Figure 13b depicts a second example of a mooring operation according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 depicts an example mooring system 100, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The mooring system 100 a first support apparatus 105a. The first support apparatus 105a is denoted "mooring porch".

In the example, an arrangement comprising a first support apparatus 105a, a second support apparatus 105b, and a third support apparatus 105a are also depicted. The support apparatuses are described in more detail below with reference to Figure 2.

In a preferred embodiment, each support apparatus 105a, 105b, 105c comprises a metallic material, such as steel.

The mooring system 100 comprises a mooring device 105. The mooring device 105 is denoted "Pull-in Uni Joint".

Each support apparatus 105a, 105b, 105c is for supporting a mooring device, as described in more detail below. For purposes of example only, the example, the first support apparatus is depicted as supporting the mooring device 110. The example mooring device 110 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 10 to 11 b.

The example mooring device 110 comprises a lever arm 115.

The example mooring device 110 comprises a first line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device 110 to a pull-in line 120. In the example, the pull-in line is a chain, although in other examples the pull-in line 120 may be a rope or line, such as a nylon line.

The example mooring device 110 comprises a second line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device 110 to a mooring line 125. Again, in the example a portion of the mooring line 125 coupled to the mooring device 105a is a chain, although in other examples the mooring line may be a rope or line, such as a nylon line.

The mooring device 110 also comprises a uni-joint 135, as described in more detail below with reference to Figure 10.

Figure 2 depicts in more detail the example first, second and third support apparatuses 105a, 105b, 105c of Figure 1.

In the example, each support apparatus 105a, 105b, 105c is substantially identical, and therefore the ensuing description focuses on the first support apparatus 105a.

The first support apparatus comprises a first member 140a and a second member 140b.

The first member 140a and the second member 140b are configured to face each other such that, in use, the mooring device 110 may be disposed between the first and second members 140a, 140b, as depicted in Figure 1.

In the example, each member 140a, 140b comprises a cheek-plate.

Each member 140a, 140 comprises a track 145 for guiding the mooring device 110. As described in more detail with reference to the example embodiments of Figures 3 to 9, each member 140a, 140b is configured to permit movement of the mooring device 110 along at least a portion of the track 145 in a first direction. Each member 140a, 140b is also configured to inhibit movement of the mooring device 110 along the at least a portion of the track 145 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

The support apparatus 105a also comprises a guide portion 150 for guiding a line, e.g. pull-in line 120, for pulling the mooring device 110 along the track 145. In the example embodiment of Figure 2, the guide portion 150 comprise a bending shoe. The bending shoe guide portion 150 is configured, e.g. shaped, to orient a chain, e.g. pull-in line 120, as the chain is pulled through the bending shoe guide portion 150.

In other example embodiments, the guide portion 150 may comprise a conduit, a sheave, or a chain wheel configured to orient the line.

In yet further embodiments, the guide portion 150 may comprise an opening, such as a tapered opening or cruciform-shaped opening, for receiving an orienting the chain.

Advantageously, by correctly orienting the pull-in line 120 during a process of pulling the mooring device 110 into the support apparatus 105a, the mooring device 110 may be correctly oriented. This may simplify an installation process, and may obviate a requirement for further lines and or processes to correctly orient the mooring device 110 during an installation procedure.

The mooring device 110 is guided into the support apparatus 105a by the respective tracks 140 during an installation process, e.g. installation of the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a. The mooring device 110 is guided from the support apparatus 105a by the respective tracks 140 during an uninstallation process. Figure 3 depicts plan and perspective views of an example of a member 200 for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 4 depicts a further plan view of the member 200 of Figure 3. The example member 200 may a member 140a, 140b or the example support apparatus 105a of Figure 2. The member may be a cheek plate.

The member 200 comprises a track 205 for guiding a mooring device, e.g. mooring device 110.

The example track 205 comprises a step 210 for inhibiting movement of the mooring device 110 along the track 205 in at least one direction. That is, the step effectively defines a point of no return for a mooring device 110 that is motivated along the track 205 past the step 210, as described below.

In the example, the member 200 comprises substantially planar surface 215. The track 205 is recessed into the planar surface 215. In examples, the track 205 may be machined, ground, cut, drilled, or the like, to the planar surface 215 of the member 200. In other examples, the member 200 may be moulded or cast with the track 205. The track 205 comprises a first portion 220 recessed to a first level relative to the planar surface 215. The first portion 220 is for guiding a mooring device 110 at least partway towards an installation position during installation of the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a, as described with reference to Figure 5.

The track 205 comprise a second portion 225 recessed to a second level deeper than the first level relative to the planar surface 215. The second portion 225 is for guiding the mooring device 110 at least partway away from the installation position during uninstallation of the mooring device 110 from the support apparatus 105, as described with reference to Figure 5.

By implementing a change in level, e.g. from the first level to the second level, a point of no return may be defined for the mooring device 110 on the track 205, wherein the mooring device 110 may be able to step down from the first level to the second level, but may not be readily able to step up from the second level back to the first level.

The example member 200 is configured to receive the mooring device 110 onto the first portion 220 of the track 205 via a first edge portion 230 of the member 200 during installation of the mooring device.

The first edge portion 230 of the member 200 comprises a ramp portion, which in examples may be a curved and/or sloping portion relative to the planar surface 215.

Advantageously, the first edge portion 230 may bias an element 170a, 170b, e.g. a spring-loaded element, of the mooring device 110 during installation of the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a. Such an element 170a, 170b is described in more detail below with reference to Figure 11 b. The element 170a, 170b may be biased to extend from the mooring device 110.

The member 200 is also configured to enable the mooring device 110 to leave the second portion 225 of the track 205 via a second edge portion 235 of the member 200 during uninstallation of the mooring device.

In the example of Figures 3 to 5, the first edge portion 230 is an upper edge portion relative to second edge portion 235 which is a lower edge portion.

The member 200 also comprises a seat 260. The seat 260 may be for seating a trunnion 165a, 165b as described below.

The mooring device 110 is depicted in plan and perspective views in Figure 10. As described with reference to Figure 1, the mooring device 110 comprises a lever arm 115. The example mooring device 110 comprises a first line-engaging apparatus 155 for coupling the mooring device 110 to the pull-in line 120. The first line-engaging apparatus 155 may be a pad-eye, a shackle or the like. The example mooring device 110 comprises a second line-engaging apparatus 160 for coupling the mooring device 110 to the mooring line 125.

The mooring device 110 also comprises a uni-joint 135. A pair of trunnions 165a, 165b define an axis of the uni-joint 135 about which mooring device 110 may rotate in the support apparatus 105a.

The uni-joint is depicted in more detail in Figure 11a, which depicts a perspective view of the uni-joint 135 portion of the mooring device 110, and Figure 11 b which depicts a cross-sectional view of the uni-joint 135 portion of the mooring device 110.

Each trunnion 165a, 165b of the mooring device 110 comprises a respective element 170a, 170b biased to extend, e.g. selectively extend, from the trunnion 165a, 165b.

Each element 170a, 170b is configured to engage with the track 145, 205 for guiding the mooring device 110. In the example, the each element 170a, 170b comprises a spring plunger.

Returning again to Figure 5, operation of the mooring device 110 with the member 200 is now described.

In use, the mooring device 110 may be installed in the support apparatus 105a by applying a pulling force to the pull-in line 120 coupled to the mooring device 110 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track 205.

Installation may refer to seating a trunnion 165a on the seat 260 Upon pulling the trunnions 165a, 165b between a pair of members, e.g. member 200, the first edge portion 230 of each member, which effectively act as a ramps, may bias the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b into a first position. In the first position the elements 170a, 170b may be substantially inserted within the respective trunnion 165a, 165b, or at least substantially retracted.

As the trunnions 165a, 165b move over and past the first edge portion 230 of each member, denoted "Entry" in Figure 5, the elements 170a, 170b may engage with first portion 220 of the track 205. As the first portion 220 is recessed relative to the planar surface 215, the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b may extend into the recessed first portion 220 of the track 205. As such, the elements 170a, 170b can only follow a path defined by the first portion 220 of the track 205. The first portion 220 of the track 205 is denoted "Connection track" in Figure 5.

By reducing the pulling force applied to the pull-in line 120, the mooring device 110 may be lowered such that the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b move down to an installation position, denoted "In Service position" in Figure 5. In doing so, the spring loaded elements 170a, 170b pass the step 210. Upon passing the step 210, the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b extend further into the deeper recessed second portion 225 of the track 205. The second portion 225 of the track 205 is denoted "Disconnection Track" in Figure 5. As such, the step 210 inhibits movement of the mooring device 110 along the track 205 in at least one direction, e.g. back towards the first portion 220 of the track 205 from the second portion 225. That is, the step 210 effectively defines a point of no return for a mooring device 110 that is motivated along the track 205 past the step 210. In this manner, the trunnions 165a, 165b may be lowered onto respective seats 260.

In use, the mooring device 110 may be uninstalled from the support apparatus 105a by again applying a pulling force to the pull-in line 120 coupled to the mooring device 110 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track 205.

The elements 170a, 170b guide the mooring device 110 along the second portion 225 of the track 205 to an intermediate position 270.

A subsequent reduction in the pulling force applied to the pull-in line 120 enables the mooring device to descend and exit the member 200, as indicated by the arrow denoted "Exit' in Figure 5.

Figure 6 depicts plan and perspective views of another example of a member 300 for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The example member 300 may a member 140a, 140b or the example support apparatus 105a of Figure 2. The member 300 may be a cheek plate.

The member 300 comprises a track 305 for guiding a mooring device, e.g. mooring device 110.

The example track 305 comprises a step 310 for inhibiting movement of the mooring device 110 along the track 305 in at least one direction. That is, the step effectively defines a point of no return for a mooring device 110 that is motivated along the track 305 past the step 310, as described below.

In the example, the member 300 comprises substantially planar surface 315.

The track 305 is recessed into the planar surface 315. In examples, the track 305 may be machined, ground, cut, drilled, or the like, to the planar surface 315 of the member 300. In other examples, the member 300 may be moulded or cast with the track 305. The track 305 comprises a first portion 320 recessed to a first level relative to the planar surface 315. The first portion 320 is for guiding a mooring device 110 at least partway towards an installation position during installation of the mooring device in the support apparatus 105a, as described with reference to Figure 7.

The track 305 comprise a second portion 325 recessed to a second level deeper than the first level relative to the planar surface 315. The second portion 325 is for guiding the mooring device 110 at least partway away from the installation position during uninstallation of the mooring device 110 from the support apparatus 105, as described with reference to Figure 7.

By implementing a change in level, e.g. from the first level to the second level, a point of no return may be defined for the mooring device 110 on the track 305, wherein the mooring device 110 may be able to step down from the first level to the second level, but may not be readily able to step up from the second level back to the first level.

The example member 300 is configured to receive the mooring device 110 onto the first portion 320 of the track 305 via a first edge portion 330 of the member 300 during installation of the mooring device.

In contrast to the example member 200 of Figure 3, the first edge portion 330 of the member 300 is a lower edge portion.

The first edge portion 330 of the member 300 comprises a ramp portion, which in examples may be a curved and/or sloping portion relative to the planar surface 315.

Advantageously, the first edge portion 330 may bias the element 170a, 170b, e.g. a spring-loaded element, of the mooring device 110 during installation of the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a, as described above.

The member 300 is also configured to enable the mooring device 110 to leave the second portion 325 of the track 305 via a second edge portion 335 of the member 300 during uninstallation of the mooring device.

In contrast to the example member 200 of Figure 3, in the example of Figures 6 and 7, the first edge portion 330 is a lower edge portion relative to second edge portion 335 which is an upper edge portion.

The member 300 also comprises a seat 360. The seat 360 may be for seating a trunnion 165a, 165b as described below. A lower surface 375 corresponding to an underside of the seat may be configured to guide a trunnion 165a, 165b of the mooring device 110 such that the mooring device 110 tends towards the track 305 during an installation process.

Operation of the mooring device 110 with the member 300 is now described with reference to Figure 7 In use, the mooring device 110 may be installed in the support apparatus 105a by applying a pulling force to the pull-in line 120 coupled to the mooring device 110 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track 305.

Installation may refer to seating a trunnion 165a on the seat 360 Upon pulling the trunnions 165a, 165b between a pair of members, e.g. member 300, the first edge portion 330 of each member, which effectively act as a ramps, may bias the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b into a first position. In the first position the elements 170a, 170b may be substantially inserted within the respective trunnion 165a, 165b, or at least substantially retracted.

As the trunnions 165a, 165b move over and past the first edge portion 330 of each member, denoted "Entry" in Figure 7, the elements 170a, 170b may engage with first portion 320 of the track 305. As the first portion 320 is recessed relative to the planar surface 315, the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b may extend into the recessed first portion 320 of the track 305. As such, the elements 170a, 170b can only follow a path defined by the first portion 320 of the track 305.

After the elements 170a, 170b have reached an intermediate position, by subsequently reducing the pulling force applied to the pull-in line 120, the mooring device 110 may be lowered such that the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b move down to an installation position, denoted "In Service position" in Figure 7. In doing so, the spring loaded elements 170a, 170b pass the step 310. Upon passing the step 310, the spring-loaded elements 170a, 170b extend further into the deeper recessed second portion 325 of the track 305. As such, the step 310 inhibits movement of the mooring device 110 along the track 305 in at least one direction, e.g. back towards the first portion 320 of the track 305 from the second portion 325. That is, the step 310 effectively defines a point of no return for a mooring device 110 that is motivated along the track 305 past the step 310. In this manner, the trunnions 165a, 165b may be lowered onto respective seats 260.

In use, the mooring device 110 may be uninstalled from the support apparatus 105a by again applying a pulling force to the pull-in line 120 coupled to the mooring device 110 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track 305.

The elements 170a, 170b guide the mooring device 110 along the second portion 325 of the track 205 to exit the member 300, as indicated by the arrow denoted "Exit" in Figure 7.

In other example embodiments, members may be implemented with various combinations of steps and ramps to permit movement of the mooring device 110 along at least a portion of a track in a first direction, and inhibit movement of the mooring device 110 along the at least a portion of the track in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

For example, Figure 8 depicts plan and perspective views of a further example of a member 400 for a support apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The example member 400 may be a member 140a, 140b or the example support apparatus 105a of Figure 2. The member 400 may be a cheek plate.

The member 400 comprises a track 405 for guiding a mooring device, e.g. mooring device 110.

The member 400 also comprises a seat 460. The seat 360 may be for seating a trunnion 165a, 165b.

The example track 405 comprises a first step 410a, second step 410b, third step 410c and fourth step 410d for inhibiting movement of the mooring device 110 along the track 405 in at least one direction. That is, each step 410a-d effectively defines a point of no return for a mooring device 110 that is motivated along the track 405 past the step 410a-d, as described below.

As described with reference to the examples members 200, 300 above, each element 170a, 170b of the mooring device 110 is configured to engage with the track 405 for guiding the mooring device 110.

Furthermore, a series of ramps is also provided. A first ramp 415a is provided on the track 405 before the first step 410a in a direction of travel of the element 170a along the track. A second ramp 415b is provided on the track 405 before the second step 410b in a direction of travel of the element 170a along the track. A third ramp 415c is provided on the track 405 before the third step 410c in a direction of travel of the element 170a along the track. A fourth ramp 415d is provided on the track 405 before the fourth step 410d in a direction of travel of an element 170a along the track.

Each ramp 415a-d may bias the element 170a, e.g. press the element further into the trunnion 165a, 165b, as the element 170s travels over the ramp 415a-d. Advantageously, use of such ramps 415a-d may enable implementation of a track having a common point of entry/exit for both installation and uninstallation of the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a.

Operation of the mooring device 110 with the member 400 is now described.

In use, the mooring device 110 may be installed in the support apparatus 105a by applying a pulling force to the pull-in line 120 coupled to the mooring device 110 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track 405.

During installation, the elements 170a travel over the first ramp 415a before travelling over the first step 410a. In an example, a recessed depth of the track 405 before the first ramp 415a in a direction of travel may be substantially the same as a recessed depth of the track 405 after the first step 410a.

A subsequent reduction in the pulling force may lower the trunnion 165a, 165b onto the seat 460. This is denoted as the "in service position" in Figure 8. In doing so, the elements 170a travel over the second ramp 415a and the second step 410a.

In an example, a recessed depth of the track 405 before the second ramp 415b in a direction of travel may be substantially the same as a recessed depth of the track 405 after the second step 410b.

It can be seen in Figure 8 that in a subsequent uninstallation process, a pulling force may be applies to pull the element 170a along the track 405 over the third ramp 415c and third step 410a to an "intermediate position", before a subsequent reduction in the pulling force enables the element 170a to travel down over the fourth ramp 415d and over the fourth step 410d to exit the member 400 at a common point of entry/exit.

In the example embodiment of Figure 8, the common point of entry/exit is at a lower side of the member 400.

Figure 9 depicts plan and perspective views of a further example of a member 500 for a support apparatus 105a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The member 500 embodies the same principle as the example member 400 of Figure 8. That is, the member comprises a track 505, wherein the track comprises a series of ramps 515a-d and a corresponding series of steps 510a-d.

In the example embodiment of Figure 9, the common point of entry/exit is at a side of the member 400.

Figure 12a depicts a sequence of steps of installing the mooring device 110 in the support apparatus 105a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

As described above, a pulling force is applied to the pull-in line 120 to pull the mooring device 110 between the members 200, 300, 400, 500, e.g. between the cheek plates. The guide portion 150 and the pull-in line 120 may pre-orientate the mooring device 110 to ensure that the trunnions 165a, 165b enter into the support apparatus 105a, e.g. the mooring porch, in a correct orientation.

The pulling force may pull the mooring device 110 into and along the track, e.g. track 205, 305, 405, 505 as described above. A subsequent reduction in the pulling force on the pull-in line 120 may seat the trunnions 165a, 165b on the seat 260, 360, 460.

Figure 12b depicts a sequence of steps of uninstalling the mooring device 110 from the support apparatus 105a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

As described above, a pulling force is applied to the pull-in line 120 to pull the mooring device 110 along the track, e.g. track 205, 305, 405, 505 as described above, wherein a different route along the track is taken relative to route taken during the installation process.

A subsequent reduction in the pulling force on the pull-in line 120 may enable the mooring device 100 to disconnect completely from the support apparatus 105a. Substantial advantages of such a mooring system 100 are as follows: - Only a single line, e.g. pull-in line 120, is required during installation and uninstallation of the mooring device 110.

- The mooring system 100 is inherently robust, and thus may last in excess of 25+ years.

- No interaction with ROVs is required. This is important if the vessel to be moored has a shallow draft that precludes the use of ROVs or if the sea conditions prevent use of divers.

- The system is simple to operate. The pull-in line 120 is simply pulled to connect/install and pulled again to disconnect/uninstall.

- The pull-in line 120 can be positioned such that is accessible for on deck operations or for a small maintenance vessel.

-There is no requirement to remove rigging at the mooring device.

- There is no requirement to move hardware, such as a sheave or guide to release the mooring device.

- The time required to install (connect) or uninstall (disconnect) is shorter than prior art solutions. This means that a weather window for operations can be relatively short, thereby allowing greater opportunity for operations to take place. ROV and/or diver spreads are expensive therefore reducing/eliminating the requirement for their use the overall installation costs can be reduced. Some vessel designs/locations preclude the use of divers or ROVs.

-The track detail will be on the vessel/structure that is usually protected from corrosion with anodes or impressed current. As such, a risk of corrosion of the track details may be reduced.

- Unlike prior art mooring solutions, there is no twist of the mooring line required at high loads to engage or disengage the component, e.g. the mooring device 110. Therefore, there is no requirement for additional components such as a swivel to facilitate this movement.

Figure 13a depicts a first example of a mooring operation according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In the example, a floating structure 600 comprises first mooring system 605a and second mooring system 605b. Each mooring system is submerged in use. Each of the first and second mooring system 605a, 605b may be a mooring system 100 of Figure 1.

A pull-in line from the first mooring system 605a is coupled to a chain jack 610 mounted on a deck of the floating structure.

A pull-in line from the second mooring system 605b is coupled to an on-deck winch 615 of the floating structure.

As such, installation and uninstallation operations (as described above) may be operated from deck, even when the complete mooring system 605a, 605b is submerged in use.

Figure 13b depicts a second example of a mooring operation according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In the example, a floating structure 700 comprises first mooring system 705a and second mooring system 705b. Each mooring system is submerged in use. Each of the first and second mooring system 705a, 705b may be a mooring system 100 of Figure 1.

A pull-in line from the second mooring system 705a is coupled to a further vessel 720. As such, installation/uninstallation operations may be controlled from the vessel 720, even when even when the complete mooring system 705a, 705b is submerged in use.

Although the disclosure has been described in terms of particular embodiments as set forth above, it should be understood that these embodiments are illustrative only and that the claims are not limited to those embodiments. Those skilled in the art will be able to make modifications and alternatives in view of the disclosure, which are contemplated as falling within the scope of the appended claims. Each feature disclosed or illustrated in the present specification may be incorporated in any embodiments, whether alone or in any appropriate combination with any other feature disclosed or illustrated herein.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

100 mooring system 40 120 pull-in line mooring line uni-joint 105a first support apparatus 125 first member second member track 105b second support apparatus 135 105c third support apparatus 140a mooring device 140b 115 lever arm 145 guide portion 400 first line-engaging apparatus second line-engaging apparatug30 405 410a 165a trunnion 410b 165b trunnion 410c 170a element 410d 170b element 415a member 35 415b 205 track 415c 210 step 415d 215 planar surface 460 220 first portion 500 225 second portion 40 505 230 first edge portion 510a 235 second edge portion 510b 260 seat 510c 270 intermediate position 510d 300 member 45 515a 305 track 515b 310 step 515c 315 planar surface 515d 320 first portion 600 325 second portion 50 605a 330 first edge portion 605b 335 second edge portion 610 360 seat 615 375 lower surface member track first step second step third step fourth step first ramp second ramp third ramp fourth ramp seat member track first step second step third step fourth step first ramp second ramp third ramp fourth ramp floating structure first mooring system second mooring system chain jack winch

Claims

CLAIMS 1 2 3. 4. 5. 6.A support apparatus for a mooring device, the support apparatus comprising: at least one member comprising a track for guiding the mooring device, wherein the member is configured to permit movement of the mooring device along at least a portion of the track in a first direction, and inhibit movement of the mooring device along the at least a portion of the track in a second direction opposite to the first direction.
The support apparatus of claim 1, wherein the track comprises at least one ramp and/or step and/or gate and/or corner for inhibiting movement of the mooring device along the track in at least one direction.
The support apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one member comprises a planar surface, and the track comprises a recessed and/or raised portion formed on the planar surface.
The support apparatus of claim 3, wherein the track comprises a first portion recessed and/or raised to a first level relative to the planar surface, and optionally wherein the first portion is for guiding the mooring device at least partway towards an installation position during installation of the mooring device in the support apparatus.
The support apparatus of claim 4, wherein the track comprises a second portion recessed and/or raised to a second level different from the first level relative to the planar surface, and optionally wherein the second portion is for guiding the mooring device at least partway away from the installation position during uninstallation of the mooring device from the support apparatus.
The support apparatus of claim 5, wherein: the at least one member is configured to receive the mooring device onto the first portion of the track via a first edge portion of the at least one member during installation of the mooring device, and the at least one member is configured to enable the mooring device to leave the second portion of the track via a second edge portion of the at least one member during uninstallation of the mooring device, wherein, in use, one of the first and second edge portions of the at least one member is an upper portion and the other of the first and second edge portions is a lower portion.
7. The support apparatus of claims 4 or 5, wherein the at least one member is configured to: receive the mooring device onto the first portion of the track via a first edge portion of the at least one member during installation; and restrict movement of the mooring device along at least a portion of the track to a single direction; and enable the mooring device to leave the first portion of the track via the first portion of the at least one member during uninstallation of the mooring device.
8. The support apparatus of claims 6 or 7, wherein the first and/or second edge portions of the at least one member comprises a curved or sloping portion relative to the planar surface.
9. The support apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one member comprises a seat or pocket for supporting the mooring device.
10. The support apparatus of claim 9, wherein the seat or pocket and the track are integrally formed with the at least one member.
11. The support apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising a guide portion for guiding a line for pulling the mooring device along the track. 30
12. The support apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the guide portion comprises a guide-piece, bending shoe, conduit, sheave or chain wheel configured to orient the line.
13. The support apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one member comprises a first member and a second member, each member comprising a respective track for guiding the mooring device.
14. The support apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first member and the second member face each other such that, in use, the mooring device is disposed between the first and second members as the mooring device is guided by the respective tracks.
15. A mooring device for use with the support apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the mooring device is receivable and/or retainable in the support apparatus.
16. The mooring device of claim 15, comprising at least one pin or trunnion configured to be received in a seat or pocket of the support apparatus.
17. The mooring device of claim 16, comprising an element biased to selectively extend from the at least one pin or trunnion.
18. The mooring device of claim 17, wherein the element is configured to engage with the track for guiding the mooring device.
19. The mooring device of claim 16 or 17, wherein the element comprises a plunger.
20. The mooring device of any of claims 15 to 19, comprising: a first line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device to a pull-in line; a second line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring device to a mooring line; and a lever arm disposed between the first and second line-engaging apparatuses.
21. A mooring system comprising: the support apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 14 and the mooring device according to any of claims 15 to 20.
22. The mooring system of claim 21, comprising: a floating structure; and an anchor or pile; wherein the support apparatus is coupled to the floating structure, the mooring device is coupled to the anchor or pile by a mooring line, and the mooring device is installed in the support apparatus
23. A method of use of the mooring system of claim 21 or 22, the method comprising: installing the mooring device on the support apparatus by applying a pulling force to a line coupled to the mooring device to pull the mooring device along the track; and/or uninstalling the mooring device from the support apparatus by applying a pulling force to the line coupled to the mooring device to pull the mooring device along the track.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein: the pulling force applied to the line for installing the mooring device on the support apparatus is in a same direction as the pulling force applied to the line for uninstalling the mooring device on the support apparatus; and/or applying the pulling force to the line comprises applying a first pulling force and a subsequent second pulling force, the second pulling force being less than the first pulling force.
25. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein: a mooring tension is applied to the mooring device by a mooring line during installation and uninstallation of the mooring device on the support apparatus; and/or the mooring system is at least partially submerged in use.