JP2023554613A - Improved mooring connector - Google Patents

Abstract

a first portion (10), a second portion (15), and a mechanism (20) for releasably locking the first portion (10) and the second portion (15); A mooring, marine, subsea, underwater or offshore connector (5) is disclosed, wherein the possible locking mechanism (20) comprises at least one movable locking member (25) biased toward a first position. be done. Each locking member (25) can be removed by inserting the first part (10) into the second part (15) and/or by removing the first part (10) from the second part (15). This allows it to move against the action of the biasing mechanism (20). The connector (5) connects the first part (10) to the second part (10) when the first part (10) is inserted into and/or removed from the second part (15). A mechanism is provided for rotation relative to the portion (15). Embodiments are provided with at least one pair of opposing or opposed movable locking members (25, 25b) and at least one pair of biasing members (60a, 60b), wherein said/or each biasing member ( 60a, 60b) is connected to a first movable locking member (25a), and a second end of said/or each biasing member (60, 60b) is connected to a second movable locking member (25a). It is connected to a locking member (25b).

Description

The present invention provides a marine/floating/floating system for connecting lines, e.g. / Concerning connectors such as undersea/underwater/offshore (mooring) connectors or mooring connectors. The invention also relates to related devices, structures, and methods.

Mooring lines, e.g. wire, chain or synthetic mooring lines (such as polyester lines) used underwater, such as in the oil, gas, offshore wind or tidal energy industries, can be attached to (subsea) structures by means of connectors. can. The mooring of such structures may be permanent. However, deterioration of the tether, such as corrosion of the wire or chain, may require replacement of the deteriorated tether. When such structures are deployed beyond depths at which it is commercially acceptable to use divers, connections can be made to remotely connect and/or disconnect such lines. It may require being established using an operational vehicle (ROV).

Improved connectors for use with ROVs may be desirable even if they do not operate beyond allowable diver depths. Many operators choose not to use divers, even when permitted or when practical. There may be a desire or need for new, improved, simpler, rugged, and/or easier to use connectors.

International Publication No. 2014/155094 pamphlet (FTL SUBSEA LIMITED) describes a first part including a male part, a second part including a female part, and means for connecting the first part and the second part. or a mechanism,
the mechanism for connecting comprises at least a portion of the passageway through the second portion;
The first part comprises means for connecting the first part to the one or more mooring lines, and the means for connecting the first part to the one or more mooring lines comprises means for connecting the first part to the one or more mooring lines. configured to allow rotational movement of the first portion relative to the one or more cords about a transverse axis;
the second part comprises means for connecting the second part to an underwater structure;
the means for connecting the second part to the underwater structure are configured to allow rotational movement of the second part relative to the structure about a transverse axis of the second part;
When the first portion and the second portion are connected, the transverse axis of the first portion is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the first portion and the second portion.

The prior art suffers from a number of problems and/or drawbacks. For example, the first and second openings of each of the first and second portions are provided with a removable component, such as a load-bearing locking pin.

An objective of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the invention may be to seek to avoid or at least alleviate one or more problems and/or disadvantages in the prior art.

According to the invention there is provided a connector, structure, device, device or container and/or method according to the appended claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector is provided, such as a mooring connector, a subsea connector, an underwater connector and/or an offshore connector.

The connector may include a first portion. The connector may include a second portion. The connector may include a mechanism for releasably locking the first portion and the second portion. The releasable locking mechanism may comprise at least one movable locking or stop member that may be biased (resiliently/spring-biased) towards the first position.

The first portion may include a male portion.

The second portion may include a female portion.

The first portion may be receivable within the second portion.

The second portion can include a through hole. The through hole may have an inlet end and/or an outlet end of the first portion.

The or each at least one movable locking member may be provided on the second part, e.g. at or adjacent to the outlet end of the throughbore, e.g. hinged thereon. It may be attached.

When in the first position, the at least one movable locking member may overlap the through-hole of the second portion when viewed along the axis of the through-hole.

The at least one movable locking member is configured to move from a first position to a second position and to a third position by inserting the first part into the second part (e.g., by a spring or biasing mechanism). may be elastically movable (against the action of).

The or each locking member or stopper member is moved from a third position to a second position and to a first position by removing the first part from the second part (e.g. by means of a spring or biasing mechanism). may be elastically movable (against the action of

The first position and the third position may be one and the same.

The first location may be a radially proximal location, and/or the second location may be a radially distal location, and/or the third location may be a radially distal location of the second portion. It may be in a radially proximal position relative to the axis of the through hole.

The or each stop member is moved against the action of the biasing mechanism by inserting the first part into the second part and/or by removing the first part from the second part. It may be possible.

The releasable locking mechanism may be adapted to acquire or transmit tension between a line, such as a mooring line, and a structure through the connector 5.

The connector is configured to rotate the first part relative to the second part when the first part is inserted into and/or removed from the second part (rotation). A mechanism may also be provided. The rotation mechanism can cause the first portion and the second portion to assume a preselected rotational configuration when mated.

The rotation mechanism includes at least one or one cam follower, pin or protrusion above one of the first parts (or the second part) and one or more cam followers, pins or protrusions above the (other) of the second part (or the first part). A guide track or a cam track may be provided.

At least one opposing or opposing pair of movable locking members may be provided.

At least one biasing mechanism/member or spring member may be provided.

The first end of the or each biasing member may be connected to a first movable locking member. The second end of the or each biasing member may be connected to a second movable locking member.

A first end of the first movable locking member may be connected to a first end of the (first) biasing member. (The second end of the first movable locking member may be connected to the second biasing member).

A first end of the second movable locking member may be connected to a second end of the (first) biasing member. (The second end of the second movable locking member may be connected to the second biasing member).

The first part may include at least one recess or notch adapted to receive one of the movable locking members up to a locking position, such as a third position.

The first portion has at least one pair of opposing recesses or notches adapted to lock or engage the pair of opposing or opposing movable locking members, such as when in a respective third position. may be provided.

The first portion may provide a mooring line attachment mechanism.

The first portion may have a first end adapted for insertion into the second portion.

The first portion may have a second end adapted to connect to a mooring line.

The first part may have a mechanism for enabling movement of the first part relative to the mooring line, preferably the mechanism enabling movement is located at the end of the first part/second part. and/or adapted to allow relative movement in two perpendicular axes.

The connector may, for example, include a mooring line or leg connector for use with a mooring line or leg extending upwardly from the floor of a body of water, such as the seabed, to connect floating structures moored to the floor of the body of water. good.

Connecting and disconnecting the connector or tether can be accomplished by retracting and/or withdrawing the first portion (which may include the elongated body) using, for example, a working tether.

The at least one movable locking member may include at least a portion of a latching mechanism for connecting or securing the line to a moored structure.

Preferably, a mechanism may be provided for releasably connecting the first and second parts.

Preferably, the at least one movable locking member may comprise at least part of the releasable connection mechanism.

The releasable connection mechanism may include at least a portion of the passageway in the second portion.

The first part may comprise a mechanism/means or connection for connecting to one or more lines, such as a mooring line, and preferably the mechanism/means comprises at least one of the first parts to the line. Allows rotational movement around one horizontal axis.

The second part may be provided with a mechanism/means or a connection for connecting to an (undersea) structure, preferably the mechanism/means is about a transverse axis of the second part with respect to the structure. Allows rotational movement.

The lateral axis of the first portion may be substantially perpendicular to the lateral axis of the second portion (eg, when the first and second portions are connected/mated).

The passageway in the second portion may be capable of receiving a working line or wire.

The mechanism for connecting the first portion to the cord may include one or more first bearing means.

The one or more first bearing means may include a clevis mechanism.

The mechanism for connecting the second part to the structure may include one or more second bearing means.

The one or more second bearing means may comprise one or more projections or trunnions.

One or more protrusions or trunnions may provide a transverse axis of the second portion.

The lateral axis of the second portion may be substantially horizontal (eg, in use).

For example, in use, when the first and second portions are connected, the transverse axis of the first portion may be substantially orthogonal or perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second portion.

The connector can include a first part, a second part, and a mechanism for connecting the first part and the second part, the mechanism for connecting including a through-hole in the second part. at least a portion of the passageway may optionally receive a working line or wire, the first portion including a mechanism for releasably connecting to the working line or wire; , the mechanism for connecting a line preferably includes a first line connecting means and a second line connecting means, the first line connecting means being preferably releasably engaged to the second line connecting means. The engagement between the first line connection means and the second line connection means is preferably configured to mate with each other, and the engagement between the first line connection means and the second line connection means is preferably such that the tension generated between the working line or wire and the first portion of the connector caused by

The connector may include a first portion including a male portion, a second portion including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first portion and the second portion. The mechanism may include at least a portion of the passageway in the second portion, the first portion comprising means for connecting the first portion to one or more (mooring) lines. The means for connecting the first part to one or more cords preferably connects the first part to one or more cords about the transverse axis B, C of the first part. the second part is configured to allow rotational movement of the second part, and the second part comprises a mechanism or means for connecting the second part to a structure, such as an underwater structure or a submerged or semi-submerged structure. The mechanism or means for connecting the second portion to the structure may be configured to allow rotational movement of the second portion relative to the structure about a transverse axis D of the second portion. The means for connecting the second part to the structure preferably comprises bearing means for providing rotational movement relative to the structure about a transverse axis of the second part, and the means for connecting the second part to the structure preferably When the portion and the second portion are connected, the transverse axis of the first portion may be substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second portion.

The connector may include a first portion including a male portion, a second portion including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first portion and the second portion. The means may comprise at least a portion of the passageway in the second part, the first part comprising means for connecting the first part to one or more (mooring) lines. The means for connecting the first part to one or more cords preferably connects the first part to one or more cords about the transverse axis B, C of the first part. the second portion may include means for connecting the second portion to the underwater structure, and the second portion may include means for connecting the second portion to the underwater structure. The means for connecting the second part to the underwater structure may be configured to allow rotational movement of the second part relative to the underwater structure about a transverse axis D of the second part. The means for preferably comprises bearing means comprising a pair of protrusions or trunnions provided on the transverse axis of the second part on either side of the through passageway, the first part and the second part being connected. The lateral axis of the first portion may be substantially perpendicular to the lateral axis of the second portion.

In a first embodiment, the at least one movable locking member can be moved from a first position to a second position by inserting the first part into the second part. The at least one movable locking member can be moved from the second position to the third position by further inserting the first part/member into the second part/member. Such insertion and further insertion may be referred to as an "engagement/attachment/lock sequence."

In a first embodiment, the at least one movable locking member can be moved from the third position to the second position by further inserting the first part into the second part. The at least one movable locking member can be moved from the second position to the first position by removing the first part/member from the second part/member. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

In a second embodiment, the at least one movable locking member can be moved from a first position to a second position by inserting the first part into the second part. The at least one movable locking member can be moved from the second position to the third position by further inserting the first part/member into said second part/member. Such insertion and further insertion may be referred to as an "engagement/attachment/lock sequence."

In a second implementation, the at least one movable locking member is movable from the third position to the second position by the release member. The release member may be moved/controlled by the release cord, for example by pulling/tightening the release cord. The at least one movable locking member may be moved from the second position to the first position by at least one biasing member and/or release member, e.g. by releasing/loosening the release cord, thereby , enabling the at least one biasing member to act on the at least one movable locking member. Such pulling and releasing of the release cord may be referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

In a second embodiment, the first part is removable from the second part by further inserting the first part into the second part and then removing the first part from the second part. It is. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

The first implementation may be referred to as an "auto connector." A second implementation may be referred to as a "semi-automatic connector."

According to a second aspect of the invention, a connector is provided, such as a mooring connector, a subsea connector, an underwater connector and/or an offshore connector.

Connectors can include:
at least one movable locking member;
a first part; and/or
Second part.

The at least one movable locking member is adapted to move from a first (closed) position to a second (open) position by inserting the first part into the second part, such as through a through hole in the second part. ) position.

The at least one movable locking member can be moved from a second (open) position to a third (closed) position by further inserting the first member into the second member.

Such insertion and further insertion may be referred to as an "engagement/attachment/lock sequence."

The at least one movable locking member is movable by the release member from a third (closed) position to a second (open) position.

The release member may be moved/controlled by the release cord, for example by pulling/tightening the release cord.

The at least one movable locking member is moved from a second (open) position to a first (closed) position by means of at least one biasing member and/or a release member, e.g. by releasing/loosening a release cord. the at least one movable locking member, thereby allowing the at least one biasing member to act on the at least one movable locking member.

The first part can be removed from the second part by further inserting the first part into the second part and then removing the first part from the second part. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

Such pulling/tensioning, release/relaxation, and release of the release cord, as well as intermediate further insertion of the first part into the second part, is referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence". obtain.

Embodiments of the invention according to the second aspect of the invention may be referred to as "semi-automatic connectors".

It will be appreciated that the connector according to the first/second aspect of the invention may optionally and/or advantageously include one or more features of the connector according to the second/first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the structure or marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater and/or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or Vessel provided.

at least one or more lines are connected to a structure or to a marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel by a connector according to the first or second aspect of the invention; Good too.

The structure, equipment, equipment or vessel may include a buoy, such as an underwater turret loading or underwater turret production buoy.

A structure, device, equipment or vessel can be adapted to be semi-submersible.

The structure, device, equipment or vessel may comprise a floating (oil or gas) platform, for example a production platform or SPAR, or an (offshore) renewable energy generator or wind turbine.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, one or more lines moor, anchor or anchor a structure or a floating, floating, subsea, underwater and/or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel. A method is provided.

The method comprises the step of connecting at least one line to a structure or to subsea, underwater or offshore equipment, equipment or structure by using a connector according to the first or second aspect of the invention. can be included.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mooring connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; Figure 2 is a further side view of the tethering connector of Figure 1; 2 is a perspective view of a first portion of the tether connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second portion of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a further perspective view of the second portion of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 4(a) is a perspective view of the first portion of FIG. 3 engaging or fitting with the second portion of FIG. 4(a); FIG. 2 is a first partially cutaway perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a second partially cutaway perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a third partially cut away perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a fourth partially cut away perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 2 is a fifth partially cutaway perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a sixth partially cutaway perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a seventh partially cut away perspective view of the tethering connector of FIG. 1; 4(a) is a perspective view of the first portion of FIG. 3 disengaged from the second portion of FIG. 4(a); FIG. 4 is a series of side views of the first portion of FIG. 3 illustrating relative movement between the cam track of the first portion and the cam follower or pin of the second portion during engagement and disengagement procedures; FIG. be. 4 is a series of side views of the first portion of FIG. 3 illustrating relative movement between the cam track of the first portion and the cam follower or pin of the second portion during engagement and disengagement procedures; FIG. be. 4 is a series of side views of the first portion of FIG. 3 illustrating relative movement between the cam track of the first portion and the cam follower or pin of the second portion during engagement and disengagement procedures; FIG. be. 4 is a series of side views of the first portion of FIG. 3 illustrating relative movement between the cam track of the first portion and the cam follower or pin of the second portion during engagement and disengagement procedures; FIG. be. 4 is a series of side views of the first portion of FIG. 3 illustrating relative movement between the cam track of the first portion and the cam follower or pin of the second portion during engagement and disengagement procedures; FIG. be. 2 is a schematic illustration of a (subsea) structure connected to a ship with a structure moored to the seabed with one or more mooring connectors according to FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the tethering connector according to FIG. 1 connected to a structure; FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of the tethering connector of FIG. 12 with the first portion being pulled towards the second portion; FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of the tethering connector of FIG. 12 with the first portion being pulled towards the second portion; FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the tether connector of FIG. 12 with a first portion received within a second portion; FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of FIG. 11, the structure having a retaining member configured to (releasably) secure the second portion to the structure; FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first portion of a mooring connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of a mooring connector of the second embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first portion of a mooring connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of a mooring connector of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first portion of a mooring connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and a perspective view of the mooring connector of the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first portion of a mooring connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and a perspective view of the mooring connector of the third embodiment. Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation order of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(a) is a partial side view of the tethering connector of Figure 17(a) showing the release stage; Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second portion of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second portion of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second portion of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b); Figure 20(a) is a first view of a top view of the second portion of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b), corresponding to Figure 20(a); Figure 20(c) is a second view of a top view of the second portion of the tethering connector of Figure 17(b), corresponding to Figure 20(c);

Referring to FIGS. 1-10e, there is shown a connector, generally designated 5, according to a first embodiment of the present invention (tethering connector).

Connector 5 includes a first portion 10 . Connector 5 includes a second portion 15 . Connector 5 includes a mechanism, generally indicated at 20, for releasably locking first portion 10 and second portion 15. The releasable locking mechanism 20 comprises at least one movable locking or stopper member 25 biased (resiliently/spring-biased) towards a first position (see FIG. 4(a)).

First portion 10 includes a male portion 30 . The second portion 15 includes a female portion 35 . First part 10 is receivable within second part 15.

The second portion 15 includes a through hole 40 . The through hole 40 has a first portion inlet end 45 and an outlet end 50.

The or each at least one movable locking member 25 is provided on the second portion 15 at or adjacent to the outlet end 50 of the through hole 40 and is hingedly attached thereto by a hinge 55. It will be done.

When in the first position (FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b)), the at least one movable locking member 25 has a second portion when viewed along the axis A of the through-hole 40. It overlaps with the through hole 40 of No. 15.

At least one movable locking member 25 is moved from a first position (FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b)) to a second position by inserting the first part 10 into the second part 15. (FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b)) and to a third (locked) position (FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b)). Elastically movable (against the action of a member or spring 60).

The or each movable locking member 25 is moved from the third position to the second position and back to the first position by removal of the first part 10 from the second part 15 (e.g., biased). It is elastically movable (against the action of a mechanism or spring 60).

The first position and the third position may be one and the same.

The first position is a radially proximal position, the second position is a radially distal position, and the third position is radially proximal with respect to the axis X of the through hole 40 of the second portion 15. It is a position.

The or each movable locking member 25 can be attached by inserting the first part 10 into the second part 15 and/or by removing the first part 10 from the second part 15. It is movable against the action of the force mechanism 60.

Referring briefly to FIGS. 11 and 12, the releasable locking mechanism 20 is advantageously adapted to acquire or transfer tension between a line 100, such as a mooring line, and a structure 105 through the connector 5. be done.

The connector 5 rotates the first part 10 relative to the second part 15 when the first part 10 is inserted into and/or removed from the second part 15. A mechanism, generally indicated at 61, is provided for causing this.

The rotation mechanism 61 includes at least one or one cam follower, pin or protrusion 62 above one of the first parts 10 (or the second part 15) and the second part 15 (or the first part 10). (the other) upper guide track or cam track 63.

In this embodiment, at least one opposing or opposite (i.e. a pair) first and second movable locking members 25a, 25b are provided.

Also provided is at least one (first) biasing member or spring 60a.

A first end 65a of the biasing member 60a is connected to the first movable locking member 25a. A second end 70a of biasing member 60a is connected to second movable locking member 25b.

A first end 75a of the first movable locking member 25a is connected to a first end 65a of the biasing member 60a. (In a variant, the second end 80a of the first movable locking member 25a is connected to the second biasing member 60b).

A first end 75b of the second movable locking member 25b is connected to a second end 70a of the biasing member 60a. (In a variant, the second end 80b of the second movable locking member 25b is connected to the second biasing member 60b).

The first part 10 comprises at least one recess or notch 82 adapted to receive one of the movable locking members 25, such as in a locked position, such as a third position.

In this embodiment, the first portion 10 is advantageously adapted to lock or engage a pair of opposing or opposing movable locking members 25a, 25b, such as when in their respective third positions. At least one pair of opposed recesses or notches 82a, 82b are provided.

The first portion 10 provides a (mooring) line attachment mechanism, generally indicated at 84.

First portion 10 has a first end 86 adapted to be inserted into second portion 15 . The first part 10 has a second end 88 adapted to connect to a (mooring) line 100.

The first portion 10 has a mechanism, generally indicated at 90, for enabling movement or articulation of the first portion 10 with respect to the (mooring) line 100, advantageously allowing movement. A mechanism 90 is provided at or adjacent the end of the first portion 10/second end 88 and/or adapted to allow relative movement in the two vertical axes B, C. be done.

The connector 5 comprises, for example, a mooring line or leg connector for use with a mooring line or leg extending upward from the floor of a body of water, such as the seabed, to connect a moored floating structure to the floor of the body of water. .

With reference to FIGS. 10(a) to 10(e), the connection and disconnection of the connector 5 or the line 100 may be accomplished by retracting the first portion 10 comprising an elongated body, for example using the working line 92 and/or This can be done by pulling it out (see FIGS. 13(a), 13(b), and 14).

At least one movable locking member 25 includes at least a portion of a latching mechanism for connecting or securing line 100 to moored structure 105.

A mechanism 20 is provided for releasably connecting the first and second parts 10, 15.

At least one movable locking member 25 includes at least a portion of mechanism 20 for releasably connecting.

Mechanism 20 for releasably connecting includes at least a portion of a through hole or passageway 40 in second portion 15 .

The first part 10 comprises means or connections for connecting to one or more lines 100, such as mooring lines, advantageously the means include at least one connection of the first part 10 to the lines 100. Allows rotational movement around the horizontal axes B, C.

The second part 15 comprises means 94 or connections for connection to an (undersea) structure, advantageously the means comprising rotation about the transverse axis D of the second part 15 with respect to the structure 105. Allows exercise.

The transverse axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis D of the second part 15 in use.

A through hole 40 in the second portion 15 can receive a working line or wire 92.

The mechanism 90 for connecting the first part 10 to the cable 100 comprises one or more first bearing means 95 . The one or more first bearing means 95 comprises a clevis mechanism.

The mechanism 94 for connecting the second part 15 to the structure 105 comprises one or more second bearing means 96 . The one or more second bearing means 96 comprises one or more projections or trunnions. The one or more projections or trunnions provide a transverse axis D of the second portion 15.

The lateral axis D of the second portion 15 is typically (eg, in use) substantially horizontal.

In use, when the first section 10 and the second section 15 are connected, the transverse axis B of the first section 10 is substantially orthogonal to the transverse axis D of the second section 15. , or vertical.

The connector 5 includes a first part 10, a second part 15, and a mechanism 20 for connecting the first and second parts 10, 15. The first portion 10 includes at least a portion of a through hole 40 in portion 15 that is capable of receiving a working line or wire 92, and the first portion 10 includes a mechanism 97 for releasably connecting to the working line or wire 92. , the mechanism 97 for connecting to a working line includes a first line connecting means 98 and a second line connecting means 99, the first line connecting means 98 being releasable to the second line connecting means 99. The engagement of the first and second line connecting means 98 , 99 is configured to enable engagement, the engagement of the first and second line connecting means 98 , 99 being caused by tension generated between the working line or wire 100 and the first portion 10 of the connector 5 . , for example, by pulling the work line 100.

The connector 5 comprises a first part 10 comprising a male part, a second part 15 comprising a female part, and a mechanism or means 20 for connecting the first and second parts 10, 15,
The mechanism 20 for connecting comprises at least a portion of the through passage 40 in the second portion 15;
The first part 10 comprises a mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) lines 100, the first part 10 being connected to one or more (mooring) lines 100. The mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more cords 100 is advantageously centered on at least one transverse axis B and/or C of the first part 10. configured to allow rotational movement;
The second portion 15 comprises a mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to a structure 105, such as an underwater structure or a submerged or semi-submerged structure;
The mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 is configured to allow rotational movement of the second portion 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D of the second portion 15. The mechanism or means 94 for connecting the second part 15 to the structure 105 advantageously provides rotational movement of the second part 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D. comprising bearing means 96;
When the first and second parts 10, 15 are connected, the transverse axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis D of the second part 15.

The connector 5 comprises a first part 10 comprising a male part, a second part 15 comprising a female part, and a mechanism or means 20 for connecting the first and second parts 10, 15;
The mechanism 20 for connecting comprises at least a portion of the through passage 40 in the second portion 15;
The first part 10 comprises a mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) lines 100, the first part 10 being connected to one or more (mooring) lines 100. The mechanism 84 or means for connecting to 100 advantageously facilitates rotational movement of the first part 10 relative to the cord or cords 100 about the transverse axis B and/or C of the first part 10. configured to enable
the second portion 15 comprises a mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105;
The mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 is configured to allow rotational movement of the second portion 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D of the second portion 15. The arrangement 94 or means for connecting the second part 15 to the structure 105 advantageously comprises a pair of lateral axis D of the second part 15 on opposite sides of the through passage 40. bearing means 96 with a projection or trunnion;
When the first and second parts 10, 15 are connected, the transverse axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis D of the second part 15.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-15, a structure, or subsea, submersible or offshore structure, equipment, equipment or vessel, generally indicated at 105, is moored by one or more lines 100. shown.

At least one or more cords 100 are connected to structure 105 by connectors 5 as described above.

The structure, or underwater or offshore structure, equipment, equipment or vessel, may be, for example, an underwater turret loading, an underwater turret production buoy, a floating (oil and gas) production platform or SPAR, or an (offshore) renewable energy generator or Can include wind turbines.

In use, the ROV (not shown) can move a working line or wire 100 through the through hole 40 in the female portion.

The ROV can connect a working line or wire 100 comprising a first line connection means 98 to a second line connection means 99 of the male portion.

In use, the engagement between the first cable connection means 98 and the second cable connection means 99 is established by pulling the working cable 100 upward (see FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b)). 2, thereby creating tension between the working line or wire 100 and the first portion 10 of the connector 5.

The ROV can then pull the male part towards the female part so that the male part is inserted into the female part. A sheave member 110 (temporary/removable) mounted on or to the structure 105 facilitates pulling the first portion 10 towards the second portion 15.

In use, insertion of the male part into the female part may actuate the rotation mechanism 61 by causing the cam follower 62 to follow the cam track 63, thereby causing the cam follower to rotate in the first position until it reaches a locked position within the cam track 63. Portion 10 is rotated such that notches 82a, 82b are rotationally aligned with first and second locking members 25a, 25b, and locking members 25a, 25b are biased into notches 82a, 82b, respectively. or spring-loaded, thereby locking the first part 10 within the second part 15 in a predetermined rotational arrangement. The work line 100 and/or sheave can then be removed using the ROV (see FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b)).

For cutting, the working line 100 and/or the sheave can be reattached using the ROV and the working line 105 can be connected to the first section 10. In order to sever the connector 5, the working line 100 can be tensioned or pulled (again), causing the cam follower 62 to follow the cam track 63, thereby causing the first part 10 to be connected to the second part 15. Rotate out of predetermined rotational (lock) alignment with. That is, notches 82a, 82b are rotated out of alignment with locking members 80a, 80b. This facilitates the removal of the first portion 10 from the second portion 15 and thus the cutting of the working line 100 from the structure 105 (see FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b)).

Referring now to FIGS. 11-14, in accordance with the present invention, one or more lines can be used to transport structures, or marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore structures, equipment, equipment or vessels. A method of mooring, anchoring or anchoring is provided.

The method may include connecting at least one line to marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore equipment, equipment or structures by using a connector 5 as described above.

Referring now to FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b), there is shown a connector, generally designated 205, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. Connector 205 is similar in many respects to connector 5 of FIGS. 1-10(e), with like parts designated by like numerals, but repeated by "200".

Referring now to FIGS. 17(a)-21(b), there is shown a connector, generally designated 305, according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Connector 305 is similar in many respects to connector 5 of FIGS. 1-10(e), with like parts designated by like numerals, but repeated by "300".

In the first and second embodiments (see FIGS. 1-15 and 16(a) and (b), respectively), in use, the at least one movable locking member 25; 10;215 into the second part 15;215, it is moved from the first position to the second position. At least one movable locking member 25; 225 is moved from the second position to the third position by further inserting the first part 10; 210 into the second part 15; 215. Such insertion and further insertion is referred to as an "engage/attach/lock sequence."

In the first and second embodiments, in use, the at least one movable locking member 25; 225 is moved into the third position by further inserting the first part 10; 210 into the second part 215. to the second position. At least one movable locking member 25; 225 is moved from the second position to the first position by removing the first part 10; 210 from the second part 15; 215. Such further insertion and removal is referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

In a third embodiment (see FIGS. 17(a)-21(b)), in use, the at least one movable locking member 325 prevents the insertion of the first portion 310 into the second portion 315. is moved from the first position to the second position. At least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the second position to the third position by further inserting the first part 310 into the second part 315. Such insertion and further insertion is referred to as an "engagement/attachment/lock sequence."

In a third embodiment, in use, the at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the third position to the second position by the action of the release member 356. The release member 356 is moved/controlled by a release line 357, for example by pulling/tensioning the release line 357. at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the second position to the first position by at least one biasing member 360 and/or release member 356, e.g. by releasing/loosening the release cord; Thereby, it is possible for at least one biasing member 360 to act on at least one movable locking member 325. Such pulling and release of the release cord is referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

In a third embodiment, in use, the first portion 310 is removed by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315 and then removing the first portion 310 from the second portion 315. , removed from the second portion 315. Such further insertion and removal is referred to as a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence."

The connectors 5; 205 of the first and second embodiments may be referred to as "automatic connectors". The third embodiment connector 305 may be referred to as a "semi-automatic connector."

The connector 305 of the third embodiment differs from the connector 5 of the first embodiment in several respects. Connectors 305 (mooring connectors, subsea connectors, underwater connectors and/or offshore connectors):
at least one movable locking member 325;
a first portion 310;
a second portion 315.

In use, the at least one movable locking member 325 is moved into a first (closed) position by inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315, e.g. to the second (open) position.

In use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a second (open) position to a third (closed) position by further inserting the first part 310 into the second part 315. Ru. Such insertion and further insertion is referred to as an "engage/attach/lock sequence."

In use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a third (closed) position to a second (open) position by a release member 356. The release member 356 is moved/controlled by a release line 357, for example by pulling/tensioning the release line 357.

In use, the at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the second (open) position by the at least one biasing member 325 and/or the release member 356, e.g. by releasing/loosening the release line 357. 1 (closed) position, thereby allowing at least one biasing member 360 to act on at least one movable locking member 325.

In use, the first portion 310 is separated from the second portion 315 by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315 and then removing the first portion 310 from the second portion 315. removed.

Such pulling/tensioning, release/relaxation and release of the release cord, as well as intermediate further insertion of the first part into the second part, constitutes a "disengagement/detachment/release sequence". Department).

An implementation of the invention according to a third embodiment of the invention is called a "semi-automatic connector".

It will be understood that the embodiments of the invention described herein above are given by way of example only and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), for example, the first position and the second position when the first part 10 contacts the first part 10 and inserts the first part 10 into the second part 15. ease of movement of the movable locking members 25a, 25b between and/or between the second and first positions upon removal of the first part 10 from the second part 15; Note that the surface of the or each movable locking member 25a, 25b facing the through-hole 44 of the second part may be concave in order to facilitate ease of movement of the locking member 25a, 25b. I want to be

Claims (29)

A mooring, marine, subsea, underwater or offshore connector,
a first part;
a second part;
a releasable locking mechanism for releasably locking the first portion and the second portion;
A connector, characterized in that the releasable locking mechanism comprises at least one movable locking or stopper member biased towards a first position. the first portion includes a male portion, and/or
the second portion includes a female portion, and/or
The connector of claim 1, wherein the first portion is receivable within the second portion. the second portion has a through hole, the through hole has an inlet end and an outlet end of the first portion;
the or each at least one movable locking member is provided in the second part, for example at or adjacent to the outlet end of the through hole;
Optionally, the or each at least one movable locking member is e.g. movably and/or hingedly connected to the second part. connector. 3. The at least one movable locking member, when in the first position, overlaps the through-hole of the second part when viewed along the axis of the through-hole. The connector according to any one of items 1 to 3. The at least one movable locking member is elastically movable from the first position to a second position and to a third position by inserting the first part into the second part. is movable and/or
The or each locking member/stopper member is elastically moved from the third position to the second position and to the first position by removal of the first part from the second part. is movable and/or
the first position and the third position are the same, and/or
The first location is a radially proximal location, the second location is a radially distal location, and the third location is radially proximal to the axis of the throughbore of the second portion. 5. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the connector is in a position. The or each locking member/stopper member is biased by inserting the first part into the second part and/or by removing the first part from the second part. movable against the action of a mechanism, and/or
6. Any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the releasable locking mechanism is adapted to acquire or transmit tension between a line, such as a mooring line, and a structure through a connector. Connectors listed in. The connector rotates the first part relative to the second part when the first part is inserted into and/or removed from the second part. optionally comprising a rotation mechanism for;
The rotation mechanism includes at least one or one cam follower, pin, or protrusion above one of the first part or the second part and one of the second part or the first part. 7. A connector according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a guide track or a cam track above the other of the connector. at least one opposing or opposing pair of movable locking members; and/or
at least one pair of biasing or spring members are provided; and/or
A first end of the or each biasing member is connected to a first movable locking member, and/or a second end of the or each biasing member is connected to a second movable locking member. connected to and/or
a first end of the first movable locking member is connected to a first end of a (first) biasing member; and/or
8. Any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a first end of the second movable locking member is connected to a second end of the (first) biasing member. The connector described in paragraph 1. Said first part has at least one recess or notch adapted to receive one of said movable locking members in a locked position, such as a third position, and optionally To,
Said first portion includes at least one pair of opposing recesses adapted to lock or engage a pair of opposing or opposing movable locking members, such as when in a respective third position. 9. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it has a notch. The first portion provides a mooring line attachment mechanism and/or
the first portion has a first end adapted for insertion into the second portion; and/or
The first portion has a second end adapted to connect to a mooring line, and/or
The first part has a mechanism for enabling movement of the first part with respect to the mooring line, and the mechanism for enabling movement is located between the end of the first part/the second part. 10. According to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it is provided at or adjacent to the end and/or adapted to allow relative movement in two vertical axes. connector. The connector comprises a mooring line or leg connector for use with a mooring line or leg extending upwardly from the floor of a body of water, such as a seabed, to connect a moored floating structure to the floor of the body of water. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: 12. One of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the connecting and disconnecting of the connector or the cord is carried out by retracting and/or withdrawing the first part, optionally comprising an elongated body. Connectors listed in section. 13. Any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the at least one movable locking member comprises at least part of a latching mechanism for connecting or securing the line to a moored structure. Connectors listed in. A releasable connection mechanism is provided for releasably connecting the first part and the second part, optionally;
At least one said movable locking member comprises at least a portion of said releasable connection mechanism, and optionally further
14. A connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the releasable connection mechanism comprises at least part of a through passageway in the second part. The first part comprises means or connections for connecting to one or more lines, such as mooring lines, the means or connections being arranged to extend at least one transverse axis of the first part to the lines. and/or optionally,
Said second part comprises means or connections for connecting to an (undersea) structure, said means or connections said rotation about a transverse axis of said second part relative to said (undersea) structure. enabling movement and/or optionally;
15. A connector according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the transverse axis of the first part is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second part. 16. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the through passage of the second part is capable of receiving a working line or wire. The mechanism for connecting the first portion to the cable includes one or more first bearing means, and optionally:
17. A connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the one or more first bearing means comprises a clevis mechanism. The mechanism for connecting said second part to a structure includes one or more second bearing means, and optionally:
The one or more said second bearing means include one or more projections or trunnions, and optionally further:
18. A connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more of the projections or trunnions provide a transverse axis of the second part. a horizontal axis of the second portion is substantially horizontal; and/or
In use, when the first portion and the second portion are connected, the transverse axis of the first portion is substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second portion. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that it is. The connector includes the first part, the second part, and a mechanism for connecting the first part and the second part,
the mechanism for connecting includes at least a portion of a through passageway in the second portion;
the through passageway is capable of receiving a working line or wire;
the first portion includes a mechanism for releasably connecting to the working line or wire;
said mechanism for connecting to a cable includes first cable connection means and second cable connection means;
the first cable connection means is configured to releasably engage the second cable connection means;
characterized in that the engagement between the first cable connection means and the second cable connection means is caused by tension generated between the working cable or wire and the first part of the connector. 20. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 19. comprising a first part including a male part, a second part including a female part, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first part and the second part,
The connecting mechanism includes at least a portion of a through passage in the second portion,
said first part comprises means for connecting said first part to one or more (mooring) lines, the means for connecting said first part to one or more lines; , configured to allow rotational movement of the first portion relative to one or more cords about a transverse axis (B, C) of the first portion;
the second part comprises a mechanism or means for connecting the second part to a structure such as an underwater structure or a submerged or semi-submerged structure;
The mechanism or means for connecting the second part to a structure is such that it allows rotational movement of the second part relative to the structure about a transverse axis (D) of the second part. wherein the means for connecting the second part to a structure comprises bearing means for providing rotational movement relative to the structure about a transverse axis of the second part;
When the first part and the second part are connected, the transverse axis of the first part is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second part. 21. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 20. comprising a first part including a male part, a second part including a female part, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first part and the second part,
the means for connecting comprises at least a portion of a through passageway in the second portion;
said first part comprising means for connecting said first part to one or more (mooring) lines, said means for connecting said first part to one or more lines; is configured to allow rotational movement of the first part relative to one or more cords about a transverse axis (B, C) of the first part, and the second part is configured to: comprising means for connecting the second portion to an underwater structure;
The means for connecting the second part to an underwater structure are arranged to allow rotational movement of the second part relative to the underwater structure about a transverse axis (D) of the second part. and the means for connecting the second part to an underwater structure includes a bearing comprising a pair of protrusions or trunnions provided on the transverse axis of the second part on both sides of the through passage. have the means,
When the first part and the second part are connected, the transverse axis of the first part is substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second part. 22. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 21. Any marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel when moored by one or more lines,
A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 22, in which at least one of the lines is connected to the structure or to a marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel. any structure, device, equipment or vessel characterized by being connected to it. Claim characterized in that said structures, devices, equipment or vessels include underwater turret loading, underwater turret production buoys, (floating/production) platforms or SPARs, or (offshore) renewable energy generators or wind turbines. 24. A structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel according to paragraph 23 when moored by one or more lines. A method of mooring, anchoring or anchoring a marine, floating, floating, subsea, underwater or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel by one or more lines, the method comprising:
A method, characterized in that it comprises the step of connecting at least one line to a structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel using a connector according to any one of claims 1 to 22. the at least one movable locking member is movable from a first position to a second position by inserting the first part into the second part; and/or
The at least one movable locking member is movable from a second position to a third position by further inserting the first part into the second part, and/or
the at least one movable locking member is movable from a third position to a second position by further inserting the first part into the second part; and/or
5. The at least one movable locking member is movable from a second position to a first position by removing the first member from the second member. 23. The connector according to any one of 1 to 22. the at least one movable locking member is movable from a first position to a second position by inserting the first part into the second part; and/or
The at least one movable locking member is movable from a second position to a third position by further inserting the first part into the second part, and/or
The at least one movable locking member is movable from a third position to a second position by a release member, and the release member optionally pulls/tightens the release cable, e.g. moved/controlled by and/or
The at least one movable locking member is movable from a second position to a first position by at least one biasing member and/or a release member, for example by releasing/loosening the release cord. , thereby enabling said at least one biasing member to act on said at least one movable locking member, and/or
The first portion is removable from the second portion by further inserting the first portion into the second portion and then removing the first portion from the second portion. 23. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that: A mooring, marine, subsea, underwater or offshore connector,
at least one movable locking member;
a first part;
a second part;
The at least one movable locking member is brought into a first (closed)/closed position by inserting the first part into the second part, such as through a through hole in the second part. movable from to a second (open)/open position;
Said at least one movable locking member is moved from said second (open)/open position to a third (closed)/closed position by further inserting said first member into said second member. is movable;
The at least one movable locking member is movable from the third (closed)/closed position to the second (open)/open position by a release member, the release member being movable by a release cord. , moved/controlled, for example by pulling/tightening said release line;
Said at least one movable locking member is moved from said second (open)/open position by at least one biasing member and/or said release member, for example by releasing/loosening said release cord. 1 (closed)/closed position, thereby enabling said at least one biasing member to act on said at least one movable locking member. The first portion is removable from the second portion by further inserting the first portion into the second portion and then removing the first portion from the second portion. 19. Connector according to claim 18, characterized in that:

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