WO2022175147A1

WO2022175147A1 - Mooring device, mooring system comprising the mooring device, vessel comprising the mooring system, and a method for mooring a vessel

Info

Publication number: WO2022175147A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/053140
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Bangslund
Original assignee: Svitzer A/S
Priority date: 2021-02-16
Filing date: 2022-02-09
Publication date: 2022-08-25

Abstract

A mooring device for securing a vessel to a mooring element is disclosed. The mooring device comprises a main body having a guide section, and a receiving section for receiving the mooring element. The receiving section has a center axis. The main body comprises a line catching device for releasably securing the line to the main body. The mooring device comprises a guiding arm arranged in the guide section of the main body. The guiding arm comprises a line guide for guiding the line. The guiding arm is configured to move in a first direction along the receiving section of the main body, such that the line guide follows a trajectory along the perimeter of the receiving section. The line guide being configured to guide the line to the line catching device, wherein the line catching device is configured to engage with, and releasably secure, the line.

Description

MOORING DEVICE, MOORING SYSTEM COMPRISING THE MOORING DEVICE, VESSEL COMPRISING THE MOORING SYSTEM, AND A METHOD FOR MOORING A VESSEL

The present disclosure pertains to the field of mooring of vessels. The present disclosure relates to a mooring device for securing a vessel to a mooring element, a mooring system comprising the mooring device for securing a vessel to a mooring element, a vessel comprising the mooring system, and a method for mooring the vessel comprising the mooring system.

BACKGROUND

Mooring refers to an act of securing a vessel to a permanent structure, which permanent structure will hereinafter be referred to as a mooring element. A vessel may be secured to a mooring element to forestall free movement of the vessel on the water. An anchor mooring fixes the vessel's position relative to a point on the bottom of a waterway without connecting the vessel to shore.

The mooring element may be any variety of shore fixture from trees and rocks to specially constructed areas such as quays, wharfs, jetties, piers, anchor buoys, and/or mooring buoys.

Mooring is often accomplished using thick ropes called mooring lines or hawsers. The lines may be fixed to deck fittings on the vessel at one end and to fittings such as bollards, rings, and cleats at the other end.

Mooring typically requires cooperation between people on shore and on a vessel. Heavy mooring lines are often passed from larger vessels to people on shore by smaller, weighted heaving lines. The mooring line is then pulled onto shore by means of the heaving line and are then manually connected to the mooring element by the people on shore. Once a mooring line is attached to a mooring element, the mooring line is pulled tight. Large ships generally tighten their mooring lines using heavy machinery, such as mooring winches or capstans. Typically, a plurality of mooring lines is required to secure a vessel. The heaviest cargo ships may require more than a dozen mooring lines, while small vessels can generally be moored by two to six mooring lines.

Hence, mooring of a vessel involves hard labor with risk for injuries for the people on shore. Further, mooring operations are time consuming and must be planned in advance to ensure that people are available onshore to assist during mooring.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need for devices and systems for securing a vessel to a mooring element, which mitigate, alleviate or address the shortcomings existing and provide a facilitated and less labor intense mooring operation.

Further, a mooring system for securing a vessel to a mooring element. The mooring system comprising the mooring device according to the current disclosure and a line, wherein the guiding arm is configured to guide the line along a perimeter of the receiving section, such that, when a mooring element is located in the receiving section of the main body, the line encircles a part of the mooring element and engages with the line catching device.

Further, a vessel comprising the mooring system according to the current disclosure is disclosed. Further, a method for mooring a vessel is disclosed. The vessel comprises a mooring system according to the current disclosure. The guiding arm of the mooring system initially is in a first position in which the guiding arm allows a mooring element to enter the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis: The method comprises inserting a mooring element into the receiving section of the mooring device. The method comprises moving the guiding arm in a first direction until the guiding arm reaches a second position in which the line catching device is configured to engage with the line, so that the line guided by the line guide encircles at least a part of the mooring element and engages with the line catching device. The method comprises moving the guiding arm in a second direction opposite the first direction until the guiding arm reaches the first position in which the guiding arm allows the mooring element to exit the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis while being at least partly encircled by the line.

It is an advantage of the present disclosure that the time and effort for performing a mooring procedure may be reduced, since the mooring device can guide the line around a mooring element in one single movement, without requiring manual handling of the line. The mooring device of the present disclosure thus enables remotely operated vessels to moor to offshore mooring elements, such as pylons, or in remote locations without assistance from shore personnel.

Further, a mooring point, such as for example a midships mooring point, can be established for the vessel using the mooring system, such that a gangway may be deployed before further mooring lines are applied. Personnel may thus safely leave the vessel and may thereafter manually apply the further lines to moor the vessel to further mooring elements.

Further, the risk of personnel getting injured is reduced, since no personnel is required for direct handling of the line. The personnel may be located at a safe distance from the line in turn providing a safe mooring operation. For example, at departure of the vessel, the vessel can be held safely in place by means of the mooring system and can be released at the last minute, by means of the releasing device, from a remote location, such as from a bridge of the vessel. This reduces the risk of personnel being caught and/or crushed between the vessel and a fixed structure to which the vessel is moored. Further, by arranging the line catching device on the main body of the mooring device, forces acting on the mooring line when the vessel is moored, such as forces generated by a moored vessel moving in the water and pulling on the mooring line, can be absorbed by the main body. The moving parts of the mooring device, such as the guiding arm and the line guide, are only used to guide the line to the line catching device when the line is unloaded. Thereby the forces acting on the moving parts of the mooring device can be reduced. Reducing the forces acting on the moving parts of the mooring device and thereby reduces the risk of failure of the mooring device. Reducing the forces acting on the moving parts also allows the moving parts to be less sturdy, which may reduce the manufacturing cost and manufacturing effort of the mooring device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art by the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates an exploded top down view of an example mooring device according to this disclosure,

Fig. 2 illustrates a top down view of an example mooring device comprising a drive system according to this disclosure,

Fig. 3A illustrates an exploded side view of an example mooring device according to this disclosure in an open position for receiving a mooring element,

Fig. 3B illustrates a side view of an example mooring device according to this disclosure in an open position for receiving a mooring element,

Fig. 3C illustrates an exploded side view of an example mooring device having an example drive system according to this disclosure in a closed position,

Fig. 3D illustrates a side view of an example mooring device having an example drive system according to this disclosure in a closed position, Fig. 4A-4I illustrates different states of an example mooring system comprising the mooring device in for securing a vessel to a mooring element during a mooring operation according to this disclosure,

Fig. 5 illustrates an example mooring system according to this disclosure,

Fig. 6A illustrates an example vessel comprising the mooring device according to this disclosure in a retracted position, and

Fig. 6B illustrates an example vessel comprising the mooring device according to this disclosure in an extended position, and

Fig. 7 illustrates a method for mooring a vessel according to this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various exemplary embodiments and details are described hereinafter, with reference to the figures when relevant. It should be noted that the figures may or may not be drawn to scale and that elements of similar structures or functions are represented by like reference numerals throughout the figures. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the disclosure or as a limitation on the scope of the disclosure.

In addition, an illustrated embodiment needs not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described.

The figures are schematic and simplified for clarity, and they merely show details which aid understanding the disclosure, while other details have been left out. Throughout, the same reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts.

A mooring device for securing a vessel to a mooring element is disclosed. The mooring device comprises a main body having a guide section, and a receiving section for receiving the mooring element. The receiving section has a center axis. The main body comprises a line catching device for releasably securing the line to the main body. The mooring device comprises a guiding arm arranged in the guide section of the main body. The guiding arm comprises a line guide, such as a first line guide, for guiding a line. The guiding arm is configured to move in a first direction along the receiving section of the main body, such that the line guide, such as the first line guide, follows a trajectory along the perimeter of the receiving section. The line guide, such as the first line guide, is configured to guide the line to the line catching device. The line catching device is configured to engage with, and releasably secure, the line. The line catching device may be arranged at a perimeter of the receiving section, such as an inner or outer perimeter of the receiving section, and/or at a perimeter of the guide section.

The receiving section may be an open section in the main body, such as a throughgoing cut-out in the main body. The receiving section may be defined by one or more side walls of the main body. An opening may be provided in the side of the main body for allowing an object, such as a mooring element, to be inserted into the receiving section. In other words, the opening in the side of the main body may be an opening providing access to the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis of the guide section. The periphery of the receiving section may have one of the following shapes, U-shaped, arc shaped, V-shaped, or trapez-shaped. The dimensions of the receiving section may be selected such that the receiving section and the opening in the side wall can accommodate the mooring element. The dimensions may be dependent on the size of the mooring element. In one or more exemplary mooring device(s), a diameter or a width of the receiving section may be in the range of 0,5-3 meters, such as in the range of 1-2 meters, such as in the range of 1 ,2-1 ,5 meters. The receiving section may be a throughgoing cut-out, such as a throughgoing hole, arranged in the main body, such as in a main plane of the main body and being surrounded by the guide section. The receiving section may, at least partly, be arranged within the perimeter of the guide section and the guiding arm, such that the guide section and guiding arm surrounds the receiving section, when the guiding arm is moved along a trajectory to guide the line to the line catching device.

The guide section may be a groove, such as a milled groove, or a rail, mounted on the surface of the main body, and following an edge of the throughgoing cut-out or following a surrounding of the throughgoing cut-out.

In one or more example mooring devices, the guide section may be arranged along a perimeter of the receiving section and the guide section may be arc shaped. In one or more example mooring devices, such as when the guide section is arc shaped, the guiding arm may be arc shaped. The arc shaped guiding arm may be arranged concentrically with and rotatably around the center axis of the guide section. The arc shaped guiding arm may have an open section for allowing the mooring element to enter the receiving section. The line guide comprised in the guiding arm, such as the first line guide, may be arranged at an inner perimeter of the arc shaped guiding arm, such that the line guide follows the rotation of the arc shaped guiding arm. The guide section and/or the guiding arm being arc shaped shall herein be interpreted as being shaped as part of a circumference of a circle, i.e., any point along the perimeter of the guide section and/or the guiding arm is located at a same radius from the center axis.

In one or more example mooring devices, the line guide comprised in the guiding arm, such as the first line guide, may comprise a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line. In one or more example mooring devices, the first line guide may be a through-going hole arranged in the guiding arm of the mooring device. The through-going hole of the first line guide may have a longitudinal extension in a direction parallel to the center axis of the receiving section.

The throughgoing cut-out and the guide section of the main body may be truncated, such that the guide section and the through hole are open to one side of the main body. The guide section and/or the receiving section being truncated shall herein be interpreted as the main body having an imaginary cut going through the through hole and the guide section. The main body, the guiding arm and/or the catching device of the mooring device may be made out of metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum.

In one or more example mooring devices, the main body may comprise a line guide, such as a second line guide, for guiding the line. In one or more example embodiments, the line catching device may be arranged at a distance from the second line guide along the perimeter of the receiving section. In one or more example mooring devices, the second line guide may be arranged at a perimeter, such as at an inner perimeter, of the receiving section. The second line guide may comprise a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line. In one or more example mooring devices, the second line guide may be a fairlead, such as a split fairlead. In one or more example mooring devices, the second line guide may have a through-going hole arranged in the main body of the mooring device. The through-going hole of the second line guide may have a center axis parallel to the center axis of the receiving section.

The through-going holes of the first line guide and/or the second line guide, allow(s) the line to slide relative to the first line guide and/or the second line guide in a longitudinal direction of the line, and may restrict the movement of the line in a radial direction of the line.

The mooring element may be any variety of shore fixtures, from trees and rocks to specially constructed fixed structures or areas such as quays, wharfs, jetties, piers, anchor buoys, mooring buoys, and/or wire or rope loops connected to any of the previous structures.

In one or more example mooring devices, the first line guide may comprise an alignment element being configured to align a connecting element arranged on a free end of a line guided by the first line guide, so that the connecting element is aligned to engage with the line catching device when the first line guide is in the second position. The connecting element may for example be a metal ring, a shackle, a pin and/or a ball, such as a ball of a ball coupling.

In one or more example mooring devices, the line catching device may comprise a hook. The hook may be configured to engage with the line and/or with a connecting element arranged on the free end of the line, such as the metal ring, the shackle or the pin. The hook may in one or more example mooring devices be a quick release hook. The hook may in one or more example mooring devices be pivotably arranged so that it is movable between a closed position, in which the line catching device is arranged to engage with the line, and an open position, in which the line catching device is configured to release the line and/or the connecting element. In one or more example mooring devices, the hook may be spring loaded, such that the spring forces the hook into the closed position.

In one or more example mooring devices, such as when the connecting element is a ball, the line catching device may comprise a receiving element to receive the ball. The ball of the connecting element and the receiving element of the line catching device may thus form a ball coupling joint. The ball coupling joint, may allow the ball to move freely in two planes in relation to the receiving element while preventing the ball to move translationally in relation to the receiving element. The line catching device may comprise a locking element for securing the ball in the receiving element. The locking element may be movably arranged to the receiving element. The locking element may be spring loaded such that the spring forces the locking element into a locked position.

In one or more example mooring devices, the mooring device may comprise a releasing device for releasing the line catching device from the line, such as from a connecting element arranged at the free end of the line. The releasing device allows the line to be removed from the mooring element by pulling a second end of the line to unloop the line from the mooring element. The releasing device may be configured to decrease the force by which the catching device holds the line, for example by increasing a gap between two surfaces between which the line is hooked, clamped, wedged or gripped. When the line catching device comprises a hook being pivotably arranged and spring loaded, the releasing device may act against the spring to force the hook into the open position in which the hook is released from the line and/or the connecting element of the line. Previously, when for example a vessel would leave shore or leave the fixed structure to which the mooring element is connected, people on shore would have to manually remove the line from the mooring element, or the vessel would have to be brought close to the mooring element, such that people onboard of the vessel could remove the line from the mooring element which is time consuming. Hence, the mooring device of the present disclosure further reduces the time and effort for releasing the vessel from the mooring element. When the line catching device comprises a receiving element for receiving a ball, the releasing element may act against the spring load of the locking element to force the locking element into an open position in which the ball is released from the receiving element.

In one or more example mooring devices, the releasing device may comprise an actuating member, such as a hydraulic or an electric actuating member, configured to release the line catching device from the line. The actuating member may be configured to move the line catching device, such as a hook of the line catching device, into an open position in which the line catching device is configured to release the line. The actuating member may contact the catching device and may exert a force on the line catching device to move the line catching device, such as the hook of the line catching device, to the open position. The force exerted by the actuating member may overcome the spring force from the spring, which allows a part of the line catching device, such as the hook, to pivot from the closed position into the open position which releases the line.

In one or more example mooring devices, the guiding arm may be configured to be arranged in a first position, which may also be referred to as an open position, in which a mooring element can enter and/or exit the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis. In other words, in the first position guiding arm is arranged to allow the mooring element to be inserted into and/or removed from the receiving section of the main body.

In one or more example mooring devices, the guiding arm may be configured to be arranged in a second position in which the line catching device is configured to engage with the line guided by the line guide, such as by the first line guide.

In one or more example mooring devices, the guiding arm may be configured to move in a second direction opposite the first direction, such that the line guide comprised in the guiding arm, such as the first line guide, follows the trajectory from the second position back to the first position.

In the first position the guiding arm may be fully arranged within the main body, such as within the guide section of the main body, thereby allowing a mooring element to be inserted into the receiving section of the main body of the mooring device. In one or more example embodiments where the guiding arm has an arc shape, the openings in the arc shaped guiding arm, the guide section and the receiving section may be aligned in the first position, such that the mooring element can be inserted into the receiving section through the aligned openings. In addition to allowing an object to be inserted into the receiving section through the aligned openings, arranging the guiding arm in the first position also protects the guiding arm during a mooring procedure. If the guiding arm would be in a protruding position, such as when the leading free end or the trailing free end has left the guide section, the guiding arm might be damaged or deformed if it would come in contact with the mooring element or any other fixed structure during the mooring procedure, such as when the mooring device is brought in vicinity of the mooring element to position the mooring element in the receiving section. Damage or deformation of the guiding arm may lead to malfunction of the mooring device since the guiding arm may no longer align with the guide section and thus prevent rotation of the guiding arm. Thus, positioning the guiding arm in the first position protects the guiding arm from being damaged or deformed during a mooring procedure.

In one or more example mooring devices, the mooring device may comprise a drive system for moving the guiding arm in relation to the main body. In one or more example mooring devices, the drive system may be configured to move the guiding arm in a translational movement, such as a linear movement in relation to the main body. In one or more example mooring devices, such as when the guiding arm is arc shaped, the drive system may be configured to rotate the guiding arm in relation to the main body. The drive system may comprise a motor, such as an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, for creating a torque, and a transmission for transferring the torque to the guiding arm. The transmission may be a gear drive or a sprocket drive. In one or more example mooring devices, the transmission may comprise one or more pinions arranged to be in driving contact with a gear rim. In one or more example mooring devices, the transmission may comprise one or more sprockets, arranged to be in driving contact with a chain. The one or more pinions may be arranged on the main body, such as along a perimeter of the guide section, and the gear rim may be arranged on the guiding arm, such as on an outer circumference of the guiding arm. In some embodiments, the pinions may be arranged on the guiding arm, while the gear rim is arranged on the main body, such as on an inner circumference of the guide section. In some embodiments, the transmission may comprise a plurality of sprockets being arranged to contact and to mesh with the chain. The plurality of sprockets may be arranged on the main body, such as along a periphery of the guide section, and the chain may be arranged on the guiding arm, such as on an outer circumference of the arc shaped guiding arm. In some embodiments, the sprockets may be arranged on the guiding arm, while the chain is arranged on the main body. The pinions and/or sprockets may be arranged such that at least one pinion and/or sprocket is in contact with the gear rim and/or the chain, at any position, such as at any linear or angular position, of the guiding arm in relation to the main body. When the guiding arm is arc shaped, this ensures that at least one pinion or sprocket is always in driving contact with the gear rim or chain during the complete movement of the guiding arm, such that the arc shaped guiding arm can be rotated by the drive system independent of the angular position of the guiding arm in relation to the main body. The main body may comprise a mounting section for mounting the mooring device to a vessel. The mounting section may be configured to be pivotably and/or slidably mounted to a vessel, such as to a side of a vessel. In one or more exemplary mooring device(s), the mounting section may thus comprise a pivoting member configured to be connected to the vessel. The mounting section may be configured to be mounted to a first end of a mounting arm. A second end of the mounting arm may be configured to be mounted to a side of the vessel. The mounting arm may be an articulated arm mounted to the vessel via one or more pivot points. In some embodiments the mounting arm may be a telescopic arm, such that the mooring device may be extracted from the vessel to reach a mooring element. The mounting arm may be comprised in the mooring device and/or in a mooring system.

Further, a mooring system for securing a vessel to a mooring element is disclosed. The mooring system comprises the mooring device and a line, such as a mooring line. The guiding arm of the mooring device is configured to guide the line along a perimeter of the receiving section, such that, when a mooring element is located in the receiving section of the main body of the mooring device, the line encircles a part of the mooring element and engages with the line catching device. The line may comprise a connecting element arranged on a distal end of the line, wherein the connecting element is configured to engage with the line catching device, such as with the hook of the line catching device. In one or more example mooring systems, the connecting element may be a shackle, ring, a pin and/or a ball of a ball joint configured to engage with the line catching device.

The first end of the line may be configured to be releasably secured to the line catching device, such that when the mooring device moves away from the mooring element the line is un-winded from a storage to which a second end of the line is attached. In one or more example mooring systems the storage may be a tension winch, such as a drum of the winch. The size of the loop of the line can thereby be increased to allow the mooring device (and a vessel comprising the mooring device) to move away from the mooring element while the line still loops around, and at least partly encircles, the mooring element. In order to adjust the distance of a vessel to a shore or to a fixed structure, the tension in the line may be adjusted by means of for example the tension winch, to provide less or more slack in the line. At least partly encircling herein means that the line covers at least a part of the angular span of the mooring element. In one or more example mooring systems, the mooring system may comprise a tension winch for winding and unwinding the line. The mooring system may also comprise a mounting arm, wherein a first end of the arm may be mounted to the mounting section of the mooring device and a second end of the arm may be configured to be mounted to a side of the vessel, such as to a bulwark of the vessel. The arm may be an articulated arm mounted to the vessel via one or more pivot points. In some embodiments the arm may be a telescopic arm, such that the mooring device may be extracted from the vessel to reach the mooring element.

Further a vessel comprising the mooring system is disclosed. The vessel may for example be a ship or a mooring support vessel, such as a tugboat. The vessel may comprise a hull. The mooring device of the mooring system may be movably arranged to the vessel, such as to the hull of the vessel. The mooring device may for example be movably arranged via one or more articulated joints, such as pivot points, such that an angular position of the mooring device may be changed in relation to the vessel. In one or more exemplary vessels, the mooring device may be comprised in a bulwark of the vessel, such that the mooring device is integrated in, such as constitutes a part of, the bulwark of the vessel. The mooring device may be configured to pivot from an upright, which may also be referred to as a vertical or stowed position, in which the center axis of the guide section is (substantially) horizontally arranged, to a horizontal position in which the center axis of the guide section is (substantially) vertically arranged. In other words, the mooring device may be pivotably mounted to an outside of the vessel, such as to an outside of the hull of the vessel. The mooring device may be configured to be arranged in any position between the upright and the horizontal position in order to receive a mooring element located on a shore or on a fixed structure. The vessel may further comprise a securing element, such as a pin, for securing the mooring device to the side of the vessel, such as to the bulwark, in the upright position. The securing element, such as the pin, may for example engage a receiving slot, such as a hole, an indentation or a groove in the main body of the mooring device. In the upright position the receiving section of the mooring device may constitute, or may be used as, a fairlead in the bulwark of the vessel. The securing element may engage the main body of the mooring device in the vicinity of the line catching device, such that the securing element may absorb forces from the line acting on the main body. By engaging the securing element into the main body of the mooring device, the mooring device may be prevented from moving from the (substantially) upright position when a force is applied to the line. When the mooring device is arranged in the upright position the guiding arm may be configured to be arranged in the first position and the first line guide may be aligned with a fairlead in the side of the vessel, such as in the bulwark of the vessel. In one or more example vessels, the securing element may engage the main body of the mooring device in a direction perpendicular to the center axis of the receiving section. The securing element may be slidably arranged in the side of the vessel, such as in the bulwark of the vessel. The securing element may be configured to move between a released position, in which the securing element does not engage the main body of the mooring device and the mooring device is free to move from the upright position, and a locked position, in which the securing element engages the main body of the mooring device and the mooring device is secured to the upright position.

In one or more exemplary vessels, the mooring device may be arranged to the vessel on an arm, such as an articulated arm. The mooring device may for example be movably arranged via an articulated arm, such that the mooring device may be extracted from the side of the vessel towards a mooring element on shore, and/or via a slide rail, such that the mooring device is slidably arranged along the side of the vessel. By having the mooring device being movably arranged to the vessel, the position of the mooring device may be adjusted to facilitate an insertion of a mooring element into the receiving section of the mooring device. The vessel may comprise one or more mooring systems arranged on a side, a stern and/or a bow of the vessel.

Further, a method for mooring a vessel is disclosed. The vessel comprising the mooring system disclosed herein. The guiding arm of the mooring system initially is in a first position in which the guiding arm allows a mooring element to enter the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis. The method comprises inserting a mooring element into the receiving section of the mooring device. The mooring element may be inserted into the receiving section by moving the mooring device towards the mooring element until the mooring element is positioned such that the mooring element is located in the receiving section of the mooring device. The method comprises moving the guiding arm in a first direction until the guiding arm reaches a second position in which the line catching device is configured to engage with the line, so that the line guided by the line guide, such as the first line guide, encircles at least a part of the mooring element and engages with the line catching device. The method comprises moving the guiding arm in a second direction opposite the first direction until the guiding arm reaches the first position in which the guiding arm allows the mooring element to exit the receiving section in a direction perpendicular to the center axis while being at least partly encircled by the line.

In one or more example methods, the mooring device may be pivotably arranged to an outside of a hull of the vessel and initially is in a stowed position, and wherein the method comprises extending the mooring device from the outside of the hull of the vessel towards the mooring element. The mooring device may be extended from the stowed position into an operating position before the mooring element is inserted into the receiving section.

In one or more example methods, the method comprises retracting the mooring device to the stowed position, such as after the guiding arm has been moved in the second direction back to the first position. By retracting the mooring device to the stowed position once the vessel has been moored to the mooring element, the risk of damaging the mooring device when the vessel is moored can be reduced.

Fig. 1 illustrates an exploded top down view of an exemplary mooring device 1 for securing a vessel to a mooring element. The mooring element may be any variety of shore fixture, such as a tree or a rock, or a specially constructed area, such as a quay, a wharf, a jetty, a pier, an anchor buoy, and/or a mooring buoy. The mooring device 1 comprises a main body 10 having a guide section 11 and a receiving section 12 for receiving the mooring element. The mooring element may be inserted into the receiving section via an opening 12A of the receiving section 12. In the example mooring device shown in Fig. 1 , the guide section 11 is arranged along, such as around, a perimeter of the receiving section 12. In the example mooring device shown in Fig. 1, the guide section 11 is arc shaped and has a center axis 3. The guide section 11 being arc shaped shall herein be interpreted as being shaped as part of a circumference of a circle, i.e., any point along the perimeter of the guide section 11 is located at same radius from the center axis 3. The guide section 11 may however not span an entire 360° to form a circle, instead the guide section 11 may comprise an opening, such as an open section 11b, through which an object, such as a mooring element can be inserted into the receiving section 12. In other words, the guide section 11 may have the shape of a truncated circle, such as a circular arc. The guide section 11 may be a groove that is milled into a surface of the main body 10, or a rail mounted on the surface of the main body 10. The main body 10 comprises a line catching device 15 for releasably securing the line to the main body 10. The mooring device 1 further comprises a guiding arm 21 being arranged in the guide section 11 of the main body 10. The guiding arm 21 comprises a line guide 22, such as a first line guide, for guiding the line ( the line is not shown in Fig. 1 ). The line guide 22 may be arranged at an inner perimeter of the arc shaped guiding arm 21. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 1 , the line guide 22 has a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 1 , the guiding arm 21 is arc shaped. The through-going hole of the line guide 22 has a longitudinal extension in a direction parallel to the center axis 3 of the receiving section 12 of the main body 10. The through-going hole of the line guide 22 allows a line fed through the through-going hole to slide relative to the line guide 22 in a longitudinal direction of the line, and may restrict the movement of the line in a radial direction of the line.

The arc shaped guiding arm 21 is arranged concentrically with and rotatably around the center axis 3 of the guide section 11. It is to be noted that fig. 1 shows an exploded view of the mooring device 1 , wherein the dotted lines indicate the position of the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 1 in an assembled state of the mooring device 1. The guiding arm 21 comprises an open section 23 allowing the mooring element to enter the receiving section 12. The size of the opening 23 is defined by the distance between two free ends 21 A, 21 B of the arc shaped guiding arm 21. The opening 12A in the main body 12 may be smaller than the opening 23 in the guiding arm 21 and/or the opening 11 b in the guide section 11. The guiding arm 21 is configured to move, such as rotate, in a first direction Ri and/or a second direction f¾ along the receiving section 12 of the main body 10, such that the line guide 22 follows a trajectory along the perimeter of the receiving section 12. The line guide 22 is configured to guide the line to the line catching device 15. The line catching device 15 is configured to engage with, and releasably secure, the line. The line catching device 15 is arranged at a perimeter of the receiving section 12. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 1, the line catching device 15 comprises a hook being pivotably arranged, such that the hook can move between a closed and an open position. The hook may be a quick-release hook. In the first position, the opening in the main section 12A and the opening 23 in the guiding arm 21 are aligned. By aligning the openings 12A and 23 access is provided to the receiving section 12, such that a mooring element can be inserted into or removed from the receiving section 12 in a direction perpendicular to, or at least substantially perpendicular to, the center axis 3. The example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 1 comprises a releasing device for releasing the line catching device from the line. The releasing device may be configured to move line catching device 15, such as the hook of the line catching device 15, into the open position, in which the line 4 and/or the connecting element 4A can be released from the line catching device 15. The releasing device 16 may comprise an actuating member, such as a hydraulic and/or an electric actuating member, being configured to release the line catching device 15 from the line.

The angular span a of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 and/or the angular span b of the guide section 11 may be up to implementation. The angular span a and/or the angular span b may be selected such that the opening 23 between the free ends 21 A, and 21 B of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 and the opening 11 b in the guide section 11 are large enough to allow the mooring element to be inserted through the openings, while ensuring that the guiding arm 21 stays in contact with the guide section 11 throughout a complete revolution of the guiding arm 21 in the guide section 11. Thus, the angular span a of the guiding arm 21 and the angular span b of the guide section 11 are selected such that the sum of the angular spans a and b is larger than 380°, such that the angular spans a and b always overlap when the guiding arm 21 moves, such as rotates, in relation to the main body. The arc shaped guiding arm 21 may span an angle a larger than 180° and smaller than 360°, such as in the range from 200° to 240°. The arc shaped guide section 11 may span an angle b larger than 180° and smaller than 360°, such as in the range from 200° to 240°. Consequently, the opening 23 of the guiding arm 21 and the opening 11 b of the guide section 11 may span less than 180°, such as 360° minus the span of the guiding arm 21 or the guide section 11 correspondingly, to ensure that the free end 21 A of the guiding arm 21 is engaged with the guide section 11 on the opposite side of the opening 11 b before the free end 21 B of the guiding arm 21 exits the guide section 11.

The main body 10 may further comprise a mounting section 14 for mounting, such as pivotably mounting, the mooring device 1 to a vessel. The mounting section 14 may comprise or may be mounted to a pivoting member, for pivotably mounting the mooring device to a vessel, such as to a side of the vessel, such as to a bulwark of the vessel. The mounting section 14 may be mounted to a distal end of a telescopic arm which proximal end is mounted to a side of the vessel, such that the mooring device may be extracted from the vessel to reach a mooring element. Although the guiding arm and the guide section in the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 1 are arc shaped, the guiding arm and the guide section may in one or more example mooring devices be straight (not shown in the Figs.), such that the straight guiding arm performs a translational, such as a linear movement, to bridge the opening 12A in the main body and to guide the line to the line catching device 15 using the line guide 22 arranged on the straight guiding arm, such as the first line guide.

The mooring device 1 may further comprise a drive system 30, for moving, such as rotating, the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 10. An exemplary drive system 30 is shown in Fig. 2. The drive system 30 may comprise a motor 31, such as an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, for creating a torque and a transmission 32 for transferring the torque to the guiding arm 21. The transmission 32 may be a gear drive or a sprocket drive. The transmission 32 may comprise one or more pinions 33a and/or sprockets 33b, arranged to be in driving contact with a gear rim 34a or a chain 34b.

In one or more example mooring devices, the transmission 32 may comprise one or more pinions 33a, arranged to contact and to mesh with a gear rim 34a. The one or more pinions 33a may be arranged on the main body 10, such as along a perimeter of the guide section 11. The gear rim 34a may be arranged on the guiding arm 21 , such as on an outer circumference of the arc shaped guiding arm 21. In some embodiments, the one or more pinions 33a may be arranged on the guiding arm 21, while the gear rim 34a is arranged on the main body 10, such as on an inner circumference of the arc shaped guide section 11. The one or more pinion(s) 33a may be arranged such that at least one pinion is in contact with the gear rim 34a at any position, such as at any angular position, of the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 10. This ensures that at least one pinion is always in driving contact with the gear rim a full movement of the guiding arm 21 , such that the arc shaped guiding arm 21 can be rotated by the drive system 30 independent of the angular position of the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 10.

In one or more example mooring devices, the transmission 30 may comprise one or more sprockets 33b being arranged to contact and to mesh with the chain 34b. The one or more sprocket(s) 33b may be arranged on the main body 10, such as along a periphery of the arc shaped guide section 11. The chain 34b may be arranged on the guiding arm 21 , such as on an outer circumference of the arc shaped guiding arm 21. In some embodiments, the one or more sprocket(s) 33b may be arranged on the guiding arm 21, while the chain 34b is arranged on the main body 10. The sprockets 33b may be arranged such that at least one sprocket is in contact with the chain 34b at any angular position of the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 10. This ensures that at least one pinion or sprocket is always in driving contact with the gear rim or chain during a full rotation of the guiding arm 21, such that the guiding arm 21 can be rotated by the drive system 30 independent of the position, such as the angular position, of the guiding arm 21 in relation to the main body 10.

The arc shaped guiding arm 21 is configured to move, such as rotate, in relation to the main body 10 around the center axis 3. During the movement of the guiding arm 21 , the guiding arm 21 may assume one or more positions relative to the main body 10. The guiding arm 21 may be configured to be arranged in a working position Pw, in which the open section 23 is arranged to allow the mooring element to be inserted into and/or removed from the receiving section 12 of the main body 10. In order to allow the mooring element to be inserted into and/or removed from the receiving section 12 of the main body 10, the open section 23 of the guiding arm 21 may be aligned with an open section of the main body 10.

Fig. 3A-3D illustrate a front view of the mooring device 1 , seen in a direction of the receiving section, according to one or more example mooring devices herein.

Fig. 3A shows an exploded front view of an example mooring device 1 having an arc shaped guiding arm 21 , wherein the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is arranged in a first position in which a mooring element can enter and/or exit the receiving section 12 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis 3. In the first position, the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is arranged such that the open section 23 of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is aligned with the open section 11 b of the guide section 11 of the main body 10, such that the open section of the 11 b of the guide section 11 is not covered by the guiding arm 21 and a mooring element can be inserted into the receiving section 12. The opening 12A of the receiving section 12 may be smaller than the opening 23 and/or the opening 11b. This position of the guiding arm 21 corresponds to the first position of the mooring device, such as to the position shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3B shows the example mooring device of Fig. 3A in an assembled state. The arc shaped guiding arm 21 is rotatably arranged inside the guide section 11 and can move, such as rotate around the center axis 3, in relation to the main body. As can be seen in Fig. 3B, the open section 23 of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is configured to be aligned with the open section 11 B of the guide section 11 of the main body 10, such that the guiding arm 21 may be completely located within the guide section 11 , (as indicated by the dotted lines of the guiding arm 21). This may protect the guiding arm 21 during catching of the mooring element, such as during insertion of the mooring element into the receiving section 12 or removal of the mooring element from the receiving section 12.

Fig. 3C shows an exploded front view of the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 3A and 3B, wherein the guiding arm 21 is in a second position in which the line catching device 15 is configured to engage with the line guided by the line guide 22. according to some embodiments herein. In Fig. 3C the arc shaped guiding arm 21 has been rotated around the center axis 3, such that the open section 23 of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is facing away from the open section 11B of the guide section 11. In this position the arc shaped guiding arm 21 blocks the open section 11 B of the guide section 11 , such that the mooring element is restricted from being inserted into and/or removed from the receiving section 12. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 3C, the mooring device 1 comprises a drive system 30 for driving the guiding arm 21. The drive system 30 comprises a motor (not shown in Fig. 3C) and a transmission 32 for transferring a torque from the motor to the guiding arm 21. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 3C, the transmission 32 comprises one or more pinions 33a arranged on the main body 10 and in driving contact with a gear rim 34a arranged on the guiding arm 21. The plurality of pinions 33a may be arranged along the perimeter of the guide section 11 , and the gear rim 34a may be arranged on the outer circumference of the guiding arm 21.

Fig. 3D shows a mooring device according to one or more examples herein in an assembled state and in a position where the guiding arm 21 has been rotated such that the open section 23 of the guiding arm 21 is facing away from the open section 11B of the guide section 11. In the example mooring device shown in Fig. 3D, the transmission 32 comprises a plurality of sprockets 33b arranged on the main body 10 and being in driving contact with a chain 34b arranged on the guiding arm 21. The plurality of sprockets 33b may be arranged along the perimeter of the guide section 11 , and the chain 34b may be arranged on the outer circumference of the guiding arm 21. The chain 34b may for example be welded to the guiding arm 21.

Figs. 4A to 4I disclose different states of the mooring device 1 in a mooring system 100 for securing a vessel to a mooring element 2 during a mooring operation. The mooring system 100 comprises the mooring device 1 and a line 4, such as a mooring line. The line 4 may be connected to a tension winch (not shown in Figs. 4A-4I) for winding and unwinding the line 4. In the example mooring system 100 shown in Figs. 4A to 4I, the mooring device 1 comprises a guiding arm 21 and a guide section 11 having an arc shaped form.

In Fig. 4A the mooring system 100 is depicted in an initial state. In the initial state the guiding arm 21 is arranged in the first position, which may also be referred to as an open position, in which the mooring element 2 can enter and/or exit the receiving section 12 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis 3. In the first position, the open section 23 of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 is aligned with the open section 11 B of the guide section 11 of the main body 10. In the example mooring device 1 shown in Figs. 4A-4I, the main body 10 comprises a second line guide 13 for guiding the line 4. The line catching device 15 may be arranged at a distance D1 from the second line guide 13 along the perimeter of the receiving section 12. The second line guide 13 may have a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line. The through-going hole of the second line guide 13, allows the line to slide relative to the second line guide 13 in a longitudinal direction of the line and may restrict the movement of the line 4 in a radial direction of the line 4. The line 4 is slidably arranged in the first line guide 22 and in the second line guide 13. In the example shown in Fig. 5A the mooring element 2 has been inserted into the receiving section 12. This may for example be the case when a vessel comprising the mooring system 100 sails into shore and places the mooring device 1 around the mooring element 2 by inserting the mooring element 2 into the receiving section 12 of the main body 10. In the first position the guiding arm 21 may be fully arranged within the main body 10, such as within the guide section 11 of the main body 10. In addition to allowing the mooring element 2 to be inserted into the receiving section 12 through the alignment of the opening 23 of the main body and the opening 11 b of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 , this position also protects the guiding arm 21 during the mooring procedure. If the guiding arm 21 would be in a protruding position, such as when the leading free end 21 A or the trailing free end 21 B has left the guide section 11 , the guiding arm 21 might be damaged or deformed if it would come in contact with the mooring element 2 or any other fixed structure during the mooring procedure. This may for example be the case when the mooring device 1 is brought in vicinity of the mooring element 2 to position the mooring element 2 in the receiving section 12. Damage or deformation of the guiding arm 21 may lead to malfunction of the mooring device 1 since the guiding arm 21 may no longer align with the guide section 11 and may thus prevent movement, such as rotation, of the guiding arm 21. Thus, positioning the guiding arm 21 in the first position protects the guiding arm 21 from being damaged or deformed during the mooring procedure. In the first position the first line guide 22 and the second line guide 13 may be aligned. The line 4 is fed through the first line guide 22 and the second line guide 13. The line 4 may comprise a connecting element (not shown in Fig. 4A) configured to engage with the line catching device 15 of the mooring device. The connecting element may be a metal ring, a shackle, a pin and/or a ball. The connecting element may be arranged at a free end of the line 4. The connecting element may prevent the free end of the line to be pulled through the second line guide 22 and/or the first line guide 13. The example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 4A-4I comprises a releasing device 16 for releasing the line 4, such as the connecting element of the line 4, from the line catching device 15.

Fig. 4B shows the mooring device 1 in an intermediate position during a mooring procedure. After the mooring element 2 has been inserted into the receiving section 12 of the main body 10, the guiding arm 21 is moved, such as rotated, in a first direction Ri in relation to the main body 10 around the center axis 3. The guiding arm 21 may be moved by means of the pinion 33A and/or the sprocket 33B engaging with the guiding arm 21. The first line guide 22, which is arranged on the guiding arm 21, follows the movement of the guiding arm 21 and pulls the free end of the line 4, such as the connecting element 4a with it. The line 4 may thus be un-winded from its storage and slides through the second line guide 13. As can be seen in Fig 4B, in this position a leading free end 21 A of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 has left the guide section 11 of the main body 10 and begins to wrap around the receiving section 12, and the mooring element 2 located therein. The guiding arm 21 starts to bridge the gap between the two free ends 11 A of the guide section 11. The leading free end 21 A shall herein be interpreted as the free end of the guiding arm 21 that is facing forward in the direction of rotation, while the other free end 21 B may herein be referred to as the trailing free end. When the arc shaped guiding arm 21 continues its rotation around the center axis 3, the first line guide 22 pulls the line 4 with it while at least partially encircling the mooring element 2, as disclosed in Fig. 4C. In the state of the mooring device shown in Fig. 4C, the leading free end 21 A of the guiding arm 21 has almost bridged the gap between the free ends 11 A of the guide section 11. In this position the guiding arm 21 substantially covers the opening, such as the open section 11 B, of the guide section 11. Thus, the guiding arm 21 restricts access to the receiving section 12 in the direction perpendicular to the center axis 3.

In Fig. 4D the leading free end 21 A of the guiding arm 21 has completely bridged the gap between the free ends 11 A of the guide section 11. Both the leading free end 21 A and the trailing free end 21 B overlap with the guide section 11 , such that both ends 21 A, 21 B of the arc shaped guiding arm 21 are guided by the guide section 11. In this position the guiding arm 21 completely covers the opening, such as the open section 11 B, of the guide section 11. Thus, the guiding arm 21 restricts access to the receiving section 12 in the direction perpendicular to the center axis 3.

In Fig. 4E the guiding arm 21 has reached the second position in which the line catching device 15 is configured to engage with the line 4 guided by the first line guide 22. The line 4, which is guided by the first line guide 22, has at least partially encircled the mooring element 2 and forms, at least partially, a loop around it. The connecting element 4A of the line 4 may be aligned, such that it engages with, and is releasably secured to, the line catching device 15. Thereby the line 4 is releasably secured to the main body 10 of the mooring device 1, such that any forces acting on the line 4 are absorbed by the main body 10.

In the state shown in Fig. 4F, the connecting element 4A of the line 4 is releasably secured to the line catching device 15 and the guiding arm 21 begins to move, such as rotate, in a second direction f¾ towards the first position. The second direction f¾ is opposite the first direction Ri. Since the line 4 is releasably secured to the line catching device 15, the free end of the line 4 does not follow the movement of the first line guide 22 while the guiding arm 21 moves in the second direction R2. Instead, the first line guide 22 slides along the line 4 during the movement of the guiding arm 21. In the state shown in Fig. 4G, the guiding arm 21 has returned to the first position, in which the mooring element 2 can enter and/or exit the receiving section 12 in the direction perpendicular to the center axis 3. Once the line 4 has been wrapped around the mooring element 2 and engages the line catching device 15, and the guiding arm 21 has returned to the first position, the mooring device 1 can be pulled away from the mooring element 2, such that the mooring element 2 can be removed from the receiving section 12 through the open sections 23 of the guiding arm 21 and 11 B of the guide section 11 , as shown in Fig. 4G. This may for example be the case when a vessel comprising the mooring system 100 pulls away from the mooring element 2 to make fast to an additional mooring element arranged at a distance from the mooring device 2 using an additional mooring device 1 arranged on the vessel. Since the first end of the line 4 is secured to the line catching device 15, the line 4 forms a loop, such as a partial loop, around the mooring element 2. Once the line 4 and/or the connecting element 4A has been engaged with the line catching device 15 arranged on the main body 10, the line may be tightened, such as using a tensioning winch (not shown). When the line is tensioned the forces acting on the line are absorbed by the main body 10 via the line catching device 15. Hence, after the guiding arm 21 has guided the line 4 into engagement with the line catching device 15, the guiding arm does no longer have to absorb any of the forces acting in a longitudinal direction of the line 4. Thereby the stress on the moving parts, such as the guiding arm 21 and/or the transmission 32, such as on the pinion 33A and/or the sprocket 33B, and or the drive system 30 may be reduced.

Fig. 4H discloses a state of the mooring device 1, in which the mooring device 1 has been moved away from the mooring element 2. When the mooring device 1 moves away from the mooring element 2 the line 4 may be un-winded from a storage to which a second end of the line 4 is attached, and forms, at least partly, a loop around the mooring element. At least partly forming a loop around herein means that the line 4 wraps around at least a part of the circumference of the mooring element 2, but not necessarily wraps around the entire circumference of the mooring element 2. The size of the loop of the line 4 can thereby be increased to allow the mooring device 1 (and a vessel comprising the mooring device 1 ) to move away from the mooring element (such as in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 4H) while the line still, at least partly, encircles the mooring element 2. The storage may for example be a tension winch, such as a drum of the tension winch. In order to adjust the distance of a vessel to a shore or to a fixed structure, the tension in the line 4 may be adjusted, for example by means of the tension winch, to provide less or more slack in the line 4.

Fig. 41 discloses a state of the mooring device 1, in which the example mooring device 1 is released from the mooring element 2. The releasing device 16 moves the hook of the line catching device 15 into the open position, such that the line catching device 15 no longer engages with connecting element 4A of the line 4. Thereby, the line 4 may be released from the mooring element 2 by pulling the second end of the line 4, such that the first end of the line 4 unwraps the mooring element 2. The releasing device is configured to move the hook of the line catching device 15 into the open position, in which the line 4 and/or the connecting element 4A is released from the line catching device 15. Previously, when e.g. a vessel would leave shore or leave the fixed structure to which the mooring element 2 is connected, people on shore would have to manually remove the line 4 from the mooring element 2, or the vessel would have to be brought close to the mooring element 2, such that people onboard of the vessel could remove the line from the mooring element 2, which would be time consuming. Hence, the mooring device 1 of the present disclosure further reduces the time and effort for releasing the vessel from the mooring element 2. The releasing device 16 may comprise an actuating member configured to move the hook into the open position in which the hook of the line catching device 15 is configured to disengage, such as release, the line catching device 15 from the line 4.

The mooring device 1 may further be comprised in a mooring system 100 for securing a vessel to a mooring element 2. Fig. 5 shows an exemplary mooring system 100 according to one or more examples herein. The mooring system 100 comprises the mooring device 1 and the line 4. During a mooring procedure the first line guide 22 of the mooring device 1 guides the line 4 from the first position and pulls a section of the line 4 along a trajectory at least partly encircling the receiving section 12, such that the line 4 at least partly encircles, such as wraps at least partly around a mooring element 2 located in the receiving section 12 of the main body 10 of the mooring device 1. At least partly encircling herein means that the line wraps around at least a part of the angular span of the mooring element. In one or more exemplary mooring system(s), the line 4 may comprise a connecting element 4A arranged at a first free end of the line 4, wherein the connecting element 4A is configured to engage with, and be releasably secured to, the line catching device 15 of the mooring device 1. The mounting section 14 may be configured to be pivotably and/or slidably mounted to a vessel, such as to a side of a vessel. In one or more exemplary mooring systems 100, the mounting section 14 may thus comprise a pivoting member configured to be connected to the vessel. In one or more exemplary mooring systems 100, the mounting section 14 may be mounted to a first end of a mounting arm 40. A second end of the mounting arm 40 may be mounted to a side of the vessel. The mounting arm 40 may be an articulated arm mounted to the vessel via one or more pivot points 41. In some embodiments the mounting arm 40 may be a telescopic arm, such that the mooring device 1 may be extended from the vessel to reach a mooring element. Furthermore, the mooring system 100 may comprise a tension winch 42 for winding and unwinding the line 4.

Fig. 6a and 6B disclose an exemplary vessel 200 comprising a plurality of mooring systems 100 and/or mooring devices 1 , disclosed herein. The vessel 200 may comprise one or more mooring systems 100 arranged on a side of the vessel 100. The mooring device 1 of the mooring system 100 may be movably arranged to the vessel 200. The mooring device 1 may for example be movably arranged via one or more articulated joints 202, such as pivot points, such that an angular position of the mooring device 1 may be changed in relation to the vessel 200. The mooring device 1 may be mounted directly to the vessel 200 via a pivoting member. In one or more example vessels, the mooring device 1 may be comprised in a bulwark 201 of the vessel 200, such that the mooring device 1 is integrated in, such as constitutes a part of, the bulwark 201 of the vessel 200. The mooring device 1 may be configured to pivot from a stowed position, such as (shown in Fig. 6A), which may also be referred to as an upright position or a vertical position, in which the center axis 3 of the guide section is (substantially) horizontally arranged, to an extended position (shown in Fig, 6B). In the example shown in Fig. 6B the extended position is a substantially horizontal position, in which the center axis 3 of the guide section 12 is (substantially) vertically arranged. However, the extended position of the mooring device 1 may herein be seen as any position of the mooring device 1 between the substantially horizontal position and the stowed position. In the extended position the mooring device 1 may be configured to receive a mooring element 2 located on a shore or on a fixed structure. The mooring device 1 may, in some embodiments, be mounted to the vessel 200 via an arm, such as an articulated arm 40, such that the mooring device 1 may be extended from the side of the vessel 200 towards a mooring element on shore, and/or via a slide rail, such that the mooring device 1 is slidably arranged along the side of the vessel 200. By having the mooring device 1 being movably arranged, such as slidably and/or pivotably arranged, to the vessel 200, the position and/or direction of the mooring device 1 may be adjusted to facilitate an insertion of a mooring element into the receiving section of the mooring device 1. In the example vessel shown in Fig. 6A and 6B, the vessel 200 further comprises a securing element 203, such as a pin, for securing one or more of the plurality of mooring devices 1 to the side of the vessel 200, such as to the bulwark, in the stowed position. The securing element 203, such as the pin, may for example engage a receiving slot, such as a hole, an indentation or a groove in the main body of the mooring device 1. The securing element may engage the main body of the mooring device in the vicinity of the line catching device, such that the securing element may absorb forces from the line acting on the main body. By engaging the securing element into the main body of the mooring device 1 , the mooring device 1 is prevented from moving from the stowed position when a force is applied to the line. In one or more example vessels, the securing element 203 may engage the main body of the mooring device 1 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis of the receiving section. The securing element 203 may be slidably arranged in the side of the vessel 200, such as in the bulwark of the vessel 200. The securing element 203 may be configured to move between a locked position (as disclosed in Fig. 6A) in which the securing element 203 engages the main body of the mooring device 1 and the mooring device 1 is secured in the stowed position and a released position (as disclosed in Fig. 6B) in which the securing element 203 does not engage the main body of the mooring device 1 and the mooring device 1 is free to move from the stowed position.

Fig. 6A shows the plurality of mooring devices 1 of the vessel 200 in the stowed position in which the center axis 3 of the guide section is (substantially) horizontally arranged. In the stowed position the receiving section of the mooring device 1 may constitute, or may be used as, a fairlead in the bulwark of the vessel 200. A first mooring device 1 A out of the plurality of mooring devices 1 is mounted on an articulated arm, such as on the mounting arm 40. A second mooring device 1B out of the plurality of mooring devices 1 is mounted directly to the side of the vessel 200 and may be an integrated part of the bulwark 201 of the vessel 200. The first mooring device 1A and the second mooring device 1 B are pivotably arranged to the side of the vessel 200 around a respective pivot axis 202. In one or more example vessels, the vessel 200 may comprise a fairlead arranged on the side of the vessel 200, such as in the bulwark of the vessel 200 for guiding the line through the side of the vessel 200. The line of the mooring system 100 may be fed through a fairlead comprised in the side of the vessel 200, such as in a bulwark of the vessel 200. In one or more example vessels 200, when the guiding arm 21 (not shown in Fig. 6A) is in the first position and the mooring device 1 is in the stowed position, the first line guide 22 (not shown in Fig. 6A) arranged on the guiding arm 21 may be aligned with the fairlead arranged on the side of the vessel 200. The line guide 22 of each of the plurality of mooring devices 1 may thus form part of the fairlead in the side of the vessel when the respective mooring device 1 of the plurality of mooring devices 1 is in the stowed position and the guiding arm is in the first position. Thereby, the forces acting on the guiding arm from the line may be reduced. In Fig. 6A the securing element 203 is in the locked position in which the securing element 203 engages the main body of the mooring device 1 and the mooring device 1 is secured in the stowed position

Fig. 6B shows the first mooring device 1A and the second mooring device 1B in a horizontal position in which the center axes 3 of the guide sections 12 of the first mooring device 1A and the second mooring device 1B are in an extended position, such as (substantially) vertically arranged. In the extended position the first mooring device 1A and the second mooring device 1B are arranged to receive a mooring element 2 located at a side of the vessel 200. The first mooring device 1A mounted on the articulated arm, such as on the mounting arm 40 may extend further from the vessel 200 than the second mooring device 1B mounted directly to the vessel 200, while the second mooring device may be more steadily mounted to the vessel. As can be seen in Fig. 7B, the second mooring device 1B may leave an opening in the bulwark 202, when the second mooring device 1B is in the horizontal position. In the extended position of the first mooring device 1 A and/or the second mooring device 1 B, a mooring point, such as for example a midships mooring point, can be established for the vessel 200 using the mooring system 100. In Fig. 6B, the securing element 203 is in the released position, in which the securing element 203 does not engage the main body of the mooring device 1 and the mooring device 1 is free to move from the stowed position.

Fig. 7 discloses a method 300 for mooring a vessel, such as the vessel 200. The vessel comprises a mooring system 100 according to one or more examples disclosed herein. The guiding arm 21 of the mooring system 100 initially is in a first position in which the guiding arm 21 allows a mooring element to enter the receiving section 12 of the main body of the mooring device 1 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis 3. The method comprises inserting S302 a mooring element into the receiving section 12 of the mooring device 1. Inserting S302 corresponds to the state of the example mooring device 1 as shown in Fig. 4A.

The method 300 comprises moving S304 the guiding arm 21 in a first direction Ri until the guiding arm 21 reaches a second position in which the line catching device 15 is configured to engage with the line 4, so that the line 4 guided by the first line guide 22 encircles at least a part of the mooring element 2 and engages with the line catching device 15. Moving S304 the guiding arm 21 in the first direction Ri is similar to the state of the example mooring device as shown in Fig. 4B-4E.

The method 300 comprises moving S306 the guiding arm 21 in a second direction R2 opposite the first direction Ri until the guiding arm 21 reaches the first position in which the guiding arm 21 allows the mooring element 2 to exit the receiving section 12 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis 3 while being at least partly encircled by the line 4. At least partly encircling herein means that the line wraps around at least a part of the angular span of the mooring element. Moving S306 the guiding arm 21 in a second direction R2 is similar to the states of the example mooring device 1 shown in Fig. 4F-4G.

In one or more example methods, the mooring device 1 is pivotably arranged to an outside of a hull of the vessel and initially is in a stowed position, such as in the position shown in Fig. 6A. The method may further comprise extending S301 the mooring device 1 from the outside of the hull of the vessel towards the mooring element 2. Extending S301 the mooring device 1 may occur prior to inserting S302 the mooring element into the receiving section 12 of the mooring device 1.

In one or more example methods, the method 300 comprises retracting S308 the mooring device 1 to the stowed position. Retracting S308 may correspond to moving the mooring device from the extended position disclosed in Fig. 6B back to the stowed position disclosed in Fig. 6A.

Embodiments of the mooring device, the mooring system and the vessel according to the disclosure are set out in the following items: Item 1. A mooring device (1 ) for securing a vessel to a mooring element, the mooring device (1) comprising: a main body (10) having a guide section (11) and a receiving section (12) for receiving the mooring element, wherein the receiving section (12) has a center axis (3) wherein the main body (10) comprises a line catching device (15) for releasably securing the line to the main body (10), and a guiding arm (21 ) arranged in the guide section (11 ) of the main body (10), wherein the guiding arm (21) comprises a second line guide (22) for guiding a line, wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to move in a first direction (Ri) along the receiving section (12) of the main body (10), such that the line guide (22) follows a trajectory along the perimeter of the receiving section (12), and wherein the line guide (22) is configured to guide the line to the line catching device (15), wherein the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with, and releasably secure, the line.

Item 2. The mooring device according to Item 1 , wherein the guiding arm (21 ) is configured to be arranged in a first position in which a mooring element can enter and/or exit the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3).

Item 3. The mooring device according to Item 2, wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to be arranged in a second position in which the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with the line guided by the line guide (22).

Item 4. The mooring device (1 ) according to Item 3, wherein the guiding arm (21 ) is configured to move in a second direction (f¾) opposite the first direction (Ri), such that the line guide (22) follows the trajectory from the second position back to the first position.

Item 5. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the mooring device (1) comprises a releasing device (16) for releasing the line catching device (15) from the line. Item 6. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the releasing device (16) comprises an actuating member (41) configured to release the line catching device (15) from the line.

Item 7. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the mooring device (1) comprises a drive system (30), for moving the guiding arm (21) in relation to the main body (10).

Item 8. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the main body (10) comprises a mounting section (14) for pivotably mounting the mooring device (1 ) to a vessel.

Item 9. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the line catching device (15) is arranged at a perimeter of the receiving section (12).

Item 10. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the second line guide (22) has a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line.

Item 11. The mooring device (1) according to Item 10, wherein the through-going hole of the second line guide (22) has a longitudinal extension in a direction parallel to the center axis (3).

Item 12. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the guide section (11) is arranged along a perimeter of the receiving section (12), and wherein the guide section (11 ) is arc shaped.

Item 13. The mooring device (1) according to Item 12, wherein the guiding arm (21) is arc shaped.

Item 14. The mooring device (1) according to Item 13, wherein the guiding arm (21) is arranged concentrically with and rotatably around the center axis (3) of the guide section (11).

Item 15. The mooring device (1) according to any one of Item 13 and 14, wherein the guiding arm (21) has an open section (23) for allowing the mooring element to enter the receiving section (12). Item 16. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the first line guide (13) is arranged at an inner perimeter of the receiving section (12).

Item 17. The mooring device (1) according to Item 13, wherein the second line guide (22) is arranged at an inner perimeter of the arc shaped guiding arm (21 ).

Item 18. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the line guide (22) comprised in the guiding arm (21) is a first line guide, and wherein the main body (10) comprises a second line guide (13) for guiding the line.

Item 19. The mooring device (1) according to Item 18, wherein the line catching device (15) is arranged at a distance (D1) from the first line guide (13) along the perimeter of the receiving section (12),

Item 20. The mooring device (1) according to any one of Items 18 or 19, wherein the first line guide (13) has a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line.

Item 21. A mooring system (100) for securing a vessel to a mooring element, the mooring system (100) comprising a mooring device (1) according to any one of the Items 1 to 17 and a line (4), wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to guide the line (4) along a perimeter of the receiving section (12), such that, when a mooring element is located in the receiving section (12) of the main body (10), the line (4) encircles a part of the mooring element (2) and engages with the line catching device (15).

Item 22. The mooring system (100) according to Item 21, wherein the line (4) comprises a connecting element (4a) arranged on a distal end of the line (4), wherein the connecting element (4a) is configured to engage with the line catching device (15).

Item 23. A vessel (200) comprising a mooring system (100) according to any one of the Items 21-22.

Item 24. The vessel (200) according to Item 23, wherein the vessel (200) comprises a hull (201) and wherein the mooring device (1) is pivotably mounted to an outside of the hull (201 ) of the vessel (200). Item 25. A method for mooring a vessel, the vessel comprising a mooring system (100) according to any one of Items 21 to 22, wherein the guiding arm (21 ) of the mooring system initially is in a first position in which the guiding arm (21) allows a mooring element to enter the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3), the method comprising: inserting (S302) a mooring element into the receiving section (12) of the mooring device (1), moving (S304) the guiding arm (21) in a first direction (Ri) until the guiding arm (21) reaches a second position in which the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with the line (4), so that the line (4) guided by the second line guide (22) encircles at least a part of the mooring element (2) and engages with the line catching device (15) of the main body (10), moving (S306) the guiding arm (21) in a second direction (f¾) opposite the first direction (Ri) until the guiding arm (21) reaches the first position in which the guiding arm (21) allows the mooring element (2) to exit the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3) while being at least partly encircled by the line (4).

Item 26. The method according to Item 25, wherein the mooring device (1) is pivotably arranged to an outside of a hull of the vessel and initially is in a stowed position, wherein the method comprises: extending (S301 ) the mooring device (1 ) from the outside of the hull of the vessel towards the mooring element (2).

Item 27. The method according to Item 26, wherein the method comprises: retracting (S308) the mooring device (1) to the stowed position.

The use of the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. does not imply any particular order, but are included to identify individual elements. Moreover, the use of the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. does not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. Note that the words “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. are used here and elsewhere for labelling purposes only and are not intended to denote any specific spatial or temporal ordering. Furthermore, the labelling of a first element does not imply the presence of a second element and vice versa.

It is to be noted that the word "comprising" does not necessarily exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed.

It is to be noted that the words "a" or "an" preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

It should further be noted that any reference signs do not limit the scope of the claims, and that the exemplary embodiments may be combined.

Although features have been shown and described, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed disclosure, and it will be made obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed disclosure. The specification and drawings are, accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. The claimed disclosure is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

Claims

1. A mooring device (1 ) for securing a vessel to a mooring element, the mooring device (1) comprising: a main body (10) having a guide section (11) and a receiving section (12) for receiving the mooring element, wherein the receiving section (12) has a center axis (3) wherein the main body (10) comprises a line catching device (15) for releasably securing the line to the main body (10), and a guiding arm (21 ) arranged in the guide section (11 ) of the main body (10), wherein the guiding arm (21) comprises a line guide (22) for guiding the line, wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to move in a first direction (Ri) along the receiving section (12) of the main body (10) such that the line guide (22) follows a trajectory along the perimeter of the receiving section (12), and wherein the line guide (22) is configured to guide the line to the line catching device (15), wherein the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with, and releasably secure, the line.

2. The mooring device according to claim 1 , wherein the guiding arm (21 ) is configured to be arranged in a first position in which a mooring element can enter and/or exit the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3).

3. The mooring device according to claim 2, wherein the guiding arm (21 ) is configured to be arranged in a second position in which the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with the line guided by the line guide (22).

4. The mooring device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to move in a second direction (f¾) opposite the first direction (Ri), such that the line guide (22) follows the trajectory from the second position back to the first position.

5. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the mooring device (1) comprises a releasing device (16) for releasing the line catching device (15) from the line.

6. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the releasing device (16) comprises an actuating member configured to release the line catching device (15) from the line.

7. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the mooring device (1) comprises a drive system (30), for moving the guiding arm (21) in relation to the main body (10).

8. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the main body (10) comprises a mounting section (14) for pivotably mounting the mooring device (1) to a vessel.

9. The mooring device (1 ) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the line catching device (15) is arranged at a perimeter of the receiving section (12).

10. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second line guide (22) has a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line.

11. The mooring device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the through-going hole of the second line guide (22) has a longitudinal extension in a direction parallel to the center axis (3).

12. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the guide section (11) is arranged along a perimeter of the receiving section (12), and wherein the guide section (11) is arc shaped.

13. The mooring device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the guiding arm (21) is arc shaped.

14. The mooring device (1) according to claim 13, wherein the guiding arm (21) is arranged concentrically with and rotatably around the center axis (3) of the guide section (11).

15. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the claims 13 and 14, wherein the guiding arm (21) has an open section (23) for allowing the mooring element to enter the receiving section (12).

16. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first line guide (13) is arranged at an inner perimeter of the receiving section (12).

17. The mooring device (1) according to claim 13, wherein the second line guide (22) is arranged at an inner perimeter of the arc shaped guiding arm (21 ).

18. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the line guide (22) comprised in the guiding arm (21) is a first line guide, and wherein the main body (10) comprises a second line guide (13) for guiding the line.

19. The mooring device (1) according to claim 18, wherein the line catching device

(15) is arranged at a distance (D1 ) from the first line guide (13) along the perimeter of the receiving section (12),

20. The mooring device (1) according to any one of the claims 18 or 19, wherein the first line guide (13) has a through-going hole for slidably receiving the line.

21. A mooring system (100) for securing a vessel to a mooring element, the mooring system (100) comprising the mooring device (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 20 and a line (4), wherein the guiding arm (21) is configured to guide the line (4) along a perimeter of the receiving section (12), such that, when a mooring element is located in the receiving section (12) of the main body (10), the line (4) encircles a part of the mooring element (2) and engages with the line catching device (15).

22. The mooring system (100) according to claim 21 , wherein the line (4) comprises a connecting element (4a) arranged on a distal end of the line (4), wherein the connecting element (4a) is configured to engage with the line catching device (15).

23. A vessel (200) comprising the mooring system (100) according to any one of the claims 21-22.

24. The vessel (200) according to claim 23, wherein the vessel (200) comprises a hull (201) and wherein the mooring device (1) is pivotably mounted to an outside of the hull (201) of the vessel (200).

25. A method for mooring a vessel, the vessel comprising the mooring system (100) according to any one of Items 21 to 22, wherein the guiding arm (21) of the mooring system initially is in a first position in which the guiding arm (21) allows a mooring element to enter the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3), the method comprising: inserting (S302) a mooring element into the receiving section (12) of the mooring device (1), moving (S304) the guiding arm (21 ) in a first direction (Ri) until the guiding arm (21) reaches a second position in which the line catching device (15) is configured to engage with the line (4), so that the line (4) guided by the second line guide (22) encircles at least a part of the mooring element (2) and engages with the line catching device (15) of the main body (10), moving (S306) the guiding arm (21 ) in a second direction (f¾) opposite the first direction (Ri) until the guiding arm (21) reaches the first position in which the guiding arm (21) allows the mooring element (2) to exit the receiving section (12) in a direction perpendicular to the center axis (3) while being at least partly encircled by the line (4).

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the mooring device (1) is pivotably arranged to an outside of a hull of the vessel and initially is in a stowed position, wherein the method comprises: extending (S301 ) the mooring device (1 ) from the outside of the hull of the vessel towards the mooring element (2).

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the method comprises: retracting (S308) the mooring device (1) to the stowed position.