System for locking and unlocking an elongated element with a sheath and an attachment element at either end of the sheath

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for locking / unlocking a cable 14 to / from a support, which system comprises: - a sheath with an opening at each end for the cable 14 to pass therethrough 11; - a first attachment element 12 attached to the sheath 11 at a first end; - a second attachment element attached to the sheath 11 at a second end; - a spacer means for increasing the distance between the first and second attachment elements in order to exert a tension on the sheath 11. The second attachment element comprises at least two movable bodies 15 and 16 that are movable relative to one another and a drive means 25 for driving a first movement of one of the bodies 15 or 16 relative to the other, the first movement causing the sheath 11 to tighten on the elongated element 14 at the second end.

Description

[0001] LOCKING AND UNLOCKING SYSTEM FOR LONGILINE ELEMENT WITH COVER AND TWO FIXING ELEMENTS, ONE AT EACH END OF THE COVER

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The invention relates to the technical field of systems for locking and unlocking a substantially circular elongated element, such as a cable or a rope. The main field of application is the mooring of floating systems. More specifically, the main field of application concerned concerns offshore energy production systems, including the anchoring of wind turbine floats, oil and gas floats, floating photovoltaics, wave energy systems, floating substations, and the generation of energy vectors such as hydrogen or ammonia. The system can also be used in all fields requiring synthetic ropes to be held in position (aquaculture, sailing transport, fishing, lifting systems, boating, etc.)

[0004] The elongated element to be blocked can be a metal or synthetic cable, or a rope.

[0005] Locking and unlocking systems are generally used in the nautical field, or in the field of anchoring or mooring boats or floating platforms, such as oil platforms or floating supports for wind turbines.

[0006] The invention is more particularly intended for anchoring offshore oil platforms or for anchoring floating wind turbines.

[0007] The main function of the mooring lines of a floating support, such as a wind or oil platform, is to keep the support in position when it is subjected to the forces of wind, current and swell. To achieve this function, there are several families of mooring (for example, "single point mooring": single point mooring and "spread mooring": multi-point mooring) and types of mooring that range from more or less taut mooring (for example, "taut": taut and "semi-taut mooring": semi-taut mooring) to catenary mooring.

[0008] Anchor lines are made of chains, or metal cables, especially steel, or synthetic cables, or a combination of chains and cables. The choice of anchor type and material depends on the site (environmental conditions and water depth) and the function of the floating support (oil production, oil drilling, wind turbine, etc.).

[0009] Anchor lines are subject to significant stresses, particularly those caused by wind, current, and swell. These stresses can create risks of fatigue failure of the anchor lines. In addition, these natural phenomena cause the floating support to move. Therefore, anchor lines must have good resistance to the induced stresses and must allow limited movement of the floating support.

[0010] Thus, the tensions in the anchor lines of such wind or oil platforms are very high (for example, of the order of 5,000 kN for a floating wind turbine with taut lines and of the order of 1,500 kN for a floating wind turbine with catenary lines) and are not comparable to the tension values ​​of cables or ropes encountered in nautical sports (for hoisting and adjusting the sails of a sailing boat for example), of the order of 35 to 40 kN in nautical sports, or in climbing, which are much lower.

[0011] Furthermore, unlike nautical or climbing cables and ropes, which can be easily replaced, anchor lines can only be installed or replaced using heavy and expensive means. For example, to install or replace three anchor lines for a floating platform for a wind turbine and / or the associated locking and unlocking systems, at least three large boats (one per line) are required, the daily rental of which is expensive. In addition, the installation and replacement of these anchor lines and / or the locking and unlocking systems can only be carried out in favorable weather conditions (low swell, low wind in particular). Thus, to install or replace anchor lines, it is necessary to allow for a significant intervention time, significant and expensive means and favorable weather conditions.Furthermore, it may be necessary to anticipate these installations and replacements to avoid interventions during periods of unfavorable weather conditions over a long period, particularly in winter. Thus, it is easy to understand that for this type of platform, the lifespan of the cables and locking and unlocking systems is essential and any wear must therefore be avoided. In addition, installation must be quick and simplified as much as possible.

[0012] Prior art

[0013] To secure a cable or chain to a support (a boat, a pontoon, or a platform for example), different techniques have been developed.

[0014] The simplest and most well-known technique is splicing, which involves making a terminal loop at the end of the cable by passing it back through itself (a "bury" splice) or re-braiding it with itself (a "tuck" splice). Various attachment systems can then be attached to this splice.

[0015] The splice does not allow for length adjustment at the time of installation and, a fortiori, for this adjustment to be modified over time. Jaw locking systems are also known, such as that of patent application FR 3,001,517. This system consists of crushing the cable in the jaws over a short length of the cable, i.e. the section of the cable changes from a substantially circular section to an oval and / or flattened section when it is crushed. This causes rapid wear of the cable.

[0016] Furthermore, locking systems are also known which consist of locking the cable by placing it in a sheath which compresses the cable when this sheath is put under tension. Patent application WO 2012 / 172,272 (US 2014 / 223,967) relates to such a system.

[0017] The system provides effective locking. However, abnormal wear of the cable and / or sheath is observed because the cable can move slightly in the sheath, which causes friction between the sheath and the cable. Indeed, the free end of the sheath (the one that is not anchored to the support) is only held in tension by the elastic tension cable, itself fixed to the sheath at a single point. It is not integral with the cable. The tension applied by the cable to the sheath at a single point therefore does not generate uniform tension at this end of the sheath. According to another variant, the free end of the sheath is placed in an end piece secured to a spring that keeps it in tension. In this case, the sheath cannot contract in this end piece and therefore cannot tighten on the cable at this end.

[0018] Summary of the invention

[0019] The technical problem of the invention is to design a locking and unlocking system for an elongated element that allows adjustment both at the time of installation and after placement, including when the elongated element to be locked is under tension. In addition, the locking and unlocking system must be capable of locking the elongated element subjected to very high tensions, as is the case on the anchor lines of floating wind turbines or oil platforms, by limiting the wear of the cable and the locking and unlocking system to increase their service life and avoid any need to replace the elongated element and / or the locking and unlocking system over the entire service life of the platform.

[0020] To address this, the invention relates to a system for locking and unlocking a substantially circular elongated element on a support comprising:

[0021] - a substantially tubular envelope formed by a sheath or by a structure, said envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end, the first and second orifices allowing the introduction and exit of the elongate element into the envelope,

[0022] - a first fixing element capable of being fixed to the support, the first fixing element being fixed to the casing at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the elongate element,

[0023] - a second fastening element to which the envelope is fixed at or near the second end,

[0024] - a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fixing element and the second fixing element, so as to exert a tension force on the casing, and thus a constriction of the casing on the elongate element.

[0025] In addition, the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement causing the reduction of the diameter of the casing on the elongate element at the second end and thus its tightening.

[0026] The invention relates to a system for locking and unlocking a substantially circular elongated element on a support comprising:

[0027] - a substantially tubular envelope formed by a sheath or by a structure, said envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at said first end and a second orifice at said second end, said first and second orifices allowing the introduction and exit of said elongate element into the envelope,

[0028] - a first fixing element capable of being fixed to said support, the first fixing element being fixed to said casing at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the elongate element,

[0029] - a second fixing element to which said envelope is fixed at said second end,

[0030] - a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fixing element and the second fixing element, so as to exert a tension force on said casing, and thus a constriction of the casing on said elongate element.

[0031] In addition, the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement causing the casing to be tightened on the elongate element at the second end.Advantageously, the second fixing element comprises an external part enclosing a male body and a female body coaxial with the same axis and a displacement device for moving along the axis of said male body and said female body, one of the male or female bodies towards the other of the male or female bodies, said male body comprising an external surface inclined relative to the axis and an internal surface allowing the passage of the elongate element, said female body comprising a conical internal surface whose angle is substantially equal to the angle of the inclined external surface of said male body relative to said axis, said male body advantageously comprising at least three independent parts so that the axial displacement exerted by said displacement device causes a radial displacement of said at least three independent parts so as to tighten said casing on said elongate element near said second end.

[0032] Preferably, said internal surface of the male body comprises at least one convex curved portion.

[0033] According to a variant of the invention, the displacement device comprises a screw thread system, preferably a screw, a nut, capable of engaging in a thread or tapping of the external part.

[0034] Advantageously, said displacement device is designed to allow the displacement of the female body towards the male body such that the male body only moves radially.

[0035] According to one configuration of the invention, the second fixing element comprises two annular pieces connected to each other by strips curved towards said casing, the second fixing element comprising a displacement means for increasing or reducing the distance between the annular pieces.

[0036] According to one implementation of the invention, said spacing means comprises a spring and / or a cylinder, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric cylinder.

[0037] Advantageously, the second fixing element comprises a return means for the displacement according to a second movement, preferably opposite to said first movement, of one of the bodies relative to the other, said second movement causing the loosening of the casing on the elongate element.

[0038] Preferably, the system comprises a translational guide means for guiding the movement of the second fastening element, preferably, the guide means comprises a part with a dovetail-shaped machining, the second fastening element comprising an extension whose shape is complementary to the dovetail. Advantageously, the envelope is fixed on the second fastening element. According to a variant of the invention, the envelope is a woven or braided or non-woven sheath comprising metallic fibers and / or very high molecular weight polyethylene or aramid fibers.

[0039] Preferably, the envelope comprises a structure comprising at least one layer of wound armor, preferably in helical form.

[0040] Advantageously, said second fixing element comprises a stopping device for limiting the relative movement between said at least two movable bodies relative to each other. The invention also relates to a method for locking and unlocking an elongate element by a locking and unlocking system as described above, in which, for locking, at least the following steps are carried out: a) the elongate element is inserted into the system from one of said first or second orifices to the other of said first and second orifices to a locking position, and preferably, tension is exerted on the elongate element, b) once the locking position of the elongate element has been determined,

[0041] * the second fixing element is moved away from said first fixing element so as to exert tension on the casing and then the second fixing element is locked on the elongate element by moving one of said at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other, or

[0042] * the second fixing element is locked on the elongate element by moving one of said at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other, then the second fixing element is moved away from said first fixing element so as to exert tension on the casing, c) if tension on the elongate element has been exerted, the tension on the elongate element is released and for unlocking,

[0043] * the second fixing element is brought closer to said first fixing element so as to release the tension on the casing and then the second fixing element is released from the elongate element by moving, in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, one of said at least two bodies relative to the other, or

[0044] * the second fixing element is released from the elongated element by moving one of said at least two bodies in relation to the other in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, then the second fixing element is brought closer to said first fixing element so as to release the tension on the casing.

[0045] Advantageously, said support is a floating platform and, before carrying out step b) for blocking, the floating platform is ballasted to increase its draft, and after step b), the floating platform is deballasted. List of figures

[0046] Other characteristics and advantages of the system and method according to the invention will appear on reading the following description of non-limiting examples of embodiments, with reference to the figures appended and described below.

[0047] Figure 1 represents a TLP (Tension Leg Platform) type float equipped with anchor lines and locking and unlocking systems according to the invention.

[0048] Figure 2 represents a locking and unlocking system according to the invention, in place on a cable.

[0049] Figure 3 shows the operation of an example of a second fixing element of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0050] Figure 4 represents an example of a male body of a second fixing element of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0051] Figure 5 represents a 3D view of an embodiment of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0052] Figure 6 represents a male body in several parts according to a first variant of a second fixing element of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0053] Figure 7 represents the operating principle of a first variant of a second fixing element of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0054] Figure 8 represents an example of a first fixing element of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0055] Figure 9 represents a locking and unlocking system according to the invention with the first variant of the second fixing element in the locked position (a) and in the unlocked position (b).

[0056] Figure 10 shows a locking and unlocking system according to the invention with a spacing means. Figure 11 illustrates a partial view of the first variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0057] Figure 12 shows a sectional view of a second variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0058] Figure 13 represents a 3D view of a male body in a single independent part of the second variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0059] Figure 14 shows a sectional view of a third variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0060] Figure 15 represents a partial 3D view of the third variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0061] Description of the embodiments

[0062] The invention relates to a system for locking and unlocking an elongated element on a support.

[0063] An element with a length greater than its other dimensions is called an "elongated element".

[0064] The elongated element may be a cable, metallic or synthetic, or a rope. The system of the invention is particularly suitable for synthetic cables because this type of cable includes more space between the fibers and / or strands and therefore they can be better subjected to constriction. Furthermore, the friction effects of this type of cable are greater than those of metallic cables, which improves blocking.

[0065] The locking and unlocking system can advantageously include the elongated element.

[0066] The elongated element may be of “substantially circular” section.

[0067] By 'substantially circular' we mean that it has a generally circular cross-section but due to the potential presence of strands it may have an outer periphery that is not perfectly circular.

[0068] The support can be a floating platform (oil, gas, wind, a boat for example), a person for climbing, a fixed structure for a lifting element, etc.

[0069] The locking and unlocking system includes:

[0070] - a substantially tubular envelope formed by a sheath or by a structure, the envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end, the first and second orifices allowing the introduction and exit of the elongate element into the envelope,

[0071] - a first fixing element capable of being fixed to the support, the first fixing element being fixed to the casing at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the elongate element, this first fixing element allowing a connection (an attachment) to the support and the absorption of tension forces,

[0072] - a second fastening element to which the casing is secured at or near the second end. Preferably, the second fastening element surrounds the casing while being integral with the outer surface of the casing at or near the second end,

[0073] - a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fastening element and the second fastening element, so as to exert a tension force on the casing, a reduction in the diameter of the casing and thus a constriction (a tightening) of the casing on the elongate element. In other words, the casing exerts a constriction force on the elongate element when the casing is put under axial tension.

[0074] The spreading means may be a spring or a jack. Alternatively, this spreading means may be achieved by a ballasting / deballasting means. Indeed, on a platform ballasted by the ballasting / deballasting means, the second fixing element can be blocked and at the time of deballasting by this same ballasting / deballasting means, the first fixing element can rise with the platform (because it is fixed to the platform) and thus moves away from the second fixing element. Thus, it tightens the elongated element by constriction.

[0075] A sheath is understood to mean a flexible and easily deformable (stretchable) textile material and / or structure, preferably a woven or braided textile. In the case of a sheath, the textile material and / or structure is sufficiently deformable so that tension on the sheath causes deformation of the textile material and / or structure, making it possible to reduce the diameter of the envelope and therefore to tighten the elongate element. It is therefore advantageously the properties of the material and / or structure that allow the sheath to be tightened on the elongate element. The concepts of "flexible" and "easily deformable" are understood relative to the elongate element: in other words, the sheath is more flexible and more easily deformable than the elongate element.

[0076] By structure, we mean a deformable structure, for example a layer of armor wrapped around the elongated element. The layer of armor is advantageously made of a metallic material which, in itself, deforms little under the effect of tension. Thus, here, it is by the shape of the helical structure that the envelope tightens onto the elongated element under the effect of tension. Indeed, by applying a longitudinal tension force to the helical layer of armor, the diameter of the layer of armor is reduced and therefore allows the elongated element to be tightened.

[0077] The envelope is deformable, that is to say that it has deformation capacities, in particular constriction (reduction in diameter), greater than those of the elongated element to allow the latter to be tightened.

[0078] The envelope is substantially tubular because its section is between a coaxial external diameter and an internal diameter. Of course, since the envelope is deformable, the deformed envelope may no longer be perfectly tubular. Thus, the "substantially tubular" nature is understood to be at rest, that is to say without tension on the envelope.

[0079] The casing comprises an interior volume and first and second ends (for example, the first end may be referred to as the "upstream end" and the second end may be referred to as the "downstream end"). Since the casing is capable of deforming, in particular by constriction under the effect of a tension applied to the casing, the interior volume differs between the rest position (without tension on the casing) and the operating position where a tension is applied to the casing and where the interior volume is therefore reduced due to the constriction of the casing.

[0080] The envelope is substantially elongate between its first and second ends, meaning that its length along the axis is the major (largest) dimension of the envelope.

[0081] By length, we mean the length taken between the two ends of the envelope, with the envelope in the rest position and substantially straight.

[0082] The casing comprises a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end for the introduction and exit of the elongate element into and out of the casing. As a result, these orifices have diameters greater than or equal to the external diameter of the elongate element, when the casing is in the rest position. In other words, the first and second orifices allow the passage of the elongate element into the casing. The elongate element can then be placed in the interior volume of the casing, between its two ends. In the "rest" position of the casing, the interior volume allows the elongate element to slide in the casing, whereas when the casing is under tension, the elongate element is blocked in the interior volume of the casing.

[0083] According to one variant, the distance (length) between the first orifice and the second orifice may be greater than 5 times, preferably 15 times, the internal diameter of the casing (that of the first and second orifices) in the rest position. Indeed, it is advantageous to have a sufficient length of casing to have a sufficient tightening force thanks to the friction between the casing and the elongate element over a large surface and distributed over the elongate element. According to another variant, the distance (length) between the first orifice and the second orifice may be less than 15 times, preferably 10 times and even more preferably 5 times, the internal diameter of the casing (that of the first and second orifices) in the rest position. Indeed, as the second fixing element has been added, the tightening force has been improved and the length of the casing can be reduced.This configuration is also advantageous in reducing system footprint.

[0084] By the expressions "in the vicinity of the first end" or "in the vicinity of the second end" it is meant that the fixing of the envelope to the fixing element concerned can be done in a more or less extensive area, close to the end concerned and preferably extending to the end concerned.

[0085] When the envelope is positioned so that it is rectilinear, the first and second orifices are advantageously coaxial so that the tightening of the envelope on the elongate element is well distributed over the circumference and the length.

[0086] According to the invention, the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement causing the diameter of the casing to be reduced and thus the casing to be tightened on the elongate element at the second end. Thus, thanks to at least one body of the second fixing element which is movable relative to another, the casing can be tightened on the elongate element at the second end, uniformly over the entire circumference. Thus, the elongate element can no longer move at this end, unlike the systems of the prior art, which prevents friction and consequently wear of the casing and that of the elongate element.The service life is therefore extended, which is particularly advantageous for floating offshore platforms such as floating wind turbines, to reduce costs and interventions related to changing elongated elements, such as anchor cables and associated locking and unlocking systems. The system's ability to unlock makes it easier to replace.

[0087] Furthermore, unlike synthetic anchor cable fixing systems using splices, the system offers the possibility of directly installing the anchor cable at the time of platform installation without the need for an external tensioning system. Indeed, it is possible to pull on the cable at the time of installation and then lock it at the desired length using the locking and unlocking system. It is also possible to position the floating platform in a temporary position (for example by means of a ballasting system) and then gradually move it to its final position and maintain it in this position by the cables held at the appropriate length by the locking and unlocking system.

[0088] According to a first embodiment of the invention, the second fixing element may comprise an external part enclosing a male body and a female body coaxial around the same axis (the male body and the female body forming two bodies movable relative to each other) and a displacement device for moving along the axis (common to the male body and the female body), one of the male or female bodies towards the other of the male or female bodies. The displacement device thus corresponds to a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other. By moving one of the male or female bodies towards the other, the male body is driven radially towards the casing, generating a reduction in the diameter of the casing.

[0089] Advantageously, the external part may be cylindrical or at least include an internal diameter in which the male body and / or the female body can slide, driven by the movement device.

[0090] For this first embodiment, the male body may comprise an external surface inclined relative to the axis, for example this internal surface may be conical (at least partially conical) and the male body may also comprise an internal surface allowing the passage of the casing as well as that of the elongate element inside the casing. The female body may comprise a conical internal surface (at least partially conical) with a cone angle substantially equal to the angle of the inclined (or conical) external surface of the male body relative to the axis. In other words, the internal surface of the male body constitutes a second opening. The second fixing element then surrounds the elongate element. The external surface of the female body may for example be cylindrical to facilitate fitting and / or sliding it into the external part.

[0091] According to a first variant of the invention, the male body may comprise at least three independent parts so that the axial displacement exerted by the displacement device causes a radial displacement of the at least three independent parts so as to reduce the diameter of the envelope and thus to tighten the envelope on the elongate element near the second end.

[0092] The casing may be fixedly attached to the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body for example), preferably on the internal surface or at one end of the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body for example) or the end of the casing may be locked longitudinally between the at least three independent parts of the male body. The three independent parts are configured so that the internal diameter of the male body can be modified (increased or reduced) depending on their respective positions. Thus, the three independent parts allow a variation of the volume delimited by the internal surface of the male body, at least one of said male and female bodies being able to slide in the external part.

[0093] The three independent parts can advantageously be distributed over the circumference of the elongated element so as to exert a locking force (which can also be called a tightening force, the tightening ensuring the locking) distributed over the circumference. These three independent parts can advantageously be separated from each other by circumferential clearances which allow the reduction of the internal diameter of the male body during tightening / locking.

[0094] According to a second variant of the invention, the male body may comprise a single independent part, this single independent part being configured to allow a reduction in the internal diameter of the male body for tightening the male body on the elongated element. To do this, the male body may be made of a deformable material such as a plastic or an elastomer and / or may comprise grooves to facilitate the reduction in the diameter of the male body. Indeed, thanks to the grooves, the elastic deformation of the male body is possible without causing cracks or rupture of the male body. With a single independent part, the system is simpler to assemble. Thus, the single independent part allows a variation in the volume delimited by the internal surface of the male body, at least one of the male and female bodies being able to slide in the external part.

[0095] The casing may be fixed integrally to the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body or on the single independent part of the male body for example), preferably on the internal surface or at one end of the male body (of the at least three independent parts of the male body or of the single independent part of the male body for example). Alternatively, the end of the casing may be blocked longitudinally in the male body which serves as a longitudinal stop.

[0096] Preferably, the internal surface of the male body (of the at least three independent parts or of the single independent part for example) may comprise at least one convex curved portion. In other words, the internal surface of the male body has a curved portion in the direction of the elongate element. This convex curved portion makes it possible to generate a progressive tightening of the body when the tightening is put in place, to distribute the stresses on the sheath and to avoid the concentration of stresses. Advantageously, the displacement device may comprise a screw thread system, preferably a screw or a nut, capable of engaging in a thread or tapping of the external part.Thus, the displacement device can allow both the first movement of one of the bodies towards the other to generate the reduction in diameter of the envelope and thus the blocking, as well as the second movement, in the opposite direction to the first movement, of one of the bodies in the direction to the other to generate the unblocking by increasing the diameter of the envelope. In addition, this system is simple to implement.

[0097] Preferably, the displacement device is designed to allow the female body to move towards the male body so that the male body (the at least three independent parts or the single independent part for example) only moves radially. Thus, for locking, the female body moves along the axis towards the male body, thus driving the male body radially by reducing the internal diameter of the male body. Thus, the locking of the male body on the elongate element is done without friction, whereas friction could appear if the male body had an at least partially axial movement at the time of locking. This configuration is therefore particularly advantageous for reducing both the wear of the casing and that of the elongate element.

[0098] According to a third variant, the second fixing element may comprise two annular parts (annular plates for example) connected to each other by curved strips in the direction of the casing, the second fixing element comprising a displacement means for increasing or reducing the distance between the annular parts. The two annular parts may in particular surround the casing. The use of curved strips makes it possible to reduce the diameter of the casing and thus block the casing on the elongate element at the second end or to allow the elongate element to slide in the casing.By means of the displacement means, the two annular parts can be moved apart from each other and thus the elongate element can be allowed to slide in the casing; on the contrary, by bringing the two parts together, the elongate element can be locked in the casing at the second end by contact between the slats and the casing.

[0099] The means of movement can be, for example, a jack, a cam system, a screw-nut system, etc.

[0100] The slats can advantageously be distributed over the periphery of the elongate element so as to ensure a clamping force distributed over the elongate element at the second end. According to one configuration of the invention, said spacing means can comprise a spring, a screw-nut system and / or a cylinder, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric cylinder. By these different systems, it is easy to separate or bring the two fastening elements closer to each other. When the locking system is underwater in a locked situation, the cylinder can be advantageous because the risk of seizure that the screw-nut system can present can be reduced and the effect of corrosion that the spring could undergo is also reduced. The spring has the advantage of ensuring one of the locking or unlocking functions automatically. The screw-nut system allows manual actions allowing both locking and unlocking.

[0101] According to a configuration of the invention, the second fixing element may comprise a return means for moving one of the bodies in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, relative to the other, the second movement causing the casing on the elongate element to loosen. Thus, it is possible to loosen the system, for example to modify the tension of the elongate element, in particular when it is an anchor line which may creep or relax over time or which may require a modification of the tension due to particular weather conditions (wind, storm, tempest) and / or sea conditions (tide, swell, current).

[0102] The return means may, without limitation, include a lever.

[0103] When the second fixing element comprises a coaxial male body and a coaxial female body as described above, the second fixing element may comprise a return means for displacement along the axis of the male body and the female body, of one of the male or female bodies in the opposite direction to the other of the male or female bodies, said return means preferably being a return spring or being constituted by said displacement device which is then reversible.

[0104] Preferably, the return means is configured for the displacement of the female body in the opposite direction to the male body, the male body generating only a radial displacement, so as to avoid any friction of the male body on the casing and / or of the casing on the elongate element.

[0105] According to an advantageous implementation of the invention, the system may comprise a translational guiding means, a slide for example, to guide the movement of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element. By this guiding element, the translation due to the spacing means is rectilinear, which facilitates the translation on the one hand and which makes it possible to better ensure the locking of the envelope on the elongate element and their unlocking. The translational guiding means is configured so that the first and second (cylindrical) orifices are coaxial. Advantageously, the guiding means may comprise a slide. Preferably, the guiding means may comprise a part with a dovetail-shaped machining, the second fixing element comprising an extension whose shape is complementary to the dovetail.The complementary internal and external shapes of the dovetail allow for efficient guidance in a simple manner.

[0106] Advantageously, the casing can be fixed to the second fixing element, preferably on an internal surface of the second fixing element, for example on the internal surface of the at least three independent parts of the male body or on the internal surface of the single independent part of the male body or on the internal surface of the slats. As a result, the casing is integral with the second fixing element, and by ensuring the movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the diameter of the casing can be increased or reduced, allowing the sliding of the elongated element in the casing or, on the contrary, ensuring blocking.

[0107] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sheath may be a woven or braided or non-woven sheath, the sheath comprising metal fibers and / or fibers of very high molecular weight polyethylene (HMPE), polyester or aramid (which has the additional advantage of having a high coefficient of friction). This type of sheath allows effective clamping on the elongated element, high resistance to friction and / or significant mechanical strength. For example, the material of the sheath may be TECHNORA® (Teijin Aramid, Netherlands) or DYNEEMA® (DMC, Netherlands). A polyester sheath may also be considered. Polyester has good friction resistance and a coefficient of friction.

[0108] Alternatively or additionally, the casing may comprise a structure comprising at least one wound armor layer, preferably in helical form. This structure allows a reduction in diameter when a tensile force is applied to the armor layer, while ensuring very high mechanical strength, which is particularly interesting for anchor lines of floating platforms, such as offshore oil platforms or floating wind turbines.

[0109] Advantageously, the second fixing element may comprise a stopping device for limiting the relative movement (the relative translation for example) between the at least two bodies movable relative to each other (between the male body and the female body for example). Thus, it is possible to limit the tightening applied so as to avoid damaging the casing or the elongate element. This stopping device may advantageously be adjusted (it may comprise an adjustment device) in order to better control the tightening. For example, the stopping device may be a stop.

[0110] The invention also relates to a method for locking and unlocking an elongate element by a locking and unlocking system as described above, in which, for locking, at least the following steps are carried out: a) the elongate element is inserted into the locking and unlocking system from one of the first or second orifices towards the other of the first and second orifices to a locking position, and preferably, tension is exerted on the elongate element to a locking position, which is advantageous for floating platforms, in particular when the anchor lines of these floating platforms are taut or semi-taut, b) once the locking position of the elongate element has been determined,

[0111] * the second fixing element is moved away from the first fixing element by means of the moving means, so as to exert tension on the casing, causing a constriction of the casing and therefore a tightening of the casing on the elongate element, then the second fixing element is locked on the elongate element by moving one of the at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving one of the annular parts relative to the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies towards the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body towards the male body so that the male body (whether the at least three independent parts of the male body or the single independent part of the male body) moves only radially), or

[0112] * the second fixing element is locked on the elongate element by moving one of the at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other (for example by moving one of the annular parts towards the other or by moving one of the male or female bodies relatively towards the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body towards the male body so that the male body (whether the at least three independent parts of the male body or the single independent part of the male body) only moves radially), then the second fixing element is moved away from the first fixing element so as to exert tension on the casing.

[0113] In both ways, the casing is tightened on the elongate element on the running part and also at the second end, thanks to the second fixing element with at least two bodies movable relative to each other. c) if tension has been exerted on the elongate element, the tension on the elongate element is gradually released. The tension on the elongate element is gradually transferred to the casing which is held on the part of interest thanks to the locking system. This progressive transfer of tension to the casing will also have the effect of exerting an additional constriction on the latter and thus a better hold of the elongate element. For example, for an anchor line of a wind platform, a winch can be used to maintain the tension in the anchor line at the start for adjusting the length of the line.Then, this position can be locked using the locking system that tightens the anchor line in the system's casing and at the second end of this casing. The second end is advantageously the one directed towards the seabed, while the first end is the one directed towards the winch. Once the line has been locked in the locking system, the tension can be released at the winch, the tension then being taken up by the casing at that moment.

[0114] And for the unlocking,

[0115] * the second fixing element is brought closer to the first fixing element so as to release the tension on the casing and then the second fixing element is released from the elongate element by moving, in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, one of the at least two bodies relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving one of the annular parts towards the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies in the opposite direction to the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body in the opposite direction to the male body so that the at least three independent parts or the single independent part of the male body only moves radially) and optionally, the elongate element can be pre-tensioned with a winch or any other tensioning means in order to avoid overloads at the level of the second fixing means, or

[0116] * the second fixing element is released from the elongate element by moving, in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, one of the at least two bodies relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving one of the annular parts relative to the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies in the opposite direction to the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body in the opposite direction to the male body so that the at least three independent parts or the single independent part of the male body only moves radially), then the second fixing element is brought closer to the first fixing element so as to release the tension on the casing.

[0117] Advantageously, the support can be a floating platform and before carrying out step b) for blocking, the floating platform can be ballasted to increase its draft, and after step b), the floating platform can be deballasted. As a result, the installation operations are simplified and tension can be easily generated in the anchor lines without having to pull on the cable. Figure 1 illustrates in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a float F equipped with anchor lines L and blocking and unlocking systems 10 of the invention for blocking and unlocking anchor lines L.

[0118] Above float F, there is a wind turbine E (of which only the lower part of the mast is visible).

[0119] Of course, other types of floats could be used: barges, semi-submersibles or spars.

[0120] The float F is connected to the ground (to the seabed) by anchor lines L, here three anchor lines L, but of course a different number of anchor lines is possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0121] The anchor lines L are connected on the one hand to anchors A placed or fixed on the ground (seabed) and on the other hand to a blocking and unlocking system 10 according to the invention, itself fixed on the float. Thus, there is a blocking and unlocking system 10 for each anchor line L. The blocking and unlocking systems 10 can be positioned above sea level, for example on the upper platform of the float, or below sea level (in this case, the blocking and unlocking system 10 is underwater).

[0122] The float F of Figure 1 is a taut line float for which a locking and unlocking system according to the invention is particularly advantageous. Indeed, a taut line float requires good precision in line length / line tension to ensure operation and stability and it may be necessary to modify the adjustment of the length of the anchor lines or their tension over time, which the locking and unlocking system according to the invention allows.

[0123] However, other types of floats with catenary or semi-tensioned lines could of course be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0124] Figure 2 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a locking and unlocking system 10 according to the invention.

[0125] The locking and unlocking system is used to lock or unlock an elongated element 14 such as a cable and in particular a synthetic cable.

[0126] The locking and unlocking system 10 comprises a first fixing element 12 fixed to the float (for example the float F of FIG. 1), an envelope 11 (a textile sheath for example) and a second fixing element 13.

[0127] The casing 11 is fixed at a first end to the first fixing element 12 and at its second end to the second fixing element 13. An elongate element 14, such as a cable, is placed in the locking and unlocking system 10, in particular within the casing 11 from a first end of the casing to its second end. The distance between the first and second fixing elements can be modified. When it increases, a tension is then applied to the casing 11 which causes a constriction effect of the casing 11 on the elongate element 14 and thus allows locking of the elongate element in the system in the current part of the casing.

[0128] By "current part" is meant the part located far from the ends and therefore for the envelope, the part which is not in the first fixing element 12 nor in the second fixing element 13.

[0129] The locking and unlocking system is configured so that the elongate element 14 is locked in the casing 11 and in the second fixing element 13 and that the second fixing element 13 is located between the first fixing element 12 and the anchoring point of the elongate element (for example the anchor A of figure 1).

[0130] The second fixing element 13 comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other (not visible in the figure) so that a first movement of one of the bodies towards the other causes a reduction in the diameter of the casing 11 and thus a blocking of the elongate element in the casing 11 at the second end in the second fixing element 13. The elongate element 14 can be subjected to a tension T in the direction of its other anchoring point (the anchor A of figure 1 for example). This configuration is advantageous for taut or semi-taut anchor lines.

[0131] Figure 3 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, an example of a second fixing element according to the invention.

[0132] The second fixing element comprises a male body 15, a female body 16 and an external part 17. The second fixing element surrounds the elongate element 14 and the casing 11, in which the elongate element 14 is placed in the casing, itself is fixed on the inner surface of the male body 15.

[0133] The male body 15 comprises an inclined outer surface, for example conical, capable of engaging in the conical inner surface of the female body 16.

[0134] The female body 16 comprises a cylindrical external surface corresponding substantially to the internal surface of the external part 17.

[0135] The male body 15 and the female body 16 can move relative to each other and one or both of the male and female bodies can move longitudinally relative to the outer part.

[0136] In diagram a), the second fixing element is in the “rest” position (i.e. “unlocked”). The elongate element 14 can slide in the casing 11. In diagram b), the male body 15 has been moved towards the female body 16. Due to the contact parts between the male body 15 and the female body 16, this movement results in a reduction of the internal diameter of the male body 15. For this reduction in diameter to be possible, the male body 15 can be in at least three independent parts, preferably separated by clearances, or it can be in a single independent deformable part to make the reduction in diameter possible, for example by a structure making this constriction possible, by using grooves in particular and / or by using a deformable material, such as an elastomer or a plastic.

[0137] The effect of the narrowing of the internal diameter of the male body is observed, which causes a constriction of the envelope 11 and of the elongate element 14. Thus, the envelope 11 squeezes the elongate element 14 at the second end of the envelope 11.

[0138] In diagram c), the male body 15 and female body 16 assembly are moved in the external part 17 to move the second fixing element (or at least part of it) away from the first fixing element (not shown). This has the effect of stretching the casing 11 upstream (i.e. in the direction of the first fixing element), of generating a constriction of the casing and therefore a tightening of the casing 11 on the elongate element 14 in the running part.

[0139] The elongated element may or may not be subjected to a tension T.

[0140] Figure 4 illustrates in a schematic and non-limiting manner an example of a male body of a second fixing element.

[0141] This male body comprises an inclined external surface S1, for example conical, and a convex curved internal surface S2 so as to limit stress concentrations when tightening the envelope on the elongated element.

[0142] Figure 5 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a three-dimensional view of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention, for locking an elongate element 14. The system comprises a first fixing element 12 which can be fixed to a support such as a floating platform for example, a second fixing element 13 and an envelope 11 in which the elongate element 14 is able to be put in place and able to be locked.

[0143] The second fastening element 13 can be moved relative to the first fastening element 12, by a translation, preferably in the same direction as the tension force T which can be exerted on the elongate element 14. To facilitate the translational guidance of the second fastening element 13 relative to the first fastening element 12, the first fastening element can comprise an extension 18 in the direction of the second fastening element 13, this extension 18 here comprises a dovetail-shaped machining but other solutions could be used. In addition, the second fastening element 13 comprises on its external part (on the external part for example) a machining of complementary shape 19 to that of the dovetail of the extension 18.

[0144] These dovetail-type machining operations allow good guidance of the second fixing element 13 during its translation relative to the first fixing element 12.

[0145] The double arrow shows the displacement in both directions that can be applied to the second fixing element 13.

[0146] Figure 6 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a first variant of a second fixing element. The male body is in at least three independent parts 21. A casing 11 is fixed or at least blocked longitudinally on the internal surface or the end of the independent parts 21 of the male body. Each independent part 21 comprises at least one inclined part 22 relative to the axis, on the external surface in order to engage in an internal conical surface (at least partially conical) of a female body not shown.

[0147] An elongated element 14 is placed in the envelope 11.

[0148] The independent parts 21 comprise fittings 20 allowing the relative positioning of the different independent parts with respect to each other and facilitating the movement of the male body. The fittings 20 also prevent the casing from becoming blocked between two independent parts of the male body, which could create a pinch. As shown in the figure, the male body is in the “locked” position. Indeed, in the “rest” (“unlocked”) position, a clearance would separate the different independent parts at least at the level of the fittings 20. When the male body is moved, the clearance between the different independent parts gradually decreases until it is zero in the “locked” position.

[0149] Figure 7 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, the operating principle of the first variant of a second fixing element according to the invention.

[0150] The second fixing element comprises a male body 15, a female body 16 and an external part 17 as well as a displacement device 25 consisting of a thread, such as a screw, capable of being placed in a tapping of the external part 17.

[0151] The casing 11 is fixed or blocked longitudinally at the end on the inner surface of the male body 15. This inner surface is convexly curved, that is to say curved in the direction of the casing. 1 1

[0152] The outer surface of the male body 15 is at least partially inclined relative to the axis AA, for example, conical (at least partially conical), and the inner surface of the female body 16 is conical (also at least partially conical) and the angle of the inclined outer surface of the male body 15 relative to the axis is substantially equal to the angle of the cone of the conical inner surface of the female body 16.

[0153] When the screw 25 is screwed into the outer part 17 by a rotational movement Rot, the female body 16 is driven in displacement towards the male body 15. The longitudinal end of the male body 15 opposite the female body 16 is clamped by a shoulder of the outer part 17 so that the male body cannot be driven in longitudinal displacement along the axis AA (axis of the casing and of the elongate element in the second fixing element, and which corresponds to the axis of the male body 15 and the axis of the female body 16). Since the male body 15 is clamped by the shoulder of the outer part 17, the longitudinal displacement of the female body 16 causes the radial displacement of the male body 15 towards the casing 11, which results in a constriction of the casing 11.

[0154] The reverse movement (by a rotation in the opposite direction to the rotation Rot) of the screw 25 causes the pressures generated by the blocking to be released and thus allows the casing 11 to be loosened.

[0155] Figure 8 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a first fixing element 12 according to an implementation of the invention. In this first fixing element 12, the casing 11 is wedged between an internal part 30 with a conical upper surface 32 and an external housing 31 whose internal surface 33 is conical.

[0156] The internal part 30 can be fixed by a flange to the external housing 31.

[0157] Thus, at this first fixing element 12, there is no way of tightening the casing 11 onto the elongate element 14 at the first end of the casing 11.

[0158] Figure 9 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a locking and unlocking system comprising a first fixing element 12 of Figure 8 and a second fixing element 13 corresponding to the first variant of Figure 7.

[0159] References corresponding to the same references as those in figures 7 and 8 correspond to the same elements and will not be detailed again.

[0160] In diagram a), the second fixing element is in the locked position, the nut 25 being pushed as far as possible into the external part 17, the female body 16 then being at its maximum position in the direction of the male body 15 and the male body 15 being at its maximum radial displacement in the direction of the casing 11, which makes it possible to tighten the casing 11 as far as possible towards the elongate element 14 at the second end of the casing 11.

[0161] In diagram b), the second fixing element is in the “rest” (“unlocked”) position, the nut 25 being loosened as much as possible from the external part 17, the female body 16 then being at its maximum position in the direction opposite to the male body 15 and the male body 15 being at its maximum radial displacement in the direction of the external part 17, which makes it possible to loosen as much as possible the casing 11 of the elongate element 14 at the second end of the casing 11. The elongate element 14 can then slide freely in the second fixing element.

[0162] Figure 10 illustrates a locking and unlocking system with a first fixing element and a second fixing element whose principle is similar to that of Figure 9. Thus, the references which are identical to those of Figure 9 correspond to the same elements and will not be detailed again.

[0163] The locking and unlocking system comprises a spacing means consisting of a spring 27 positioned between the first fixing element 12 and the second fixing element 13. The spring 27 is configured to automatically move the second fixing element 13 away from the first fixing element 12 and thus generate a tension on the casing 11, and therefore a constriction force of the casing 11 towards the elongate element 14. To loosen the elongate element, it is possible to push manually or by means of equipment not shown (jack, lever with cam or other pushing device) the second fixing element 13 towards the first fixing element 12.

[0164] Furthermore, the first fixing element 12 comprises a substantially cylindrical elongate extension 26 in the direction of the second fixing element 13, this substantially cylindrical elongate extension 26 serving as a guide for the longitudinal movement (translation) (along the axis of the elongate extension 26 which is also the axis of the casing 11 fixed in the first fixing element 12 and in the second fixing element 13) of the second fixing element 13. As shown, the external part 17 of the second fixing element 13 can slide in the substantially cylindrical elongate extension 26.

[0165] Thus, the spring 27 can be compressed (manually or by a pushing device) to introduce the elongate element 14 into the locking and unlocking system. Once the elongate element 14 is positioned in the desired position (and possibly tensioned to a predetermined tension value), the spring 27 can be decompressed. It will then relax and drive the casing under tension and thus tighten the casing 11 onto the elongate element 14 in the current part. Then, the nut 25 can be screwed to move the female body towards the male body and thus cause the radial movement of the male body towards the elongate element 14 to tighten the casing 11 onto the elongate element 14 at the second end. The nut 25 could also be screwed before decompressing the spring 27.

[0166] Figure 11 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a partial three-dimensional view of a locking and unlocking system of the invention.

[0167] Some parts are not shown to facilitate understanding. The spring 27 serves as a spacer means to move the second fastening element away from the first fastening element.

[0168] The second fixing element comprises a male body 16 identical to the first variant described previously. The male body 16 therefore comprises several independent parts (at least three) with interlockings 20 of these independent parts between them.

[0169] The female body 16 is also in several parts which may or may not be independent and which are configured to engage in the inclined parts (corresponding to reference 22 of FIG. 6) of the external surface of the independent parts of the male body 15.

[0170] The nut 25 can be screwed to drive the female body 16 towards the male body 15 and thus cause the casing to be tightened on the elongate element 14.

[0171] Figure 12 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a second variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0172] The locking and unlocking system comprises a first fastening element 12, a casing 11 and a second fastening element. A spring 27 positioned between the first fastening element 12 and the second fastening element serves as a spacing means. The spring 27 surrounds the casing 11.

[0173] The second fastening element comprises an external part 17, a male body 15 in a single independent part and a female body 16. The male body 15 and the female body 16 are coaxial (their common axis corresponding to the axis of the second fastening element, that is to say of the casing 11 in the second fastening element). The casing 11 is fixed on the internal surface of the male body 15.

[0174] The external surface of the male body 15 comprises a portion inclined relative to the axis, for example conical, capable of engaging in the internal surface of the female body 16 which also comprises a conical portion. To do this, the angle of the inclined portion of the external surface of the male body 15 relative to the axis and the angle of the cone of the conical portion of the internal surface of the female body 16 are substantially equal.

[0175] The male body 15 is a single independent part. In order for the male body 15 to have its internal diameter reduced or increased, its structure and / or its material are configured to allow a variation in the internal diameter of the male body (for example, by grooves on the male body and / or by the use of an elastomeric or plastic material).

[0176] A drive means for driving the female body 16 towards the male body (or in the opposite direction) comprises a lever 31 which drives a shaft (not shown) itself driving a cam 30 which acts to move the female body 16 away from the male body 15, when the cam is engaged on the female body. In a position where the cam does not move the female body 16 away from the male body 15, the spring 27 which acts as a means for moving the second fixing element away from the first fixing element, also serves as a drive means for driving the female body 16 towards the male body 15.

[0177] During the movement (longitudinal translation along the axis common to the male body 15 and the female body 16) of the female body 16 towards the male body 15, the male body 15 is driven radially towards the casing 11 so that the internal diameter of the male body 15 decreases. Consequently, the diameter of the casing 11 is also reduced at its second end (in the second fixing element), which causes a constriction of the casing 11 on the elongate element, allowing it to be blocked at this second end.

[0178] The second fixing element (the external part 17 in particular) may comprise an extension towards the first fixing element 12, which also comprises an extension towards the second fixing element. These two extensions are configured to allow movement in longitudinal translation relative to each other and thus serve as guidance for the movement in longitudinal translation of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element 12.

[0179] Figure 13 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, an example of a male body 15 in a single independent part for the second variant of the locking and unlocking system according to the invention, this second variant corresponding to that of Figure 12 described previously.

[0180] The male body 15 comprises an outer surface with at least one conical portion S1 and an inner surface S2 on which the casing is fixed.

[0181] The conical portion S1 of the external surface of the male body is designed to engage the internal surface of the female body (not shown).

[0182] To enable the reduction of the internal diameter of the male body when it is engaged in the female part, the male body 15 comprises several grooves R1 and R2 extending longitudinally along the axis of the male body 15 (the axis of the conical part S1 of the external surface of the male body 15 in particular), while not completely crossing the male body 15 longitudinally (the grooves are non-opening longitudinally).

[0183] First grooves R1 extend longitudinally from a first longitudinal end E1 of the male body 15 and do not open at the other longitudinal end E2. These first grooves R1 pass through the thickness of the male body 15: they extend radially from the external surface to the internal surface S2.

[0184] Second grooves R2 extend longitudinally from a second longitudinal end E2 of the male body 15 and do not open at the other longitudinal end E1. These second grooves R2 pass through the thickness of the male body 15: they extend radially from the external surface to the internal surface S2. This radial crossing of the first and second grooves of the thickness of the male body allows the male body 15 to deform and in particular the internal diameter to reduce.

[0185] Furthermore, using first and second grooves R1 and R2 which do not open longitudinally (i.e. which open into only one of the two first and second ends E1 and E2) makes it possible to keep a male body 15 as a single independent part.

[0186] The first and second grooves R1 and R2 are regularly distributed around the circumference of the male body 15, so as to generate a homogeneous deformation of the male body 15 around its circumference.

[0187] Furthermore, on the circumference, the first grooves R1 and the second grooves R2 follow one another alternately: this succession of first and second grooves R1 and R2 makes it possible to homogenize the deformation of the male body 15.

[0188] By using these first and second grooves R1 and R2, the male body 15 is able to have its internal diameter reduced (and its external diameter reduced) when it is engaged in the female body and when it is removed from the female body, the male body is able to have its diameter increased to substantially return to its initial diameter, in the “rest” position.

[0189] Figure 14 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a third variant of a locking and unlocking system according to the invention.

[0190] The locking and unlocking system comprises a first fastening element 12, a casing 11 and a second fastening element. A spring 27 positioned between the first fastening element 12 and the second fastening element serves as a spacing means. The spring 27 surrounds the casing 11.

[0191] The second fixing element comprises an external part 17, two annular parts 29a and 29b and a plurality of lamellae 28 each longitudinal end of which (in the axis of the second fixing element, i.e. of the casing 11 in the second fixing element) is fixed to a separate annular part 29a / 29b.

[0192] As shown in the “rest” position in the figure, the strips 28 are curved towards the elongate element to facilitate the tightening of the casing 11 on the elongate element 14 when the two annular parts 29a / 29b are brought closer to each other.

[0193] The second fastening element (the external part 17 in particular) may comprise an extension towards the first fastening element 12, which also comprises an extension towards the second fastening element. These two extensions are configured to allow longitudinal translational movement relative to each other and thus serve as guidance for the longitudinal translational movement of the second fastening element relative to the first fastening element 12. The second fastening element also comprises a drive means for driving one of the annular parts towards the other.This drive means comprises a lever 31 associated with a cam 30 which allows, depending on its position, to bring the annular part 29b closer to the annular part 29a (a first movement is then carried out allowing the casing 11 to be tightened on the elongate element 14) or, on the contrary, to move the annular part 29b away from the annular part 29a (a second movement is then carried out allowing the casing 11 to be loosened from the elongate element 14).

[0194] Figure 15 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a three-dimensional partial view of the third variant of the locking and unlocking system corresponding to Figure 14.

[0195] In this figure, some parts are not shown in order to facilitate understanding.

[0196] The spring 27 serves as a spacing means for moving the second fastening element away from the first fastening element 12.

[0197] The second fixing element comprises two annular pieces 29a and 29b separated and spaced from each other by means of a plurality of strips 28 which are fixed, at each end to one of the two separate annular pieces 29a / 29b. The casing 11 is fixed on the strips 28, on the internal surface of the strips 28.

[0198] Furthermore, a drive means makes it possible to move the annular parts 29a / 29b away from or towards each other. This drive means comprises a lever 31 which drives a shaft 32 in rotation, a cam being fixed on the shaft 32. Thus, when the lever 31 is manipulated, the cam rotates around the axis of the shaft 32. Depending on the position of the cam, the annular part 29b can be moved away from or towards the annular part 29a, thus respectively causing the casing 11 to be released from the elongate element 14 or, on the contrary, the casing 11 to be locked onto the elongate element 14. The shaft 32 is advantageously pivotally connected relative to an external part (not shown in FIG. 15 and corresponding to the reference 17 in FIG. 14).

[0199] Of course, other embodiments can be produced without departing from the scope of the invention, in particular different drive means, different movement devices, return means, different spacing means, different guidance means.

Claims

Claims 1. System for locking and unlocking (10) a substantially circular elongated element (14) on a support comprising: - a substantially tubular envelope (11) formed by a sheath or by a structure, said envelope (11) comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope (11) comprising a first orifice at said first end and a second orifice at said second end, said first and second orifices allowing the introduction and exit of said elongate element (14) into the envelope (11), - a first fixing element (12) capable of being fixed to said support, the first fixing element (12) being fixed to said casing (11) at or near the first end, the first fixing element (11) comprising a first opening for the passage of the elongate element (14), - a second fixing element (13) to which said casing (11) is fixed at said second end, - a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fixing element (12) and the second fixing element (13), so as to exert a tension force on said casing (11), and thus a constriction of the casing (11) on said elongate element (14), characterized in that the second fixing element (13) comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement causing the casing to be tightened on the elongate element at the second end.

2. Locking and unlocking system (10) of an elongate element according to claim 1, for which the second fixing element (13) comprises an external part (17) enclosing a male body (15) and a female body (16) coaxial with the same axis and a displacement device for moving along the axis of said male body (15) and said female body (16), one of the male or female bodies (15, 16) towards the other of the male or female bodies (15, 16), said male body (15) comprising an inclined external surface (S1) and an internal surface (S2) allowing the passage of the elongate element, said female body (16) comprising a conical internal surface whose angle is substantially equal to the angle of the inclined external surface (S1) of said male body (15) relative to said axis,said male body (15) advantageously comprising at least three independent parts so that the axial displacement exerted by said displacement device causes a radial displacement of said at least three independent parts so as to, tightening said envelope (11) on said elongate element (14) near said second end.

3. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to claim 2, wherein said internal surface of the male body (15) comprises at least one convex curved portion (S2).

4. Locking and unlocking system according to one of claims 2 or 3, for which the displacement device comprises a screw thread system, preferably a screw or a nut, capable of engaging in a thread or tapping of the external part.

5. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein said displacement device is designed to allow the displacement of the female body (16) towards the male body (15) so that the male body (15) only moves radially.

6. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the second fixing element (13) comprises two annular pieces connected to each other by strips curved towards said casing, the second fixing element comprising a displacement means for increasing or reducing the distance between the annular pieces.

7. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said spacing means comprises a spring and / or a cylinder, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric cylinder.

8. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, for which the second fixing element (13) comprises a return means for the displacement according to a second movement, preferably opposite to said first movement, of one of the bodies relative to the other, said second movement causing the loosening of the casing (11) on the elongate element (14).

9. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, for which the system comprises a translational guide means for guiding the movement of the second fixing element (13), preferably, the guide means comprises a part with a dovetail-shaped machining, the second fixing element (13) comprising an extension whose shape is complementary to the dovetail.

10. Locking and unlocking system according to one of the preceding claims, for which the casing (11) is fixed to the second fixing element (13). 1 1. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, for which the envelope (1 1 ) is a woven or braided sheath or not. woven fabric comprising metallic fibers and / or very high molecular weight polyethylene or aramid fibers.

12. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, for which the envelope (11) comprises a structure comprising at least one layer of wound armor, preferably in helical form.

13. Locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said second fixing element (13) comprises a stopping device for limiting the relative movement between said at least two bodies movable relative to each other.

14. Method for locking and unlocking an elongate element by a locking and unlocking system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which, for locking, at least the following steps are carried out: a) the elongate element (14) is inserted into the system (10) from one of said first or second orifices towards the other of said first and second orifices to a locking position, and preferably, tension is exerted on the elongate element (14), b) once the locking position of the elongate element (14) has been determined, * the second fixing element (13) is moved away from said first fixing element (12) so as to exert tension on the casing (11) and then the second fixing element (13) is locked on the elongate element (11) by moving one of said at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other, or * the second fixing element (13) is locked on the elongate element (14) by moving one of said at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other, then the second fixing element (13) is moved away from said first fixing element (12) so as to exert tension on the casing (11), c) if tension on the elongate element (14) has been exerted, the tension on the elongate element (14) is released and for unlocking, * the second fixing element (13) is brought closer to said first fixing element (12) so as to release the tension on the casing (11) then the second fixing element (13) is released from the elongate element (14) by moving, in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, one of said at least two bodies relative to the other, or * the second fixing element (13) is unlocked from the elongated element (14) by moving one of said at least two bodies in relation to the other in a second movement, preferably the opposite of the first movement, and then bringing together the second fixing element (13) of said first fixing element (12) so as to release the tension on the casing (11). Method for blocking and unblocking according to claim 14, for which said support is a floating platform and in which, before carrying out step b) for blocking, the floating platform is ballasted to increase its draft, and after step b), the floating platform is deballasted.

Images