Improved mooring connector

Abstract

A mooring, marine, subsea, underwater or offshore connector (5) is disclosed that comprises a first portion (10), a second portion (15), and a mechanism (20) for releasably locking the first portion (10) and the second portion (15), the releasable locking mechanism (20) comprising at least one movable locking member (25) biased towards a first position. Each locking member (25) is movable against the action of the biasing mechanism (20) by inserting the first portion (10) into and / or removing the first portion (10) from the second portion (15). The connector (5) comprises a mechanism for rotating the first portion (10) relative to the second portion (15) when the first portion (10) is inserted into and / or removed from the second portion (15). The embodiment includes at least one opposing or opposing pair of movable locking members (25, 25b) and at least one pair of biasing members (60a, 60b), with a first end of said / each biasing member (60a, 60b) connected to the first movable locking member (25a) and a second end of said / each biasing member (60, 60b) connected to the second movable locking member (25b).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to connectors or mooring connectors, such as marine / floating / floating / underwater / underwater / offshore (mooring) connectors, for connecting a cable, such as a mooring cable, to a marine / floating / floating / underwater / underwater / offshore structure, such as a structure for underwater turret loading or an underwater turret production buoy. The present invention also relates to related devices, structures, and methods.

Background Art

[0002] Mooring cables, such as wires, chains, or synthetic mooring cables (such as polyester cables) used underwater in industries such as oil, gas, offshore wind, or tidal power generation, can be attached to (underwater) structures by connectors. The mooring of such structures may be permanent. However, deterioration of the cable, such as corrosion of the wire or chain, may require replacement of the deteriorated cable. When such a structure is deployed beyond a depth where the use of a diver is commercially acceptable, the connection may need to be established using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that can be used to connect and / or cut such a cable.

[0003] Even when not operating beyond the allowable diver depth, an improved connector for use with an ROV may be desirable. Many operators choose not to use a diver, even when permitted or practical. There may be a desire or need for new, improved, simple, robust, and / or easy-to-use connectors.

[0004] International Publication No. 2014 / 155094 pamphlet (FTL SUBSEA LIMITED) discloses an underwater connector comprising a first part including a male part, a second part including a female part, and means or mechanism for connecting the first part and the second part, The mechanism for connecting comprises at least a part of a through-passage of the second part, The first part comprises means for connecting the first part to one or more mooring lines, and the means for connecting the first part to one or more lines are configured to allow rotational motion of the first part with respect to one or more lines about the transverse axis of the first part. The second part is equipped with means for connecting the second part to an underwater structure. The means for connecting the second part to the underwater structure is configured to allow rotational movement of the second part relative to the structure about the transverse axis of the second part. When the first and second parts are joined, the horizontal axis of the first part is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axes of the first and second parts.

[0005] Conventional technology has many problems and / or drawbacks. For example, removable components such as load-bearing locking pins are provided in the first and second openings of the first and second parts, respectively.

[0006] An object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention may be to avoid or at least mitigate one or more problems and / or drawbacks of the prior art. [Overview of the project]

[0007] According to the present invention, connectors, structures, devices, equipment or containers and / or methods according to the appended claims are provided.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, connectors such as mooring connectors, underwater connectors, submersible connectors, and / or offshore connectors are provided.

[0009] The connector may comprise a first portion. The connector may comprise a second portion. The connector may comprise a mechanism for releasably locking the first portion and the second portion. The releasable locking mechanism may comprise at least one movable locking member or stopper member that can be biased (elastically / spring-driven) toward a first position.

[0010] The first part may include the male part.

[0011] The second part may include a female portion.

[0012] The first part may be acceptable within the second part.

[0013] The second portion may include a through hole. The through hole may have an inlet end and / or an outlet end of the first portion.

[0014] The aforementioned or at least one movable locking member may be provided on the second portion, for example, at or adjacent to the exit end of the through hole, and may be hinged thereto, for example.

[0015] When in the first position, at least one movable locking member may overlap the through-hole of the second portion when viewed along the axis of the through-hole.

[0016] At least one movable locking member may be elastically movable from a first position to a second position and to a third position (for example, against the action of a spring or biasing mechanism) by inserting a first portion into a second portion.

[0017] The aforementioned or each locking member or stopper member may be elastically movable from the third position to the second position and back to the first position (for example, against the action of a spring or biasing mechanism) by removing the first portion from the second portion.

[0018] The first position and the third position may be the same.

[0019] The first position may be a radially proximal position, and / or the second position may be a radially distal position, and / or the third position may be radially proximal with respect to the axis of the through hole of the second portion.

[0020] The said or each stopper member may be movable against the action of the biasing mechanism by inserting the first part into the second part and / or by removing the first part from the second part.

[0021] A releasable locking mechanism may be adapted to acquire or transmit tension between a rope such as a mooring rope and a structure through the connector 5.

[0022] The connector may include a (rotating) mechanism for rotating the first part relative to the second part when the first part is inserted into the second part and / or removed from the second part. The rotating mechanism can cause the first part and the second part to assume a preselected rotational arrangement upon fitting.

[0023] The rotating mechanism may include at least one or one cam follower, pin or protrusion above one of the first part (or the second part) and a guide track or cam track above the other of the second part (or the first part).

[0024] At least one pair of opposing or facing movable locking members may be provided.

[0025] At least one biasing mechanism / member or spring member may be provided.

[0026] The first end of the said or each biasing member may be connected to the first movable locking member. The second end of the said or each biasing member may be connected to the second movable locking member.

[0027] The first end of the first movable locking member may be connected to the first end of the (first) biasing member. (The second end of the first movable locking member may be connected to the second biasing member).

[0028] The first end of the second movable locking member may be connected to the second end of the (first) biasing member. (The second end of the second movable locking member may be connected to the second biasing member).

[0029] The first part may comprise at least one recess or notch adapted to receive one of the movable locking members up to a locking position, such as for example a third position.

[0030] The first part may comprise at least one pair of opposing or facing recesses or notches adapted to lock or engage a pair of opposing or facing movable locking members when in their respective third positions.

[0031] The first part may provide a mooring line connection mechanism.

[0032] The first part may have a first end adapted to be inserted into the second part.

[0033] The first part may have a second end adapted to be connected to a mooring line.

[0034] The first part may have a mechanism for enabling movement of the first part relative to the mooring line, preferably the mechanism for enabling movement is provided at or adjacent to an end of the first part / second end and / or is adapted to enable relative movement in two perpendicular axes.

[0035] The connector may comprise a mooring line or leg connector for use with a mooring line or leg extending upwardly from the floor of a body of water, such as the seabed, for example to connect a floating structure moored to the floor of the body of water.

[0036] Connection and disconnection of the connector or line may be effected by, for example, using a working line to retract and / or extend the first part (which may comprise an elongate body).

[0037] At least one movable locking member may include at least part of a latching mechanism for connecting or securing a rope to a structure to which it is moored.

[0038] Preferably, a mechanism for releasably connecting the first and second parts may be provided.

[0039] Preferably, at least one movable locking member may include at least part of a releaseable connection mechanism.

[0040] The releasable connection mechanism may include at least a portion of the through passage in the second part.

[0041] The first part may include a mechanism / means or connection for connecting to one or more ropes, such as mooring lines, preferably the mechanism / means allowing rotational motion of the first part about at least one transverse axis relative to the rope.

[0042] The second part may include a mechanism / means or connection for connecting to a (underwater) structure, preferably the mechanism / means enabling rotational motion of the second part about a transverse axis relative to the structure.

[0043] The horizontal axis of the first part may be substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second part (for example, when the first and second parts are connected / fitted together).

[0044] The through passage in the second section may be capable of receiving work cables or wires.

[0045] The mechanism for connecting the first portion to the cable may include one or more first bearing means.

[0046] One or more first bearing means may include a clevis mechanism.

[0047] The mechanism for connecting the second part to the structure may include one or more second bearing means.

[0048] One or more second bearing means may include one or more protrusions or trunnions.

[0049] One or more protrusions or trunnions may provide the transverse axis of the second portion.

[0050] The horizontal axis of the second section may be substantially horizontal (for example, when in use).

[0051] For example, when the first and second parts are connected during use, the horizontal axis of the first part may be substantially orthogonal or perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second part.

[0052] The connector may comprise a first portion, a second portion, and a mechanism for connecting the first portion and the second portion, the mechanism for connecting may comprise at least a portion of a through passage in the second portion, the through passage may optionally receive a work rope or wire, the first portion includes a mechanism for releasably connecting to a work rope or wire, the mechanism for rope connection preferably includes a first rope connection means and a second rope connection means, the first rope connection means preferably configured to releasably engage with the second rope connection means, the engagement between the first rope connection means and the second rope connection means preferably occurs due to tension generated between the work rope or wire and the first portion of the connector.

[0053] The connector may comprise a first part including a male portion, a second part including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first and second parts, the mechanism for connecting may comprise at least a portion of the through passage in the second part, the first part may comprise means for connecting the first part to one or more (mooring) ropes, the means for connecting the first part to one or more ropes preferably configured to allow rotational movement of the first part with respect to one or more ropes about the transverse axes B, C of the first part, and the second part The first part may be provided with a mechanism or means for connecting to a structure such as an underwater structure or a submerged or partially submerged structure, and the mechanism or means for connecting the second part to the structure may be configured to allow rotational motion of the second part relative to the structure about the transverse axis D of the second part, and the means for connecting the second part to the structure preferably includes bearing means that provide rotational motion of the second part relative to the structure about the transverse axis, and when the first and second parts are connected, the transverse axis of the first part may be substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second part.

[0054] The connector may comprise a first portion including a male portion, a second portion including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first portion and the second portion, the means for connecting may comprise at least a portion of the through passage in the second portion, the first portion may comprise means for connecting the first portion to one or more (mooring) ropes, the means for connecting the first portion to one or more ropes preferably configured to allow rotational movement of the first portion with respect to one or more ropes about transverse axes B, C of the first portion, the second portion may comprise means for connecting the second portion to an underwater structure, the means for connecting the second portion to an underwater structure preferably configured to allow rotational movement of the second portion with respect to an underwater structure about transverse axis D of the second portion, the means for connecting the second portion to an underwater structure preferably comprises bearing means with a pair of projections or trunnions provided on the transverse axis of the second portion on both sides of the through passage, and when the first portion and the second portion are connected, the transverse axis of the first portion may be substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis of the second portion.

[0055] In the first embodiment, at least one movable locking member can be moved from a first position to a second position by inserting a first portion into a second portion. At least one movable locking member can be moved from a second position to a third position by further inserting the first portion / member into the second portion / member. Such insertions and further insertions may be referred to as “engagement / attachment / locking sequences”.

[0056] In the first embodiment, at least one movable locking member can be moved from a third position to a second position by further inserting the first portion into the second portion. At least one movable locking member can be moved from a second position to a first position by removing the first portion / member from the second portion / member. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a “disengagement / disengagement / release sequence”.

[0057] In a second embodiment, at least one movable locking member can be moved from a first position to a second position by inserting a first portion into a second portion. At least one movable locking member can be moved from a second position to a third position by further inserting the first portion / member into the second portion / member. Such insertions and further insertions may be referred to as an "engagement / attachment / locking sequence".

[0058] In a second implementation, at least one movable locking member can be moved from a third position to a second position by a release member. The release member may be moved / controlled by a release cord, for example by pulling / tensioning the release cord. At least one movable locking member may be moved from the second position to the first position by at least one biasing member and / or release member, for example by releasing / loosening the release cord, thereby allowing at least one biasing member to act on at least one movable locking member. Such pulling and releasing of the release cord may be referred to as a "disengagement / disengagement / release sequence".

[0059] In a second embodiment, the first part is removable from the second part by further inserting the first part into the second part and then removing the first part from the second part. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a “disengagement / detachment / release sequence”.

[0060] The first implementation may be called an "automatic connector." The second implementation may be called a "semi-automatic connector."

[0061] According to a second aspect of the present invention, connectors such as mooring connectors, underwater connectors, submersible connectors, and / or offshore connectors are provided.

[0062] The connector may include: At least one movable locking member; The first part; and / or, The second part.

[0063] At least one movable locking member can be moved from a first (closed) position to a second (open) position by inserting the first part into the second part, for example, into a through hole in the second part.

[0064] At least one movable locking member can be moved from a second (open) position to a third (closed) position by further inserting the first member into the second member.

[0065] Such insertions and further insertions may be referred to as "engagement / attachment / locking sequences."

[0066] At least one movable locking member can be moved by a release member from a third (closed) position to a second (open) position.

[0067] The release member may be moved / controlled by a release cord, for example, by pulling / tensioning the release cord.

[0068] At least one movable locking member can be moved from a second (open) position to a first (closed) position by at least one biasing member and / or release member, for example by releasing / loosening a release cord, thereby allowing at least one biasing member to act on at least one movable locking member.

[0069] The first part can be removed from the second part by further inserting the first part into the second part and then removing the first part from the second part. Such further insertion and removal may be referred to as a “disengagement / detachment / release sequence”.

[0070] Such pulling / tensioning, releasing / loosening, and releasing of the release cord, as well as any intermediate further insertion of the first part into the second part, may be referred to as a "disengagement / disengagement / release sequence."

[0071] An embodiment of the present invention according to a second aspect of the present invention may be referred to as a "semi-automatic connector".

[0072] It will be understood that a connector according to a first / second aspect of the present invention may optionally and / or beneficially incorporate one or more features of a connector according to a second / first aspect of the present invention.

[0073] A third aspect of the present invention provides a structure, or a marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, and / or offshore structure, device, equipment or vessel, when moored by one or more ropes.

[0074] At least one cable may be connected by a connector according to a first or second aspect of the present invention to a structure, or to a marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore structure, device, equipment, or vessel.

[0075] Structures, devices, equipment, or vessels may include buoys, such as underwater turret loading or underwater turret production buoys.

[0076] Structures, devices, equipment, or vessels may be adapted to be semi-submersible.

[0077] Structures, apparatus, equipment, or vessels may include floating (oil or gas) platforms, such as production platforms or SPARs, or (offshore) renewable energy generators or wind turbines.

[0078] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method for mooring, anchoring, or fixing a structure, or a floating, buoyant, underwater, and / or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment, or vessel by one or more ropes.

[0079] The method may include the step of connecting at least one cable to a structure, or to equipment, apparatus, or structure located in the sea, underwater, or offshore, by using a connector according to a first or second aspect of the present invention.

[0080] Herein, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, merely as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0081] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a mooring connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2(a)] This is a side cross-sectional view of the mooring connector shown in Figure 1. [Figure 2(b)] This is a further side view of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first part of the mooring connector. [Figure 4(a)] This is a perspective view of the second part of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 4(b)] This is a further perspective view of the second portion of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 5(a)] This is a perspective view showing the first part of Figure 3 engaged with or fitted with the second part of Figure 4(a). [Figure 5(b)] Figure 1 is a first partial cutaway perspective view of the mooring connector. [Figure 6(a)] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the second partial cutout of the mooring connector. [Figure 6(b)] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the third partial cutout of the mooring connector. [Figure 7(a)] This is a perspective view of the fourth partial cutout of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 7(b)] This is a perspective view of the fifth partial cutout of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 8(a)] This is a perspective view of the sixth partial cutout of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 8(b)] This is a perspective view of the seventh partial cutout of the mooring connector in Figure 1. [Figure 9]This is a perspective view of the first part of Figure 3 after it has been disengaged from the second part of Figure 4(a). [Figure 10(a)] Figure 3 is a series of side views of the first part, illustrating the relative movement between the cam track of the first part and the cam follower or pin of the second part during engagement and disengagement procedures. [Figure 10(b)] Figure 3 is a series of side views of the first part, illustrating the relative movement between the cam track of the first part and the cam follower or pin of the second part during engagement and disengagement procedures. [Figure 10(c)] Figure 3 is a series of side views of the first part, illustrating the relative movement between the cam track of the first part and the cam follower or pin of the second part during engagement and disengagement procedures. [Figure 10(d)] Figure 3 is a series of side views of the first part, illustrating the relative movement between the cam track of the first part and the cam follower or pin of the second part during engagement and disengagement procedures. [Figure 10(e)] Figure 3 is a series of side views of the first part, illustrating the relative movement between the cam track of the first part and the cam follower or pin of the second part during engagement and disengagement procedures. [Figure 11] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an (underwater) structure connected to a vessel having a moored structure on the seabed with one or more mooring connectors. [Figure 12] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a mooring connector connected to a structure. [Figure 13(a)] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a mooring connector in which the first part is drawn toward the second part. [Figure 13(b)] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a mooring connector in which the first part is drawn toward the second part. [Figure 14] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a mooring connector in which the first part is received within the second part. [Figure 15] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a structure, in which the structure has a retaining member configured to fix a second part to the structure (in a detachable manner). [Figure 16(a)] This is a perspective view of the first portion of the mooring connector according to the second embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of the mooring connector according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16(b)] This is a perspective view of the first portion of the mooring connector according to the second embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of the mooring connector according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17(a)] This is a perspective view of the first portion of the mooring connector according to the third embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of the mooring connector according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17(b)] This is a perspective view of the first portion of the mooring connector according to the third embodiment of the present invention and a perspective view of the mooring connector according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18(a)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 18(b)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 18(c)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 18(d)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 18(e)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 18(f)] Figure 17(b) is a series of diagrams showing the installation sequence of the mooring connectors. [Figure 19] This is a partial side view of the mooring connector shown in Figure 17(a), which represents the release stage. [Figure 20(a)] Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second part of the mooring connector. [Figure 20(b)] Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second part of the mooring connector. [Figure 20(c)] Figure 17(b) is a series of side views of the second part of the mooring connector. [Figure 21(a)] This is the first top view of the second part of the mooring connector in Figure 17(b), which corresponds to Figure 20(a). [Figure 21(b)]This is a second top view of the second part of the mooring connector in Figure 17(b), which corresponds to Figure 20(c). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0082] Referring to Figures 1 to 10e, a connector (mooring connector) generally indicated as 5, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0083] Connector 5 includes a first portion 10. Connector 5 includes a second portion 15. Connector 5 includes a mechanism generally indicated as 20 for releasably locking the first portion 10 and the second portion 15. The releasable locking mechanism 20 includes at least one movable locking member or stopper member 25 biased (elastically / spring-driven) toward a first position (see Figure 4(a)).

[0084] The first part 10 includes a male part 30. The second part 15 includes a female part 35. The first part 10 is receptive within the second part 15.

[0085] The second portion 15 includes a through hole 40. The through hole 40 has an inlet end 45 and an outlet end 50 of the first portion.

[0086] The aforementioned or at least one movable locking member 25 is provided on the exit end 50 of the through hole 40 or on the second portion 15 adjacent to the exit end 50 and is hinged to it by a hinge 55.

[0087] When in the first position (Figures 5(a) and 5(b)), at least one movable locking member 25 overlaps with the through-hole 40 of the second portion 15 when viewed along the axis A of the through-hole 40.

[0088] At least one movable locking member 25 is elastically movable (against the action of, for example, at least one biasing mechanism, biasing member or spring 60) from a first position (Figures 5(a) and 5(b)) to a second position (Figures 6(a) and 6(b)), and to a third (locked) position (Figures 7(a) and 7(b)), by inserting the first portion 10 into the second portion 15.

[0089] The aforementioned or each movable locking member 25 is elastically movable (against the action of, for example, a biasing mechanism or spring 60) by removing the first portion 10 from the second portion 15, from the third position to the second position and to the first position.

[0090] The first position and the third position may be the same.

[0091] The first position is the radially proximal position, the second position is the radially distal position, and the third position is the radially proximal position with respect to the axis X of the through hole 40 of the second portion 15.

[0092] The aforementioned or each movable locking member 25 is movable against the action of the biasing mechanism 60 by inserting the first portion 10 into the second portion 15 and / or removing the first portion 10 from the second portion 15.

[0093] Referring briefly to Figures 11 and 12, for the benefit of the information, the releaseable locking mechanism 20 is adapted to acquire or transmit tension between a rope 100, such as a mooring rope, and a structure 105 through the connector 5.

[0094] The connector 5 includes a mechanism, generally shown as 61, for rotating the first part 10 relative to the second part 15 when the first part 10 is inserted into and / or removed from the second part.

[0095] The rotating mechanism 61 comprises at least one cam follower, pin, or projection 62 above one of the first parts 10 (or the second part 15), and a guide track or cam track 63 above the other of the second part 15 (or the first part 10).

[0096] In this embodiment, at least one opposing or facing (i.e., a pair) first and second movable locking members 25a, 25b are provided.

[0097] Furthermore, at least one (first) biasing member or spring 60a is provided.

[0098] The first end 65a of the biasing member 60a is connected to the first movable locking member 25a. The second end 70a of the biasing member 60a is connected to the second movable locking member 25b.

[0099] The first end 75a of the first movable locking member 25a is connected to the first end 65a of the biasing member 60a. (In a modified example, the second end 80a of the first movable locking member 25a is connected to the second biasing member 60b.)

[0100] The first end 75b of the second movable locking member 25b is connected to the second end 70a of the biasing member 60a. (In a modified example, the second end 80b of the second movable locking member 25b is connected to the second biasing member 60b.)

[0101] The first portion 10 includes at least one recess or notch 82 adapted to receive one of the movable locking members 25 in a locked position such as a third position.

[0102] In this embodiment, advantageously, the first portion 10 includes at least one pair of opposing recesses or notches 82a, 82b adapted to lock or engage a pair of opposing or opposing movable locking members 25a, 25b when they are in their respective third positions.

[0103] The first part 10 provides a (mooring) rope connection mechanism, generally shown as 84.

[0104] The first portion 10 has a first end 86 adapted to be inserted into the second portion 15. The first portion 10 has a second end 88 adapted to be connected to the (mooring) rope 100.

[0105] The first portion 10 has a mechanism generally indicated as 90 for enabling movement or articulation of the first portion 10 relative to the (mooring) rope 100, and advantageously, the mechanism 90 enabling movement is provided at or adjacent to the end / second end 88 of the first portion 10 and / or is adapted to enable relative movement on two vertical axes B, C.

[0106] Connector 5 includes, for example, a mooring line or leg connector used with a mooring line or leg extending upward from the bottom of a body of water, such as the seabed, to connect a moored floating structure to the bottom of a body of water.

[0107] Referring to Figures 10(a) to 10(e), the connector 5 or cable 100 can be connected and disconnected by, for example, using a work cable 92 to pull in and / or pull out the first part 10 having an elongated body (see Figures 13(a), 13(b), and 14).

[0108] At least one movable locking member 25 comprises at least part of a latch mechanism for connecting or securing the rope 100 to the mooring structure 105.

[0109] A mechanism 20 is provided for releasably connecting the first and second parts 10 and 15.

[0110] At least one movable locking member 25 includes at least a portion of a mechanism 20 for releasable connection.

[0111] The mechanism 20 for releasable connection includes at least a portion of the through-hole or through-passage 40 in the second portion 15.

[0112] The first part 10 comprises means or connectors for connecting to one or more ropes 100, such as mooring lines, and advantageously, the means allow rotational motion of the first part 10 about at least one transverse axis B, C relative to the rope 100.

[0113] The second part 15 comprises means 94 or connectors for connecting to a (underwater) structure, which advantageously allows rotational motion of the second part 15 about a transverse axis D relative to the structure 105.

[0114] The horizontal axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis D of the second part 15 when in use.

[0115] The through-hole 40 of the second section 15 can receive a work rope or wire 92.

[0116] The mechanism 90 for connecting the first part 10 to the cable 100 comprises one or more first bearing means 95. The one or more first bearing means 95 comprises a clevis mechanism.

[0117] The mechanism 94 for connecting the second part 15 to the structure 105 comprises one or more second bearing means 96. Each of the one or more second bearing means 96 comprises one or more projections or trunnions. Each of the one or more projections or trunnions provides the transverse axis D of the second part 15.

[0118] The horizontal axis D of the second part 15 is typically substantially horizontal (for example, when in use).

[0119] When the first part 10 and the second part 15 are connected during use, the horizontal axis B of the first part 10 is substantially orthogonal to or perpendicular to the horizontal axis D of the second part 15.

[0120] The connector 5 comprises a first portion 10, a second portion 15, and a mechanism 20 for connecting the first and second portions 10, 15, the mechanism 20 comprising at least a portion of a through hole 40 in the second portion 15, the through hole being capable of receiving a work rope or wire 92, the first portion 10 includes a mechanism 97 for releasably connecting to the work rope or wire 92, the mechanism 97 for connecting to the work rope includes a first rope connecting means 98 and a second rope connecting means 99, the first rope connecting means 98 being configured to releasably engage with the second rope connecting means 99, and the engagement of the first and second rope connecting means 98, 99 being caused by tension generated between the work rope or wire 100 and the first portion 10 of the connector 5, for example by pulling the work rope 100.

[0121] The connector 5 comprises a first part 10 including a male portion, a second part 15 including a female portion, and a mechanism or means 20 for connecting the first and second parts 10 and 15. The connection mechanism 20 comprises at least a portion of the through passage 40 in the second portion 15, The first part 10 comprises a mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) ropes 100, the mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) ropes 100 is advantageously configured to allow rotational motion of the first part 10 with respect to one or more ropes 100 about at least one transverse axis B and / or C of the first part 10. The second part 15 comprises a mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second part 15 to a structure 105 such as an underwater structure or a submerged or partially submerged structure. The mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 is configured to allow rotational motion of the second portion 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D of the second portion 15, and the mechanism or means 94 for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 advantageously comprises bearing means 96 that provide rotational motion of the second portion 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D. When the first and second parts 10 and 15 are connected, the horizontal axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis D of the second part 15.

[0122] The connector 5 comprises a first part 10 having a male portion, a second part 15 having a female portion, and a mechanism or means 20 for connecting the first and second parts 10 and 15. The connection mechanism 20 comprises at least a portion of the through passage 40 in the second portion 15, The first part 10 comprises a mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) ropes 100, the mechanism 84 or means for connecting the first part 10 to one or more (mooring) ropes 100 is advantageously configured to allow rotational motion of the first part 10 with respect to one or more ropes 100 about the transverse axes B and / or C of the first part 10. The second part 15 comprises a mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second part 15 to the structure 105. The mechanism 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 is configured to allow rotational motion of the second portion 15 relative to the structure 105 about the transverse axis D of the second portion 15, and the configuration 94 or means for connecting the second portion 15 to the structure 105 advantageously comprises bearing means 96 having a pair of projections or trunnions provided on the transverse axis D of the second portion 15 on both sides of the through passage 40. When the first and second parts 10 and 15 are connected, the horizontal axis B of the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis D of the second part 15.

[0123] Referring here to Figures 11 to 15, we see structures, or underwater, in-sea, or offshore structures, devices, equipment, or vessels, generally indicated by 105, that are moored by one or more ropes 100.

[0124] At least one cable 100 is connected to the structure 105 by the connector 5 as described above.

[0125] Structures, or underwater or offshore structures, devices, equipment, or vessels may include, for example, underwater turret loaders, underwater turret production buoys, floating (oil and gas) production platforms or SPARs, or (offshore) renewable energy generators or wind turbines.

[0126] During use, the ROV (not shown) can move the work rope or wire 100 through the through-hole 40 of the female part.

[0127] The ROV can connect a work rope or wire 100, including a first rope connection means 98, to a second rope connection means 99 on the male portion.

[0128] During use, pulling the work rope 100 upward (see Figures 13(a) and 13(b)) facilitates engagement between the first rope connecting means 98 and the second rope connecting means 99, thereby creating tension between the work rope or wire 100 and the first portion 10 of the connector 5.

[0129] Next, the ROV can pull the male part toward the female part so that the male part is inserted into the female part. A (temporary / removable) sheave member 110 on or attached to the structure 105 facilitates pulling the first part 10 toward the second part 15.

[0130] During use, the insertion of the male part into the female part can be performed by acting on the rotation mechanism 61 by causing the cam follower 62 to follow the cam track 63, thereby rotating the first part 10 until the cam follower reaches a locked position within the cam track 63, where the notches 82a and 82b are rotationally aligned with the first and second locking members 25a and 25b, respectively, and the locking members 25a and 25b are biased or spring-locked within the notches 82a and 82b, thereby locking the first part 10 in a predetermined rotational position within the second part 15. The work rope 100 and / or sheave can then be removed using the ROV (see Figures 7(a) and 7(b)).

[0131] For cutting, the work rope 100 and / or sheave can be reattached using the ROV, and the work rope 105 can be connected to the first part 10. To cut the connector 5, tension can be applied to or pulled on the work rope 100 (again), causing the cam follower 62 to follow the cam track 63, thereby rotating the first part 10 away from its predetermined rotational (locked) alignment with the second part 15. That is, the notches 82a, 82b are rotated away from their alignment with the locking members 80a, 80b. This facilitates the removal of the first part 10 from the second part 15, and thus the cutting of the work rope 100 from the structure 105 (see Figures 8(a) and 8(b)).

[0132] Next, referring to Figures 11 to 14, the present invention provides a method for mooring, anchoring, or fixing a structure, or a marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore structure, device, equipment, or vessel by one or more ropes.

[0133] This method may include the step of connecting at least one cable to marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore equipment, apparatus, or structure by using the connector 5 described above.

[0134] Referring here to Figures 16(a) and 16(b), a connector (mooring connector) according to a second embodiment of the present invention, generally denoted as 205, is shown. Connector 205 is similar in many respects to connector 5 in Figures 1 to 10(e), the similar parts being indicated by the same numbers, but repeated by "200".

[0135] Referring here to Figures 17(a) to 21(b), a connector (mooring connector) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, generally designated as 305, is shown. Connector 305 is similar in many respects to connector 5 in Figures 1 to 10(e), with the similar parts indicated by the same numbers, but repeated by "300".

[0136] In the first and second embodiments (see Figures 1 to 15 and Figures 16(a) and (b), respectively), during use, at least one movable locking member 25;225 is moved from a first position to a second position by inserting the first portion 10;215 into the second portion 15;215. At least one movable locking member 25;225 is moved from a second position to a third position by further inserting the first portion 10;210 into the second portion 15;215. Such insertion and further insertion are referred to as the “engagement / attachment / locking sequence”.

[0137] In the first and second embodiments, during use, at least one movable locking member 25;225 is moved from a third position to a second position by further inserting the first portion 10;210 into the second portion 215. At least one movable locking member 25;225 is moved from a second position to a first position by removing the first portion 10;210 from the second portion 15;215. Such further insertion and removal is referred to as a “disengagement / disengagement / release sequence”.

[0138] In the third embodiment (see Figures 17(a) to 21(b)), during use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a first position to a second position by inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315. At least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the second position to a third position by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315. Such insertion and further insertion are referred to as the “engagement / attachment / locking sequence”.

[0139] In the third embodiment, during use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a third position to a second position by the action of a release member 356. The release member 356 is moved / controlled by a release cord 357, for example by pulling / tensioning the release cord 357. At least one movable locking member 325 is moved from the second position to the first position by at least one biasing member 360 and / or release member 356, for example by releasing / loosening the release cord, thereby allowing at least one biasing member 360 to act on at least one movable locking member 325. Such pulling and releasing of the release cord is referred to as a “disengagement / disengagement / release sequence”.

[0140] In a third embodiment, during use, the first portion 310 is removed from the second portion 315 by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315 and then removing the first portion 310 from the second portion 315. Such further insertion and removal is referred to as a “disengagement / disengagement / release sequence”.

[0141] The connectors 5;205 in the first and second embodiments may be referred to as “automatic connectors.” The connector 305 in the third embodiment may be referred to as “semi-automatic connectors.”

[0142] The connector 305 of the third embodiment differs from the connector 5 of the first embodiment in several respects. Connector 305 (mooring connector, underwater connector, submersible connector and / or offshore connector) is: At least one movable locking member 325, The first part 310, Including the second part 315.

[0143] During use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a first (closed) position to a second (open) position by inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315, for example, into a through hole in the second portion 315.

[0144] During use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a second (open) position to a third (closed) position by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315. Such insertion and further insertion are referred to as the “engagement / attachment / locking sequence”.

[0145] During use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved by a release member 356 from a third (closed) position to a second (open) position. The release member 356 is moved / controlled by a release cord 357, for example by pulling / tensioning the release cord 357.

[0146] During use, at least one movable locking member 325 is moved from a second (open) position to a first (closed) position by at least one biasing member 325 and / or a release member 356, for example by releasing / loosening a release cord 357, thereby allowing at least one biasing member 360 to act on at least one movable locking member 325.

[0147] During use, the first portion 310 is removed from the second portion 315 by further inserting the first portion 310 into the second portion 315 and then removing the first portion 310 from the second portion 315.

[0148] Such pulling / tensioning, releasing / loosening, and releasing of the release cord, as well as any intermediate further insertion of the first part into the second part, are referred to as "disengagement / disengagement / release sequences" (or parts thereof).

[0149] The implementation of the present invention according to the third embodiment is called a "semi-automatic connector".

[0150] It will be understood that the embodiments of the present invention described herein are given merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0151] As shown in Figure 4(b), it should be noted that, for example, in order to facilitate the movement of the movable locking members 25a, 25b between the first and second positions when contacting the first portion 10 and when inserting the first portion 10 into the second portion 15, and / or when removing the first portion 10 from the second portion 15, the surfaces of the or each movable locking member 25a, 25b facing the through hole 44 of the second portion may be concave.

Claims

1. Mooring, marine, underwater, or offshore connectors, Part 1 and The second part, A releasable locking mechanism for releasably locking the first and second parts, A rotating mechanism for rotating the first part relative to the second part when the first part is inserted into and / or removed from the second part, Equipped with, The releaseable locking mechanism comprises at least one movable locking member biased toward a first position, The second part described above has a through hole, The through hole has an inlet end and an outlet end of the first portion, A connector characterized in that the at least one movable locking member is provided on the second portion at the exit end of the through hole.

2. The first part includes the male part and / or, The second part includes a female portion and / or, The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that the first portion is receivable within the second portion.

3. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one movable locking member is movably and / or hinged to the second portion.

4. The connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, when in the first position, the at least one movable locking member overlaps with the through-hole when viewed along the axis of the through-hole of the second portion.

5. The at least one movable locking member is elastically movable from the first position to the second position and to the third position by inserting the first portion into the second portion, and / or The at least one movable locking member is elastically movable from the third position to the second position and to the first position by removing the first portion from the second portion, and / or The first position and the third position are the same, and / or The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first position is a radially proximal position, the second position is a radially distal position, and the third position is radially proximal with respect to the axis of the through hole of the second portion.

6. The at least one movable locking member is movable against the action of the biasing mechanism by inserting the first portion into the second portion; and The at least one movable locking member is movable against the action of the biasing mechanism by removing the first portion from the second portion; and The aforementioned releaseable locking mechanism is adapted to acquire or transmit tension between the cable and the structure through the connector. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one of the following conditions is met.

7. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rotating mechanism comprises at least one cam follower, pin, or projection on one of the first or second parts, and a guide track or cam track on the other of the second or first parts.

8. At least one pair of opposing or juxtaposed movable locking members; and / or, A pair of biasing members are provided, and / or, The first end of the biasing member is connected to a first movable locking member, and / or the second end of the biasing member is connected to a second movable locking member, and / or The first end of the first movable locking member is connected to the first end of the first biasing member of the pair of biasing members, and / or The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the first end of the second movable locking member is connected to the second end of the first biasing member.

9. The first portion has at least one recess or notch adapted to receive one of the movable locking members, and / or The connector according to claim 8, wherein the first portion has at least one pair of opposing recesses or notches adapted to lock or engage a pair of opposing or opposing movable locking members.

10. The first part provides a mooring rope connection mechanism and / or, The first portion has a first end fitted to be inserted into the second portion, and / or The first portion has a second end adapted for connection to a mooring rope, and, The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first portion has a mechanism for enabling movement of the first portion relative to a mooring rope, the mechanism enabling movement being provided at or adjacent to the second end of the first portion and / or being adapted to enable relative movement on two axes perpendicular to each other.

11. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the connector comprises a mooring cable connector or leg connector used in conjunction with a mooring cable or leg extending upward from the floor of a water body to connect a moored floating structure to the floor of a water body.

12. The connection of the connector or cable is made by pulling in the first portion. The connector or cable is cut by pulling out the first portion. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the first part comprises an elongated body.

13. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the at least one movable locking member comprises at least a portion of a latch mechanism for connecting or securing a rope to a structure to which it is moored.

14. A releasable connection mechanism is provided for releasably connecting the first part and the second part. At least one of the movable locking members comprises at least a portion of the releaseable connection mechanism, The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the releaseable connection mechanism comprises at least a portion of the through passage in the second portion.

15. The first part comprises means or connectors for connecting to one or more ropes, the means or connectors enabling rotational motion of the first part about at least one transverse axis relative to the ropes, and / or The second part comprises means or connectors for connecting to an underwater structure, the means or connectors enabling rotational motion of the second part about a transverse axis relative to the underwater structure, and / or The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the horizontal axis of the first portion is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second portion.

16. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the through passage of the second portion can receive a work cable or wire.

17. The mechanism for connecting the first portion to the cable includes one or more first bearing means, The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that one or more of the first bearing means include a clevis mechanism.

18. The mechanism for connecting the second portion to the structure includes one or more second bearing means, One or more of the second bearing means include one or more protrusions or trunnions, The connector according to claim 17, characterized in that one or more of the protrusions or trunnions provide the transverse axis of the second portion.

19. The horizontal axis of the second part is substantially horizontal, and / or, The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that when the first and second parts are connected during use, the horizontal axis of the first part is substantially orthogonal to or perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second part.

20. The connector includes the first part, the second part, and a mechanism for connecting the first part and the second part. The mechanism for connection includes at least a portion of the through passage in the second part, The aforementioned through passage can receive a work rope or wire. The first part includes a mechanism for releasably connecting to the work rope or wire, The mechanism for connecting to the cable includes a first cable connecting means and a second cable connecting means, The first cable connection means is configured to engage with the second cable connection means in a releasable manner. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the engagement between the first cable connection means and the second cable connection means is caused by the tension generated between the work cable or wire and the first portion of the connector.

21. The device comprises a first part including a male portion, a second part including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first part and the second part. The connection mechanism comprises at least a portion of the through passage in the second part, The first part comprises means for connecting the first part to one or more mooring lines, and the means for connecting the first part to one or more mooring lines are configured to allow rotational movement of the first part with respect to one or more mooring lines about the transverse axis (B, C) of the first part. The second part comprises a mechanism or means for connecting the second part to a structure. The mechanism or means for connecting the second portion to the structure is configured to allow rotational motion of the second portion relative to the structure about the transverse axis (D) of the second portion, and the means for connecting the second portion to the structure includes bearing means that provide rotational motion of the second portion relative to the structure about the transverse axis. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that when the first portion and the second portion are connected, the horizontal axis of the first portion is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second portion.

22. The device comprises a first part including a male portion, a second part including a female portion, and a mechanism or means for connecting the first part and the second part. The means for connecting comprises at least a portion of the through passage in the second part, The first part comprises means for connecting the first part to one or more mooring lines, the means for connecting the first part to one or more mooring lines are configured to allow rotational movement of the first part with respect to one or more mooring lines about the transverse axis (B, C) of the first part, and the second part comprises means for connecting the second part to an underwater structure. The means for connecting the second portion to the underwater structure is configured to allow rotational movement of the second portion relative to the underwater structure about the transverse axis (D) of the second portion, and the means for connecting the second portion to the underwater structure comprises bearing means having a pair of projections or trunnions provided on both sides of the through passage on the transverse axis of the second portion. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that when the first portion and the second portion are connected, the horizontal axis of the first portion is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the second portion.

23. A marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore structure, device, equipment or vessel that is moored by one or more ropes, A structure, apparatus, apparatus, or vessel, characterized in that at least one of the cables is connected to the structure, or to a marine, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore structure, apparatus, apparatus, or vessel by a connector according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. The structure, device, equipment, or vessel according to claim 23, when moored by one or more ropes, is characterized in that the structure, device, equipment, or vessel includes an underwater turret loader, an underwater turret production buoy, a floating platform or SPAR, or an offshore renewable energy generator or wind turbine.

25. A method of mooring, anchoring, or fixing an ocean, floating, buoyant, underwater, or offshore structure, apparatus, equipment, or vessel by one or more ropes, A method comprising the step of connecting at least one cable to a structure, apparatus, equipment or vessel using a connector according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

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