Latching mechanism for seismic streamer arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a streamer device (110, 210, 310, 410) comprising a cradle (120A, 120B, 220A, 220B, 320A, 320B, 420A, 420B) configured to be attached to a locking collar (150A, 150B), and a latching mechanism (280) having an abutment (229, 329, 429) member. The latching mechanism (280) comprises a pin member (260) configured to be attached to the locking collar (150A, 150B) and a biasing member (268). The abutment (229, 329, 429) member can be configured to hold the biasing member (268) when attaching the cradle (120A, 220A, 220B, 220, 320A, 320B, 420A, 420B) to the locking collar (150A, 250), and the biasing member (268) can be configured to bias the pin member (260) to hold the locking collar (150A, 150B) to the cradle (120A, 120B, 220A, 220B, 322A, 322B, 420A, 420B). The biasing is responsive to, or at least partially determined or controlled based on, a position of the abutment (229, 329, 429) member.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 696,167, filed July 10, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure relates to seismic exploration, including towed cable systems for marine seismic exploration. In a seismic exploration system, an external or auxiliary towed cable assembly can be attached to the towed cable at various locations along its length using ferrules surrounding the cable. The ferrules can be attached to the support of the towed cable assembly via attachment components. When the towed cable assembly is towed through a column of water via the cable, various forces are applied between the attachment components and the towed cable assembly housing. In some instances, the forces applied between the respective attachment components and the towed cable assembly housing may exceed the structural limitations of one or more components, potentially causing a failure that results in the towed cable assembly separating from the cable. In some instances, the failure may include damage to the structure of the towed cable assembly, such as the supports holding the attachment components. One repair method involves inserting a threaded screw into the damaged housing so that the threads of the threaded screw absorb the tensile forces applied between the attachment components and the towed cable assembly housing during operation. However, threaded repair methods lack the structural integrity necessary to withstand the continuous tensile forces between the attachment components and the towed cable assembly housing during operation, which often leads to failure and potential loss of the towed cable assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The tow cable assembly and other systems may be configured to attach to a locking collar. A support on the assembly may be configured to hold a latching mechanism together with a support member. The latching mechanism may use a dovetail pin or similar component to attach to the locking collar, and may use a spring or similar compression biasing member. The support member may be configured to provide a support to hold the compression biasing member, for example, at a first end. When the support is attached to the locking collar, the compression biasing member may apply a spring biasing force on a pin member to hold the locking collar attached to the tow cable assembly. The biasing force may be controlled at least in part based on the position of the support. For example, using an eccentric pin member, the biasing force may be controlled or determined in response to the positioning of the support member. In some embodiments, the tow cable assembly has two supports, each with a latching mechanism, and multiple such devices may be attached to corresponding locking collars disposed along the tow cable. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 This is an illustration of a portion of an earthquake tow cable system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of a tow cable device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0007] Figure 2B An isometric view of a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0008] Figure 2C It is a cross-section of a support frame having an installed latching mechanism and a support plate 225 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2D This is a cross-sectional side view of a frame having an installed latching mechanism and a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figures 3A to 3C A cross-sectional view of a tow cable device 310 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0011] Figure 3D An isometric view of the side of a support tube insert according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0012] Figures 4A to 4C A cross-sectional view of a tow cable device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0013] Figure 4D A perspective view of the side of a modular latching mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This disclosure includes embodiments of latching mechanism support designs and / or maintenance solutions for towing cable assemblies, which can reduce costs and provide equivalent or higher performance compared to existing designs. In some instances, the described latching mechanism support design embodiments can be implemented during production to provide a more robust support design while also allowing for easy maintenance in the event of damage. In some instances, the described latching mechanism support design embodiments can be implemented as maintenance or modification solutions to modify conventional latching mechanism support designs (e.g., whether damaged) with a more robust and reliable latching mechanism support design.

[0015] The tow cable assembly may include position control devices (e.g., for depth, lateral control, vector control, or any combination thereof), speedometers (e.g., configured to measure the speed of sound in water), speed recording devices (e.g., configured to measure water velocity), or acoustic ranging devices. The tow cable assembly may include various elements performing the designed functions, such as transceivers configured to communicate with vessels, remotely controlled vehicles, or other components associated with an earthquake system; sensors performing the designed functions; and / or fixed or motor-controlled blades or winglets stabilizing or positioning the tow cable within the water column.

[0016] A ferrule can be used to attach (e.g., attach, secure, connect, etc.) a tow cable assembly to the tow cable at selected locations along its length. Each ferrule may include a cylindrical inner race and an outer race surrounding the tow cable. The inner race is secured to the tow cable, and the outer race, coupled to the tow cable assembly, is rotatable about the inner race and thus about the tow cable. The outer race (e.g., or a locking ferrule) may include a locking groove designed to slidably receive a dovetail pin or similar pin component extending from a chamber in the support frame of the corresponding tow cable assembly (e.g., a load-bearing structural member).

[0017] For example, a support can be attached to a locking collar by inserting the top of an extended dovetail pin through a circular opening in a locking groove and sliding the neck of the dovetail pin along the groove and away from the circular opening. When the pin slides to the end of the locking groove opposite the circular opening, the locking lever pops out into the circular opening of the locking groove under spring pressure in the chamber of the support, thus preventing the dovetail pin from sliding backward and releasing the engagement.

[0018] The dovetail pin can be held at tension on the locking collar by a spring force applied by a compression spring or similar biasing member. The compression biasing member can be held in place at its upper end via a support or shoulder built into or fixed to the support in some way. The spring force is configured to hold the corresponding locking collar in the towing cable assembly, while also absorbing sudden changes in force (e.g., tension, lateral or longitudinal forces, or combinations thereof) when the towing cable attempts to pull the corresponding locking collar in a direction different from the towing cable assembly as it moves through the water column.

[0019] However, in some instances, the force applied between the respective locking collar assembly and the latching mechanism may exceed the structural limitations of the support, bracket, latching mechanism, respective locking collar assembly, or combinations thereof. Exceeding these structural limitations can cause malfunctions, resulting in the respective locking collar assembly being pulled completely or partially off the corresponding support of the towline assembly. In some instances, this excessive force causing malfunction may be due to external causes, such as a part of the towline assembly becoming stuck on a part of the vessel or other equipment during deployment or retrieval, getting stuck on other debris in the fishing net or water column, excessive current, normal wear and tear, or other events.

[0020] Typically, since the applied forces are largely concentrated in the support holding the upper end of the compression bias member and in the bias member itself, failures are related to damage to the support and / or the bias member. If the support used to hold the compression mechanism is built into the bracket and is damaged, the tow cable assembly may have to be replaced if no repair solution is available. Replacing the tow cable assembly increases the operator's operating costs and is undesirable. Furthermore, some repair solutions may involve using materials that introduce corrosion susceptibility compared to the original support design, increase wear on other latching mechanism components, reduce accuracy, require recalibration of the tow cable assembly, and / or reduce pull-out performance.

[0021] Figure 1 This is an illustration of a portion of a seismic tow cable system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 may include a tow cable assembly 110 attached to a section of tow cable 140 via a front collar assembly 150A and a rear collar assembly 150B. The tow cable assembly 110 may include a position control device, a velocimeter, a velocity recording device, an acoustic ranging device, or any combination thereof. The tow cable assembly 110 is shown in its working orientation, with supports 120A and 120B arranged generally vertically and relative to... Figure 1 The top is oriented upwards. Although Figure 1 The tow cable assembly 110 is depicted and described as having supports 120A and 120B for attachment to the tow cable 140, but it should be understood that supports 120A and 120B may include any structural components of the tow cable assembly 110 configured to bear loads for attachment to the tow cable 140.

[0022] The front collar assembly 150A and the rear collar assembly 150B may each include corresponding cylindrical inner races 170A and 170B surrounding and secured to the tow cable 140, and corresponding cylindrical outer races 160A and 160B engaging with the corresponding inner races 170A and 170B, such that the corresponding outer races 160A and 160B are rotatable about the corresponding inner races 170A and 170B. The tow cable assembly 110 may be secured to the locking collar assemblies 150A and 150B via latching mechanisms housed in the supports 120A and 120B of the tow cable assembly 110.

[0023] Therefore, the tow cable assembly 110 attached to the tow cable 140 can rotate freely about a fixed position on the cable by means of corresponding inner races 160A and 160B and corresponding outer races 170A and 170B. During deployment, the tow cable assembly 110 may include a stabilizing or actuating foil 180 configured to stabilize or control the position of the tow cable assembly 110 as it moves through a water column. When configured to hold a position, the actuating foil 180 can remain relatively stable, wherein the tow cable 140 rotates freely within locking collars or collar assemblies 150A and 150B.

[0024] Each of the supports 120A and 120B may include a latching mechanism configured to attach the tow cable assembly 110 to the tow cable 140. In some instances, the latching mechanism may include a dovetail pin configured to engage the corresponding locking collars 150A and 150B. In some instances, the latching mechanism may also include a locking lever configured to engage the corresponding locking collars 150A and 150B.

[0025] A dovetail pin can be inserted through an offset member (e.g., a compression spring, a Bass spring, or a washer assembly). The offset member can be mounted between a stop attached to the dovetail pin at a first (e.g., lower) end of the offset member and a support (e.g., a shoulder) housed separately from the dovetail pin in supports 120A and 120B at a second (e.g., upper) end of the offset member. The compression mechanism can be engaged (e.g., relaxed after attachment / installation to retain the corresponding locking collars 150A and 150B using spring force) and disengaged (e.g., compressed to facilitate attachment / installation of the corresponding locking collars 150A and 150B) by slidably engaging the central eccentric cam surface to raise and lower the lower stop. One or more eccentric pins 190A, 190B can be used to control the cam surface, the eccentric pins extending laterally (or transversely) through the corresponding supports 120A, 120B.

[0026] Therefore, during installation, the dovetail pin retracts to lower the eccentric cam surface, which partially relaxes the compression bias member, thereby applying a spring force between the support and the lower stop. This spring force is configured to hold the respective locking collars 150A and 150B to the tow cable assembly 110, while also absorbing sudden changes in force (e.g., tension, lateral force, longitudinal force, or a combination thereof) when the tow cable 140 attempts to pull the respective locking collars 150A and 150B in a direction different from that of the tow cable assembly 110 as it moves through the water column.

[0027] However, in some instances, the force applied between the respective locking collars 150A and 150B and the latching mechanism may exceed the structural limitations of the supports 120A and 120B, the brackets, the latching mechanism, the respective locking collars 150A and 150B, or combinations thereof. Exceeding these structural limitations can cause malfunctions, resulting in the respective locking collars 150A and 150B being pulled completely or partially away from the respective supports 120A and 120B of the towline assembly 110. In some instances, this excessive force causing the malfunction may be due to external causes, such as a portion of the towline assembly 110 becoming stuck on a part of a vessel or other equipment during deployment or retrieval, getting stuck on other debris in a fishing net or water column, excessive current, normal wear and tear, or other events. Typically, because the applied force is largely concentrated in the brackets and the biasing member itself that hold the upper end of the compression biasing member, the malfunction is related to damage to the brackets and / or the biasing member.

[0028] In some instances, the tow cable assembly 110, including supports 120A and 120B, may be constructed from a single type of material, such as polyurethane, through methods like milling, printing, manufacturing, molding, etc. The supports may be directly milled / molded / manufactured as part of the construction within the supports 120A and 120B. Therefore, if a support fails and cannot be repaired, the entire tow cable assembly 110 may need to be replaced, which could be expensive for operators without a repair solution.

[0029] However, in some instances, the existing design of the towing cable assembly 110 may allow for the implementation of support design constructions associated with the latching mechanism and / or maintenance of the supports to mitigate the overall loss of the towing cable assembly 110. In some instances, the supports 120A and 120B and / or the support implementations may be designed such that the supports are formed by separate support forming members, which are then mounted on or within the respective supports 120A and 120B to provide a structure for retaining a second end (e.g., the upper end) of the compression biasing member.

[0030] Individual support members may be unthreaded members mounted into the respective supports 120A and 120B, and may be formed of at least one of aluminum, stainless steel, thermoplastic materials (e.g., polycarbonate materials such as acetal), thermosetting or metallic alloys (e.g., including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze). The support members may be held primarily within the respective supports 120A and 120B by tension, compressive force, or shear force, or any combination thereof. Holding the support members primarily by tension, compressive force, and / or shear force provides superior yield strength compared to solutions that rely primarily on circumferential stress or force to hold the support members. In some instances, at least a portion of the separate support member may be constructed of the same material as the respective supports 120A and 120B.

[0031] In other instances, the support member may be constructed from different materials, such as aluminum, thermoplastics, stainless steel, or any other material suitable for seismic tow cable applications. In some instances, one or more materials may be selected based on their lack of magnetic (non-magnetic) properties and / or reduced sensitivity to corrosion in saltwater environments (resistance). In some instances, the support member may be selectively removed from the respective supports 120A and 120B. Examples of support members may include: support plates inserted into or mounted in milled slots in the respective supports 120A and 120B; support tube inserts inserted into or mounted in support tube insertion openings (e.g., cylindrical openings) in the respective supports 120A and 120B; or modular latching mechanism sections inserted into or mounted in modular latching chambers of the respective supports 120A and 120B. These examples provide the same or better pull-out performance as built-in support embodiments and avoid the need to replace the entire tow cable assembly in the event of support failure.

[0032] Figures 2A to 2D Examples of a first embodiment of a towing cable device implementation including a support plate (e.g., as a support member) according to embodiments of the present disclosure are described. Figure 2A Cross-sectional views 200, 201A and 201B depict a tow cable device 210 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2B Isometric views 202 and 203 depict a support plate 225 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] In some instances, Figure 1 The towing cable assembly 110 can be implemented as a towing cable assembly 210 and a support plate 225. The towing cable assembly 210 includes supports 220A and 220B. For clarity, some features of the towing cable assembly 210 are excluded. However, it should be understood that the towing cable assembly 210 may include references without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figure 1 All of the features described in the towing cable device 110. Although Figure 2A The tow cable assembly 210 is depicted and described as having supports 220A and 220B for attachment to the tow cable, but it should be understood that supports 220A and 220B may include any structural components configured to bear loads for attachment to the tow cable assembly 210.

[0034] Cross-sectional view 200 is a cross-sectional view of the entire towing cable assembly 210. Cross-sectional view 201A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 220A, while cross-sectional view 201B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 220B.

[0035] As shown in the figure, the support frame 220A includes: a dovetail pin orifice or chamber 221A configured for a dovetail pin retaining mechanism including a compression offset member; an orifice 222A extending laterally through the support frame 220A and configured to receive an eccentric pin; a slot 223A extending laterally to the support frame 220A, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and configured for a support plate 225; and a vertical opening 224A configured for a locking lever mechanism. Similarly, the support frame 220B includes a dovetail pin chamber 221B configured for a dovetail pin retaining mechanism including an offset member; an orifice 222B extending laterally through the support frame 220A and configured to receive an eccentric pin; a slot 223B similarly configured for a support plate 225; and a vertical opening 224B for a locking lever mechanism. Slots 223A and 223B may extend laterally through the corresponding supports 220A and 220B and have dimensions based on measurements of the support plate 225. In some instances, the respective horizontal (e.g., longitudinal) length of slots 223A and 223B is greater than the respective vertical height.

[0036] Figure 2B The isometric view 202 is a view of the bottom surface 226 of the support plate 225 (e.g., the bottom surface when mounted in the corresponding slots 223A or 223B), while Figure 2B The isometric view 203 is a view of the top surface 227 of the support plate 225 (e.g., the top surface when mounted in the corresponding slot 223A or 223B). The support plate 225 may include an aperture 228 extending from a first surface (e.g., bottom surface 226) through the support plate 225 insert to a second surface (e.g., top surface 227).

[0037] In some instances, the orifice 228 may have a circular or elliptical shape. The diameter of the orifice 228 may differ at the bottom surface 226 from that at the top surface 227. For example, the orifice 228 may have a first diameter extending from the bottom surface 226 toward the top surface 227 to a transition point or feature (e.g., a support or shoulder) 229, and a second diameter extending from the top surface 227 toward the transition 229.

[0038] The transition portion 229 may form a support or shoulder configured to hold the upper end of the compression biasing member of the latching mechanism in the supports 220A and 220B. Therefore, the first diameter may be larger than the second diameter. In some examples, the first diameter of the orifice 228 may be based on the diameter of the biasing member, and the second diameter may be based on the diameter of the dovetail pin. In some examples, the support 229 may be located at approximately half the thickness of the support plate 225. In other examples, the support 229 may be located closer to the bottom surface 226 or closer to the top surface 227.

[0039] Measurements of the bearing plate 225 may be based on the lateral thicknesses of the supports 220A and 220B, as well as the material and desired properties of the bearing plate 225. In applications, the bearing plate 225 may be designed with a more robust material and / or a greater thickness. The bearing plate 225 may be constructed from at least one of aluminum, stainless steel, thermoplastic materials (e.g., polycarbonate materials such as acetal), thermosetting materials, or metal alloys (e.g., including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze), any other materials suitable for seismic tow cable applications, or combinations thereof. In some instances, one or more materials may be selected based on the lack of magnetic (non-magnetic) properties and / or reduced sensitivity to corrosion in saltwater environments (resistance).

[0040] In some instances, the support plate 225 may further include a notch configured to retain or hold the support plate 225 in corresponding slots 223A and 223B. For example, the notch may be configured to mate with a protrusion in the corresponding slot 223A or 223B. In some instances, in response to damage to the original built-in supports in the supports 220A and 220B, one or both of the slots 223A and 223B may be formed in the corresponding supports 220A and 220B. In some instances, such as in the case of damage to only one built-in support, one of the supports 220A or 220B may include the built-in support, while the other may include the corresponding slot 223A or 223B. In embodiments where slots 223A and 223B are formed to repair damaged internal supports, the vertical positions of slots 223A and 223B can be selected such that when support plate 225 is installed, the support 229 of support plate 225 is in the same approximately vertical position as the original internal support. In other embodiments, supports 220A and 220B may be initially manufactured with slots 223A and 223B configured to receive support plate 225. In any embodiment, damage to the support 229 of support plate 225 can be repaired by replacing support plate 225 instead of replacing the entire device 210, which reduces operating costs.

[0041] Figure 2C and 2D This is a cross-sectional view of the support 220 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2C This is a cross-sectional view of a support 220 having an installed latching mechanism and a support plate 225 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2D This is a cross-sectional side view of a support 220 having an installed latching mechanism and a support plate 225 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Although Figure 2C and 2D The latching mechanism and support plate in the support frame 220 are depicted and described for attachment to the tow cable, but it should be appreciated that the support frame 220 may include any structural components of the tow cable assembly configured to bear loads for attachment to the tow cable.

[0042] Figure 1 The supports 120A and 120B and / or the supports 220A and 220B of Figure 2 can be implemented as Figure 2C and 2D The support frame is 220. Figure 2C And / or 2D may include previously relative to Figure 2A And / or the components described in 2B. Those components are already... Figure 2C The same reference numerals as those used in Figure 2 are used in 2D, and the operation of common elements is as previously described. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed description of the operation of these specific elements will not be repeated.

[0043] The latching mechanism may include a dovetail pin component 260 mounted in dovetail pin chambers 221A / B, configured to engage a corresponding locking collar assembly 250. The dovetail pin 260 may be inserted through a bias spring or similar compression bias member 268 (e.g., a compression spring, a Bass spring, or a washer assembly). The compression bias member 268 may be mounted between a stop or similar feature 267 (e.g., a domed bottom) of the dovetail pin 260 at a first (e.g., lower or bottom) end 266 of the bias member 268 and a support (e.g., a shoulder) of a support plate 225 near a second (e.g., upper) end of the bias member 268. The dovetail pin 268 may include a flat top 261 having a tapered surface 262 and a flat vertical surface 264 on opposite sides forming a narrow neck 263 on opposite sides. The upper portion 265 of the dovetail pin 268 below the neck 263 may be generally cylindrical. The middle portion of the dovetail pin 268 may also be cylindrical, but its diameter is narrower than that of the upper portion 265 to accommodate the biasing member 268. The bottom portion 266 may include a flat upper surface to support the biasing member 268. The stop (or stop) 267 may be configured to slidably engage the central eccentric cam surface 269 on the lateral eccentric pin or similar rotary retaining mechanism 270.

[0044] In some instances, the latching mechanism may also include an elongated cylindrical locking lever 280, which is also configured to engage a corresponding locking collar. A spring 281 at the bottom of the vertical openings 224A / B biases the locking lever 280 upward to the engaged position. A lever arm 283 extends from the opposite end of the locking lever 280 near its midpoint. The lever arm 283 extends through a generally vertical slot 285 in each side of the support frame 220 and terminates in a stud head 282. In some instances, the locking lever assembly (e.g., locking lever 280, spring 281, lever arm 283, stud head 282, etc.) may be included only in one of the supports 220A or 220B. For example, the locking lever assembly may be included only in the rear support frame 220B.

[0045] The latching mechanism can be configured to latch the locking collar 250 by first inserting the top 261 of the dovetail pin 260 through the circular inlet 254 into the locking slot 252 of the locking collar 250. Since the narrow neck 263 of the dovetail pin 260 is slightly narrower than the width of the longitudinal slot 255, the dovetail pin 260 can slide along the slot 255 toward the end opposite the circular inlet 254. As the dovetail pin 260 approaches the end of the longitudinal slot 255, the locking lever 280 springs into the now-aligned circular inlet 254 via a spring 281 held compressed by the bottom surface of the locking collar 250, thereby locking the support 220 to the locking collar 250. To prevent vibration of the tow cable assembly attached to the support 220 during deployment, the dovetail pin 260 can be retracted by rotating the eccentric pin 270 until the eccentric cam surface 269 is in its lower position. In this locked position, the compression offset member 268 is slightly relaxed, but still applies sufficient spring force to the support plate 225 of the dovetail pin chamber 221 to hold the locking collar 250 to the support 220.

[0046] In some instances, when damaged, the support plate 225 can be removed and replaced with a new support plate 225. The ability to remove and replace the support plate 225 reduces operating costs compared to implementations where damage to the support necessitates replacement of the towing cable assembly. Additionally, depending on the material, the support plate 225 may also be able to withstand greater tensile forces than the support integrated into the support frame 220 before failure.

[0047] Figures 3A to 3D An example of a second embodiment of a towing cable device according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted, which includes a dovetail chamber support tube insert (e.g., as a support member). Figures 3A to 3C Cross-sectional views 300, 301A and 301B of a tow cable device 310 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are depicted respectively. Figure 3D An isometric view 303 depicting the side of the support tube insert 325 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Although Figures 3A to 3C The tow cable assembly 310 is depicted and described as having supports 320A and 320B for attachment to the tow cable, but it should be understood that supports 320A and 320B may include any structural components configured to bear loads for attachment to the tow cable assembly 310.

[0048] In some instances, Figure 1 The towing cable device 110 can be implemented as a towing cable device 310. The towing cable device 310 includes supports 320A and 320B. For clarity, it is intentionally shown that... Figures 3A to 3C Some features of the towing cable device 310 are omitted here. However, it should be understood that the towing cable device 310 may include features referenced in this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figure 1All of the features described in the description of the towing cable assembly 110. Cross-sectional view 300 is a cross-sectional view of the entire towing cable assembly 310. Cross-sectional view 301A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 320A, while cross-sectional view 301B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 320B.

[0049] As shown in the figure, the support frame 320A includes a support tube insertion hole or chamber 321A configured for the support tube insertion 325 and a dovetail pin member or similar retaining mechanism 260 including a compression biasing member 268; an aperture 322A extending laterally through the support frame 320A and configured to receive an eccentric pin 270; and a vertical opening 324A configured for a locking lever or similar locking mechanism 280. Similarly, the support frame 320B includes a support tube insertion chamber 321B configured for the support tube insertion 325 and a dovetail pin retaining mechanism including a biasing member 268; an aperture 322B extending laterally through the support frame 220A and configured to receive an eccentric pin 270; and a vertical opening 324B configured for a locking lever mechanism. Chambers 321A and 321B may extend vertically within corresponding supports 320A and 320B and have dimensions based on measurements of the support tube insert 325. In some instances, the support tube insert 325 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0050] The support tube insert 325 may include an aperture 326 extending radially through the support tube insert 325. The aperture 326 is configured to align with a corresponding transverse aperture 322A or 322B when installed in a corresponding chamber 321A or 321B. An eccentric pin (e.g., ...) is inserted through the aperture 326 and the corresponding aperture 322A or 322B. Figure 2C The eccentric pin 270 (or 2D) is configured to both control the latching mechanism and retain the support tube insert 325 in the corresponding chamber 321A or 321B.

[0051] Although the orifice 326 is depicted as circular or elliptical, it may be implemented in other shapes without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In some instances, additional fasteners, pins, adhesive bonding, welding, or combinations thereof may be added to secure the support tube insert 325 to the respective chambers 321A or 321B. The selection of additional fasteners, pins, adhesive bonding, welding, or combinations thereof may be determined based on the material of the support tube insert 325. In some instances, the shape and design of the support tube insert 325, as well as the means for securing the support tube insert 325 to the respective supports 320A and 320B, may differ for each support 320A and 320B, such as in cases where supports 320A and 320B have different physical shapes and sizes.

[0052] The support tube insert 325 may include a circular opening 328 formed axially through the support tube insert 325 from a first end to a second end. In some instances, the first end is the bottom end and the second end is the top end when installed. The diameter of the circular opening 328 at the first end of the support tube insert 325 may differ from that at the second end of the support tube insert 325. For example, the circular opening 328 of the support tube insert 325 may have a first diameter extending from the first end toward the second end to a transition point or feature (e.g., a support or shoulder) 329 and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition point 329.

[0053] The transition portion 329 may be configured as a support or shoulder to hold the upper end of the compression biasing member 268 within the supports 320A and 320B. Therefore, the first diameter may be larger than the second diameter. In some instances, the first diameter of the circular opening 328 may be based on the diameter of the biasing member 268, and the second diameter may be based on the diameter of the dovetail pin 260. In some instances, the support 329 may be closer to the top of the support tube insert 325.

[0054] Measurements of the support tube insert 325 may be based on the lateral thickness and vertical height of the supports 320A and 320B, as well as the material and desired properties of the support tube insert 325. The support tube insert 325 may be constructed from at least one of aluminum, stainless steel, thermoplastic materials (e.g., polycarbonate materials such as acetal), thermosetting materials, or metal alloys (e.g., including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze), any other materials suitable for seismic tow cable applications, or combinations thereof. In some instances, one or more materials may be selected based on the lack of magnetic (non-magnetic) properties and / or reduced sensitivity to corrosion in saltwater environments (resistance).

[0055] In some instances, in response to damage to the original built-in supports in supports 320A and 320B, one or both of supports 320A or 320B may include chambers 321A and 321B. In some instances, such as in the case of damage to a built-in support, one of supports 320A or 320B may include a built-in support, while the other may include a corresponding chamber 321A or 321B. In embodiments in which chambers 321A or 321B are formed to repair a damaged built-in support, when the support tube insert 325 is installed in the corresponding chambers 321A and 321B, the vertical position of the support 329 within the support tube insert 325 may be located in the same approximately vertical position as the original built-in support. In other instances, supports 320A and 320B may be initially manufactured with chambers 321A and 321B configured to receive the support tube insert 325. In either embodiment, damage to the support for latching to the collar can be repaired by replacing the support tube insert 325 instead of replacing the entire tow cable assembly 310, which reduces operating costs.

[0056] It should be understood that the support frame 320A or 320B may include a latching mechanism to latch onto the collar (e.g., Figure 2C Locking collar assembly 250 or Figure 1 (One of the locking collar assemblies 150A or 150B). For clarity, it has been derived from... Figures 3A to 3D Some details of the latching mechanism are omitted in the related descriptions and depictions. In some instances, the latching mechanism included in the support frame 320A or 320B may include the same as referenced... Figure 2C and 2D The description refers to some or all of the same or similar components of the latching mechanism without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0057] Figures 4A to 4D An example of a third embodiment of a tow cable device implementation according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted, which includes a modular latching mechanism (e.g., which includes a support member). Figures 4A to 4C Cross-sectional views 400, 401A and 401B of a towing cable device 410 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are depicted respectively. Figure 4D A perspective view 403 depicting the side of a modular latching mechanism 425 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Although Figures 4A to 4C The tow cable assembly 410 is depicted and described as having supports 420A and 420B for attachment to the tow cable, but it should be understood that supports 420A and 420B may include any structural components configured to bear loads for attachment to the tow cable assembly 410.

[0058] In some instances, Figure 1 The towing cable device 110 can be implemented as a towing cable device 410. The towing cable device 410 includes supports 420A and 420B. For clarity, it is intentionally shown that... Figures 4A to 4C Some features of the towing cable device 410 are omitted here. However, it should be understood that the towing cable device 410 may include features referenced in this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figure 1 All of the features described in the description of the towing cable assembly 110. Cross-sectional view 400 is a cross-sectional view of the entire towing cable assembly 410. Cross-sectional view 401A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 420A, while cross-sectional view 401B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the support frame 420B.

[0059] As shown in the figure, the support frame 420A includes a modular latch chamber 421A configured for a modular latching mechanism or latch module 425; an aperture 422A extending laterally through the support frame 420A and configured to receive an eccentric pin 270 to hold the latching mechanism module 425 in place; and a vertical opening 424A configured for a locking lever or mechanism 280. Similarly, the support frame 420B includes a modular latch chamber 421B configured for the latch module 425; an aperture 422B extending laterally through the support frame 420A and configured to receive an eccentric pin 270 to hold the latch module 425 in place; and a vertical opening 424B configured for a locking lever mechanism. The latch module 425 may include components of the latching mechanism, as shown in the figure. Figure 2C and 2D Some or all of the same or similar components, or combinations thereof, are described, including a dovetail pin retaining mechanism 260, which includes a compression biasing member 268. Modular latch chambers 421A and 421B may extend vertically in corresponding supports 420A and 420B and have dimensions based on measurements of latch module 425.

[0060] The latch module 425 may include an orifice 426 extending laterally through the latch module 425. The orifice 426 is configured to align with a corresponding lateral orifice 422A or 422B when installed in a corresponding modular latch chamber 421A or 421B. An eccentric pin (e.g., ...) is inserted through the orifice 426 and the corresponding orifice 422A or 422B. Figure 2C The eccentric pin 270 (or 2D) is configured to both control the latching mechanism held in the latching module 425 and hold the latching module 425 in the corresponding modular latching chamber 421A or 421B.

[0061] In some instances, additional fasteners, pins, adhesives, bonding agents, welding, or combinations thereof may be added to secure the latch module 425 to the corresponding modular latch chamber 421A or 421B. The selection of additional fasteners, pins, adhesive bonding, welding, or combinations thereof may be determined based on the material of the latch module 425. In some instances, the shape and design of the latch module 425, as well as the means for securing the latch module 425 to the corresponding supports 420A and 420B, may differ for each support 420A and 420B, such as in cases where supports 420A and 420B have different physical shapes and sizes.

[0062] Although the orifice 426 is depicted as circular or elliptical, it may be implemented in other shapes without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The latch module 425 may include a circular opening 428 formed vertically from a first end to a second end. In some instances, the first end is the bottom end and the second end is the top end when installed. The diameter of the circular opening 428 at the first end may differ from that at the second end. For example, the circular opening 428 may have a first diameter extending from the first end toward the second end to a transition point or feature (e.g., a support or shoulder) 429 and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition portion 429.

[0063] The transition portion 429 may form a support or shoulder configured to hold the upper end of the compression bias member 268 within the latch module 425. Therefore, the first diameter may be larger than the second diameter. In some instances, the support 429 may be closer to the top of the latch module 425. In some instances, the first diameter of the circular opening 428 may be based on the diameter of the bias member 268, and the second diameter may be based on the diameter of the dovetail pin 260. The latch module 425 may include a second circular opening 440, which is formed vertically from a second end for the locking lever 280. In some instances, the diameter of the circular opening 428 may be based on the diameter of the locking lever 280.

[0064] Measurements of the latch module 425 may be based on the lateral thickness and vertical height of the supports 420A and 420B, as well as the materials and desired properties of the support 429 and the latch module 425. The latch module 425 may be constructed from at least one of aluminum, stainless steel, thermoplastic materials (e.g., polycarbonate materials such as acetal), thermosetting materials, or metal alloys (e.g., including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze), any other materials suitable for seismic tow cable applications, or combinations thereof. In some instances, one or more materials may be selected based on the lack of magnetic (non-magnetic) properties and / or reduced sensitivity to corrosion in saltwater environments (resistance).

[0065] In some instances, in response to damage to the original built-in supports in supports 420A and 420B, one or both of supports 420A or 420B may include modular latch chambers 421A and 421B. In some instances, such as in the event of damage to a built-in support, one of supports 420A or 420B may include a built-in support, while the other may include a corresponding modular latch chamber 421A or 421B. In embodiments in which modular latch chambers 421A or 421B are formed to repair a damaged built-in support, when latch module 425 is installed in the corresponding modular latch chambers 421A and 421B, the vertical position of the support 429 within latch module 425 may be located in the same approximately vertical position as the original built-in support. In other instances, supports 420A and 420B may be initially manufactured with modular latch chambers 421A and 421B configured to receive a support tube insert 325. In either embodiment, damage to the support for latching to the collar can be repaired by replacing the latch module 425 instead of replacing the entire tow cable assembly 410, which reduces operating costs.

[0066] It should be understood that the support frame 420A or 420B and / or latching module 425 may include a latching mechanism to latch onto the collar (e.g., Figure 2C 250 or Figure 1 (One of the locking collar assemblies 150A or 150B). For clarity, it has been derived from... Figures 4A to 4D Some details of the latching mechanism are omitted in the related descriptions and illustrations. In some instances, the latching mechanism included in the support frame 420A or 420B and / or latching module 425 may include, as referenced... Figure 2C and 2D The description refers to some or all of the same or similar components of the latching mechanism without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0067] Example

[0068] A representative system or device according to Example 1 includes means configured to attach to a locking collar assembly, the means including a support, and a latching mechanism and a support member held in the support. The latching mechanism may include a pin member configured to attach to the locking collar assembly and a compression biasing member. The support member may be configured to provide a support to hold a first end of the compression biasing member. The compression biasing member may be configured to apply a biasing force on the pin member to attach the locking collar assembly to the means. The biasing force may be determined at least in part based on the position of the support member; for example, the biasing force may be responsive to the position of the support member.

[0069] Example 2 includes the system or equipment of Example 1, wherein the support member can be selectively removed from the support frame.

[0070] Example 3 includes a system or device according to Example 1 or 2; for example, wherein the support member includes a support plate configured to be inserted into a groove formed in a support.

[0071] In Example 4, the support plate includes an orifice that extends through the support plate from a first surface to a second surface.

[0072] In Example 5, the orifice of the support plate has a first diameter extending from the first surface toward the second surface to a transition feature between the first end and the second end, and a second diameter extending from the second surface toward the first surface to the transition feature, wherein the support is formed at the transition feature.

[0073] In Example 6, during the working orientation of the device, when the support plate is installed into the slot of the support frame, the first surface defines the bottom surface and the second surface defines the top surface.

[0074] In Example 7, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0075] Example 8 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 4 to 7; for example, wherein the support plate includes a notch configured to engage with a protrusion in a groove of the support to retain the support plate in the groove.

[0076] In Example 9, the groove is formed by passing through the support frame laterally and is basically perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

[0077] Example 10 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 5 to 9; for example, wherein a first diameter of the orifice is adapted to the diameter of the compression bias member, and a second diameter is adapted to the diameter of the dovetail on the pin member.

[0078] In Example 11, the support member includes a support tube insert configured to be inserted into a chamber formed in the support frame, wherein the support tube insert has a cylindrical shape.

[0079] In Example 12, the support tube insert has a circular opening formed axially through the support tube insert from the first end to the second end.

[0080] In Example 13, the circular opening of the support tube insert has a first diameter extending from a first end toward a second end to a transition portion defined between the first and second ends, and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition portion, wherein the support is defined at the transition portion.

[0081] In Example 14, in the working orientation of the device, when installed in a room, the first end of the support tube insert is the bottom end, and the second end is the top end.

[0082] In Example 15, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0083] Example 16 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 13 to 15; for example, wherein a first diameter of the orifice is adapted to receive a compression biasing member, and a second diameter is adapted to receive a dovetail on a pin member.

[0084] Example 17 includes a system or device according to one or more of embodiments 11 to 16, wherein the support tube insert has an orifice extending radially through the support tube insert; for example, wherein when the support tube insert is installed in a chamber, the orifice is aligned with a transverse orifice formed in a support frame.

[0085] Example 18 includes a lateral eccentric pin that extends through the orifice of the support tube insert and the orifice of the support frame, wherein the eccentric pin is configured to control the position of the pin component to selectively retain the support tube insert in the chamber.

[0086] In Example 19, the support tube insert is further held in the chamber by at least one of additional fasteners or pins, adhesive bonding, or welding.

[0087] In Example 20, a system or device according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 19 includes a latch module configured to be inserted into a latch chamber formed in a support; for example, wherein the latch module is selectively removable from the latch chamber and configured to accommodate a latching mechanism and a support member.

[0088] In Example 21, the latch module includes a circular opening that is vertically formed from the first end to the second end.

[0089] In Example 22, the circular opening of the latch module has a first diameter extending from a first end toward a second end to a transition portion defined between the first and second ends, and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition portion, wherein a support is formed at the transition portion.

[0090] In Example 23, in the working orientation of the device, when the latch module is installed in the latch chamber, the first end is the bottom end and the second end is the top end.

[0091] In Example 24, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0092] In Example 25, the first diameter of the orifice is adapted to the diameter of the compression bias member, and the second diameter is adapted to the diameter of the dovetail portion on the pin member.

[0093] In Example 26, the latch module includes an orifice extending laterally through the latch module; for example, wherein when the latch module is installed in the latch chamber, the orifice is aligned with a transverse orifice formed in the support.

[0094] Example 27 includes a lateral eccentric pin that extends through an orifice in the latch module and an orifice in the support; for example, the eccentric pin is configured to control the position of the pin component to retain the latch module in the latch chamber.

[0095] In Example 28, the latch module is further held in the latch chamber by at least one of additional fasteners or pins, adhesive bonding, or welding.

[0096] In Example 29, the support member is unthreaded.

[0097] Example 30 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 1 to 29; for example, wherein the support member includes a support material that forms the support and is different from the structural material of the frame.

[0098] In Example 31, the support material is different from the structural material of the frame.

[0099] Example 32 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 1 to 31; for example, wherein the support is formed of a polyurethane material that defines the structural material of the support.

[0100] Example 33 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 30 to 32; for example, wherein the support material includes a thermoplastic material, a thermosetting material, or at least one of a metal alloy including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze.

[0101] Example 34 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 30 to 33; for example, wherein the support material is non-magnetic and corrosion-resistant in a saltwater environment.

[0102] Example 35 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 1 to 34; for example, wherein the locking collar assembly is configured to attach the device to a drag cable.

[0103] Example 36 includes a tow cable and a plurality of devices attached to the tow cable via a corresponding locking collar assembly according to Example 35.

[0104] Example 37 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 1 to 36; for example, the device includes a tow cable device that includes at least one of a position control device, a speedometer, a speed recording device, or an acoustic ranging device.

[0105] Example 38 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 1 to 37; for example, wherein the device includes a stabilizing or manipulating foil configured to stabilize or control the position of the device in a column of water.

[0106] In Example 39, the system or device according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 37 includes a second support defined on the device and configured to retain a second latching mechanism and a second support member. The second latching mechanism may include a second pin member configured to attach to a second locking collar assembly and a second compression biasing member. The second support member may be configured to provide a second support to retain a first end of the second compression biasing member. The second compression biasing member may be configured to apply a second biasing force on the second pin member to attach the second locking collar assembly to the device. The second biasing force may be responsive to or at least partially based on the position of the second support member.

[0107] In Example 40, the second support component includes one of a support plate, a support tube insert, or a latching module.

[0108] Example 41 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 39 to 40; for example, wherein the second support member is unthreaded and can be selectively removed from the second support.

[0109] Example 42 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 39 to 41; for example, wherein the second support member has a different construction or is formed of a different material than the support member of the first support.

[0110] Example 43 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 39 to 42; for example, wherein the second support member is formed of at least one of a thermoplastic material, a thermosetting material, or a metal alloy including at least one of titanium, brass, or bronze.

[0111] In Example 44, the towing cable assembly includes a support frame configured to attach to a locking collar, and a latching mechanism having a support member. The latching mechanism may include a pin member configured to attach to the locking collar and a biasing member. When the support frame is attached to the locking collar, the support member may be configured to retain the biasing member. The biasing member may be configured to bias the pin member to retain the locking collar to the support frame. The biasing may be controlled based on the position of the support member.

[0112] In Example 45, the support member can be selectively removed from the support frame.

[0113] Example 46 includes a system or device according to Example 44 or Example 45; for example, wherein the support member includes a support plate configured to be inserted into a groove formed in a support.

[0114] In Example 47, the support plate includes an orifice that extends through the support plate from a first surface to a second surface.

[0115] In Example 48, the orifice of the support plate has a first diameter extending from the first surface toward the second surface to a transition feature between the first end and the second end, and a second diameter extending from the second surface toward the first surface to the transition feature, for example, wherein the support member is formed such that the first end of the biasing member is positioned at the transition feature.

[0116] In Example 49, in the working structure of the towing cable device, the support plate is installed in the groove of the support frame, the first surface is the bottom surface, and the second surface is the top surface.

[0117] Example 50 includes a system or device according to Example 48 or 49; for example, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0118] Example 51 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 47 to 51; for example, wherein the support plate includes a notch configured to engage with a protrusion in a groove of the support to retain the support plate in the groove.

[0119] In Example 52, the groove is formed by passing through the support frame laterally and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

[0120] Example 53 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 48 to 52; for example, wherein a first diameter of the orifice is adapted to the diameter of the biasing member, and a second diameter is adapted to the diameter of the dovetail on the pin member.

[0121] In Example 54, the support member includes a support tube insert configured to be inserted into a chamber formed in the support frame, wherein the support tube insert has a cylindrical shape.

[0122] In Example 55, the support tube insert has a circular opening formed axially through the support tube insert from the first end to the second end.

[0123] In Example 56, the circular opening of the support tube insert has a first diameter extending from a first end toward a second end to a transition portion defined between the first and second ends, and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition portion, wherein the support member is formed to place the offset member at the transition portion.

[0124] In Example 57, in the working configuration of the device, when installed in a room, the first end of the support tube insert is the bottom end, and the second end is the top end.

[0125] In Example 58, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0126] Example 59 includes a system or device according to Example 57 or 58; for example, wherein a first diameter of the orifice is adapted to the diameter of the biasing member, and a second diameter is adapted to the diameter of the dovetail on the pin member.

[0127] Example 60 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 54 to 59, wherein the support tube insert has an orifice extending radially through the support tube insert; for example, wherein when the support tube insert is installed in a chamber, the orifice is aligned with a transverse orifice formed in a support.

[0128] In Example 61, the support tube insert is held in the chamber by laterally inserting the eccentric pin of the latching mechanism through the orifice of the support tube insert and the orifice of the support frame; for example, the eccentric pin is configured to control the position of the pin component.

[0129] In Example 62, a system or device according to any one or more of Examples 43 to 61 includes a latch module configured to be inserted into a latch chamber formed in a support; for example, wherein the latch module is selectively removable from the latch chamber and configured to accommodate a latching mechanism and a support member.

[0130] In Example 63, the latch module includes a circular opening that is vertically formed from the first end to the second end.

[0131] In Example 64, the circular opening of the latch module has a first diameter extending from the first end toward the second end to a transition portion defined between the first end and the second end, and a second diameter extending from the second end toward the first end to the transition portion, for example, wherein the support member is formed to place the biasing member at the transition portion.

[0132] In Example 65, in the working configuration of the towing cable device, the latch module is installed in the latch chamber, with the first end being the bottom end and the second end being the top end.

[0133] In Example 66, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0134] In Example 67, the first diameter of the orifice is adapted to receive the diameter of the biasing member, and the second diameter is adapted to receive the diameter of the dovetail portion on the pin member.

[0135] Example 68 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 62 to 67, wherein the latch module includes an orifice extending laterally through the latch module; for example, wherein when the latch component is mounted in the latch chamber, the orifice is aligned with a transverse orifice formed in the support.

[0136] In Example 69, the latch module is held in the latch chamber by laterally inserting an eccentric pin through an orifice in the latch module and an orifice in the support; for example, the eccentric pin is configured to control the position of the pin component.

[0137] Example 70 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 44 to 69; for example, wherein the support member is unthreaded.

[0138] Example 71 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 44 to 70; for example, wherein the support member includes support material forming the support.

[0139] In Example 72, the support material is different from the structural material of the frame or any combination thereof.

[0140] Example 73 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 44 to 72; for example, wherein the support material includes a thermoplastic material, a thermosetting material, or at least one of a metal alloy including titanium, brass, or bronze.

[0141] Example 74 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 44 to 73; for example, wherein a support material forms a support, wherein the support material is non-magnetic and corrosion-resistant in a saltwater environment.

[0142] In Example 75, the system or device according to any one or more of Examples 44 to 74 includes a stabilizing or maneuvering foil configured to stabilize or control the position of the tow cable device as it moves through a column of water.

[0143] In Example 76, a system or device according to any one or more of Examples 44 to 75 includes a second support that forms a retaining mechanism for a second latching mechanism and a second support member; for example, wherein the second latching mechanism includes a second pin member configured to attach to a second locking collar and a second biasing member. The second support member may be configured to retain the second biasing member, and the second biasing member may be configured to bias the second pin member to retain the second locking collar to the second support. The biasing may be controlled based on the position of the second support member.

[0144] In Example 77, the second support component includes one of a support plate, a support tube insert, or a latching module.

[0145] Example 78 includes a system or device according to Example 76 or 77; for example, wherein the second support member is unthreaded and can be selectively removed from the second support.

[0146] Example 79 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 76 to 78; for example, wherein the second support member has a different construction or is formed of a different material than the support member of the first support.

[0147] Example 80 includes a system or device according to one or more of Examples 76 to 79; for example, wherein the second support member is formed of at least one of a thermoplastic material, a thermosetting material, or a metal alloy including titanium, brass, or bronze.

[0148] Example 81 includes a method for operating a system or device according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 80 above.

[0149] Example 82 includes a non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed by computer processing circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform a method or process for operating a system or device according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 80 above.

[0150] This disclosure will be shown and described in detail with the aid of preferred exemplary embodiments. However, this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed examples. Rather, those skilled in the art will derive other variations therefrom without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A device configured to be attached to a locking collar assembly, the device including a support; as well as A latching mechanism and a support member disposed in or connected to the support frame, the latching mechanism including a pin member configured to be attached to the locking collar assembly and a compression biasing member, and the support member configured to provide a support for retaining a first end of the compression biasing member; The compression biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force to the pin member to attach the locking collar assembly to the device; The biasing force is responsive to the position of the support member; as well as The support member includes a support plate inserted into a slot formed in the support frame, the support plate being configured to provide the support, wherein the support member is adapted to be selectively inserted into or removed from the support frame; In response to damage to the original built-in support in the support frame, the groove is formed in the support frame such that when the support plate is installed, the support of the support plate is in the same approximately vertical position as the original built-in support.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system further includes an orifice extending through the support plate from a first surface to a second surface.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The orifice has a first diameter extending from the first surface toward the second surface to a transition feature between the first surface and the second surface, and a second diameter extending from the second surface toward the first surface to the transition feature, wherein the support is formed at the transition feature.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the working orientation of the device, when the support plate is installed into the slot in the bracket, the first surface defines a bottom surface and the second surface defines a top surface.

5. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first diameter is greater than the second diameter, or the first diameter of the orifice is adapted to accommodate the diameter of the compression biasing member, and the second diameter is adapted to accommodate the diameter of the dovetail portion on the pin member.

6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support component is threadless.

7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support member includes a support material forming the support, wherein the support material is different from the structural material of the frame, or wherein the support material is non-magnetic and corrosion-resistant in a saltwater environment.

8. A towing cable device, comprising: A support structure configured to be attached to a locking collar; as well as A latching mechanism having a support member, the latching mechanism including a pin member and a biasing member configured to be attached to the locking collar; The support member is configured to provide a support for holding the biasing member when the bracket is attached to the locking collar, the biasing member being configured to bias the pin member to hold the locking collar to the bracket; The bias on the pin is responsive to the position of the support member; as well as The support member includes a support plate inserted into a slot formed in the support frame, the support plate being configured to provide the support, wherein the support member is adapted to be selectively inserted into or removed from the support frame; In response to damage to the original built-in support in the support frame, the groove is formed in the support frame such that when the support plate is installed, the support of the support plate is in the same approximately vertical position as the original built-in support.

9. The towing cable device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The towing cable device further includes an aperture extending through the support plate from a first surface to a second surface, the aperture having a first diameter extending from the first surface toward the second surface to a transition feature between the first surface and the second surface, and a second diameter extending from the second surface toward the first surface to the transition feature.

10. The towing cable device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member is adapted to position the first end of the offset member at the transition feature.

11. The towing cable device according to claim 9, characterized in that, In the working structure of the towing cable device, when the support plate is installed into the groove in the support frame, the first surface is the bottom surface of the support plate, and the second surface is the top surface of the support plate.

12. The towing cable device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The support member is unthreaded and includes a support material forming the support, wherein the support material is different from the structural material of the frame, wherein the support material is non-magnetic and corrosion-resistant in a saltwater environment, or wherein the support material includes at least one of a thermoplastic material, a thermosetting material, or a metal alloy including titanium, brass, or bronze.

Images