Mooring system and method

Abstract

Disclosed is a mooring system (1) for mooring a floating vessel. The mooring system comprises a connector structure (10) for attachment to a mooring line and an anchoring structure (20) to be anchored to the seabed. The connector structure comprises an engaging portion (14) and an attachment portion (12). The anchoring structure comprises an open guiding channel (22) extending from an entry region (24) to a terminal region (26) and dimensioned to accommodate at least the engaging portion of the connector structure. A longitudinal opening to the guiding channel provides access for a mooring line connected to the attachment portion when the connector is connected and disconnected from the anchoring structure. The connection and disconnection can be controlled from the water surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to mooring systems for moored vessels, particularly those permanently or semi-permanently positioned vessels such as offshore renewable energy facilities, especially tidal turbines, and to methods for remotely engaging and disengaging mooring lines. Background Technology

[0002] Offshore installations such as renewable energy power generation facilities or oil and gas extraction facilities may include floating vessels permanently or semi-permanently anchored at the facility (i.e., anchored for a period of months or years at a time).

[0003] The mooring lines used for this type of vessel need to resist the forces exerted on the floating vessel due to tides, waves, and surface conditions that cause the floating vessel to move.

[0004] Underwater conditions can degrade mooring lines, especially in marine environments, and regular inspections and maintenance (including replacement) are necessary.

[0005] Conventional disconnectable anchoring systems, such as those described in EP1882106 or EP2800685, are suitable for connection or disconnection using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Conventional systems can also be designed to meet application-specific requirements, such as rotation around an axis and / or release under loads exceeding a predetermined limit, as may be required in certain oil and gas extraction applications. Another example is described in JPS60240594, in which a spigot at the end of the cable can be received through a slotted opening in a vertical pipe anchored to the seabed and held in the closed upper end of the pipe by tension in the cable. The problem with this arrangement is that the device requires precise positioning of the cable and spigot, and the cable and spigot are easily removed from the pipe unless sufficient tension is maintained on the cable.

[0006] There is still a need to reduce the operational complexity and associated costs of disconnectable anchoring systems (e.g., the operational complexity and associated costs of deploying ROVs). Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a mooring system for mooring a floating vessel is provided, the mooring system comprising:

[0008] A connector structure including a mating portion and an attachment portion for attachment to a mooring line; and

[0009] An anchoring structure configured to anchor to the seabed;

[0010] The anchoring structure includes an open guide channel that extends from the inlet region to the end region and is sized to at least accommodate the engagement portion of the connector structure.

[0011] The guide channel extends upwards with a longitudinal opening to provide an entry point for the mooring line connected to the attachment portion when the engagement portion is located within the guide channel.

[0012] Specifically, when the joining portion joins with the end region of the guide channel;

[0013] At least the end region is configured as a support connector structure, and

[0014] The joint is held in place by the end region to prevent it from moving upwards away from the guide channel or away from the inlet area.

[0015] The connector structure moves along the guide channel from the inlet area to the end area to connect the connector structure and the anchoring structure. The upper opening of the guide channel allows this movement to occur simultaneously with the attachment of the connector structure to the mooring line.

[0016] When the engaging portion of the connector structure engages with the end region at the end of the guide channel, the connector structure can only be removed from the guide channel in the opposite direction toward the inlet region. This prevents the engaging portion from moving further away from the inlet region or moving further upward away from the guide channel.

[0017] A moored vessel (e.g., a vessel permanently or semi-permanently moored) may be moored via one or more mooring lines extending to one or more anchorages positioned on the seabed at a distance from the vessel—that is, not directly beneath the vessel. The mooring lines are provided with a degree of slack to allow limited movement of the moored vessel at the water's surface (taking into account tides, swells, etc.). At the seabed, the force applied to the anchorages via the mooring lines is generally along the seabed, or, if the vessel moves away from the anchorages, a force can be applied at an angle to the seabed. The mooring system may be oriented relative to the mooring lines such that the engagement between the joint and the end region prevents the connector structure from disengaging from the anchorage structure.

[0018] The end region is also configured to at least support the joint portion of the connector structure (i.e., at least support the weight of the joint portion of the connector structure), such that the joint portion of the connector structure will remain in the end region unless pressure is applied towards the inlet portion. Therefore, in use, even when the mooring line attached to the anchorage slackens, the connector portion remains connected to the anchorage. This is particularly beneficial in tidal positions where currents may cause significant changes in the position of the moored vessel.

[0019] It will be understood that the end region is configured to provide such support for the joint when the anchoring section is oriented on the generally horizontal seabed.

[0020] In some implementations, at least the engagement portion of the connector structure is held by the end region to prevent the engagement portion from moving upward or away from the entry region relative to the anchoring structure.

[0021] This mooring system contrasts with conventional disconnectable mooring or anchoring devices in that a connection can be established while the mooring line connector or a portion of the mooring line itself extends from the guide channel. Because the mooring line connector can be connected in this way, in some embodiments, it can be achieved solely via the mooring line from the water surface, without the need for expensive deployment methods (such as using an ROV).

[0022] Furthermore, the ease of connecting and disconnecting from the water surface allows for the use of smaller mooring lines with shorter service lives.

[0023] When the joint portion engages in the end region of the guide channel, the attachment portion can be attached to a mooring line extending generally upward (relative to the seabed). This proximity between the mooring line and the connector structure is provided by a longitudinal opening.

[0024] The longitudinal opening can extend from the guide channel to the distal end of the end region. When engaged with the end region, the connector structure can be correspondingly connected to the mooring line, which extends from the end region generally along the seabed distally and / or at an angle upward and distally.

[0025] The use of terms such as “proximal” and “farthest”, and similar terms in this document, is made using a reference frame along the direction from the entrance region to the terminal region.

[0026] At least a portion of the guide channel, such as the end region and / or a portion of the guide channel extending from the guide channel, may extend substantially horizontally. Therefore, in use, the engaging portion may move substantially horizontally along said at least a portion of the guide channel.

[0027] The guiding channel can be defined by appropriately oriented surface regions. Each surface region may include a single surface or multiple surfaces. The surface region may be defined by a grid of surfaces, such as by a tubular structure.

[0028] The guidance channel may be defined at least in part by side surface regions that can be generally oriented toward each other.

[0029] The guide channel may include a base surface region that is generally oriented upward, for example, at least in the end region.

[0030] The base surface region may extend entirely along the guide channel or a portion of the guide channel. The base surface region may extend partially along the guide channel or a portion of the guide channel.

[0031] The base surface region may extend between the side surface regions along at least a portion of the guide channel.

[0032] The longitudinal opening may extend along the guide channel between the side surface regions and optionally extend to the distal end of the end region of the guide channel.

[0033] In the end region, the base surface region may extend to one or both sides of the longitudinal opening (i.e., extend laterally toward the longitudinal opening). In some embodiments, in the inlet region of the guide channel, the base surface region extends between the side surface regions, and in the end region of the guide channel, the base surface may extend from the side surface regions and extend to either side of the longitudinal opening.

[0034] The vertical longitudinal symmetry plane can extend along the guide channel, and the guide channel and optional anchoring structure as a whole can be symmetrical about the longitudinal plane.

[0035] The entrance region of the guide channel can be configured such that the mating portion of the connector structure can descend into the guide channel.

[0036] The entrance region of the guide channel can be configured such that the joining portion descends to the vicinity of the entrance region and then moves generally horizontally (towards the distal end) into the guide channel.

[0037] At least the entrance region of the guide channel may include a ramp. The ramp may be defined by a portion of the base surface region.

[0038] The ramp can be oriented to guide the joint towards the end region along the guide channel as it descends into the inlet region and onto the ramp.

[0039] An inclined plane can be at an angle to a horizontal plane, such as between approximately 40° and 80°, or between approximately 50° and 70°, or at approximately 45°, 50°, 66°, 60°, or 65°.

[0040] An inclined plane can have a flat profile, or it can be curved (e.g., parabolic).

[0041] The sloping inlet area can extend into the horizontal area (i.e., roughly along the seabed). The horizontal area of ​​the guiding channel may include the end area.

[0042] The transition between the sloping entrance area and the horizontal area, and optionally the horizontal end area, can be abrupt (i.e., including corners) or gradual (i.e., including a smooth transition from sloping to horizontal).

[0043] In some implementations, the end region (and / or any intermediate region) of the guide channel may be tilted (tilted at the same or different angles). The entire guide channel may be tilted.

[0044] The slope of the inclined plane in each region of the guide channel can be constant or it can vary. For example, the inclined plane can be curved in the longitudinal direction of the guide channel.

[0045] The entry area can be configured to receive the junction from the approach trajectory range.

[0046] As disclosed herein, the trajectory range in the longitudinal plane can be accommodated by an inclined entry region extending between portions of the side surface region. Therefore, as observed through the vertical plane, the entry region can taper towards the base surface region. Thus, the engaging portion of the connector structure can approach the entry region from the longitudinal trajectory range, which lies between a trajectory extending proximally from the slope and a trajectory extending vertically from the farthest portion of the entry region (which typically coincides with the nearest portion of the end region).

[0047] In the longitudinal plane, the uppermost part of the inlet region can extend further than the joint. Therefore, the range of the angle (relative to the longitudinal plane) between the joint and the inlet region can also be accommodated.

[0048] The lateral trajectory range relative to the longitudinal plane of symmetry can be accommodated by a laterally tapering inlet region. For example, a portion of the defined inlet region of the side surface region can converge distally along the guide channel.

[0049] The entrance area can be roughly shaped as an open funnel or chute that gradually narrows toward the end of the guide channel.

[0050] The intermediate and / or terminal regions may be tapered; for example, the side surface areas of the intermediate and / or terminal regions may be tapered. The inlet region may continuously taper towards the terminal region. The guide channel as a whole may be tapered.

[0051] The end region of the guide channel may define the distal portion of the base surface region, and the end region of the guide channel may be defined by the distal portion of each side surface region.

[0052] The end region may include at least one receiving formation for receiving a mating portion of the connector structure (e.g., a mating formation as disclosed herein) and engaging with the mating portion of the connector structure.

[0053] The distal portion of at least one side surface region may define the receiving formation.

[0054] The distal portion of each side surface region may define a receiving formation. The receiving formations are conveniently identical to each other. The anchoring structure may include one or more additional receiving formations located at the distal end of the guide channel.

[0055] The receiving part can be configured to engage with the joining part.

[0056] The receiving forming portion, or each receiving forming portion, may take the form of a square or rounded recess, longitudinal groove, etc., on each side of the guide channel. In use, the engaging portion of the connector structure may abut against the receiving forming portion or each receiving forming portion to prevent further distal movement, and the receiving forming portion or each receiving forming portion may extend over at least a portion of the engaging portion to prevent upward movement of the engaging portion relative to the anchoring structure. Thus, the connector structure is held by the end region to prevent upward movement of the engaging portion relative to the anchoring structure or movement away from the inlet region.

[0057] The anchoring structure may include a guide section defining a guide channel. The anchoring structure may include a base section suitable for fastening to the seabed.

[0058] Anchoring structures can be adapted to be ballasted.

[0059] Anchoring structures may include locations suitable for placing or securing ballast loads to the anchoring structure.

[0060] At least a portion of the anchoring structure may have a hollow structure, and at least a portion of the anchoring structure is adapted to be filled with ballast material.

[0061] At least a portion of the anchoring structure may be machined or cast from ballast material blocks, such as metal blocks. For example, one or more portions of the defined guide channel of the anchoring structure may be machined or cast from ballast material.

[0062] Anchoring structures (such as the base section of the anchoring structure) may also include anchor claws for securing the anchoring structure to the seabed. Alternatively or additionally, screws, piles, etc., may be used to secure the anchoring structure to the seabed.

[0063] Anchoring structures can have any suitable construction. For example, at least a portion of an anchoring structure can consist of longitudinal beams, pipes, rods, or crossbeams.

[0064] Anchoring structures can be adapted to provide a stable, and in some embodiments, generally flat, platform on the seabed. For example, the base section may include one or more elongated beams, with a guide section mounted on said one or more elongated beams. The guide section may be directly attached to the base section, or the guide section may be spaced apart from the base section by a support frame.

[0065] The guide section can have an integral structure, a hollow structure, or the guide section itself can be composed of a frame of beams, rods, pipes, etc. The guide channel can be defined by one or more guide surfaces, or it can be defined by the surface of the frame.

[0066] As disclosed herein, one or more portions of the anchoring structure may have a hollow construction for receiving ballast material.

[0067] The engaging portion of the connector structure may include an engaging portion corresponding to the receiving portion. The engaging portion may be configured to engage in accordance with the receiving portion.

[0068] The engagement portion may include an engagement forming portion that extends laterally from the engagement portion to engage with a receiving forming portion defined by a side surface region or each side surface region.

[0069] In one embodiment where the guide channel is laterally symmetrical (symmetrical about the longitudinal plane), the connector structure can be laterally symmetrical about its own longitudinal plane. When the anchoring structure and the connector structure are joined together, the longitudinal plane of the guide channel coincides with the longitudinal plane of the connector structure.

[0070] The laterally extending engagement portion may include a pin or other suitable protrusion. The laterally extending engagement portion may include a rotatable element, for example, capable of rotating about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal plane. For example, the laterally extending engagement portion may include a shaft and a bushing or bearing surrounding the shaft.

[0071] Rotatable elements, such as bushings or bearings, can assist in moving the engagement portion along the guide channel. Over time, movement caused by varying tension applied to the mooring line (e.g., movement caused by tides or swells) can be facilitated by rotating the connector structure around the rotatable engagement formation, thereby reducing interface wear.

[0072] The attachment portion may include any suitable means for connecting to the mooring line, such as a simple eyelet or more than one eyelet. The attachment portion may be adapted to facilitate lateral and / or vertical movement of the mooring line attached to the attachment portion.

[0073] For example, the attachment portion may include a universal joint, one or more H-plates (optionally having orthogonal eyelets at their ends), or other suitable means for attaching the mooring line.

[0074] The attachment portion can be symmetrically arranged relative to the longitudinal plane extending through the connector structure. This symmetry helps the connector structure maintain balance and orientation during connection and disconnection with the anchoring structure.

[0075] The connector structure may include a generally triangular device located between the attachment portion and the engagement forming portion.

[0076] The connector structure may include one or more other connectors for connecting the lift line. The lift line connector may be releasable. The connector may be remotely releasable.

[0077] Any suitable device can be used to remove or disconnect the lift line, such as any suitable device controlled by a control line that can be deployed with the lift line. For example, the lift line can be released via a hydraulically actuated pin powered by one or more hydraulic control lines. The lift line may include a remotely release hook controlled by a pull line. In some embodiments, the lift line may be configured as a so-called "loop line," and the lift line may be secured around a connector structure or an eyelet on a connector structure and wound back to the surface.

[0078] In some implementations, reconnection can be established remotely in a similar manner. In use, the connector structure can be connected to a lift line and lowered into the inlet area via a water column. For this purpose, the connector structure can also be connected, or alternatively, to a mooring line. Alternatively, the lift line can be primarily used to control the position of the connector structure within the water column, and the mooring line can be used for additional control of guiding the engagement portion along the guide channel.

[0079] Dedicated guide wires (optionally having a lighter construction than mooring lines) can be used to connect to the connector structure at or near the attachment point.

[0080] The mooring system may include a cover structure sized and positioned within and blocking the entrance portion of the guide channel. The cover structure may extend fully across the guide channel.

[0081] The cover structure may optionally be placed in the inlet portion of the guide channel to reduce the accumulation of dirt (e.g., residue or marine organisms) on the surface area defining the guide channel. The cover structure also resists movement of the engagement portion proximally toward the inlet portion of the guide channel during use. The cover structure can prevent or resist movement of the engagement portion away from the end region of the guide channel.

[0082] The cover structure can have any suitable construction, but conveniently it has a hollow solid construction to most effectively protect the inlet portion from dirt. The cover structure can be ballasted, or is adapted to be ballasted. A connector (which can be releasable, optionally remotely releasable) can be provided on the upper part of the cover structure, through which the cover structure can be raised or lowered during use.

[0083] The mooring system may include mooring lines attached to the attachment portion of the connector structure. The mooring lines may be braided cables, chains, etc.

[0084] The mooring system may include a lifting line for connecting to the connector structure. The lifting line may be a braided cable, chain, etc.

[0085] Mooring lines can have a relatively heavy construction to withstand the forces applied to the moored vessel. In contrast, lift lines can have a lighter construction, and in some embodiments, the lighter lift lines allow for easier control of the movement of the connector structure. Similar considerations apply to lift lines used for moving cover structures or for deploying anchoring structures, ballast, etc., as discussed in further detail below.

[0086] The mooring system may include surface equipment such as raising or lowering anchorage structures, connector structures, and, where applicable, cover structures. Surface equipment may include mechanical winches. Surface equipment may include one or more vessels and / or one or more floating devices used for moving any forces applied to any guide lines of the mooring line and / or lifting line.

[0087] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for connecting a mooring line to the seabed is provided, the method comprising:

[0088] A connector structure and an anchoring structure are provided. The connector structure has a mating portion and an attachment portion to a mooring line. The anchoring structure is anchored to the seabed. The anchoring structure includes an open guide channel sized to at least accommodate the mating portion of the connector structure and has a longitudinal opening extending upward from the open guide channel.

[0089] The connector structure is lowered into the entrance region of the guide channel, or the joint portion is lowered to the entrance region adjacent to the guide channel and moved approximately parallel to the entrance region.

[0090] The joint portion moves from the inlet area along the guide channel to the distal end area of ​​the guide channel;

[0091] The connector structure's engagement portion is engaged with the guide channel's end portion, such that the end portion retains the engagement portion to prevent it from moving upwards or away from the inlet area; and the end portion is configured to support the connector structure; and

[0092] The mooring line extends from the attachment point in a generally upward direction relative to the guide channel or in a generally distant direction away from the entrance area.

[0093] It will be understood that when the mooring line is connected to the attachment portion, the engagement portion moves from the inlet region along the guide channel to the distal region of the guide channel. The longitudinal opening provides an inlet for the mooring line to remain connected to the attachment portion throughout the process. For example, the mooring line may need to be moved to allow the connector structure to pivot, and the longitudinal opening through the guide channel provides this inlet.

[0094] As the mooring line extends generally toward the far end in a direction away from the entrance area, a tension is applied generally along the seabed via the mooring line, and this tension is used to maintain the connection between the connector structure and the anchoring structure.

[0095] It will be understood that the term "generally in the direction of the farthest point from the entrance area" covers a directional range assuming that the principal component of the force applied between the connector structure and the anchoring structure is used to keep the connector structure and the anchoring structure engaged with each other. If the vessel to which the mooring line extends is moving on the water, the upward component of the force can be applied via the mooring line. The engagement between the joint and the end region of the guide channel prevents the connector structure from being removed from the guide channel.

[0096] The method may include moving the engagement portion substantially horizontally along at least a portion of the guide channel. For example, as disclosed above, the engagement portion may be moved horizontally to engage with the end region, and / or the engagement portion may be guided along an inclined inlet portion to a substantially horizontal portion of the guide channel.

[0097] The method may include lowering a connector structure through a column of water. The connector structure may be lowered through a column of water at least partially suspended above a mooring line. The connector structure may be lowered through a column of water at least partially suspended above a lift line. The method may include attaching a lift line to the connector structure (as disclosed herein, via one or more connectors).

[0098] The movement of the joint portion to the inlet area and along the guide channel to the end area can be achieved by the mooring line and / or, where present, the lift line.

[0099] In some implementations, the guide line may also be connected to the connector structure (optionally connected to the connector structure at the water surface), and the movement of the connector structure through the water jet to the inlet region and / or along the guide channel may be at least partially guided by the guide line.

[0100] The movement of the connector structure through the water jet to the inlet area and / or along the guide channel to the end area can be controlled from the water surface or from above the water surface.

[0101] The method may include deploying and / or retracting the mooring line, lift line, and / or guide line, and thereby performing one or more steps of the method. The method may include moving the vessel on the water surface to apply force to the mooring line, lift line, and / or guide line, and thereby performing one or more steps of the method. The method may include pulling or towing a connector portion via the mooring line, guide line, and / or lift line.

[0102] When the connector structure is moved to the inlet area and / or along the guide channel to the end area, one or more of the mooring line, lifting line and / or guide line can be attached or connected to the connector structure via the longitudinal opening.

[0103] When the connector structure is moved to the inlet area and / or along the guide channel to the end area, one or more of the mooring line, lifting line, guide line and / or attachment portion may extend through the longitudinal opening.

[0104] The steps that include moving the connector portion do not include the use of ROVs and / or divers.

[0105] The mooring line may extend distally away from the inlet area before, during, or after the engagement section moves along the guide channel.

[0106] The method may include laying mooring lines of at least a certain length along the seabed.

[0107] The longitudinal opening may include extending from the guide channel to the distal end of the terminal region, and the method may include extending the mooring line generally horizontally from the attachment portion—for example, along the seabed.

[0108] The method may include lowering the engagement portion onto an inclined inlet region, wherein the inclined surface deflects the engagement portion toward the end region of the guide channel.

[0109] The method may include connecting the mooring line to the attachment point above the water surface (by any suitable means).

[0110] The method may include anchoring the anchoring structure to the seabed. Anchoring may be carried out by one or more of the following: ballast (e.g., placing ballast weights on the anchoring structure), drilling piles into the seabed, drilling anchor claws into the seabed, or any other suitable anchoring method known in the art.

[0111] The method may include lowering the anchoring structure through a column of water, for example, by using a lifting line to lower the anchoring structure through a column of water.

[0112] The method may include disconnecting the lift line from the connector structure and / or anchoring structure. This disconnection may be achieved by releasing the lift line to become slack, and thereby “unhooking” the lift line from one or more connectors by using a control line or a loop, etc.

[0113] The guide channel may include a vertical longitudinal plane of symmetry. The method may include moving the engagement portion along a trajectory within a lateral trajectory range away from the longitudinal plane into the inlet region. The method may include contacting the engagement portion with a tapering inlet region of the guide channel, wherein the engagement portion slides against or rolls along the tapering inlet region, thereby guiding the engagement portion toward the end region.

[0114] The method may include inserting a cover structure into the inlet region.

[0115] The method may include removing the cover structure from the inlet area to allow the engagement portion to subsequently move into the inlet area.

[0116] A lifting line can be used to insert and / or remove the cover structure.

[0117] The method may accordingly include connecting and / or disconnecting the lift wire from the cover structure. In embodiments where the lift wire is used with respect to the connector structure, the same or different lift wires may be used with respect to the cover structure.

[0118] The connection and / or disconnection of the lift line can be carried out at the surface of the seabed. The disconnection and / or connection of the lift line to the cap structure at the seabed can be controlled from the water surface.

[0119] This method may include using a mooring line from the first aspect.

[0120] The method may include mooring a vessel, such as a floating power generation device as described in WO 2018 / 115806. The method may include connecting the proximal end of a mooring line to the vessel. This can be done before or after the connector structure is lowered through a column of water (e.g., after the connector structure has been engaged with the anchoring structure). For example, the proximal end of the mooring line can be transferred from the deployment vessel used to deploy the mooring system to the vessel to be moored.

[0121] The method may include connecting more than one mooring line, such as more than one mooring line extending from a single vessel.

[0122] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for disconnecting a mooring line is provided. Disconnecting the mooring line may include performing the steps of the method of the second aspect in reverse order.

[0123] Methods for disconnecting the mooring line may include:

[0124] A connector structure and an anchoring structure are provided. The connector structure has a mating portion and an attachment portion that attaches to a mooring line. The anchoring structure is anchored to the seabed. The anchoring structure includes an open guide channel having a longitudinal opening extending upward from the open guide channel.

[0125] The joint portion engages with the end region of the guide channel, and the mooring line extends from the attachment portion in a generally distal direction relative to the guide channel, away from the entrance region of the guide channel.

[0126] The method includes moving the engagement portion from the distal region along the guide channel towards the proximal end to the entrance region of the guide channel; and

[0127] The joint portion of the connector structure is raised to leave the entrance area of ​​the guide channel, or the joint portion is moved approximately horizontally away from the entrance area.

[0128] In some embodiments, the method includes disconnecting the connector structure from the anchoring structure as the mooring line extends substantially distally away from the inlet region. For example, the method may include connecting a lift line to the connector structure and moving the connector structure proximally away from the end region and away from the inlet region.

[0129] In some embodiments, the method may include moving the mooring line such that it extends generally upward and / or toward the inlet area towards the proximal end.

[0130] This method may include at least partially moving the connector structure proximal to the end region and away from the inlet region by pulling the mooring line. Alternatively or additionally, a lift line and / or guide line may be used.

[0131] This invention is not limited to marine applications, but can be used in any body of water, including lakes, river estuaries, etc. Therefore, the term "seabed" as used herein should be considered as applicable to any such body of water, and is thus interchangeable with "riverbed," "lakebed," etc.

[0132] Terms such as “above,” “below,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “along,” “to the side of,” “horizontal,” “lateral,” or “laterally” refer to the orientation when the anchorage section is located on a horizontal seabed and should not be construed as excluding such characteristics related to other orientations of the anchorage. It should be understood that in use, the orientation of the anchorage structure may differ from horizontal due to slope, debris, or other features of the seabed.

[0133] It should be understood that optional features disclosed with respect to one aspect of the invention correspond to optional features of any other aspect of the invention. The disclosure herein relating to the function, construction, or use of features of the device should be accordingly understood to correspond to the steps of the method as disclosed herein, and the disclosure herein relating to the method should also be understood to cover devices having such features required to perform this method. Attached Figure Description

[0134] A non-limiting exemplary embodiment will now be described with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:

[0135] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the mooring system;

[0136] Figure 2 This is an exploded three-dimensional diagram of the mooring system;

[0137] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the mooring system, showing an open structure inserted into the entrance area of ​​the guide channel; and Figure 4 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the mooring system is shown, in which the cover structure is inserted into the inlet region of the guide channel;

[0138] Figure 5 The vehicle is shown during the deployment of the mooring system; and

[0139] Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view of an alternative anchoring system. Detailed Implementation

[0140] Figures 1 to 4 An embodiment of mooring system 1 is shown. The mooring system includes a connector structure 10 and an anchoring structure 20 that rests on the seabed during use. The system also includes a cover structure 30, which will be discussed in further detail below.

[0141] Anchoring structure 20 defines a guide channel, generally indicated as 22, which extends from inlet region 24 to end region 26. As discussed in further detail below, the end region includes a receiving portion in the form of a recess or hook-like portion 200, 202 that retains the connector structure.

[0142] The sides of the channel are defined by side plates 28a and 28b. In the illustrated embodiment, the base surface region of the guide channel 22 (including the inclined surface 24a at the entrance region 24) is defined by a casting 28c to provide ballast for the anchoring structure.

[0143] Side plates 28a and 28b also include optional tapered protrusions 228a and 228b, which in use help guide the connector structure toward the inlet area and guide the connector structure to engage with the anchoring structure.

[0144] In alternative embodiments, separate ballasts may be used; the entire anchoring structure or those portions defining the channel may be cast, or otherwise formed from a single block or hollow tubular longitudinal beam, or virtually any other suitable form of structure may be used. In yet other embodiments, the receiving portion may be integral with the side plate.

[0145] The guide channel 22 extends from the inlet region 24 to the end region 22 along its upper portion between the side plate and the receiving forming portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper opening of the guide channel also extends distally towards the end region, and... Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the middle, the upper opening of the guide channel is occupied by the mooring line attachment (discussed below).

[0146] The connector structure 10 includes an attachment portion 12 near one end of the connector structure 10 and a engagement portion 14 near the other end of the connector structure 10. Similar to the anchoring structure 20, the connector structure shown is symmetrical about the longitudinal plane.

[0147] The guide channel 22 is sized to accommodate the engagement portion 14. When the engagement portion engages in the end region 26 of the guide channel 22, it prevents the engagement portion from moving further away from the guide channel in the distal direction D or the upward direction U. The end region 26 is also configured (in the illustrated embodiment, by means of the upward orientation of the base surface region of the end region 26) to support the weight of the engagement portion. Therefore, the engagement portion will remain engaged in this manner when no force is applied to the connector structure 10.

[0148] The engagement portion 14 includes two engagement forming portions 140 and 142 extending laterally from the engagement portion 14. The engagement forming portions are sized to engage with corresponding receiving forming portions 200, 202. Since the connector structure and anchoring structure are symmetrical, any engagement forming portion can engage with any receiving forming portion.

[0149] The engagement portions 140 and 142 each include a central pin or central axis 140b or 142b around which rotatable members 140a and 142a (rotatable members 140a and 142a in the form of bearings or bushings) are located. The rotatable members 140 and 142 allow the connector portion to rotate when engaged in the end region of the guide channel without causing excessive wear. This movement is typically caused by connection to a mooring line in use.

[0150] The attachment portion 12 includes means for attaching the mooring line to the connector structure, such as a mooring chain. The attachment portion is provided with an eyelet 120 through which a pin 121 is fastened to an H-shaped plate 122. This arrangement provides lateral movement of the mooring chain (not shown) relative to the connector portion during use, thereby reducing lateral forces and thus reducing movement of the connector portion.

[0151] The mooring system 1 also includes a cover structure 30, which is sized to be received in and block the entrance region 24 of the guide channel 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover structure 30 advantageously extends across the entire base surface area extending between the sides of the guide channel to block the entrance region 24, thereby preventing the accumulation of marine organisms, debris, or other contaminants in the guide channel; otherwise, such accumulation could hinder the connection and disconnection of the connector structure and the anchoring structure. The cover structure also prevents or resists movement of the engagement portion away from the end region of the guide channel. The cover structure is provided with connector holes 32, 33 for lifting and / or guiding the cover structure using a lift line or guide line.

[0152] The mooring system 1 can be used to connect the mooring line 40 to the seabed. At the water surface, the mooring line 40 can be connected to the attachment portion 12 of the connector structure 10 in a conventional manner—for example, by having the pins 123 and bolts 124 at the end of the H-shaped plate 122 of the connector structure pass through the connecting portion in the mooring chain or the end loop in the mooring cable.

[0153] Reference Figure 5 The connector structure 10 can securely fasten a lightweight lifting cable 50. A drag cord 52 at the end of the lifting cable can be connected to a releasable connector, such as a hook or eyelet, near the engagement portion 14 of the connector structure 10. Alternatively, the drag cord 52 can loop around the laterally extending engagement portions 140, 142.

[0154] The connector section can then be lowered from vessel 60 through a water column. In the illustrated embodiment, this is a deployment vessel with a winch 62 and rollers 64 for releasing the mooring line 40. Crane 66 includes a corresponding winch (not shown) for releasing the lifting line 50. The crane is capable of rotating and extending to achieve control over the position of connector structure 10 as described below.

[0155] Then, the engagement portion 14 of the connector structure 10 descends into the inlet region 24 of the guide channel 22. The inclined surface 24a of the inlet region 24 is angled such that the engagement portion 14 is deflected approximately downward and laterally along the inclined surface toward the end region 26 of the guide channel.

[0156] The distal end 24b, which extends downward from the entrance region and forms a line between the proximal ends of the terminal region, tapers relative to the inclined surface 24a and is larger than the engagement portion 14 in the longitudinal plane at the upper end of the entrance region (in the illustrated embodiment, at the top level of block 28c). The entrance region is thus configured to receive the engagement portion from the trajectory range in the longitudinal plane and / or the range of relative angles between the engagement portion and the entrance region.

[0157] The tapered protective portions 228a and 228b of the side plates 28a and 28b also help to deflect the joint portion toward the entrance area as the joint portion descends along a trajectory laterally offset from the longitudinal symmetry plane of the guide channel.

[0158] The longitudinal opening along the guide channel allows the engagement portion 14 to enter the guide channel and move along the end region 26 of the guide channel while the attachment portion 12 is connected to the mooring line 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal channel is wide enough to allow portions of the H-shaped plate 122 and the connector structure 10 located around the eyelet 120 to extend at least partially into the longitudinal opening or extend through the longitudinal opening and extend from a generally vertical (relative to the engagement portion) orientation range to a generally horizontal range along the seabed, as shown.

[0159] like Figure 5 As shown, the connector structure can be deployed from the stern of the vessel 60, and the mooring line 40 can be extended or pulled as needed to control the position of the connector structure 10 and at least in some way help to guide the engagement portion 12 along the guide channel 22 to the end portion 26.

[0160] Alternatively, other leads (not shown) may be used.

[0161] Once the engagement forming parts 140, 142 have moved to engage with the receiving forming parts 200, 202 at the end region 26 of the guide channel 22, the lifting line 50 can be released, for example by releasing a hydraulic actuating pin, such as the hydraulic actuating pin of a hydraulic release hook (HRS) manufactured by LMHandling of Campbell, UK. The hydraulic pin mechanism, hydraulic control line, and associated equipment are not shown in the figure.

[0162] In the final step, the same or another lifting line can be used to lower the cover structure 30 into the entrance region 24. (As can be seen by comparison...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 A side view without side panel 28b is shown, allowing the outline of the guide channel to be seen. As can be seen, cover structure 30 is configured to extend longitudinally and completely across the entrance region from one side to the other. Cover structure 30 also has a profile opposite to that of the inclined surface 24a.

[0163] The cover structure not only protects the guide channel from dirt accumulation, but also provides an additional barrier for removing the engagement portion 14 from the guide channel.

[0164] The mooring line 40 can be disconnected by performing these steps in roughly the reverse order. In some embodiments, removal of the engagement portion 14 from the guide channel 22 can be achieved without the use of a lifting line, but only with the action of the mooring line. The longitudinal channel allows the attachment portion 12, through which the mooring line passes, to swing or pivot (about the rotating members 140a, 142a) in a generally proximal P orientation relative to the guide channel, such that the connector structure 10 can be pulled from the longitudinal channel with the action of the mooring line 40.

[0165] As described above, the relative ease and simplicity of connecting or disconnecting the mooring line—which can be controlled roughly or entirely from the surface (by moving the vessel 60, winch 62, and / or crane 66)—allows the mooring line to be removed and inspected or replaced more quickly, easily, and cost-effectively. Conversely, because these operations are not overly costly, the mooring line itself does not need to remain in place for such a long period, and the mooring line can have a lighter and / or more cost-effective construction.

[0166] Figure 6 A schematic plan view of another anchoring structure 70 is shown. Similar to anchoring structure 20, anchoring structure 70 has a guide channel 722. The guide channel 722 extends from an inlet region 724 to an end region 726. The end region includes a receiving portion in the form of a recess or hook-like portion 7200, 7202 that retains the connector structure.

[0167] The sides of the channel are defined by side plates 728a and 728b. The side plates taper outward toward the proximal end of the channel to define a laterally tapered inlet region 724, which further facilitates guiding the engagement portion of the connector structure from the laterally approaching trajectory toward the end region 726 of the channel 722.

[0168] While exemplary embodiments have been described herein, these embodiments should not be construed as limiting possible modifications and variations within the scope of the invention as disclosed herein and set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A mooring system for mooring a floating vessel, the mooring system comprising: A connector structure, the connector structure including a mating portion and an attachment portion for attachment to a mooring line; as well as An anchoring structure configured to be anchored to the seabed; The anchoring structure includes an open guide channel extending from an inlet region to an end region, and the guide channel is sized to at least accommodate the engagement portion of the connector structure. A longitudinal opening extends upward from the open guide channel to provide an entry point for a mooring line connected to the attachment portion when the engagement portion is located in the guide channel. Wherein, when the engaging portion engages with the end region of the guiding channel; At least the end region is configured to support the connector structure, and The end region includes at least one receiving formation extending above the engagement portion, such that the engagement portion is held by the end region to prevent the engagement portion from moving upward away from the guide channel when the upward component of the force is applied via the mooring line.

2. The mooring system according to claim 1, wherein, The longitudinal opening extends from the guide channel toward the distal end of the terminal region.

3. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guide channel is defined at least partially by a base surface region that extends between the guide channels and is generally oriented upward at least in the end regions of the guide channels.

4. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guiding channel is defined at least in part by side surface regions that are generally oriented toward each other.

5. The mooring system according to claim 4, wherein, The longitudinal opening extends along the guide channel between the side surface regions.

6. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The entrance region of the guide channel can be configured such that the engagement portion of the connector structure can descend into the guide channel.

7. The mooring system according to claim 6, wherein, At least the inlet region of the guide channel includes a ramp oriented to guide the engagement portion distally toward the end region as it descends into the inlet region and onto the ramp.

8. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The inlet region is configured to receive the engagement portion from the approach trajectory range, wherein the guide channel defines a longitudinal plane of symmetry, and the lateral approach trajectory range relative to the longitudinal plane of symmetry is accommodated by the laterally tapering inlet region.

9. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The receiving forming portion is used to receive the engaging portion of the connector structure and engage with the engaging portion of the connector structure.

10. The mooring system according to claim 9, wherein, The guiding channel is defined at least in part by the following: side surface regions that are generally oriented toward each other; and a base surface region extending between the side surface regions and oriented generally upward, wherein the distal portions of one or both side surface regions define the receiving portion.

11. The mooring system according to claim 9, wherein, The engagement portion of the connector structure includes engagement portions corresponding to the receiving formation portion or each of the receiving formation portions.

12. The mooring system according to claim 11, wherein, The joining portion or each joining portion includes a rotatable element.

13. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The anchoring structure is ballasted, the anchoring structure includes anchor claws for securing the anchoring structure to the seabed, and / or wherein the anchoring structure is secured to the seabed by screws or piles.

14. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The attachment portion is adapted to facilitate lateral and / or vertical movement of the mooring line attached to the attachment portion.

15. The mooring system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a cover structure sized to be positioned in the inlet portion of the guide channel and to block the inlet portion of the guide channel.

16. The mooring system of claim 1 or 2, comprising a mooring line attached to the attachment portion of the connector structure.

17. The mooring system of claim 1 or 2, comprising a lifting line for connection to the connector structure.

18. A method for connecting a mooring line to the seabed, the method comprising: A connector structure and an anchoring structure are provided, the connector structure having a mating portion and an attachment portion to a mooring line, the anchoring structure being anchored to the seabed, wherein the anchoring structure includes an open guide channel sized to at least accommodate the mating portion of the connector structure, and having a longitudinal opening extending upward from the open guide channel; The engaging portion of the connector structure is lowered into the entrance region of the guide channel, or the engaging portion is lowered to a position adjacent to the entrance region of the guide channel and the engaging portion is moved approximately horizontally into the entrance region; The engaging portion is moved distally from the inlet region along the guide channel to the end region of the guide channel, wherein the end region includes at least one receiving portion; Engaging the engagement portion of the connector structure with the end region of the guide channel, such that at least one receiving portion extends above the engagement portion and the end region retains the engagement portion to prevent upward movement of the engagement portion from the inlet region when an upward component of the force applied via the mooring line is present, and the end region is configured to support the connector structure; and The mooring line extends from the attachment portion in a generally upward direction relative to the guide channel or in a generally distal direction away from the entrance area.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising lowering the connector structure by a column of water at least partially suspended above the lift line or the mooring line.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The movement of the joining portion into the inlet region and along the guide channel to the end region can be achieved by the mooring line and / or the lift line controlled from or above the water surface.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, While the connector structure is moved to the inlet region and / or along the guide channel to the end region, one or more of the mooring lines and / or the lift line, if present, are attached to or connected to the connector structure via the longitudinal opening.

22. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein, The mooring line extends distally away from the inlet area before, during, or after the engagement portion moves along the guide channel.

23. The method according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising lowering the engagement portion onto the inclined entry region, wherein, The ramp deflects the engagement portion toward the end region of the guide channel.

24. The method of claim 18, comprising: Insert the cover structure into the inlet area; And / or remove the cover structure from the entrance area.

25. A method for disconnecting a mooring line, the method comprising: A connector structure and an anchoring structure are provided, the connector structure having a mating portion and an attachment portion for attaching to a mooring line, the anchoring structure being anchored to the seabed, wherein the anchoring structure includes an open guide channel having a longitudinal opening extending upward from the open guide channel; The engagement portion engages with the end region of the guide channel, wherein the end region includes at least one receiving formation extending above the engagement portion such that the end region retains the engagement portion to prevent the engagement portion from moving upward away from the guide channel when an upward component of the force is applied via the mooring line, and the end region is configured to support the connector structure; and wherein the mooring line extends from the attachment portion in a generally upward direction relative to the guide channel or in a direction distal to the entrance region of the guide channel; The method includes: The engaging portion is moved from the distal region along the guide channel proximally to the inlet region of the guide channel; and The engaging portion of the connector structure is raised away from the inlet region of the guide channel, or the engaging portion is moved substantially horizontally away from the inlet region.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein, The connector structure moves away from the guide channel via the mooring line.

27. The method of claim 25, comprising: Insert the cover structure into the inlet area; And / or remove the cover structure from the entrance area.

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