Coupling

Abstract

Disclosed is a coupler for coupling a ship cable and a tugboat cable. The coupler includes a coupling region for receiving the ship cable and the tugboat cable. The guide is configured to receive the connector and guide the connector around the coupling region for winding the connector around the cable. The securing member is configured to secure the connector to the cable such that the cable is coupled. The securing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling for coupling a ship cable and a tugboat cable, a cable handling system for a tugboat, and a coupling for the tugboat. Background Art

[0002] A tugboat helps maneuver another ship by pushing or pulling it. For example, the other ship may not be allowed to move under its own propulsion, such as a container ship in a crowded port or narrow canal, or a ship that may not be able to move under its own propulsion, such as an incapacitated vessel.

[0003] In order to enable a tugboat to tow another ship (such as a container ship), a towing cable must extend between the tugboat and the other ship and be fixed to the tugboat and the other ship. One way to provide such a towing cable involves a cable of increasing strength (and usually increasing diameter) that is continuously exchanged between the ships. For example, the end of the skimming cable is thrown from another ship (such as from the front of the stern of another ship) to a position on the front deck of the tugboat. The skimming cable is then tied to a lead line stored on the tugboat. The lead line is attached to a towing cable that is also stored on the tugboat and attached to the tugboat. Then, for example, using the winch of another ship, the skimming cable and thereafter the lead line and then the towing cable are pulled to the other ship. The towing cable is then attached to the other ship, such as by being placed on a mooring bollard on the other ship. The tugboat is then able to manipulate the other ship using the towing line extending between the tugboats. However, it may be difficult to accurately throw the skimming cable to the desired position on the front deck. There may also be a risk that crew members on the foredeck may be struck and possibly injured when the skimmer line is thrown to the tugboat. Thus, an improved system may be required to address these issues. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the connector comprising: a connecting area for receiving the ship cable and the tugboat cable; a guide configured to receive a connector and guide the connector around the connecting area so as to wrap the connector around the cable; and a fixing member configured to fix the connector to the cable so that the cables are connected, wherein the fixing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

[0005] By bending the connector before it is received by the guide, the connector can be pre-bent before it is wrapped around the cable. This can help reduce the likelihood of the connector getting stuck in the guide. In addition, the pre-bending of the connector can help guide the connector around the cable in the coupling area. The coupler may also be able to withstand and operate in harsh / tough conditions (e.g., severe weather conditions) in which it may be dangerous to the crew.

[0006] Optionally, the guide comprises a channel for guiding the connector around the coupling area, and a roller arranged along the channel to guide the connector along the channel. The roller can help push the connector along the channel, which can help reduce the possibility of the connector getting stuck in the channel.

[0007] Optionally, the coupler is configured to wrap the connector around the cable multiple times. This can help ensure that the connector is adequately secured to the cable. Optionally, the number of times the connector is wrapped around the cable is determined based on the thickness of the cable. This can allow the amount of connector used to be customized for the specific cable being coupled, which can help reduce the use of too much or too little connector.

[0008] Optionally, the connector includes a feed mechanism configured to feed the connector from the supplier toward the fixed member, and the fixed member includes a cutting element configured to cut the connector from the supplier. In this way, the fixed member can act to couple the cables together and cut the connector from the supplier. This can help increase the simplicity of the system because fewer components can be used. In addition, since there may be fewer components, this can reduce the possibility of failure in the system.

[0009] Optionally, the cutting element includes a lip extending around the periphery of the fixing member. Optionally, the lip is integrally formed with the cutting element. Optionally, the fixing member includes a hardened material. This can help cut the connector from the supplier. In addition, this can help reduce the possibility of the fixing member being damaged when cutting the connector from the supplier.

[0010] Optionally, the coupling comprises a supply of connectors. Optionally, the supply comprises a mandrel on which the connector is wound. Optionally, the supply and / or mandrel are removable from the coupling. This may allow replacement and / or replenishment of the supply and / or mandrel to ensure that the coupling does not run out of connectors.

[0011] Optionally, the feed mechanism is configured to feed the connector toward the fixed member at a first rate, and the roller is configured to rotate at a second rate, the second rate being greater than the first rate. In this way, the roller rotates at a faster speed than the speed at which the connector passes through the coupling. This can help the roller push the connector through the channel to help reduce the possibility of the connector getting stuck in the channel.

[0012] Optionally, the connector comprises a length of wire. Optionally, the wire has a diameter between 0.5 and 3 millimeters. Optionally, the wire has a diameter between 0.5 and 2 millimeters. Optionally, the wire has a diameter between 0.7 millimeters and 0.9 millimeters. By providing a relatively thin wire, the wire can be cut more easily from the supplier. Optionally, the wire comprises stainless steel.

[0013] Optionally, the fixing member is actuatable to twist the free ends of the connector together, thereby fixing the connector to the cable. In this way, no additional elements are needed to fix the connector to the cable, which can help reduce the complexity of the system.

[0014] Optionally, the fixing member is actuatable so as to twist the free ends of the connector together and cut the connector from the supply. Both twisting and cutting can occur substantially simultaneously, which can increase the speed and / or efficiency of the system.

[0015] Optionally, the fixing member can rotate about the axis of rotation to fix the connector to the cable, and the fixing member can translate along the axis of rotation to move the cutting element relative to the supplier to cut the connector from the supplier. By translating the fixing member along the axis of rotation, this can help force the cutting member against the connector to cut the connector from the supplier. Optionally, when the fixing member rotates about the axis of rotation, the fixing member reciprocates along the axis of rotation.

[0016] Optionally, the fixing member includes a cylindrical cam engageable with a protrusion of the coupler to cause the fixing member to translate along the axis of rotation during rotation of the fixing member about the axis of rotation. This may cause the fixing member to translate along the axis of rotation while rotating about the axis of rotation, which may enable the connector to be cut from the supplier and fixed to the cable substantially simultaneously.

[0017] Optionally, the securing member is configured to rotate a predetermined number of times to secure the connector to the cable. For example, the securing member may be rotated 5 to 15 times, 7 to 13 times, 9 to 11 times, or 10 times. This can help ensure that the connector is adequately secured to the cable, and can also help ensure that the connector is completely cut from the supply.

[0018] Optionally, the fixing member includes a curved surface, and the fixing member can be aligned with the feeding mechanism so that the connector is guided toward the curved surface to bend the connector. When the connector contacts the curved surface, the curved surface can act to passively bend the connector. In this way, the connector can be bent before the connector is received by the guide member without the use of additional components.

[0019] Optionally, the fixing member includes a pair of protrusions, and the connecting member is configured to pass between the pair of protrusions, wherein the pair of protrusions engage with the connecting member when the fixing member rotates, so that the connecting member is twisted when the fixing member rotates. The protrusions can allow the fixing member to engage with the connecting member without requiring additional devices to clamp the connecting member, which can help simplify the coupling.

[0020] Optionally, the coupling comprises a motor configured to actuate the fixed member. Optionally, the motor is an electric motor. Optionally, the motor comprises a position sensor configured to sense the position of a rotor of the motor. Optionally, the position of the rotor is used to determine the state of the coupling. For example, the position of the motor can be used to determine the amount of connector used, and therefore the amount of connector remaining in the supply. Optionally, the position sensor comprises an encoder. The encoder can allow the position of the rotor of the motor to be known. This information can be used to determine how much rotation of the rotor has occurred.

[0021] Optionally, the coupling area is defined by the housing and the channel of the guide is arranged in the surface of the housing. Optionally, the channel extends around more than 50% of the circumference of the coupling area. Optionally, the channel extends around more than 75% of the circumference of the coupling area. Optionally, the channel extends around substantially the entire circumference of the coupling area. This can help wrap the connector completely around the cable.

[0022] Optionally, the housing comprises a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is movable relative to the second section. Optionally, the first component is hingedly attached to the second component. Optionally, the coupling comprises another motor configured to move the first section relative to the second section. In this way, the first section can be moved relative to the second section to allow and / or restrict movement of the cable in and out of the coupling area.

[0023] Optionally, the coupler is operable in a first configuration in which the housing restricts movement of the cable in first and second axes orthogonal to each other but does not restrict movement of the cable in a third axis orthogonal to both the first and second axes, and in a second configuration in which the housing restricts movement of the cable in the first axis but does not restrict movement in the second and third axes. This can help retain the cable in the coupling zone in the first configuration when the connector is applied, while allowing the cable to freely enter and leave the coupling zone in the second configuration, such as after the connector is applied or before the connector is applied.

[0024] Optionally, a ship comprises a coupling according to the first aspect of the present invention. Optionally, the ship comprises a tugboat.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a cable handling system is provided, which includes a connector for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the connector including: a connecting area, the connecting area is used to receive the ship cable and the tugboat cable; a guide, the guide is configured to receive a connector and guide the connector around the connecting area so as to wrap the connector around the cable; and a fixing member, the fixing member is configured to fix the connector to the cable so that the cable is connected, wherein the fixing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

[0026] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tugboat, comprising a connector for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the connector comprising: a connecting area, the connecting area being used to connect the ship cable and the tugboat cable; a guide, the guide being configured to receive a connector and guide the connector around the connecting area so as to wrap the connector around the cable; and a fixing member, the fixing member being configured to fix the connector to the cable so that the cable is connected, wherein the fixing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

[0027] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tugboat, comprising a cable handling system, the cable handling system comprising a connector for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the connector comprising: a connecting area, the connecting area being used to receive the ship cable and the tugboat cable; a guide, the guide being configured to receive a connector and guide the connector around the connecting area so as to wrap the connector around the cable; and a fixing member, the fixing member being configured to fix the connector to the cable so that the cable is connected, wherein the fixing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

[0028] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the method comprising: providing a connector; placing the ship cable and the tugboat cable in a connecting area of ​​a connector, the connector comprising a guide configured to receive the connector and guide the connector around the connecting area, and a fixing member configured to fix the connector to the cable; bending the connector before the connector is received by the guide; guiding the connector around the connecting area so as to wrap the connector around the cable; and fixing the connector to the cable with the fixing member so that the cables are connected.

[0029] Where appropriate, optional features of one aspect of the invention may be equally applicable to other aspects of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 A partial schematic top view of an example of a tugboat according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a cable guiding mechanism of a cable handling system of the tugboat is located at a stowed position on or near a deck of the hull of the tugboat;

[0032] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A schematic front view of a tugboat of FIG. 1 , wherein the cable guiding mechanism has been moved to an operating position in which the cable guiding mechanism is used to guide a portion of a cable of the tugboat towards a predetermined area of ​​the periphery of the hull;

[0033] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 A schematic front view of a tugboat of FIG. 1 , wherein the cable guiding mechanism has been moved to a deployed position in which the cable guiding mechanism protrudes away from the hull above the water in which the tugboat sits for guiding the cable of the vessel towards a predetermined area of ​​the periphery of the hull;

[0034] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 A partial schematic top view of a tugboat, in which it can be seen that the cable of the tugboat has been guided to a predetermined area around the hull by a cable guiding mechanism;

[0035] Figure 5 Shows Figure 3 and Figure 4 A partial schematic top view of a tugboat of FIG. 1 , wherein the tugboat is now adjacent to the vessel to be assisted and the cable of the vessel is draped over one of the two guiding arms of the cable guiding mechanism;

[0036] Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 A partial schematic top view of a tugboat of , wherein a guide arm covering a cable of the vessel has been rotated relative to the hull so that a distal end of the guide arm is closer to an axis extending in a fore-aft direction of the tugboat;

[0037] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 a partial schematic top view of a tugboat of wherein a secondary guide of the cable guide mechanism has been rotated relative to the guide arm to drive the cable of the vessel along the guide arm towards a predetermined area of ​​the periphery of the hull;

[0038] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 a partial schematic top view of a tugboat of , wherein the secondary guide has been further rotated relative to the guide arm to lift the vessel's cable from the guide arm and convey the cable further toward a predetermined area of ​​the periphery;

[0039] Fig. 9 shows a schematic isometric view of the coupling in a first configuration;

[0040] Fig.10 Shows Fig. 9 A schematic isometric view of a coupling in a second configuration;

[0041] Fig.11 Shows Fig. 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of a coupling of ;

[0042] Fig.12 Shows Fig. 9 A schematic isometric view of a coupling member of a coupling of ;

[0043] Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 A schematic side view of a connecting member;

[0044] Fig.14 Shows Fig.12 A schematic top view of a connecting member;

[0045] Fig.15 Shown by Fig. 9 A partial schematic side view of a cable connected by a connector using a connector;

[0046] Fig.16 Shows Fig. 9 A partial schematic isometric cross-sectional view of a coupling of ;

[0047] Fig.17 and Fig.18 schematic isometric and front views, respectively, showing a roller of a coupling;

[0048] Fig.19 shows a partial schematic top view of a tugboat in which cables are connected by connectors and have been removed from the coupling area of ​​the coupling; and

[0049] Fig. 20 A flow chart showing a method of coupling a vessel cable to a tugboat cable. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Figure 1 A partial schematic top view of an example of a tugboat 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The tugboat 1 is used to assist in maneuvering a ship (such as a container ship). The tugboat 1 includes a hull 11 having a perimeter P defined by fenders of the tugboat 1. In some examples, the fenders are omitted. The tugboat 1 includes a deck 12 within the perimeter P and a wheelhouse 18 on the deck 12. The tugboat 1 also includes a pair of cable storages 16 for storing cables 15, wherein each of the cable storages 16 is in the form of a winch. The cables 15 stored by the cable storages 16 are towing cables 15 (also referred to as towing cables in the art).

[0051] The tugboat 1 also carries a messenger cable 13 which is used in the process of towing a towing cable 15 from the tugboat 1 to a vessel to be assisted by the tugboat 1. When not in use, the messenger cable 13 is stored on the deck 12 itself. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , the lead cable 13 is shown as having a first end coupled to the free end of one of the towing cables 15. For example, when the free end of the towing cable 15 has an eye, the first end of the lead cable 13 can be attached to the eye. The opposite second end of the lead cable 13 is Figure 1 1 is shown as being suspended or covered on the perimeter P of the hull 11. In this example, the messenger line 13 is provided at the bow end of the tugboat 1. However, due to the movement of the tugboat 1 relative to the water in which the tugboat 1 sits, the messenger line 13 has been drawn out by the water from the center of the bow along the starboard side of the tugboat 1 towards the stern.

[0052] The second end of the helical cable 13 includes a buoyancy element to help the second end of the helical cable 13 float, and a portion of the helical cable 13 is colored so as to be highly visible. This portion of the helical cable 13 extends a certain distance (e.g., about one meter) from the second end of the helical cable 13. This highly visible portion of the helical cable 13 can help members of the crew of the tugboat 1 to identify the location of the helical cable 13, and especially whether the helical cable 13 is correctly stowed when not in use. In some examples, the buoyancy element and / or the highly visible portion of the helical cable 13 can be omitted.

[0053] exist Figure 1 In the figure, the middle portion of the messenger cable 13 is shown extending through a cable bollard or other guide 14 on the deck 12. The cable bollard or guide 14 helps to guide the messenger cable 13 and the towing cable 15 from the cable storage 16 in use, and can also be used to securely attach one or both of the towing cables 15 to the tugboat 1.

[0054] The tugboat 1 also has a cable handling system 10. The cable handling system 10 comprises a cable guiding mechanism 100 which can be moved relative to the hull 11 to an operating position, such as Figure 2 In this operating position, the cable guiding mechanism 100 is used to guide the movement of a portion of the cable of the tugboat 1 toward a predetermined area R of the periphery P of the hull 11. In this example, the cable of the tugboat 1 to be guided by the cable guiding mechanism 100 is the messenger line 13, but in other examples, cables of the tugboat 1 other than the messenger line 13 may be guided by the cable guiding mechanism 100. Positioning the cable of the tugboat 1 in or near the predetermined area R of the periphery P in this way may facilitate the subsequent coupling of the cable of the tugboat 1 to the cable of the vessel to be assisted by the tugboat 1, as will be described in more detail below.

[0055] The predetermined area R of the perimeter P is located at the bow end of the hull 11 on the central axis AA extending in the fore-aft direction of the tugboat 11. In some examples, the predetermined area R of the perimeter P is, for example, at the stern of the tugboat 1 or on the port or starboard side of the tugboat 1. In some examples, the cable handling system 10 is movable relative to the hull 11, such as rotatable, for example rotatable around an axis passing through the hull 11, to change the predetermined area R of the perimeter P, and the cable guiding mechanism 100 is able to guide the cable of the tugboat 1 toward the predetermined area R. Such an axis may pass through the deck 12. The axis may be substantially parallel to the yaw axis of the tugboat 1. The cable handling system 100 may move in this manner when the tugboat 1 moves relative to the ship to be assisted by the tugboat 1. This movability of the cable handling system can be used to enable the cable handling system 10 to guide the cable of the tugboat 1 toward a specific portion of the perimeter P, which will facilitate the subsequent connection of the cable of the tugboat 1 to the cable of the ship. The portion of the perimeter P may be, for example, the portion of the perimeter P closest to the ship.

[0056] exist Figure 1 , the cable guide mechanism 100 is shown in a stowed position. In the stowed position, the cable guide mechanism 100 is located within the perimeter P of the hull 11. More specifically, in the stowed position, the cable guide mechanism 100 is located on or adjacent to the deck 12 and below a working surface at the edge of the hull 11. When in the stowed position, the cable guide mechanism 100 is substantially parallel to the deck 12. Therefore, the cable guide mechanism 100 is less likely to interfere with the operation of the crew and equipment on the tugboat 1. In addition, the cable guide mechanism 100 is less likely to interrupt the movement of a cable (such as a towing cable 15) along the working surface. In other examples, at the stowed position, the cable guide mechanism 100 may be located elsewhere, such as on or above the upper edge of the hull 11, or outside the perimeter P of the hull 11.

[0057] The cable guiding mechanism 100 includes first and second guiding devices 110, 120 and a middle portion 130 between the first and second guiding devices 110, 120. The first guiding device 110 is located on the port side and the second guiding device 120 is located on the starboard side. In some examples, the first and second guiding devices 110, 120 are arranged in other ways, such as on the port or starboard side. In some examples, one or the other of the first and second guiding devices 110, 120 may be omitted so that the cable guiding mechanism 100 includes only one guiding device 110, 120.

[0058] The first guide device 110 includes a first guide arm 111, and the second guide device 120 includes a second guide arm 121. Each of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 has a distal end 111d, 121d away from the middle portion 130, adjacent to an opposite proximal end of the middle portion 130, and each of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 is curved so as to bend outwardly away from the other of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 between the proximal end and the distal end.

[0059] The cable guide mechanism 100 may be Figure 1 Storage location and Figure 2 The cable guiding mechanism 100 is movable relative to the hull 11 between the operating positions. More specifically, the cable guiding mechanism 100 is rotatable between the stowed position and the operating position about an axis BB that is substantially parallel to the deck 12. The axis BB about which the cable guiding mechanism 100 is rotatable between the stowed position and the operating position is substantially parallel to the width of the tugboat 1. The cable guiding mechanism 100 includes an electric motor 140 for driving the cable guiding mechanism 100 to and from the operating position relative to the hull 11, and a user-operable controller 19 for controlling the drive 140.

[0060] The user operable controls 19 are located in the wheelhouse 18 of the tugboat 1. The user operable controls 19 include input devices, such as buttons, dials, joysticks, or touch screens, for a user to input commands to the controls 19. In some examples, the cable guide mechanism 100 is manually movable to and from an operating position, such as between a stowed position and an operating position. Although the user operable controls 19 are Figure 1 18 , but in some examples, user-operable controls 19 are provided elsewhere, such as on deck 12 .

[0061] When the cable guide mechanism 100 is in Figure 2 In the operative position of the tugboat 1, the first and second guide arms 111, 121 project upwardly away from the hull and are configured so that, in use, a portion of the cable of the tugboat 1 overlapping with either of the guide arms 111, 121 is facilitated to move along the guide arms 111, 121, the cable overlapping with the distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 and moving away from the distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 towards a predetermined region R of the perimeter P. The facilitation of this movement may be due to the action of gravity on the cable and / or due to a portion of the cable being located in the water in which the tugboat 1 sits and being pulled by the water to generate a force pulling the cable downwardly.

[0062] The configuration of the first and second guide arms 111, 121 that facilitates such movement includes the geometry and surface features of the first and second guide arms 111, 121, and the positioning of the first and second guide arms 111, 121 relative to the hull 11. More specifically, the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 are shaped to avoid or reduce obstruction to the movement of the cable along the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121. In addition, each of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 is smooth to facilitate sliding, rolling or other movement of the cable along the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121. In fact, all surfaces along which the cable can move are smoothly curved and have no sharp or pointed features, thereby avoiding cable jams. In addition, the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 are aligned relative to the hull 11 so that the movement of a portion of the cable along either of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 moves toward a predetermined area R of the perimeter P. In other embodiments, the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 may have any or all of these features, and / or may have other features that help facilitate movement of the cable toward the predetermined region R of the perimeter P.

[0063] As mentioned above, the second end of the lead cable 13 is Figure 1 1 is shown as being suspended or covered on the periphery P of the hull 11. The alignment of the messenger wire 13 is such that when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the stowed position, a portion of the messenger wire 13 covers the second guide arm 121. Figure 1 Storage location and Figure 2 When moving between the operating positions of the tugboat 1 and the tugboat 1, the portion of the messenger line 13 covering the second guide arm 121 is lifted away from the hull 11. As the second guide arm 121 becomes increasingly orthogonal or perpendicular to the deck as the operating position is approached, a portion of the messenger line 13 is subjected to increasing forces in a direction generally toward the hull 11 and the water in which the tugboat 1 is located. Figure 2 When the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the operating position, a portion of the lead cable 13 slides, rolls or otherwise moves along the second guide arm 121 toward the predetermined area R of the periphery P (if it has not already done so during the movement of the cable guide mechanism 100), such as Figure 2 The lead wire 13 thus falls into or otherwise moves into a predetermined region R of the periphery P.

[0064] It should be noted that when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the stowed position, the corresponding secondary guides 112, 122 of the first and second guide devices 110, 120, which will be described in more detail below, cover the first and second guide arms 111, 121. This can help make the cable guide mechanism 100 relatively compact when in the stowed position and avoid contact or interference of the secondary guides 112, 122 with the edge of the hull 11 during movement of the cable guide mechanism 100 between the stowed position and the operating position. Before or after the cable guide mechanism 100 has reached the operating position, the secondary guides 112, 122 move relative to the first and second guide arms 111, 121 of the respective guide devices 110, 120 to reduce the chance that movement of a cable (in this embodiment, the messenger cable 13) along one or the other of the first and second guide arms 111, 121 is blocked by the secondary guides 112, 122.

[0065] The first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 are rotatable relative to the hull 11 around respective pivot points 111p, 121p. Such rotation moves respective distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 away from the pivot points 111p, 121p toward and away from the central axis AA extending in the fore-aft direction of the tugboat 1.

[0066] The first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 are movable toward and away from each other. That is, the first and second guide arms 111, 121 are capable of rotating relative to the hull 11 about respective pivot points 111p, 121p to move the distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 toward and away from each other. The ability of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 to move in this manner may provide several benefits, such as helping to make the cable guide mechanism 100 relatively compact when in the stowed position, allowing the inclination of the guide arms 111, 121 to be adjusted when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the operating position to control the rate at which the cable of the tugboat 1 moves along one or the other of the guide arms 111, 121, and assisting in capturing the cable of the vessel to be assisted when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the deployed position, as will be discussed below.

[0067] When the cable guiding mechanism 100 is in the operating position, the first and second guiding arms 111, 121 and the middle portion 130 of the cable guiding mechanism 100 together generally define a U-shape. The cable guiding mechanism 100 is movable relative to the hull 11 between the operating position and the deployed position. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagrams respectively show the cable guide mechanism 100 in the deployed position. Figure 1 and Figure 21 and 2. A schematic front view and a partially schematic top view of a tugboat 1 are shown. When the cable guiding mechanism 100 is in the deployed position, the cable guiding mechanism 100 protrudes away from the hull 11 for guiding the cable of the ship toward a predetermined area R of the periphery P of the hull 11. The ship may be a ship that is assisted in maneuvering by the tugboat 1. More specifically, when the cable guiding mechanism 100 is in the deployed position, the cable guiding mechanism 100 protrudes away from the periphery P of the hull 11 and above the water where the tugboat 1 is located. Positioning the cable of the ship in or near the predetermined area R of the periphery P in this manner may facilitate the subsequent coupling of the cable of the tugboat 1 to the cable of the ship, as will be described in more detail below.

[0068] Since the cable guide mechanism 100 is used to guide the ship's cable to the specified area R of the periphery P, the ship's cable (such as a skimming cable) can be thrown toward the cable guide mechanism 100, rather than toward the deck 12 of the tugboat 1 or the crew standing on the deck 12. Therefore, the crew on the tugboat 1 may be less likely to be injured by the cable thrown from the ship, and the tugboat 1 itself may be less likely to be damaged. In addition, since the cable guide mechanism 100 spans a relatively large distance, this can provide a "target" that is easier to hit when the ship's cable is thrown from the ship.

[0069] The cable handling system 10 may be rotated relative to the hull 11, for example about an axis passing through the hull 11, to change the predetermined area R of the perimeter P towards which the cable guiding mechanism 100 can guide the ship's cable. Such an axis may pass through the deck 12 and may be substantially parallel to the yaw axis of the tugboat 1. This movability of the cable handling system 10 may facilitate successful casting of the ship's cable to the tugboat 1, because the visible "target" defined by the cable guiding mechanism 100 and more specifically by the guiding arms 111, 121 may be positioned facing the ship. When the tugboat 1 and the ship move relative to each other, the cable handling system 100 may be moved in such a way that the "target" remains the same from the perspective of the ship, regardless of the position of the tugboat 1 relative to the ship.

[0070] The cable guide mechanism 100 is respectively arranged at Figure 4 and Figure 1 As described above, in the present embodiment, the cable guide mechanism 100 does not protrude from the hull 11 when in the stowed position. However, in other examples, when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the stowed position, the cable guide mechanism 100 may protrude away from the hull 11, but optionally to a lesser extent than when the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the deployed position.

[0071] As discussed above, the cable guide mechanism 100 includes first and second guide devices 110, 120, each of which includes a corresponding one of the guide arms 111, 121. When the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the deployed position, the guide arms 111, 121 protrude away from the hull 11. In addition, as described above, each of the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 can rotate relative to the hull 11 about the respective pivot points 111p, 121p to move the respective distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 toward and away from each other. When the cable guide mechanism 100 is in the deployed position, the pivot points 111p, 121p are located inboard of the perimeter P of the hull 11. In some examples, the pivot points 111p, 121p can be located on or outward of the perimeter P of the hull 11. The ship's cable, such as a skimming cable, is intended to be received between the first and second guide arms 111, 121. Moving the distal ends 111d, 121d away from each other increases the width of the area that the guide arms 111, 121 can sweep during the movement of the tugboat 1. As a result, the area into which the ship's cable can be thrown is increased and can be guided by the cable guiding mechanism 100 toward a specified area R of the periphery P of the hull 11.

[0072] The first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 may move independently of each other relative to the hull 11. However, in some examples, the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121 may move relative to the hull 11 dependently of each other. Figure 1 As shown, the cable guiding mechanism 100 includes a drive mechanism 142 for driving the movement of the first guiding arm 111 and the second guiding arm 121 relative to the hull 11, and a user-operable controller for controlling the drive mechanism 142. The drive mechanism 142 includes an electric motor, but in some examples can take any suitable form, such as one or more electric motors or other motors, optionally with a transmission or gearbox between the motor and the first guiding arm 111 and the second guiding arm 121.

[0073] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 and with Figure 2 Compared to the arrangement shown, it can be seen that the first and second guide arms 111, 121 have moved relative to the hull 11 so that the distal ends 111d, 121d of the guide arms 111, 121 are further apart. In fact, the distal ends 111d, 121d are spaced apart by a distance greater than the beam of the tugboat 1 (i.e., the maximum width).

[0074] exist Figure 5 middle, Figure 3 and Figure 4The tugboat 1 is now adjacent to the ship 2 to be maneuvered by the tugboat 1. The ship may be, for example, a container ship. In addition, a portion of the cable 20 of the ship 2 (for example, the skimming cable 20) is thrown out from the position of the ship 2 on the rear side of the first guide arm 111 of the cable guide mechanism 100, and is covered on the first guide arm 111 of the cable guide mechanism 100. The skimming cable 20 may have a diameter of 12 mm, for example. When the skimming cable 20 of the ship 2 is covered on the first guide arm 111 of the cable guide mechanism 100 in this way, the skimming cable 20 can be guided to the specified area R of the periphery P of the hull 11 by the cable guide mechanism 100 thereafter.

[0075] More specifically, and with reference to Figure 6 , the first guide arm 111 on which the helical line 20 of the vessel 2 is covered has been rotated relative to the hull 11 so that the distal end 111d of the first guide arm 111 moves closer to the central axis AA extending in the fore-and-aft direction of the tugboat 1. This has the effect of pulling the helical line 20 closer to the predetermined area R of the periphery P of the hull 11.

[0076] The skimming cable 20 is then guided closer to the predetermined region R of the perimeter P of the hull 11 by the secondary guides 112, 122 of the cable guide mechanism 100, which are briefly discussed above. Each of the guide devices 110, 120 of the cable guide mechanism 100 includes a respective one of the secondary guides 112, 122. The first secondary guide 112 is movable relative to the first guide arm 111 to drive the cable along the first guide arm 111 toward the predetermined region R of the perimeter P. Similarly, the second secondary guide 122 is movable relative to the second guide arm 121 to drive the cable along the second guide arm 121 toward the predetermined region R of the perimeter P. In addition, the movement of the secondary guides 112 of the first guide device 110 and the secondary guides 122 of the second guide device 120 relative to the hull 11 includes the movement of the secondary guides 112, 122 toward each other.

[0077] The secondary guides 112, 122 are rotatable relative to the guide arms 111, 121, but in other embodiments, the movement of the secondary guides 112, 122 relative to the guide arms 111, 121 may be different from rotation, such as translation or a combination of rotation and translation. The rotation of the secondary guides 112, 122 is about the same axis as the rotation of the guide arms 111, 121 relative to the hull 11, respectively. That is, the secondary guides 112, 122 are able to rotate about the same pivot points 111p, 121p as the first guide arm 111 and the second guide arm 121.

[0078] The first and second secondary guide members 112, 122 are independently movable relative to the hull 11 and the corresponding guide arms 111, 121. Figure 1As shown, the cable guiding mechanism 100 includes a drive device 144 for driving the movement of the first and second secondary guides 112, 122 relative to the hull 11 and the corresponding guide arms 111, 121, and a user-operable controller for controlling the drive device 144. The drive device 144 includes an electric motor, but in some examples, it can take any suitable form, such as one or more electric motors or other motors, optionally with a transmission or gearbox between the motor and the first and second secondary guides 112, 122.

[0079] The first guide arm 111 includes an indicator or marker M positioned along a portion of the first guide arm 111. The indicator or marker M indicates a position or area on the first guide arm 111. More specifically, the indicator or marker M indicates a position or area on the first guide arm 111 where the cable 20 of the vessel 2 should be located before moving the first secondary guide 112 to drive the cable 20 along the first guide arm 111 toward the predetermined area R of the periphery P. The area may be an area between the indicator or marker M and the pivot point 111p of the first guide arm 111. The crew can visually monitor the position or progress of the cable 20 relative to the indicator or marker M. When they notice that the cable 20 is at the position or area on the first guide arm 111 indicated by the indicator or marker M, they cause movement of the first secondary guide 112 to drive the cable 20 along the first guide arm 111 toward the predetermined area R of the periphery P. This reason may be due to the crew's operation of a user-operable control for controlling the drive device 144, or due to the crew's manual movement of the first secondary guide 112. Therefore, the indicator or marker M helps to ensure that the cable 20 is correctly positioned on the first guide arm 111 for successful subsequent driving of the cable 20 along the first guide arm 111 by the first secondary guide 112. The second guide arm 121 also includes such an indicator or marker M positioned along a portion of the second guide arm 121 for indicating a position or area of ​​the second guide arm 121 where the cable of the vessel should be located before the second secondary guide 122 is moved to drive the cable along the second guide arm 121 toward the predetermined area R of the periphery P.

[0080] refer to Figure 7 ,and Figure 6 Compared to the situation shown in FIG. 1 , both secondary guides 112, 122 are rotated relative to the hull 11 and the first guide arm 111. This has the effect of bringing the first secondary guide 112 into contact with the drop line 20 of the vessel 2 and then driving the drop line 20 along the first guide arm 111 and towards a defined area R of the periphery P of the hull 11.

[0081] refer to Figure 8 ,and Figure 7Compared to the situation shown, the two secondary guides 112, 122 have been rotated further relative to the hull 11 and the first guide arm 111. This has the effect of lifting the bottoming line 20 of the vessel 2 from the first guide arm 111 and conveying it further towards the defined area R of the periphery P of the hull 11.

[0082] from Figure 7 and Figure 8 It will be noted that during the movement of each secondary guide 112, 122 relative to the hull 11, the secondary guides 112, 122 cross each other at the intersection point C along the movement of the two secondary guides 112, 122. This intersection means that the secondary guides 112, 122 and the hull 11 together surround the space in which the skimming line 20 and the leader line 13 are located. This helps to hold the skimming line 20 and the leader line 13 relative to the cable guiding mechanism 100. In addition, each of the secondary guides 112, 122 has a parabolic shape. This can help avoid the intersection point C from forming an acute angle and reduce the risk of the secondary guides 112, 122 catching or clamping the skimming line 20 at the intersection point C.

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, the leader line 13 of the tugboat 1 and the sling line 20 of the vessel 2 are both located within a specified area R of the perimeter P of the hull 11. Furthermore, the two cables 13, 20 are located in a space surrounded by the secondary guides 112, 122 and the hull 11. The two cables 13, 20 are now coupled by the coupler 200 of the cable handling system 10.

[0084] Fig. 9 A schematic isometric view of a coupler 200 for coupling a skimming line 20 (i.e., a ship's cable) and a towing line 13 (i.e., a tugboat cable) is shown. The coupler 200 is actuatable to couple the cables 13, 20 together by applying a connector 210 to the cables 13, 20. The coupler 200 is selectively actuatable by a user, such as from a user-operable controller 19, to apply the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20 to couple the cables 13, 20 together. In some examples, the coupler 200 can be actuated only after receiving a confirmation signal from another device. The coupler 200 can be actuated only after receiving a confirmation signal indicating that the secondary guides 112, 122 are in Figure 8 The coupling 200 may be actuated after the secondary guides 112, 122 are completely crossed over each other. This may help ensure that the cables 13, 20 are in the correct position before actuating the actuator 200. In some examples, the coupling 200 includes a sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor) for detecting the presence of the cables 13, 20.

[0085] The connector 200 includes a connector for receiving the cables 13, 20 ( Fig. 9The connector 210 is a length of wire (not shown) and a guide 202 configured to receive the connector and guide the connector around the connector 210 so as to wrap the connector around the cables 13, 20. Fig.14 ), although other forms of connectors, such as clips or straps, are contemplated. Coupling 200 includes a wire supply 203 and is configured to cut connectors 210 from supply 203. Supply 203 includes a mandrel 213 on which the wire is wound. The wire has a diameter between 0.5 mm and 3 mm. The wire typically has a diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, such as 0.8 mm. Supply 203 accommodates 100 meters of wire from which continuous connectors 210 can be cut. In some examples, supply 203 includes 1 meter, 5 meters, 10 meters, 25 meters, or 50 meters of wire from which continuous connectors 210 can be cut. Mandrel 213 can be removed from coupling 200 to allow replenishment of supply 203. For example, a new length of wire can be wound around mandrel 203, or mandrel 203 can be replaced with a new mandrel 203 pre-wound with wire.

[0086] The coupling 200 includes three electric motors 220, 221, 222 to drive the coupling 200. The first motor 220 drives the feed mechanism 208 (in Fig. 9 and 10 The feeding mechanism 208 feeds the connecting member 210 toward the guide member 202. The second motor 221 drives the fixing member 209, which is configured to fix the connecting member 210 to the cables 13, 20. The third motor 222 drives the first part 205 of the housing 204 to move the first part 205 relative to the second part 206. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Three motors 220, 221, 222 are shown, but a greater or lesser number of motors 220, 221, 222 may be used. Fig. 9 and 10 The first, second and third motors 220, 221, 222 are electric motors, but the motors 220, 221, 222 may include other types of motors. For example, the motors may be hydraulic or pneumatic motors or a mixture of electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motors.

[0087] The connector 200 includes a housing 204 including a first section 205 and a second section 206. A coupling region 201 is defined between the first section 205 and the second section 206, the second section 206 having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The diameter of the coupling region 201 is at least equal to the combined diameter of the cables 13, 20 so that the cables can be fully received in the coupling region 201. The diameter of the coupling region 201 is approximately 100 millimeters. In some examples, the coupling region 201 may include a different cross-sectional shape, such as an elongated oval. The first portion 205 of the housing 204 is hingedly attached to the second portion 206 of the housing at a pivot point 231. This allows the first portion 205 to rotate relative to the second portion 206 about the pivot point 231 between the first configuration and the second configuration. In a first configuration (such as Fig. 9 ), the housing 204 restricts the movement of the cables 13, 20 on a first axis (indicated by arrow Y) and a second axis (indicated by arrow Z) that are orthogonal to each other, but does not restrict movement on a third axis (indicated by arrow X) that is orthogonal to both the first axis Y and the second axis Z. In this first configuration, the movement of the cables 13, 20 into and / or out of the coupling area 201 is restricted on the first axis Y and the second axis Z. For example, if the cables 13, 20 are in the coupling area 201, when the coupling 200 is in the first configuration, the cables 13, 20 are prevented from being lifted out of the coupling area 201 along the second axis Z. In the second configuration (as shown in FIG. Fig.10 20), the housing 204 restricts the movement of the cables 13, 20 on the first axis Y but not on the second axis Z and the third axis X. Therefore, in the second configuration, the cables 13, 20 can be freely placed in the coupling area 201 and / or removed from the coupling area along the second axis Z and / or the third axis X. In this way, when the coupler 200 is in the first configuration, the cables 13, 20 can be held in place while the connector 210 is secured to the cables. Once the connector 210 has been secured to the cables 13, 20, the coupler 200 is placed in the second configuration to allow the coupled cables 13, 20 to be removed from the coupling area 201 and to allow additional cables to be received by the coupling area 201 for subsequent coupling together.

[0088] Fig.11 Shows Fig. 9 and Fig.10Schematic cross-sectional view of the coupling 200. The coupling 200 can be switched between a first configuration and a second configuration by actuation of a third motor 222. The first part 205 includes a toothed section 232, which is fixed to the first part 205, so that movement of the toothed section 232 causes the first part 205 to rotate about a pivot point 231. The third motor 222 is connected to a worm gear 233, so that actuation of the third motor 222 causes rotation of the worm gear 233. The worm gear 233 engages with the toothed section 232, so that rotation of the worm gear 233 causes the toothed section to rotate about the pivot point 231, and thus causes the first part 205 to rotate about the pivot point 231. In order to switch the coupling 200 from the first configuration to the second configuration, the third motor 222 is actuated to rotate the worm gear 233 in a first direction and cause the toothed section 232 and the first part 205 to rotate clockwise (from 200 to 200) about the pivot point 231. Fig.11 201). The third motor 222 includes an encoder 234 that provides information indicating the position of the rotor of the third motor 222. This information can then be used to determine how far the first part 205 has rotated around the pivot point 231. In some examples, the first part can be rotated more or less than 90 degrees, as long as the cables 13, 20 can be received and / or removed from the coupling area 201. In order to switch the coupling 200 from the second configuration back to the first configuration, the third motor 222 can be actuated to rotate the worm gear in a second direction opposite to the first direction. This causes the toothed section 232 to rotate the first part counterclockwise 90 degrees so as to close the coupling area 201 and reach the first configuration.

[0089] The guide 202 includes a channel 207 formed in the first portion 205 and the second portion 206 of the housing 204. The channel 207 extends around the entire circumference of the coupling area 201 and is configured to guide the connector 210 around the coupling area 201 so as to completely surround the cables 13, 20 arranged in the coupling area 201. The depth of the channel 207 is at least equal to the outer diameter of the connector 210. In this way, the connector 210 can be completely surrounded by the channel 207 so that no part of the connector 210 extends into the coupling area 201. This can help prevent the connector from interfering with the cables 13, 20 and, for example, becoming stuck on the cables 13, 20. Although the channel 207 extends around the entire circumference of the coupling area 201 in this example, in some examples, the channel 207 extends around a smaller proportion of the circumference, such as 75% of the circumference or 50% of the circumference. The inner surface of the channel 207 is configured to be substantially smooth and / or free of rough edges to help facilitate the movement of the connector through the channel 207. This may help reduce the likelihood of the connector becoming stuck in channel 207 as it passes through channel 207 .

[0090] The coupling 200 includes a fixing member 209 configured to fix the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20 so that the cables 13, 20 are coupled together. Figure 12 to Figure 14 The fixing member 209 is shown in more detail in FIG. The fixing member 209 includes a pair of protrusions 214, 215 with a valley 216 therebetween. The connector 210 is configured to pass between the protrusions 214, 215 and through the valley 216 as the connector 210 is fed around the coupling region 201. Fig.14 A schematic top view of a fixing member 209 is shown. The valley 216 is defined by a pair of non-parallel walls 238, 239 leading to a pair of parallel walls 240, 241. At a first side 242 of the fixing member 209, the width between the pair of protrusions 214, 216 is greater than the width at a second side 243 of the fixing member 209. Thus, the valley 216 is wider on the first side 242 of the fixing member 209 than on the second side 243 of the fixing member 209. This can help guide the connector 210 between the pair of protrusions 214, 215, and can help address the problem of the valley 216 and / or the fixing member 209 not being precisely aligned with the feed mechanism 208 when a new connector 210 is provided.

[0091] The fixing member 209 is configured to fix the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20 by twisting the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 together after the connector 210 is wrapped around the cables 13, 20. In use, the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 are positioned in the valley 216 between the protrusions 214, 215 of the fixing member 209. In order to twist the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 together, the second motor 221 is actuated to rotate the fixing member 209 about the rotation axis D. The protrusions 214, 215 engage with the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210, which causes the free ends 211, 212 to be twisted together. Fig.15 The final arrangement of the connector 210 coupling the messenger line 13 and the dropper line 20 according to the present example is shown in FIG.

[0092] The coupling 200 is configured to wrap the connector 210 around the cables 13, 20 when the coupling 200 is actuated. The wrapping of the connector 210 around the cables 13, 20 involves wrapping the connector 210 around the bundle of cables 13, 20 along the direction indicated by the arrow H. The connector 210 is fed by the feeding mechanism 208 toward the fixing member 209, as shown in FIG. Fig.11As shown. The feeding mechanism 208 includes a pair of rotatable wheels 217, 218, and the connecting member 210 is fed between the rotatable wheels 217, 218. The wheels 217, 218 are driven by a first motor 220 and engage with the connecting member 210 by friction to move the connecting member 210 toward the fixed member 209. After the connecting member 210 passes between the wheels 217, 218, the connecting member 210 is fed through a tube 219, which can help guide the connecting member 210 toward the fixed member 209. The first motor 220 that drives the feeding mechanism 208 includes an encoder (at Fig. 9 10), the encoder provides information indicating the position of a part of the first motor 220 (e.g., the rotor of the first motor 220), which can be used to determine the number of times the rotor (or other part of the first motor 220) has rotated. This information can then be used to determine the length of wire supplied by the feed mechanism 208, and the information can also be used to determine how much wire is left on the supply 203. This information can be used to determine when the supply 203 needs to be replaced and / or replenished, which can help avoid the connectors 200, 210 running out of wire for the connector.

[0093] The fixing member 209 includes a curved surface 223, which is configured to bend the connector 210 before the connector 210 is received by the guide 202. In use, the connector 210 is directed to the curved surface 223 by the feeding mechanism 208. The curved surface 223 is positioned at an angle relative to the direction of travel of the connector 210 so that when the connector 210 hits the curved surface 223, the connector 210 turns in a direction oblique to the initial direction of travel of the connector 210. The curved surface 223 has an angle between 130° and 140°, such as 135°, relative to the direction of travel of the connector 210. After impacting the curved surface 223, the connector 210 passes through the valley 216 between the protrusions 214, 215 of the fixing member 209. Since the fixing member 209 and therefore the curved surface 223 are upstream of the guide 202, the connector 210 is bent before being received by the guide 202. The connector is bent into an arc having a diameter greater than the combined diameter of the cables 13, 20 to help facilitate wrapping of the connector around the cables 13, 20. The diameter of the arc is directly related to the angle of the curved surface 223. Thus, depending on the thickness and / or type of connector being used, the angle of the curved surface 223 can be adjusted to provide the desired arc diameter.

[0094] like Fig.12 and Fig.13As shown, the fixed member 209 includes a cylindrical cam 224. The cylindrical cam includes a groove 235, in which the protrusion 225 of the connector is received. When the cylindrical cam rotates, the protrusion 225 remains fixed relative to the housing, so that when the fixed member 209 rotates around the rotation axis D (as shown by arrow S), the fixed member translates relative to the protrusion 225 along the rotation axis D (as shown by arrow T). Due to the oscillating shape of the groove 235 of the cylindrical cam 224, when the fixed member 209 rotates around the rotation axis D, the cylindrical cam 224 causes the fixed member 209 to reciprocate along the rotation axis D. The fixed member 209 also includes a cutting member in the form of a lip 226 around the periphery of the fixed member 209. When the fixed member 209 rotates around the rotation axis D and translates / reciprocates along the rotation axis D, the lip 226 contacts the connector 210 and is used to cut the connector 210 from the supplier 203. In this way, the securing member 209 can cut the connector 210 from the supply while twisting the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 together to secure the connector to the cables 13, 20. The lip 226 includes a harder hardened material than the connector 210. This can help reduce the likelihood that the lip 226 will be damaged when the connector 210 is cut from the supply 203.

[0095] Return to see Fig.11 , the fixed member 209 is connected to the second motor 221 via a pair of gears 227, 228. The first gear 227 is connected to the second motor 221 and the second gear 228 is connected to the fixed member 209. The first gear 227 meshes with the second gear 228 to transmit the rotation from the second motor 221 to the fixed member 209. The ratio between the size (e.g., the number of teeth) of the first gear 227 and the second gear 228 is selected to step down the rotation rate from the second motor 221 provided to the fixed member 209. Fig.11, the second gear 228 includes twice the number of teeth as the first gear 227, so that there is a 1:2 ratio between the first gear 227 and the second gear 228. This means that for each rotation of the rotor of the second motor 221, the fixed member will rotate 180 degrees (i.e., half a rotation). The second motor 221 also includes an encoder 229, which is used to determine the number of times the rotor of the second motor 221 rotates. This allows the number of times the fixed member 209 has been rotated to be determined. This information can then be used to determine whether the free ends 211, 212 of the connector have been sufficiently twisted and / or whether the fixed member 209 is in the correct position to receive the connector 210 from the feed mechanism 208. In order to fix the cables 13, 20 together, the fixed member 209 is configured to rotate at least ten times. Therefore, when the encoder 229 detects that the rotor of the second motor 221 has rotated 20 times, this means that the fixed member 209 has rotated 10 times. Then, the fixing member 209 is stopped from rotating further while the cables 13, 20 are still in the coupling area 201. In some examples, the fixing member 209 can be configured to rotate more or less than ten times to fix the cables 13, 20 together. For example, the fixing member 209 can be configured to rotate at least two times, at least five times, or at least 15 times to fix the cables 13, 20 together.

[0096] like Fig.12 As indicated by the arrow S in , the fixing member 209 is configured to rotate in a first direction when the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 are twisted together to fix the cables 13, 20 together. Once the cables 13, 20 have been fixed by the connector 210, the cables 13, 20 are removed from the coupling area 201 and the fixing member 209 is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The fixing member 209 is rotated in the second direction an equal number of times as the fixing member 209 is rotated in the first direction. This helps to ensure that the fixing member 209 is reset and in the correct position to receive the connector when additional cables are connected together.

[0097] Fig.16 Shows Figures 9 to 11 An isometric partial cross-sectional view of the coupling 200. Fig.15 (as well as Fig.11), the coupler 200 includes a roller 230 arranged along the channel 207 of the guide 202. The roller 230 rotates in the same direction as the first wheel 217 (i.e., in the opposite direction of the second wheel 218) and is configured to guide the connector 210 along the channel. As the connector 210 passes along the channel 207, it engages with the roller 230 through friction. As the roller 230 rotates, the connector 210 engaged with the roller 230 is pushed further along the channel by the roller 230. The amount by which the roller 230 extends into the channel 207 is sufficient to ensure that the connector 210 engages with the roller 230, but not so large as to block or inhibit the movement of the connector 210 through the channel 207. In addition, the diameter of the roller 230 is such that abrupt changes in the profile of the channel 207 are avoided, which can help reduce the chance of the connector 210 getting stuck at the interface between the roller 230 and the channel 207. Fig.15 In the example shown, roller 230 has a diameter of approximately 28 millimeters. In some examples, roller 230 has a diameter greater or less than 28 millimeters.

[0098] The roller 230 is driven by the first motor 220, which also drives the feed mechanism 208. The roller 230 is connected to the first motor 220 through a series of gears that are arranged so that the roller 230 rotates at a faster rate than the first wheel 217 and the second wheel 218 of the feed mechanism 208. This can help to facilitate the connection 210 along the channel 207 and help prevent the connection 210 from getting stuck in the channel as it moves further away from the supplier 203.

[0099] Fig.17 and Fig.18 A schematic isometric view and a front view of roller 230 are shown, respectively. Roller 230 includes an outer surface 236 including a slot 237 in which connector 210 is configured to be received. The width of slot 237 is substantially equal to the width of channel 207. In some examples, the width of slot 237 is greater than or less than the width of the slot. In some examples, the width of slot 237 is substantially equal to the diameter of connector 210. Slot 237 of roller 230 is shaped to promote movement of connector 210 toward the center of slot 237 when connector 210 is received by slot 237. This can help align the connector within channel 207 and can also help align connector 210 with valley 216 of fixed member 209. Fig.17 and Fig.18 In the example shown, the slot 237 has a depth of approximately 4 millimeters. In some examples, the depth of the slot 237 is greater or less than 4 millimeters.

[0100] In use, the coupling 200 is placed in the second configuration (eg Fig.10) and the cables 13, 20 are placed in the coupling area 201. The coupling 200 is then placed in the first configuration (as shown). Fig. 9 20) in preparation for fixing the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20. The first motor 220 is activated to cause the pair of wheels 217, 218 to rotate and feed the connector 210 from the supplier 203 toward the curved surface 223 of the fixing member 209. The connector 210 passes through the tube 219 toward the curved surface 223 that is angled relative to the direction of travel of the connector 210 through the tube 219. When the connector 210 contacts the curved surface 223, it turns in a direction that is inclined relative to the direction of travel of the connector 210 through the tube 219. This causes the connector 210 to be bent into a shape that substantially follows the periphery of the coupling area 201. After being bent by the curved surface 223, the connector 210 passes between the protrusions 214, 215 of the fixing member 209 (i.e., through the valley 216) and through the channel 207 of the guide 202. The connector 210 continues to pass through the passage 207 so as to be wound around the cables 13, 20 until the connector 210 has been wound around the cables 13, 20 a predetermined number of times (e.g., three times). Each time the connector 210 is wound around the cables 13, 20, it passes between the projections 214, 215 of the fixing member 209 so that the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 (once cut from the supply 203) are located between the projections 214, 215. Once the connector 210 has been wound around the cables 13, 20 a predetermined number of times, the first motor 220 is deactivated to stop the feeding of the connector 210 from the supply 203. The second motor 221 is then activated to actuate the fixing member 209 and rotate the fixing member 209 around the rotation axis D while also translating along the rotation axis D. As the securing member 209 rotates, the free ends 211, 212 of the connector 210 between the projections 214, 215 are twisted together to secure the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20. At the same time, as the securing member 209 translates along the axis of rotation D, the lip 226 of the securing member 209 severs the connector 210 from the supplier 203. Once the securing member 209 has rotated a predetermined number of times (e.g., ten times), the second motor 221 is deactivated and the coupling 200 is placed in the second configuration to allow the coupled cables 13, 20 to be removed from the coupling region 201.

[0101] like Fig.19As shown in , when the cables 13, 20 have been coupled together, the secondary guides 112, 122 move away from each other, and the guide arms 111, 121 move away from each other. As a result, the skimming line 20 and the coupled leader line 13 are released from the space enclosed by the secondary guides 112, 122 and the hull 11, so that the leader line 13 can be pulled up to the vessel 2 using the skimming line 20. Then, the leader line 13 can be used to pull up the end of at least one towing cable 15 to the vessel 2, and the opposite end of the at least one towing cable 15 can be attached to the bollard or guide 14 of the tugboat 1.

[0102] When the cable guide mechanism 100 is no longer needed, the cable guide mechanism 100 is returned from the deployed position to the stored position. Figure 8 Move forward to the position shown Figure 1 The position shown in Figure 8 In the position shown, the coupler 200 can be actuated to apply the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20 to couple the cables 13, 20 together. Figure 1 In the position shown, the coupler 200 is stowed. The coupler 200 moves with the cable guide mechanism 100 to a stowed position within the perimeter P of the hull 11 and adjacent the deck 12. In some examples, the coupler 200 remains in place, for example, relative to the hull 11 between uses.

[0103] Although in the above-described embodiment, the cable processing system 10 includes the cable guiding mechanism 100 , in an example, the cable guiding mechanism 100 may be omitted so that the cable processing system 10 does not have a cable guiding mechanism.

[0104] In the above example, the cable guide mechanism 100 is a mechanism that protrudes away from the hull 11 and guides the cable of the ship to the prescribed area R of the periphery P. However, in other examples, the cable guide mechanism 100 is not a mechanism that protrudes away from the hull 11 and guides the cable of the ship to the prescribed area R of the periphery P. For example, the cable guide mechanism 100 may be made not to move from the operating position relative to the hull 11.

[0105] Although in the above example, the cable guide mechanism 100 is movable relative to the hull 11 to an operating position where the cable guide mechanism 100 is used to guide the movement of a portion of the cable of the tugboat toward a predetermined area of ​​the periphery, in some examples, the cable guide mechanism 100 is not movable relative to the hull 11 to an operating position where the cable guide mechanism 100 is used to guide the movement of a portion of the cable of the tugboat toward a predetermined area of ​​the periphery. For example, the cable guide mechanism 100 may be immovable relative to the hull 11 from the deployed position.

[0106] In some examples, two or more of the above-described embodiments may be combined. In some examples, features of one embodiment may be combined with features of one or more other embodiments.

[0107] Fig. 20 A flow chart of a method 300 for coupling a ship cable (e.g., a flier line 13) and a tugboat cable (e.g., a skimming line 20) is shown. The method 300 can be implemented using any coupling 200 as described herein. The method 300 includes providing 301 a connector 210 and placing 302 the cables 13, 20 in a coupling area 201 of the coupling 200. The coupling 200 includes a guide 202 configured to receive the connector 210 and guide the connector 210 around the coupling area 210, and a fixing member 209 configured to fix the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20. The method 300 further includes bending 303 the connector 210 before it is received by the guide 202, guiding 304 the connector 210 around the coupling region 201 so as to wrap the connector 210 around the cables 13, 20, and securing 305 the connector 210 to the cables 13, 20 with the securing member 209 so that the cables 13, 20 are coupled.

[0108] Examples of the invention have been discussed with particular reference to the examples illustrated. However, it will be appreciated that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting a ship cable and a tugboat cable, the connector comprising: a coupling area for receiving the ship cable and the tugboat cable; a guide configured to receive a connector and guide the connector around the coupling region to wrap the connector around the cable; as well as A fixing member is configured to fix the connector to the cable so that the cables are coupled, wherein the fixing member is upstream of the guide and is configured to bend the connector before the connector is received by the guide.

2. The coupling according to claim 1, wherein: The guide member includes a channel guiding the connection member around the coupling area and a roller arranged along the channel to guide the connection member along the channel.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: The coupling area is defined by a housing and the channel of the guide is arranged in a surface of the housing, the housing comprising a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is movable relative to the second section.

4. The coupling according to claim 3, wherein: The coupler is operable in a first configuration in which the housing restricts movement of the cable in first and second axes orthogonal to each other but does not restrict movement of the cable in a third axis orthogonal to both the first and second axes, and in a second configuration in which the housing restricts movement of the cable in the first axis but does not restrict movement of the cable in the second and third axes.

5. The coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The coupler is configured to wrap the connector around the cable a plurality of times.

6. The coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The connector includes a length of wire.

7. The connecting piece according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The securing member is actuatable to twist the free ends of the connector together to secure the connector to the cable.

8. The coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The coupler comprises a feeding mechanism configured to feed the connecting piece from a supply towards the fixing member, and wherein the fixing member comprises a cutting element configured to cut the connecting piece from the supply.

9. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein: The cutting element includes a lip extending around a periphery of the securing member.

10. The coupling according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The feeding mechanism is configured to feed the connector toward the fixed member at a first rate, and the roller is configured to rotate at a second rate, which is greater than the first rate.

11. A coupling according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The securing member is actuatable to twist the free ends of the connector together to secure the connector to the cable and to sever the connector from the supplier.

12. A coupling according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein: The securing member is rotatable about an axis of rotation to secure the connector to the cable, and the securing member is translatable along the axis of rotation to move the cutting element relative to the feeder to cut the connector from the feeder.

13. The coupling according to claim 12, wherein: The fixing member includes a cylindrical cam engageable with a protrusion of the coupling to translate the fixing member along the rotation axis during rotation of the fixing member about the rotation axis.

14. A coupling according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein: The fixing member includes a curved surface, and the fixing member is alignable with the feeding mechanism so that the connecting piece is guided toward the curved surface to bend the connecting piece.

15. A coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The fixing member includes a pair of protrusions, and the connecting piece is configured to pass between the pair of protrusions, wherein when the fixing member rotates, the pair of protrusions engage with the connecting piece, so that when the fixing member rotates, the connecting piece is twisted.

16. A cable handling system for a tugboat, the cable handling system comprising a coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A tugboat comprising a coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 15 or a cable handling system according to claim 16.

18. A method of connecting a ship cable to a tugboat cable, the method comprising: Provide connectors; placing the vessel cable and the tugboat cable in a coupling region of a coupler, the coupler comprising a guide configured to receive the connector and guide the connector around the coupling region, and a securing member configured to secure the connector to the cables; bending the connector before the connector is received by the guide; guiding the connector around the coupling region to wrap the connector around the cable; as well as The connecting piece is fixed to the cable with the fixing member so that the cables are coupled.

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