Positioning and connecting device and method for quick connection of anchor mooring rope

Abstract

The invention relates to a positioning and connecting device and method for quick connection of an anchor mooring rope, the positioning and connecting device comprises a connector and a connecting seat mechanism, the connector is used for being connected with the anchor mooring rope and is provided with a clamping concave part, the connecting seat mechanism comprises a fixed base, a locking piece, a locking driving assembly and a state detection assembly, the fixed base is provided with a connecting groove, and the locking piece is arranged in the connecting groove. The connector is inserted into the connecting groove and can be detected by the state detection assembly when located at the clamping position. The locking piece is installed in a locking limiting hole in the inner wall face of the connecting groove and can move to a locking position and an unlocking position, the locking piece can be inserted into the clamping concave part of the connector located at the clamping position when located at the locking position, and the locking piece retreats from the clamping concave part when located at the unlocking position; the locking driving assembly can drive the locking piece to move towards the locking position and exert locking force on the locking piece, and the locking piece is driven by the locking driving assembly to move from the locking position to the unlocking position or driven when the connector enters and exits the connecting groove.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of marine engineering equipment, and in particular to a positioning connection device and method for quick connection of anchor cables. Background Art

[0002] With the global development of clean energy, the application of deep-sea floating wind turbines, floating oil and gas platforms, marine ranches, and floating docks has rapidly increased. These structures are often located in complex waters with deep waters, strong winds and waves, and highly variable loads. Their stability is highly dependent on reliable, fast, and adaptable mooring systems.

[0003] In these mooring system applications, the anchor chain connection system undertakes key functions such as platform fixation, load transfer, attitude control and emergency release. In particular, the large-scale deployment of floating wind power platforms has put forward urgent demands for the rapid deployment, modular installation, standardized docking and intelligent management of the anchor chain connection system. The existing technology still uses the combination mode of traditional anchor chain link + anchor end shackle + manual pin. This mode has the following common problems: (1) Low installation efficiency: Under deep water conditions, divers or ROVs need to insert large-diameter high-strength pins one by one. The installation takes a long time and the construction is difficult. It is difficult to match the floating wind power array and batch lifting window. (2) High safety risk: Under high sea conditions, personnel and ROVs work under heavy-loaded chain links. Once the platform drifts or the chain links rebound, it is easy to cause equipment damage and casualties.

[0004] Therefore, developing an anchor chain connection technology that can be quickly locked / unlocked and has self-alignment capabilities has become a key bottleneck that needs to be broken through for the large-scale deployment of deep-sea floating platforms. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a positioning connection device and method for quick connection of anchor cables, which can realize quick and automatic connection of anchor cables, reduce manual plug-in operations, reduce construction difficulty, and improve safety.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention provides a positioning connection device for quick connection of an anchor rope, comprising a connecting head and a connecting seat mechanism, the connecting head being used to be connected to the anchor rope, and the connecting head being provided with a snapping recess, the connecting seat mechanism comprising a fixed base, a locking piece, a locking drive assembly and a state detection assembly, the fixed base being provided with a connecting groove for inserting the connecting head, the connecting head being inserted into the connecting groove and being able to be detected by the state detection assembly when it is in the snapping position; the locking piece being movably installed in a locking limit hole on the inner wall surface of the connecting groove, and being able to move to a locked position and an unlocked position, the locking piece being able to be inserted into the snapping recess of the connecting head in the snapping position when it is in the locked position, and being withdrawn from the snapping recess when it is in the unlocked position; the locking drive assembly being able to drive the locking piece to move toward the locked position, and applying a locking force to the locking piece to keep the locking piece in the locked position, the movement of the locking piece from the locked position to the unlocked position being driven by the locking drive assembly or by the connecting head entering and exiting the connecting groove.

[0007] Furthermore, the connecting head includes a connecting rod portion and a ball head portion fixed to one end of the connecting rod portion, the other end of the connecting rod portion is used to connect to the anchor rope, the diameter of the ball head portion is larger than the cross-section of the connecting rod portion, and the recessed space above the upper surface of the ball head portion facing the connecting rod portion constitutes a snap-on recessed portion.

[0008] Furthermore, the connecting seat mechanism also includes a clamping claw assembly, which includes a plurality of claw petals that can be closed or separated from each other, and a clamping inner cavity located in the middle of each claw petal; the clamping claw assembly can be movably installed in the connecting groove, and the claw petals will close with each other when the clamping claw assembly moves toward the bottom of the connecting groove, and the connecting head has an annular pressure plate, which can enter the clamping inner cavity of the clamping claw assembly during the insertion of the connecting head into the connecting groove, and the annular pressure plate abuts against the top of the clamping claw assembly and pushes the clamping claw assembly deeper into the connecting groove. When the connecting head reaches the clamping position, the clamping claw assembly clamps the connecting head.

[0009] Furthermore, the jaws of the clamping jaw assembly are provided with a limit tooth portion located in the clamping inner cavity, and the connecting head is provided with a limit tooth groove. When the annular pressure plate abuts against the top of the clamping jaw assembly, the limit tooth groove and the limit tooth portion are aligned with each other.

[0010] Furthermore, a positioning stop surface is provided at the bottom of the connecting groove, and the connecting head is located at a clamping position when it abuts against the positioning stop surface.

[0011] Furthermore, the locking drive assembly includes a limiting sleeve and a driving part, the limiting sleeve is installed in a fixed base and is located outside the locking piece, the driving part is connected to the limiting sleeve and is used to drive the limiting sleeve to move axially, the locking piece is provided with a clamping working end toward the inner side of the connecting groove, and a movable driving end toward the outside of the limiting sleeve, the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve is provided with an unlocking docking groove that can accommodate the movable driving end, and when the limiting sleeve moves axially, the movable driving end can slide on the inner hole surface and enter and exit the unlocking docking groove, the movable driving end of the locking piece is in an unlocking position when it is in the unlocking docking groove, and is in a locking position when it is against the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve.

[0012] Furthermore, the movable driving end of the locking member is arc-shaped along the axial movement direction of the limiting sleeve.

[0013] Furthermore, a magnet is built into the fixed base, and the connecting head is made of iron.

[0014] Furthermore, the connecting seat mechanism also includes a buffer spring, which extends into the bottom of the connecting groove. When the connecting head enters the clamping position, the buffer spring is pressed down to a compressed state.

[0015] The present invention also provides a self-positioning connection method for rapid docking of anchor cables, which is performed using the above-mentioned positioning connection device, comprising:

[0016] A. Gravity vertical insertion method includes the following steps:

[0017] A1. Install the connector on the anchor line, securely install the fixed base of the connector mechanism, with the entrance of the connecting groove facing upward, and control the locking drive assembly to move the locking member to the unlocked position or reduce the locking force;

[0018] A2. Lower the anchor rope so that the connector is positioned above the entrance of the connection slot. Lower the connector so that it enters the connection slot under the action of gravity and reaches the engaging position. The status detection component sends a signal.

[0019] A3. The locking drive assembly is activated, driving the locking member to move to the locking position. The locking member is inserted into the engaging recess of the connector, locking the connector in the connecting groove.

[0020] As described above, the positioning connection device and method according to the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0021] 1. It can realize the rapid connection of anchor ropes, especially in underwater or deep valley construction sites. It is not necessary to actively hold the connector for plugging. Instead, gravity is used to insert and lock the connector into the connector mechanism, thereby reducing underwater construction work and reducing construction difficulty.

[0022] 2. By setting the locking part, locking drive assembly and clamping claw assembly, the locking connection of the connector in the connecting seat mechanism is stable and reliable, not easy to fall out, and the shaking is reduced, making the construction operation convenient.

[0023] 3. The shape settings of the connection groove and the connection head can be well matched, which makes it easy for the connection head to enter the connection groove. Even if there is a certain angle when the connection head enters, it can be inserted smoothly and accurately, and the contact angle can be adapted.

[0024] 4. It can be set up in a modular manner to adapt to the rapid connection of different anchor lines with various objects. It is especially suitable for the connection between floating bodies and the seabed. It can be used for anchoring various types of floating bodies such as offshore wind power, floating aquaculture, and floating ports. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of the positioning and connecting device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a working schematic diagram of the positioning connection device of the present invention in a connected state.

[0027] Figure 3 It is a structural schematic diagram of the fixed base and the driving part in the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 It is a structural schematic diagram of the locking member and the limiting sleeve in the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the structure of the clamping jaw assembly in the present invention.

[0030] Explanation of Figure Numbers

[0031] 1 Anchor rope

[0032] 2 connectors

[0033] 21 ball head

[0034] 22 Connecting rod

[0035] 23 snap-fit ​​recess

[0036] 24 Ring pressure plate

[0037] 25 limit tooth groove

[0038] 3 Connecting seat mechanism

[0039] 4 Fixed base

[0040] 41 connection slot

[0041] 411 guide section

[0042] 412 Closing section

[0043] 413 ball head receiving section

[0044] 414 positioning stop surface

[0045] 42 Ring limit block

[0046] 5 Locking piece

[0047] 51 Snap-on working end

[0048] 52 Activity Driver

[0049] 6 Locking drive assembly

[0050] 61 Limit sleeve

[0051] 611 Unlock docking groove

[0052] 62 drive unit

[0053] 621 piston rod

[0054] 622 hydraulic oil chamber

[0055] 623 hydraulic interface

[0056] 7-jaw assembly

[0057] 71 Claws

[0058] 72 limit teeth

[0059] 73 annular limiting groove

[0060] 8 Buffer spring DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The following describes the implementation of the present invention through specific embodiments. People skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the contents disclosed in this specification.

[0062] It should be noted that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc. depicted in the drawings of this specification are only used to match the contents disclosed in the specification for people familiar with this technology to understand and read, and are not used to limit the conditions for the implementation of the present invention. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modification of the structure, change in the proportional relationship, or adjustment of the size should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed by the present invention without affecting the efficacy and purpose of the present invention. At the same time, the terms such as "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "middle", etc. quoted in this specification are only for the convenience of description and are not used to limit the scope of the implementation of the present invention. Changes or adjustments in their relative relationships should also be regarded as the scope of the implementation of the present invention without substantially changing the technical content.

[0063] See also Figures 1 to 5 The present invention provides a positioning connection device for quick connection of an anchor rope 1, comprising a connector 2 and a connector seat mechanism 3, wherein the connector 2 is used to connect to the anchor rope 1, and the connector 2 is provided with a snap-fitting recess 23, the connector seat mechanism 3 comprises a fixed base 4, a locking member 5, a locking drive assembly 6 and a status detection assembly, the fixed base 4 is provided with a connecting groove 41 for inserting the connector 2, and when the connector 2 is inserted into the connecting groove 41 and is in the snap-fitting position, it can be detected by the status detection assembly; the locking member 5 is movably installed in a locking limit hole on the inner wall surface of the connecting groove 41, and can move to a locked position and an unlocked position, when the locking member 5 is in the locked position, it can be inserted into the snap-fitting recess 23 of the connector 2 in the snap-fitting position, and when it is in the unlocked position, it withdraws from the snap-fitting recess 23, the locking drive assembly 6 can drive the locking member 5 to move toward the locked position, and apply a locking force to the locking member 5 to keep the locking member 5 in the locked position, and the movement of the locking member 5 from the locked position to the unlocked position is driven by the locking drive assembly 6, or by the connector 2 entering and exiting the connecting groove 41.

[0064] In the present invention, the movement of the locking member 5 from the locked position to the unlocked position can be driven by the connector 2. Specifically, the connector 2 passes through the locking member 5 when entering and exiting the engagement, and exerts outward pressure on the locking member 5 when contacting the locking member 5. The generation of this pressure can be achieved in an existing manner, mainly through the shape of the contact surface between the two. The contact surface between the two is a wedge-shaped surface (curved surface or shoe surface). The wedge surface can be provided on one of the connector 2 and the locking member 5, or both of them have a wedge surface. See Figure 1 In this way, when the connector 2 is moving in and out, if the locking member 5 is still in the locked position, the force acting on the locking member 5 will generate outward pressure through the wedge surface. At this time, when the locking force applied by the locking drive assembly 6 to the locking member 5 is reduced to a very small amount or zero, the force applied by the connector 2 to the locking member 5 that drives the locking member 5 to move outward overcomes the locking force, and can push the locking member 5 to move smoothly outward to the unlocked position.

[0065] The positioning and connecting device of the present invention is used to connect the anchor rope 1 to the anchor position. When in use, the connector 2 is connected to the end of the anchor rope 1, wherein the anchor rope 1 can be an iron chain, a steel wire rope, a rope, etc. The fixed base 4 of the connecting seat mechanism 3 is fixedly installed at the anchor position. The positioning and connecting device is particularly suitable for occasions where it is inconvenient to directly hold the connector 2 and apply a plug-in action, such as the connection of the anchor rope 1 in the deep sea or deep valley. At this time, the gravity of the anchor rope 1 and the connector 2 can be used to automatically insert them into the connecting seat mechanism 3. The specific process includes: after the fixed base 4 is fixedly installed, the entrance of the connecting groove 41 faces upward, and the locking drive assembly 6 is controlled to drive the locking member 5 to move to the unlocking position or reduce the locking force, allowing the connector 2 to be inserted into the connecting groove 41. Then, the anchor cable 1 is lowered to position the connector 2 above the entrance of the connecting groove 41. The connector 2 is lowered, and under the action of gravity, the connector 2 enters the connecting groove 41 and reaches the engaging position. The state detection component sends a corresponding signal, and then controls the locking drive component 6 to move, driving the locking member 5 to the locking position. The locking member 5 is inserted into the engaging recess 23 of the connector 2, locking the connector 2 in the connecting groove 41. At this time, the locking drive component 6 provides a certain locking force to ensure that the locking member 5 remains stably in the locked position. At the same time, because the locking member 5 is embedded in the locking limit hole on the wall of the connecting groove 41, it provides a locking force along the depth direction of the connecting groove 41. Therefore, the locking member 5 can provide sufficient locking force to keep the connector 2 stably in the connecting groove 41 and will not easily fall out even if it is pulled by the anchor cable 1. In some working conditions, the connector 2 can also be inserted into the connecting seat mechanism 3 by manual or mechanical arm grasping. The working principle is similar and will not be described in detail. In this case, the direction of the entrance of the connecting groove 41 is not restricted. When the connection needs to be released, the locking drive assembly 6 is controlled to operate, driving the locking member 5 from the locked position to the unlocked position, at which time the connector 2 can be smoothly pulled out of the fixed base 4. Alternatively, the locking drive assembly 6 can reduce the force on the locking member 5, and when the connector 2 is pulled out of the connection groove 41, the locking member 5 is driven by the connector 2 through contact pressure, so that the locking member 5 returns to the unlocked position, thereby not affecting the smooth removal of the connector 2. The connection operation of the positioning connection device of the present invention is simple and convenient, has good stability, and can reduce manual plugging operations.

[0066] See also Figures 1 to 5 The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments:

[0067] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the connector 2 includes a connecting rod 22 and a ball head 21 fixed to one end of the connecting rod 22. The other end of the connecting rod 22 is used to connect to the anchor rope 1. The diameter of the ball head 21 is larger than the cross section of the connecting rod 22, and the recessed space above the upper surface of the ball head 21 facing the connecting rod 22 constitutes a snap-on recess 23. When in use, the ball head 21 is inserted downward into the connecting groove 41, which has a good guiding effect and can adjust the angular position of the connector 2 entering the connecting groove 41. When the locking member 5 is in the locking position, it abuts against the upper surface of the ball head 21, and the ball head 21 can withstand the locking pressure applied by the locking member 5. The material of the connector 2 is marine-grade high-strength stainless steel (such as 316L) or titanium alloy, which has high corrosion resistance. Preferably, the surface of the connector 2 is heat-treated (such as nitriding, shot peening) to improve wear resistance, and an optional coating (such as PTFE) can reduce friction and prevent jamming.

[0068] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, to facilitate the insertion of the ball head 21 of the connector 2, the connecting groove 41 is configured as a multi-stage variable diameter structure. Specifically, the connecting groove 41 includes, axially from the entrance to the bottom, a cylindrical guide section 411, a conical convergent section 412, and a ball head receiving section 413. The diameter of the guide section 411 is larger than that of the ball head 21, facilitating insertion of the ball head 21. The conical convergent section 412 is larger at the top and smaller at the bottom, facilitating the insertion of the ball head 21 into the ball head receiving section 413. The ball head receiving section 413 has a cylindrical top and a hemispherical bottom. The diameter of the hemispherical surface can be equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the ball head 21, forming a positioning stop surface 414. When the ball head 21 enters the ball head receiving section 413, it abuts against the hemispherical positioning stop surface 414, stopping and positioning the connector 2. At this point, the connector 2 is in the engaged position, and the ball head 21 of the connector 2 is effectively constrained by the ball head receiving section 413. The locking member 5 is arranged at the upper cylindrical portion of the ball head receiving section 413. In other embodiments, the connector 2 may also be configured as other shapes, and correspondingly, the connecting groove 41 may also be configured as other suitable shapes according to the shape of the connector 2.

[0069] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the connecting seat mechanism 3 also includes a clamping claw assembly 7, which includes a plurality of claw petals 71 that can be closed or separated from each other, and a clamping inner cavity located in the middle of the claw petals 71. The clamping claw assembly 7 can specifically adopt an existing suitable design structure, and the number of claw petals 71 is preferably 4 to 8; the clamping claw assembly 7 can be movably installed in the connecting groove 41, and the claw petals 71 will close together when the clamping claw assembly 7 moves toward the bottom of the connecting groove 41. The connector 2 has an annular pressure plate 24. When the connector 2 is inserted into the connecting groove 41, it can enter the clamping inner cavity of the clamping claw assembly 7, and the annular pressure plate 24 abuts against the top of the clamping claw assembly 7 and pushes the clamping claw assembly 7 deeper into the connecting groove 41. In this way, the clamping claw assembly 7 will gradually close in the connecting groove 41, and the clamping claw assembly 7 will clamp the connector 2 when the connector 2 reaches the clamping position. By providing the clamping claw assembly 7, the connector 2 can be further stabilized and the shaking of the connector 2 in the connecting groove 41 can be reduced.

[0070] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the axial center line of the clamping jaw assembly 7 is colinear with the axial center line of the connecting groove 41. The movement of the claw 71 of the clamping jaw assembly 7 in the connecting groove 41 includes movement along the depth direction of the connecting groove 41 (i.e., the axial direction) and movement in the radial direction (i.e., the closing action of the clamping jaw assembly 7). The linear movement of the claw 71 in the axial direction and the radial direction can be achieved by a linear guide structure. For example, a guide groove extending linearly along the axis can be provided on the side wall surface of the connecting groove 41, and the guide groove also extends linearly in the radial direction. A certain length, correspondingly, a slider that is mounted in the guide slot is provided on the claw flap 71, and the claw flap 71 contacts the inner wall surface of the connecting groove 41, so that when the connector 2 is inserted into the connecting groove 41, the annular pressure plate 24 abuts against the top of the clamping jaw assembly 7 and pushes all the claw flaps 71 to move toward the bottom of the connecting groove 41, and the claw flap 71 moves linearly along the guide slot in the axial direction. At the same time, under the action of the inner wall surface of the connecting groove 41, especially in the retraction section 412, it moves radially along the guide slot, so that each claw flap 71 of the clamping jaw assembly 7 can achieve a closing action. In addition, the outer wall surface of the clamping jaw assembly 7 can also be set to a shape that is larger at the top and smaller at the bottom, so that the clamping jaw assembly 7 can also achieve a closing action when moving toward the bottom of the connecting groove 41. The closing action of the clamping jaw assembly 7 when it penetrates into the connecting groove 41 can also be achieved by other existing suitable methods, which are not limited in this application.

[0071] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the clamping cavity in the clamping jaw assembly 7 is cylindrical, which is convenient for clamping on the ball head 21 of the connector 2, and a guide cavity is provided in the middle of the clamping jaw assembly 7, which is located above the clamping cavity. The guide cavity is a conical shape with a larger upper part and a smaller lower part, which is used to guide the ball head 21 into the clamping cavity. Further preferably, the claw petal 71 of the clamping jaw assembly 7 is provided with a limiting tooth portion 72 located in the clamping cavity, and the connector 2 is provided with a limiting tooth groove 25. When the annular pressure plate 24 abuts against the top of the clamping jaw assembly 7, the limiting tooth groove 25 and the limiting tooth portion 72 are aligned with the limiting tooth portion 72 in an annular shape. In this way, when the clamping jaw assembly 7 clamps the connector 2, the limiting tooth portion 72 is inserted into the quasi-limiting tooth groove 25, and the insertion depth is preferably ≥5mm (depending on the maximum axial force), so that the axial relative position between the connector 2 and the clamping jaw assembly 7 can be limited, and the position of the connector 2 in the connecting groove 41 can be better stabilized. In this embodiment, further, the limiting tooth groove 25 is provided on the ball head 21, the vertical axis of the winding ball head 21 extends into a ring shape, and a plurality of annular limiting tooth grooves 25 are provided along the height direction. Correspondingly, the limiting tooth portion 72 is provided in a ring shape coaxial with the cylindrical clamping cavity, and a plurality of annular limiting teeth are provided along the height direction, which are matched one by one with the plurality of limiting tooth grooves 25. The upper and lower side surfaces of the limiting tooth groove 25 and the limiting tooth portion 72 are both provided with inclined surfaces, that is, the cross-sections of the limiting tooth groove 25 and the limiting tooth portion 72 are both trapezoidal, which facilitates the docking and insertion of the two. The material of the limiting tooth portion 72 can be made of high-strength stainless steel or surface nitriding treatment to enhance fatigue resistance.

[0072] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 5In this embodiment, as a preferred design, an annular limit block 42 is provided on the inner wall of the connecting groove 41 near the entrance. Correspondingly, an annular limit groove 73 cooperating with the annular limit block 42 is provided on the outer side of the clamping jaw assembly 7, and the upper and lower side surfaces of the annular limit block 42 and the annular limit groove 73 are both inclined, that is, the cross-sections of both are trapezoidal. The limiting claw flap 71 also has a reset elastic structure for keeping the limiting claw flap 71 in an open state. Before the connector 2 is inserted, the clamping jaw assembly 7 is located at the entrance and exit of the connecting groove 41, and the annular limit groove 73 is clamped on the annular limit block 42. Under the certain elastic force provided by the reset elastic structure, the clamping jaw assembly 7 opens, thereby being stabilized on the annular limit block 42, facilitating the insertion of the connector 2. When the clamping jaw assembly 7 is subjected to the pressure of the annular pressure plate 24 of the connector 2, the upper side surface inclined between the annular limiting block 42 and the annular limiting groove 73 will cause the claw 71 to contract to a certain extent, so that the annular limiting groove 73 can be separated from the annular limiting block 42, thereby allowing the clamping jaw assembly 7 to move smoothly to the bottom of the connecting groove 41. When the connector 2 enters the clamping position, the clamping inner cavity of the clamping jaw assembly 7 clamps the ball head 21, and the annular limiting groove 73 is now located above the upper surface of the ball head 21, opposite to the clamping groove portion 23. When the locking member 5 is driven to the locking position, it enters the clamping groove portion 23 and is also inserted into the annular limiting groove 73. Figure 2 The locking member 5 applies inward pressure to the clamping jaw assembly 7 through the annular limiting groove 73, thereby further ensuring the clamping force of the clamping jaw assembly 7 on the ball head 21.

[0073] When the connector 2 needs to be pulled out, the connector 2 will drive the clamping jaw assembly 7 to move upward, and the locking member 5 will also exit the annular limit groove 73 when exiting the engaging groove portion 23. The connector 2 and the clamping jaw assembly 7 can move upward smoothly. When the clamping jaw assembly 7 moves to the entrance of the connecting groove 41, the annular limit groove 73 is again clamped onto the annular limit block 42, and the clamping jaw assembly 7 remains open, waiting for the next insertion of the connector 2.

[0074] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 4In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the locking drive assembly 6 includes a limiting sleeve 61 and a driving portion 62. The limiting sleeve 61 is installed in the fixed base 4 and is located outside the locking member 5. The driving portion 62 is connected to the limiting sleeve 61 to drive the limiting sleeve 61 to move axially. The locking member 5 is provided with a clamping working end 51 toward the inner side of the connecting groove 41, and a movable driving end 52 is provided toward the outer side of the limiting sleeve 61. An unlocking docking groove 611 capable of accommodating the movable driving end 52 is provided on the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve 61, and the movable driving end 52 can slide on the inner hole surface and enter and exit the unlocking docking groove 611 when the limiting sleeve 61 moves axially. When the movable driving end 52 of the locking member 5 is in the unlocking docking groove 611, it is in the unlocking position, and when it is against the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve 61, it is in the locking position. The locking member 5 preferably moves radially along the connecting groove 41 and the limiting sleeve 61. Multiple locking members 5 are provided, distributed in a circular array around the center of the connecting groove 41 and the limiting sleeve 61, for a better locking effect. The unlocking docking groove 611 is an annular groove coaxially arranged with the inner surface of the limiting sleeve 61, cooperating with all the locking members 5 to simultaneously accommodate the movable driving ends 52 of all of them. This streamlined structure allows a single limiting sleeve 61 to simultaneously drive the movement of multiple locking members 5.

[0075] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 4In this embodiment, the movable driving end 52 of the locking member 5 is further configured as an arc along the axial direction of the limiting sleeve 61. This allows the movable driving end 52 to slide smoothly into and out of the unlocking docking groove 611 during axial movement of the limiting sleeve 61. The movable driving end 52 may also be configured as a "<" shape with a central protrusion. Based on a similar principle, the upper and lower sidewalls of the unlocking docking groove 611 may also be configured as arcs. In this case, the shape of the movable driving end 52 is not limited, and this also allows the movable driving end 52 to smoothly enter and exit the unlocking docking groove 611 during axial movement of the limiting sleeve 61. Preferably, the locking member 5 is a spherical steel ball. This allows the engaging working end 51 to also be configured as an arc along the axial direction of the connecting groove 41. This facilitates contact and relative sliding between the connector 2 and the locking member 5 during entry and exit, driving the locking member 5 outward. Using a steel ball allows the connector 2 to roll, thereby reducing sliding friction between the connector 2 and the locking member 5, as well as reducing sliding friction between the locking member 5 and the limiting sleeve 61. The locking member 5 can also be configured as a rod of a certain length with hemispherical ends. In other embodiments, when the limiting tooth groove 25 is not provided on the ball head 21 of the connector 2, the contact portion between the connector 2 and the locking member 5's engaging working end 51 is an arc-shaped surface. In this way, the shape of the engaging working end 51 can also be unrestricted, and the locking member 5 is driven outward by the surface of the ball head 21 when the connector 2 enters and exits the connecting groove 41. In summary, when the engaging working end 51 of the locking member 5 contacts the connector 2 via an arc surface or an inclined surface, the locking member 5 can be smoothly driven to move outward when the connector 2 moves in and out. Based on the same principle, when the engaging working end 51 of the locking member 5 contacts the annular limiting groove 73 via an arc surface or an inclined surface, the engaging working end 51 can smoothly enter and exit the annular limiting groove 73 when the clamping jaw assembly 7 moves in and out of the connecting groove 41, without affecting the movement of the clamping jaw assembly 7. When the movable driving end 52 of the locking member 5 cooperates with the unlocking docking groove 611 of the limiting sleeve 61 through an arc surface or an inclined surface, the movable driving end 52 can smoothly enter and exit the unlocking docking groove 611 when the limiting sleeve 61 moves axially.

[0076] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the driving unit 62 can be hydraulically driven and integrated into the fixed base 4. Specifically, the driving unit 62 includes a hydraulic oil chamber 622 provided in the fixed base 4, a driving rod 621 located in the hydraulic oil chamber 622, and a hydraulic interface 623 connected to the hydraulic oil chamber 622. The driving rod 621 is connected to the limiting sleeve 61. After hydraulic oil is injected into the hydraulic oil chamber 622 through the hydraulic interface 623, the driving rod 621 can be driven to move linearly and drive the limiting sleeve 61 to move axially. The driving unit 62 can also adopt other suitable designs, for example, an independent linear power cylinder such as a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric cylinder can be used, which is fixedly installed in the fixed base 4.

[0077] When the locking drive assembly 6 of this embodiment is used, before the connector 2 is inserted, see Figure 1 The unlocking docking groove 611 in the limiting sleeve 61 is opposite to the movable driving end 52 of the locking member 5. At this time, when the connector 2 is inserted, it will pass through the engaging working end 51 of the locking member 5. If the locking member 5 is still in the locked position, the connector 2 can also contact and push the locking member 5 to move outward, so that the movable driving end 52 is inserted into the unlocking docking groove 611, that is, switched to the unlocked position, which will not affect the smooth insertion of the connector 2. After the connector 2 enters the engaged position, the driving rod 621 of the driving part 62 pushes the limiting sleeve 61, so that the movable driving ends 52 of all the locking members 5 come out of the unlocking docking groove 611, thereby synchronously pushing all the locking members 5 inward to the locked position, locking the connector 2, see Figure 2 By maintaining the pressure in the hydraulic oil chamber 622, sufficient support force can be provided to the driving rod 621, maintaining the position of the limiting sleeve 61, thereby ensuring that the locking member 5 is stable in the locked position. When contact connection is required, the driving portion 62 is controlled to operate, the driving rod 621 is retracted, and the limiting sleeve 61 is driven to reset, so that the unlocking docking groove 611 and the movable driving end 52 of the locking member 5 are restored to be aligned with each other, and then the connector 2 is pulled out of the connecting groove 41. When the connector 2 moves, it can apply outward pressure to the locking member 5 through the arc surface, or through the annular limiting groove 73 of the clamping jaw assembly 7 that moves with the connector 2 to apply outward pressure to the locking member 5, thereby pushing the locking member 5 outward until the movable driving end 52 is inserted into the lock docking groove, smoothly reaching the unlocking position, and ensuring that the connector 2 can be pulled out smoothly.

[0078] In other embodiments, the locking drive assembly 6 may also adopt other existing suitable design structures, be directly connected to the locking member 5, and directly drive the locking member 5 to move inward or outward.

[0079] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3In this embodiment, as a preferred design, a magnet is built into the fixed base 4 (not shown in the drawings), and a magnet is preferably provided at the bottom of the connecting groove 41. The connecting head 2 is made of iron, and the magnet provides adsorption force to play an auxiliary positioning role, which is used to guide the connecting head 2 into the connecting groove 41 and stabilize the connecting head 2 in the snap-in position.

[0080] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the connecting seat mechanism 3 also includes a buffer spring 8, which extends into the bottom of the connecting groove 41. When the connector 2 enters the connecting groove 41, it will contact and gradually compress the buffer spring 8. When the connecting position is reached, the buffer spring 8 is pressed down to a compressed state, thereby playing a buffering role and effectively reducing the damage caused by the rigid collision between the connector 2 and the connecting groove 41. In addition, the elastic force provided by the buffer spring 8 can further improve the stability of the connector 2 in the clamping position. After the contact connector 2 is locked, the elastic force of the buffer spring 8 can prompt the connector 2 and the clamping jaw assembly 7 to move toward the entrance of the connecting groove 41, and prompt the clamping jaw assembly 7 to switch to a separated state, thereby assisting the connector 2 to be quickly separated. For working scenarios where the action of inserting the connector 2 into the connecting slot 41 is performed manually or by a robotic arm, the buffer spring 8 can be set to a larger elastic force, so that after the locking piece 5 releases the lock on the connector 2, the elastic force of the buffer spring 8 can quickly pop out the connector 2. At this time, there is no need to pull the connector 2 through the anchor rope 1, and the connector 2 can be automatically and quickly popped out, which can be suitable for emergency disconnection scenarios.

[0081] In this embodiment, as a preferred design, the status detection component of the connector seat mechanism 3 can use a stress sensor, a contact sensor, a photoelectric switch light, etc. to detect whether the connector 2 reaches the clamping position. Preferably, the status detection component also includes a clamping jaw detector for detecting the working status of the clamping jaw assembly 7. When the clamping jaw assembly 7 closes and clamps the connector 2, the clamping jaw detector is triggered and sends a corresponding signal, wherein the clamping jaw detector can be set between the limiting tooth groove 25 and the limiting tooth portion 72 to detect whether the limiting tooth portion 72 is inserted into the limiting tooth groove 25. The status detection component can also be provided with a detector for detecting the position status of the locking member 5 and the locking drive assembly 6, so as to determine whether the connector 2 is locked in the connector seat mechanism 3.

[0082] The present invention also provides a positioning and connection method for quickly connecting an anchor rope 1, which is performed using the above-mentioned positioning and connection device, comprising:

[0083] A. Gravity vertical insertion method includes the following steps:

[0084] A1. Install the connector 2 on the anchor rope 1, securely install the fixed base 4 of the connector mechanism 3, with the entrance of the connecting groove 41 facing upward, and control the locking drive assembly 6 to drive the locking member 5 to the unlocking position or reduce the locking force.

[0085] A2. Lower the anchor rope 1 to position the connector 2 above the entrance of the connecting groove 41; lower the connector 2, and the connector 2 enters the connecting groove 41 under the action of gravity and reaches the engaging position, and the status detection component sends a signal.

[0086] During offshore construction, the connector 2 is towed by the anchor cable 1 at the end of the tugboat or platform, close to the fixed base 4 of the connector mechanism 3, and the anchor cable 1 is towed to the predetermined construction area. The end of the anchor chain slides into the connector mechanism 3 under the action of buoyancy, gravity and cable traction. Specifically, the connecting rod portion 22 of the connector 2 can ensure the directionality of the ball head 21 to prevent it from flipping or swinging during the insertion process. The ball head 21 first enters the clamping claw assembly 7, and the annular pressure plate 24 pushes the claw assembly into the connecting groove 41 along with the connector 2. The claw assembly gradually closes under the action of the connecting groove 41 and clamps the ball head 21 of the connector 2. The connector 2 reaches the clamping position, and the buffer spring 8 is pressed down to a compressed state. The state detection component is used to determine whether the connector 2 is inserted into place and whether the clamping claw assembly 7 has clamped the connector 2 well.

[0087] A3. The locking drive assembly 6 is activated, driving the locking member 5 to move to the locked position. The locking member 5 is inserted into the engaging recess 23 of the connector 2, locking the connector 2 in the connecting groove 41. Specifically, after the status detection assembly determines whether the connector 2 is fully inserted and the clamping jaw assembly 7 has clamped the connector 2, the locking drive assembly 6 drives the locking member 5 to move, locking the connector 2 in the connecting groove 41. At the same time, the status detection assembly sends a feedback signal confirming that the connector 2 has been locked.

[0088] When the anchor rope 1 needs to be replaced, repaired or released, the locking drive assembly 6 in the connecting seat mechanism 3 is controlled to move, so that the locking piece 5 is moved to the unlocked position, or the locking force is reduced, and the connector 2 is pulled out of the connecting groove 41 through the anchor rope 1, and the locking piece 5 is pushed. During the pulling-out process, the elastic force of the buffer spring 8 assists the connector 2 to be disengaged.

[0089] In the self-positioning connection method, an active plug-in method can also be used, that is, the connector 2 is held manually or by a robotic arm to control the direction and plug-in action of the connector 2, and is actively inserted into the connection slot 41. At this time, after the fixed base 4 is fixedly installed, the entrance direction of the connection slot 41 can be unrestricted, and can be upward, toward, or toward the front, back, left, and right.

[0090] As can be seen from the above, the positioning connection device and method of the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0091] 1. It can realize the quick connection of the anchor rope 1, especially in underwater or deep valley construction sites. It is no longer necessary to actively hold the connector 2 for plugging. Instead, gravity is used to insert the connector 2 and lock it in the connector seat mechanism 3, thereby reducing underwater construction work and reducing construction difficulty.

[0092] 2. By providing the locking member 5, the locking drive assembly 6 and the clamping claw assembly 7, the locking connection of the connector 2 in the connector seat mechanism 3 is stable and reliable, not easy to fall out, and the shaking is reduced, making the construction operation convenient.

[0093] 3. The shapes of the connection groove 41 and the connector 2 can be well matched, making it easy for the connector 2 to enter the connection groove 41. Even if the connector 2 has a certain angle when entering, it can be inserted smoothly and accurately, and the contact angle is adaptive.

[0094] 4. A modular setting can be adopted to adapt to the rapid connection of different anchor ropes 1 with various objects, especially suitable for the connection between floating bodies and the seabed, and can be used for anchoring various types of floating bodies such as offshore wind power, floating aquaculture, and floating ports.

[0095] In summary, the present invention effectively overcomes various shortcomings in the prior art and has high industrial utilization value.

[0096] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Anyone skilled in the art may modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and technical principles disclosed herein are intended to be covered by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A positioning connection device for quick connection of anchor ropes, characterized by: The invention comprises a connector (2) and a connector seat mechanism (3), wherein the connector (2) is used to connect with the anchor rope (1), and the connector (2) is provided with a snap-fit ​​recess (23), and the connector seat mechanism (3) comprises a fixed base (4), a locking member (5), a locking drive assembly (6) and a status detection assembly, wherein the fixed base (4) is provided with a connecting groove (41) for inserting the connector (2), and the connector (2) can be detected by the status detection assembly when it is inserted into the connecting groove (41) and is located in the snap-fit ​​position; the locking member (5) is movably mounted on the lock on the inner wall surface of the connecting groove (41) The locking member (5) is inserted into a fixed limiting hole and can move to a locked position and an unlocked position. When the locking member (5) is in the locked position, it can be inserted into the engaging recess (23) of the connector (2) in the engaging position, and withdraw from the engaging recess (23) when it is in the unlocked position. The locking drive assembly (6) can drive the locking member (5) to move toward the locked position and apply a locking force to the locking member (5) so that the locking member (5) remains in the locked position. The movement of the locking member (5) from the locked position to the unlocked position is driven by the locking drive assembly (6) or by the connector (2) entering and exiting the connecting groove (41).

2. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector (2) comprises a connecting rod portion (22) and a ball head portion (21) fixed to one end of the connecting rod portion (22); the other end of the connecting rod portion (22) is used to connect to the anchor rope (1); the diameter of the ball head portion (21) is larger than the cross section of the connecting rod portion (22); and a recessed space on the upper surface of the ball head portion (21) facing the connecting rod portion (22) constitutes a snap-fit ​​recessed portion (23).

3. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting seat mechanism (3) also includes a clamping claw assembly (7), which includes a plurality of claw petals (71) that can be closed or separated from each other, and a clamping inner cavity located in the middle of each claw petal (71); the clamping claw assembly (7) can be movably installed in the connecting groove (41), and the claw petals (71) will close together when the clamping claw assembly (7) moves toward the bottom of the connecting groove (41); the connecting head (2) has an annular pressure plate (24), and the connecting head (2) can enter the clamping inner cavity of the clamping claw assembly (7) during the process of inserting the connecting head (2) into the connecting groove (41), and the annular pressure plate (24) abuts against the top of the clamping claw assembly (7) and pushes the clamping claw assembly (7) deep into the connecting groove (41); when the connecting head (2) reaches the clamping position, the clamping claw assembly (7) clamps the connecting head (2).

4. The positioning connection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The claw petal (71) of the clamping jaw assembly (7) is provided with a limiting tooth portion (72) located in the clamping inner cavity, and the connecting head (2) is provided with a limiting tooth groove (25). When the annular pressure plate (24) abuts against the top of the clamping jaw assembly (7), the limiting tooth groove (25) and the limiting tooth portion (72) are aligned.

5. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A positioning stop surface (414) is provided at the bottom of the connection groove (41), and the connection head (2) is located at a clamping position when it abuts against the positioning stop surface (414).

6. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking drive assembly (6) comprises a limiting sleeve (61) and a driving portion (62), wherein the limiting sleeve (61) is installed in the fixed base (4) and is located outside the locking member (5), and the driving portion (62) is connected to the limiting sleeve (61) and is used to drive the limiting sleeve (61) to move axially, and the locking member (5) is provided with a clamping working end (51) facing the inner side of the connecting groove (41) and a movable driving end (52) facing the outer side of the limiting sleeve (61), and an unlocking docking groove (611) capable of accommodating the movable driving end (52) is provided on the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve (61), and when the limiting sleeve (61) moves axially, the movable driving end (52) can slide on the inner hole surface and enter and exit the unlocking docking groove (611), and the movable driving end (52) of the locking member (5) is in the unlocking position when it is located in the unlocking docking groove (611), and is in the locking position when it abuts against the inner hole surface of the limiting sleeve (61).

7. The positioning connection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The movable driving end (52) of the locking member (5) is in an arc shape along the axial movement direction of the limiting sleeve (61).

8. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A magnet is built into the fixed base (4), and the connecting head (2) is made of iron.

9. The positioning connection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting seat mechanism (3) further comprises a buffer spring (8), wherein the buffer spring (8) extends into the bottom of the connecting groove (41), and when the connecting head (2) enters the clamping position, the buffer spring (8) is pressed down to a compressed state.

10. A self-positioning connection method for rapid docking of anchor cables, characterized by: The method is carried out using the positioning and connecting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: A. Gravity vertical insertion method includes the following steps: A1. Install the connector (2) on the anchor rope (1), securely install the fixed base (4) of the connecting seat mechanism (3), and position the entrance of the connecting groove (41) upward. Control the locking drive assembly (6) to drive the locking member (5) to move to the unlocking position or reduce the locking force. A2. Lower the anchor rope (1) to position the connector (2) above the entrance of the connecting groove (41); lower the connector (2), so that the connector (2) enters the connecting groove (41) under the action of gravity and reaches the engaging position, and the status detection component sends a signal; A3. The locking drive assembly (6) is activated, driving the locking member (5) to move to the locking position. The locking member (5) is inserted into the engaging recess (23) of the connector (2), locking the connector (2) in the connecting groove (41).

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