A marine docking system, a docking device for the marine docking system, and a method for assembling the marine docking system.

Abstract

A marine connection system (1) includes: a marine positioning system (2) including a receiving part (20) and a through opening (21); one or more submarine cables (3) having corresponding connecting terminals (30); a connection device (4) including a body (40) removably connected to the connecting terminals (30) such that the body (40) encloses the terminals (30) in a cavity (41); wherein the connection device (4) is configured to be inserted upward through the through opening (21) to be arranged in a predetermined resting position (R) relative to the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2); and one or more blocking devices (5) configured to be selectively arranged in a blocking position (a) for interacting with the connection device (4) and the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2) to selectively hold the connection device (4) in the predetermined resting position (R).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a marine connection system, comprising at least a marine positioning system (e.g., a marine mooring structure pre-deployed at a marine location), one or more submarine cables, a connection device, and one or more blocking devices. The marine connection system belongs to the field of offshore power generation technology, such as wind power generation using floating offshore structures / platforms. This invention also relates to a connection device used as part of the marine connection system. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for assembling the marine connection system. Background Technology

[0002] The emerging field of floating offshore energy production platforms / structures (primarily wind turbine platforms, but also including tidal and solar platforms) faces the increasing complexity of managing the electrical connections between these platforms and electrical substations (which can be offshore or onshore, depending on the wind farm layout). In fixed-foundation wind turbines, cables are pulled into the wind turbine support structure via I- or J-tubes, reaching the dry deck, where the cable terminations can be connected to switchgear. Once connected, the cables here remain completely stationary and can remain in place for the life of the system, even if the turbine requires maintenance.

[0003] However, floating wind turbine platforms are not static structures; they typically move in six degrees of freedom under the influence of waves, wind, and currents. Therefore, static cable connections are not feasible, necessitating dynamic cable segments. This raises three significant issues. First, the dynamic cable segments bear dynamic loads due to the relative movement of the platform and the cables themselves. Second, during installation, if cable laying is performed before the Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT) unit is towed out (as is often the case), there is no static structure to pre-connect the cables. Third, the floating platform may need to be towed to port for large component replacements on the wind turbine, such as blade or generator failures. In such cases, preparatory measures are needed to ensure the cables are well-protected so they can be reconnected to the platform when it is towed back to the site after repairs.

[0004] An additional consideration is that in a typical wind farm layout, multiple FOWT units can be connected in a "daisy-chain" configuration, meaning two to ten or more FOWT units are connected in series to the substation. FOWTs can also be connected in a ring configuration or a variety of other configurations. In these cases, it may be necessary to run not one, but two or even three cables into each FOWT unit to maintain continuity of connection with the preceding and following FOWTs in this series connection. If a single FOWT unit subsequently needs to be towed to a port, an additional problem arises as to how to maintain continuity in this connection so that downstream FOWT units can continue to operate.

[0005] One known technique for addressing the second and third problems mentioned above involves encapsulating a junction box within a buoyancy tank, to which the terminals of one or more submarine cables are connected. This junction box is configured to be lifted into the platform with the assistance of an auxiliary vessel during installation and subsequently, in the event of platform disconnection. However, this solution lacks precise control over the position of the buoyancy tank. Furthermore, a significant drawback of this solution is that it requires vessel intervention to position the junction box within the buoyancy tank (e.g., before the FOWT unit has been towed to its location), and also for connecting, removing the junction box from the buoyancy tank, and subsequently connecting the junction box to the FOWT unit (e.g., to the corresponding switchgear).

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a precise system description and method to overcome the limitations of the prior art for this particular FOWT configuration. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a system, an apparatus and a method that eliminates the above-mentioned problems, reduces complexity and greatly improves the reliability and maintainability of floating offshore structures used for power generation (e.g., as FOWT systems).

[0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to a system (also known as a marine system or marine connection system) for deploying / receiving one or more submarine cables (also known as dynamic cables). The system may be a system for receiving one or more submarine cables for connection to an offshore generator (i.e., the one or more submarine cables are intended / configured for connection to an offshore generator, which may or may not be part of the system). The system according to the first aspect includes a marine positioning system (e.g., a pre-deployed mooring structure, such as a tension leg platform), one or more submarine cables, and connection means for connecting the one or more cables to the pre-deployed marine mooring structure.

[0009] In the context of this invention, a marine positioning system refers to a system configured to attach a floating offshore platform or structure (e.g., a floating offshore wind turbine platform / structure) to the seabed to maintain the floating offshore platform / structure in a predetermined position relative to the seabed. The marine positioning system may include a base attached to the seabed and connectors for connecting the floating offshore structure. Such a system ensures the stability and operational reliability of the floating offshore structure by counteracting environmental forces such as wind, waves, and currents. A marine positioning system may also be referred to as a marine static positioning system or a marine fixed positioning system.

[0010] In some implementations, the offshore positioning system can be configured as a mooring structure or system, which may include components such as anchors, mooring lines (e.g., chains or cables), and at least one connector (for connecting the floating offshore structure), providing a secure and resilient attachment to the seabed, allowing the floating offshore platform to remain stationary while adapting to dynamic movements caused by the marine environment. In the general context of offshore power generation (particularly in the field of wind turbines), an offshore mooring structure / system is a set of anchors, mooring lines (e.g., chains or cables), and other components (e.g., connectors) installed on the seabed prior to the deployment of the floating wind turbine structure / platform (an offshore mooring structure may also be referred to as a pre-deployed offshore mooring structure). The offshore mooring structure is used to fix and stabilize a floating offshore wind turbine in a designated location, enabling it to generate electricity efficiently and safely, even in deep-water environments. A non-limiting example of an offshore mooring structure is represented by a tension leg platform (TLP), in which multiple mooring lines (e.g., three or more; these mooring lines are also called tendons) are tensioned to provide the necessary stability and support for the floating offshore structure of a wind turbine, thereby configuring the TLP to remain in a static or quasi-static position. The TLP typically includes a buoyancy body connected via these multiple mooring lines to a seabed anchor (i.e., a structure embedded in the seabed providing necessary support for the mooring lines), which is configured to connect to an external floating offshore structure (e.g., one with a generator, such as a wind turbine). Proper tensioning ensures the turbine remains in its intended position and is configured to withstand dynamic forces exerted by the marine environment. However, pre-deployed mooring systems are also compatible with other configurations, such as catenary configurations.

[0011] A marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a marine mooring structure, which may include a base connected to the seabed and a floating body connected to the base via multiple mooring cables, wherein the floating body may include connectors for connecting to a floating offshore platform) includes a receiving portion (if present, which may be arranged in the floating body) for receiving a connection device, wherein the receiving portion includes a through opening. This through opening is configured to allow passage of the connection device and may be configured as an aperture (e.g., having a closed or open perimeter). Preferably, the marine positioning system may be configured as a pre-deployed marine mooring structure, such as a tension leg platform (TLP) (e.g., including a corresponding floating body).

[0012] The receiving section may include (or may be configured as) a tubular segment, wherein a through-hole may be a portion of the tubular segment. The tubular segment may be configured such that when the connecting device is positioned in a predetermined resting position, the tubular segment surrounds at least a portion of the body (e.g., the tubular segment may be configured to restrict (e.g., at least partially restrict) movement of the body relative to the receiving section when the connecting device is in the predetermined resting position). For example, the tubular segment may be configured as a cylindrical tubular segment. The through-hole may be arranged such that at least a portion of the tubular segment is below its position (e.g., the through-hole is arranged at the upper end of the tubular segment). It should be noted that the tubular segment is arranged vertically (i.e., when the marine positioning system is in its operational position) to allow the connecting device to be introduced upward through it. The area of ​​the receiving position with the through-hole may be configured to coincide with the predetermined resting position (e.g., the through-hole may be arranged in a portion of the receiving section that coincides with the position of the connecting device when the connecting device is positioned in its predetermined resting position; for example, the through-hole may be arranged at the upper end of the tubular segment).

[0013] Marine positioning systems (e.g., configured as marine mooring structures) may also include an optional hollow section surrounded by a wall to provide an upward vertical path to the connecting device (e.g., in cases where the connecting device must be lifted / raised from a predetermined resting position). This hollow section may be arranged above a tubular section (e.g., above a through-opening), wherein the hollow section may be configured as a tubular section having a larger cross-sectional area than the through-opening. In some embodiments, the hollow section may have a cross-sectional area that increases with height (e.g., the tubular section is configured as an inverted truncated cone). An optional support surface (around the through-opening) may be present at the junction of the hollow section and the through-opening.

[0014] Each of one or more submarine cables includes one or more connection terminals (e.g., each end of each cable). A marine connection system may include a single submarine cable or may include multiple submarine cables (e.g., two, three, four, or more). Each of one or more submarine cables may include multiple connection terminals. For example, one or more submarine cables may be configured as three-phase cables, thus including at least three connection terminals (i.e., each end of each cable). In the context of this invention, submarine cables may be configured to transmit electricity generated by offshore power generation systems (e.g., wind turbines, such as those on floating offshore structures / platforms) to shore or to substations to interconnect multiple wind turbines spaced apart, or to input electricity from the mainland to offshore facilities, particularly where energy storage or backup power is required. Therefore, at least some of these submarine cables may be configured to transport electricity generated by generators (e.g., wind turbines), enabling them to be integrated into a power grid for distribution.

[0015] The connecting device includes a body configured to removably (i.e., detachably) connect to one or more connecting terminals of one or more submarine cables, such that the body encloses the one or more connecting terminals within an internal cavity, preferably configured to be watertight. The body can be interpreted as a housing configured to protect and encapsulate the connecting terminals. The connecting device is also configured to be inserted upwards (i.e., partially or entirely vertically) through a through-hole in a marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a pre-deployed mooring structure at sea) to allow the body to be positioned relative to the receiving portion of the marine positioning system in a predetermined resting position.

[0016] One or more blocking devices (also referred to as a locking system, i.e., the locking system may include one or more locking devices) may be configured to be selectively arranged in blocking positions where the blocking system interacts with the receiving parts of the connecting device and a marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a marine mooring structure) to selectively hold the connecting device in a predetermined resting position. The one or more blocking devices may be configured as part of the connecting device; or as part of the marine positioning system; or may be configured such that some blocking devices are part of the connecting device and some blocking devices are part of the marine positioning system. Alternatively or additionally, the system may include one or more blocking devices outside the connecting device and the marine pre-deployed mooring structure.

[0017] The offshore connection system may also include a floating offshore structure (also known as a floating offshore platform) with a generator. Preferably, the generator may be configured as a wind turbine, a solar panel, or a tidal generator. In those embodiments where the generator is specifically configured as a wind turbine, the floating offshore structure may be identified as a floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT). The floating offshore structure may be configured to be mechanically connected to an offshore positioning system (e.g., configured as an offshore mooring structure, preferably such that the floating offshore structure is connected to a float of the offshore mooring structure—e.g., when the offshore pre-deployed mooring structure is configured as a TLP). The offshore positioning system (e.g., the offshore pre-deployed mooring structure) may be configured as a single-point mooring system for the floating offshore structure. Preferably, the floating offshore structure may be connected to the offshore positioning system (e.g., configured as a mooring structure) such that the floating offshore structure is configured to rotate with the wind relative to the offshore positioning system.

[0018] The floating offshore structure may also include a pivot (also called a connecting column) configured to be mechanically connected to an offshore positioning system (e.g., configured as an offshore mooring structure), such that the floating offshore structure can be configured to be connected to the offshore positioning system via the pivot. Therefore, the floating offshore structure can be connected to the offshore positioning system at least (e.g., uniquely) via the pivot (in other words, the offshore positioning system can be configured as a single-point mooring system for the floating offshore structure, wherein the only point at which the floating offshore structure can be connected to the offshore positioning system is the pivot).

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the pivot column can be configured to connect to a marine positioning system (e.g., a marine mooring structure) such that the vertical axis of the pivot column, about which it rotates (e.g., with the wind), is aligned (e.g., within a predetermined tolerance) with a through-hole of the marine positioning system (e.g., perpendicularly aligned to the center of the through-hole), such that when a connecting device is inserted upward through the through-hole, the connecting device is inserted upward in a direction aligned with the vertical axis of the pivot column. In other words, the marine positioning system can be configured to connect to a floating marine structure such that, when the connection is made, the pivot axis of the pivot column is aligned with the through-hole of the receiving portion of the marine positioning system. This can be interpreted as the pivot axis being arranged substantially perpendicular to the area of ​​the through-hole surrounding its perimeter when the floating marine structure is connected to the marine positioning system, preferably perpendicular to the center of said area. Therefore, a predetermined resting position can be aligned with the pivot axis.

[0020] In some embodiments, the marine connection system may also include a lifting system configured to connect to the connection device to lift / raise the connection device from a predetermined resting position. "Upward" can be interpreted as an upward movement in a direction that is at least partially vertical (i.e., has at least a vertical component), preferably completely vertical.

[0021] In some embodiments, the lifting system can be configured to lift the connecting device from a predetermined resting position (i.e., in a marine positioning system, this can be configured as a marine mooring structure) to position the connecting device in a working (i.e., operable / operable) position within the floating marine structure. Preferably, the lifting system can be configured as part of the floating marine structure. The working position can be interpreted as the location of the connecting device relative to the floating marine structure, which positions the connecting device close to the portion of the floating marine structure to which the connecting terminal will be connected (e.g., to receive energy provided by a generator of the floating marine structure). Therefore, the pivot column may include (or be configured to provide) an internal passageway for allowing the connecting device to be lifted from the predetermined resting position to the working position.

[0022] In a more preferred embodiment, the lifting system can be arranged in the pivot of the floating offshore structure (e.g., within the pivot) and can be configured to lift the connecting device upward from a predetermined resting position, preferably through the internal hollow portion of the pivot, to place the connecting device in a working position within the pivot of the floating offshore structure. Preferably, the floating offshore structure can be configured such that the working position in the pivot is vertically positioned above the distal end of the predetermined resting position. For example, the floating offshore structure can be configured such that the working position coincides with the pivot axis of the pivot, wherein, as previously described, the predetermined resting position in the offshore positioning system (optionally configured as a pre-deployed mooring structure) can also be aligned with the pivot axis. Therefore, the lifting system can be configured to lift the connecting device upward from the resting position (i.e., in the offshore positioning system) in a vertical direction aligned with the pivot axis to place the connecting device in a working position within the pivot of the floating offshore structure.

[0023] The lifting system may include a cable and a traction element (e.g., a motor for providing traction to the cable). The cable may be configured to connect to a connecting device (e.g., a connector for connecting to the connecting device). Therefore, the cable may include a mechanical connector, such as a mechanical clamp or hook, suitable for connection to the connecting element. In some embodiments, the lifting system may be configured as a winch. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the mechanical connector may be configured to universally connect to the connecting element without requiring any further adaptation to the connecting element (e.g., the mechanical connector may be configured to surround and / or clamp the connecting element).

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the floating offshore structure (e.g., a pivot column of the floating offshore structure) may include a switching device suitable for connecting one or more connection terminals of one or more submarine cables. The connection device may be configured to remove and disconnect from the connection terminal before connecting it to the switching device. The floating offshore structure may also include a support element (e.g., a platform) configured to be connected to the remainder of the floating offshore structure via a bearing system. This bearing system may be configured to allow the floating offshore structure (e.g., the pivot column) to rotate relative to the support element, wherein the support element may also be configured to be securely connected (e.g., indirectly, i.e., via an intermediate element) to a marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a marine mooring structure). Preferably, the support element may be arranged above the waterline.

[0025] It should be noted that the fact that the connecting device can be arranged in a predetermined resting position relative to the marine positioning system (which may optionally be configured as a marine mooring structure) and then subsequently raised to a working position relative to the floating marine structure allows for a reduction in the accumulation of fatigue stress in one or more submarine cables. These one or more submarine cables are exposed to fatigue stresses that could impair their service life. Therefore, the stress on these one or more submarine cables should be optimized as much as possible. In this invention, when the connecting device is in its working position, the one or more submarine cables will accumulate fatigue stress in a specific area (i.e., the area that will determine the cable's lifespan). In this sense, the marine connecting system according to the first aspect of the invention allows for the establishment of a predetermined resting position for the one or more submarine cables such that when the cable is not used for connection to the floating marine structure (e.g., when no floating marine structure is available, for example, because it has not yet arrived or because it has been disconnected from the marine positioning system and separated for, for example, maintenance work), fatigue accumulation will occur in a second portion of the one or more cables, so that the lifespan of the submarine cable in the working position is not impaired. In this way, the lifespan of one or more submarine cables is extended, while allowing the cables to remain connected in series (daisy chain) or other configurations (such as ring configurations) to other components (such as other offshore power generation systems or substations).

[0026] The main body of the connecting device may also include a connecting section configured to connect to a lifting system (external to the connecting device) for lifting the connecting device upward from a predetermined resting position. This lifting system may be configured as the lifting system of the previously described offshore connecting system, preferably arranged as part of a floating offshore structure.

[0027] One or more blocking devices may be configured such that, when arranged in the blocking position, the one or more blocking devices are configured to prevent the body of the connecting device from passing downward through the through opening. Therefore, since the connecting device has been previously described as being configured to be inserted upward through the through opening, the fact that the connecting device is prevented from passing downward through the through opening must be understood as a way to ensure that the connecting device is held / locked in a predetermined resting position.

[0028] Preferably, one or more blocking devices may also be configured such that, when arranged in the blocking position: the one or more blocking devices (or at least a portion of the one or more locking devices) provide an additional / increased width to the body of the connecting device, which is greater than the width of the through opening; and / or the one or more blocking devices (or at least a portion of the one or more locking elements) engage between the body and a receiving portion (e.g., a portion of the receiving portion) of the marine positioning system (which may be configured as a marine mooring structure). In some embodiments, a first subgroup of blocking elements may be configured to increase the width of the body and / or a second group of blocking elements may be configured to engage between the receiving portion and the connecting element. It should be noted that the increase in the width of the connecting device body can be achieved by configuring one or more blocking devices (or one subgroup thereof, such as the first subgroup) to partially increase the width of the connecting device.

[0029] In some embodiments, at least some of one or more blocking devices (i.e., a group / subgroup / set) (the group is not necessarily the same as the first and second subgroups described above) may be configured as part of the body. One or more blocking devices as part of the body may include: one or more blocking devices fixed / attached to the exterior of the body and configured as extensions (e.g., protrusions) projecting from the body to provide a specific cross-sectional shape to the body; and / or one or more blocking devices configured as corresponding mechanical connectors movable between a retracted position and a blocking position, in which the blocking device retracts to abut against the body, allowing the body to pass through a through-opening (i.e., the blocking device is configured in its retracted position to allow passage through the through-opening without obstruction), and in the blocking position, the blocking device extends from the body (i.e., protrudes), preventing the body from passing through the through-opening (e.g., when the blocking device is extended in the blocking position, it may be configured to engage with a receiver of a marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a marine mooring structure), and / or may be configured to provide an additional width to the body greater than the width of the through-opening).

[0030] When the body includes a corresponding blocking device configured to project (e.g., fixed / permanent) from the body to form a specific cross-sectional shape, at least a portion of the receiving portion (e.g., a through-opening) of the marine positioning system (e.g., configured as a marine mooring structure) can be configured to adapt to the specific cross-sectional shape of the body, such that a connecting device is only allowed to pass through a portion of the receiving portion when the specific cross-sectional shape of the body is aligned with the geometry of the receiving segment. Therefore, the portion of the receiving portion configured to adapt to the specific cross-sectional shape of the body can be configured such that when the specific cross-sectional shape of the body is aligned with the geometry of the portion of the receiving portion, the connecting device is allowed to be inserted upward through the receiving portion to allow the connecting device to be positioned in a predetermined resting position. Therefore, when the connecting device (once properly inserted upward into the resting position) rotates relative to the receiving portion (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the connecting device, which may be a vertical axis) such that the specific cross-sectional shape of the body is no longer aligned with a portion / segment of the receiving portion having the same specific cross-sectional shape (e.g., reaching a misaligned position), the connecting device is prevented from being withdrawn downward through the receiving portion. This misaligned position corresponds to the blocking position of the corresponding blocking device in this configuration.

[0031] In some embodiments, regardless of whether some of the blocking devices are part of the main body according to any of the foregoing embodiments, at least one set of one or more blocking devices may be part of a marine positioning system (which may be configured as a marine mooring structure). The set may include one or more blocking devices configured to be disposed at a corresponding mechanical connector at a receiving end and configured to engage with a corresponding connection area of ​​a connecting device. In some embodiments, the mechanical connector may be configured to be movable between a retracted position and a blocking position, in which the blocking device retracts to abut against the marine positioning system (e.g., against the receiving end), allowing the main body to pass through the opening; and in the blocking position, the blocking device extends from the marine positioning system (e.g., from the receiving end), preventing the main body from passing through the through opening (e.g., when the blocking device is extended, it may be configured to engage with the main body of the connecting device).

[0032] In some embodiments, at least one or more of the one or more blocking devices may be configured as external elements to the main body and the marine positioning system (which may be configured as a marine mooring structure) (i.e., the one or more blocking devices are system elements independent of the main body and the marine positioning system). The blocking device may be configured to selectively provide additional (i.e., increased) width to the connecting device when the blocking device is positioned in blocking position "a", wherein the additional width is a width provided by the connecting device greater than the width of the through opening of the receiving section, thereby holding the connecting device in its predetermined resting position. Therefore, the blocking device may be configured to act as a contact interface between the connecting device and the marine positioning system when the connecting device is positioned in the predetermined resting position to hold the connecting device in the predetermined resting position. One or more external blocking devices may require personnel or auxiliary mechanical (or electromechanical) devices (which may be part of the system) to position them in blocking position "a", i.e., around the main body of the connecting device. The external blocking device may be configured to engage with the connecting device.

[0033] A second aspect of the invention relates to a specific connecting device for connecting at least one submarine cable to a marine positioning system (which can be configured as a marine mooring structure) in a system according to the first aspect of the invention. The connecting device of the second aspect of the invention includes a body configured to be removably connected to one or more connecting terminals of at least one submarine cable, such that the body encloses the one or more terminals in an internal cavity, wherein the body is also configured to be inserted upward through a through-opening of a receiving portion of the marine positioning system to allow the body to be positioned relative to the marine positioning system in a resting position. Preferably, the internal cavity of the connecting device body can be configured to be watertight.

[0034] The main body of the connecting device according to the second aspect of the invention further includes one or more blocking devices configured to move between a retracted position and a blocking position, wherein in the retracted position the one or more blocking devices retract to abut against the main body, allowing the main body to pass through the opening, and in the blocking position the blocking devices extend from the main body, preventing the main body from passing through the through opening (e.g., when the blocking devices are extended, the blocking devices may be configured to engage with a receiving portion of a marine positioning system (which may be configured as a marine mooring structure) and / or may be configured to provide the main body with an additional width greater than the width of the through opening).

[0035] The main body of the connecting device according to the second aspect of the invention further includes a connecting portion configured to connect to a lifting system of a floating offshore structure (e.g., a floating offshore structure using a marine connecting system according to the first aspect of the invention) for pulling the main body upward from a resting position to a working position within the floating offshore structure. The connecting portion may be configured as an orifice for receiving cables or engaging with hooks of the lifting system. Alternatively, the connecting portion may be shaped / configured to be clamped by mechanical clamps of the lifting system's cables.

[0036] The connecting device according to the second aspect of the invention may further include one or more mechanical actuators connected to one or more blocking devices and configured to selectively (e.g., by automatic control) move the blocking device between its retracted position and its blocking position.

[0037] The connecting device according to a second aspect of the invention may further include one or more resilient devices connected to one or more blocking devices. The one or more resilient devices may be configured to provide resistance between the one or more blocking devices and the body, forcing the blocking devices toward a blocking position. Therefore, in order to position the one or more blocking devices in the retracted position, the resistance provided by the one or more resilient devices must be overcome. The retracting device may be configured for manual actuation (e.g., the retracting device may be configured with a corresponding screw, which is configured for manual tightening). Alternatively, the retracting device may include an automatic actuator, such as an electromechanical actuator, configured to overcome the resistance of the resilient devices to position the blocking devices in the retracted position.

[0038] In those embodiments where the connecting device includes an elastic element, the connecting device may also include a cover (also called an outer sheath) (e.g., independent of the body) configured to insert vertically downward around the connecting device. The cover may include one or more sidewalls configured such that when the cover is inserted to be positioned around the connecting device, it contacts a blocking device and forces it back to its retracted position "b". The weight of the cover itself may be configured to overcome the resistance exerted on the blocking device by the elastic element.

[0039] A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for assembling a marine coupling system according to a first aspect of the invention (wherein the system may include coupling devices according to a second aspect of the invention). The method includes (preferably in the provided order):

[0040] - Connect the system's connection device to one or more connection terminals of one or more submarine cables, such that the body of the connection device encloses the one or more terminals within the cavity of the connection device;

[0041] - The connecting device is inserted upwards through the through-opening of the marine positioning system (which can be configured as a marine mooring structure) to position the main body in a predetermined resting position relative to the receiving part of the marine positioning system; and

[0042] - Arrange one or more blocking devices in a blocking position / its blocking position such that the one or more blocking devices interact with the receiving part of the connecting device and the marine positioning system to keep the connecting device in a predetermined resting position.

[0043] The method according to a third aspect of the invention may further include (preferably in the provided order):

[0044] - Connect a floating offshore structure with a generator to an offshore positioning system, wherein the generator is preferably configured as a wind turbine;

[0045] - Connect the lifting system to the connection device;

[0046] - The connecting device is lifted from its predetermined resting position using a lifting system to position it in its working position within the floating offshore structure; and

[0047] - Electrically connect one or more terminals of one or more submarine cables to the generator, wherein preferably, this step also includes disconnecting and removing the connection device from one or more terminals before connecting one or more terminals of one or more submarine cables to the generator.

[0048] The method may also include (e.g., for maintenance purposes; and preferably in the order provided):

[0049] - Disconnect one or more terminals of one or more submarine cables from the generator electrically;

[0050] - Connect the lifting system to the connecting device; wherein, preferably, when the connecting device has been previously disconnected and removed from one or more terminals, this step also includes connecting the connecting device to one or more connecting terminals of one or more submarine cables, such that the body of the connecting device encloses the one or more terminals within an inner cavity;

[0051] - Using a lifting system, the connecting device is lowered from its working position on the floating offshore structure to its predetermined resting position; and

[0052] - Lock the connecting device in the predetermined resting position using one or more locking devices;

[0053] Preferably, the method may further include:

[0054] - Disconnect the lifting system from the connection device; and

[0055] - Disconnect the floating offshore structure from the offshore positioning system; and preferably remove the floating offshore structure from the offshore positioning system. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figures 1A to 1D show different views of a marine connection system 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention, which includes a marine positioning system 2, a submarine cable 3, and a connection device 4 for connecting the submarine cable 3 to the marine positioning system 2.

[0057] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate an embodiment of system 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention, wherein system 1 further includes a floating marine structure 6 having a generator 60.

[0058] Figures 3A to 3D show different positions of the connecting device 4 relative to the rest of the system 1 of the first aspect of the invention, which may be the system 1 according to Figures 2A and 2B.

[0059] Figures 4A to 4C illustrate three different embodiments of the connecting device 4 according to the second aspect of the present invention, which are compatible with the system 1 of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0060] Figures 5A to 5E depict different views of the connecting device 4 in Figure 4A. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1A shows a side view of a marine connection system 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention, which includes a marine positioning system 2 (which may optionally be configured as a pre-deployed marine mooring structure 2), a submarine cable 3, and a connection device 4 for connecting the cable 3 to the marine positioning system 2. Figure 1B shows a top view of the system 1, while Figure 1C shows a cross-sectional view AA of the same system 1 (the cutting plane AA refers to Figure 1B), and Figure 1D shows a detailed view of the portion circled in circle B in Figure 1C.

[0062] The marine positioning system 2 shown in Figures 1A to 1D is widely compatible with various embodiments of system 1 according to the first aspect of the invention. Figures 1A to 1D illustrate a marine positioning system configured as a pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea, and more specifically, as a tension leg platform (TLP). This tension leg platform includes a floating body 22 (e.g., a buoyancy cylinder; i.e., a body configured to have significant self-buoyancy), which is connected to the seabed via a mooring system comprising three tension / leg elements (although the number of tension legs may vary in other embodiments, e.g., three, four, five, or more). However, this marine positioning system 2 is also compatible with other configurations, such as a catenary configuration.

[0063] The submarine cable 3 depicted in Figures 1A to 1C includes multiple optional floating elements (e.g., three) attached to the cable 3 to provide self-buoyancy. Figures 1A to 1D depict a single submarine cable 3; however, system 1 may include a single submarine cable 3 or may include multiple submarine cables 3 (e.g., two, three, four, or more). Each of the one or more submarine cables 3 may include multiple connection terminals 30 (e.g., one, two, three, or more terminals).

[0064] Figure 1D shows a detailed enlarged view of area B shown in Figure 1C. Figure 1D also shows the configuration details of the marine positioning system 2 and the connecting device 4.

[0065] The marine positioning system 2 includes a receiving part 20 for receiving a connecting device 4, wherein the receiving part 20 includes a through opening 21 configured to allow the connecting device 4 to pass through, and can be configured as an aperture (having a closed or open periphery).

[0066] Figure 1D illustrates an optional configuration in which the receiving portion 20 includes (or is configured as) a tubular segment, wherein the through opening 21 is a part of the tubular segment (e.g., integrated into the tubular segment). The tubular segment 20 is configured such that when the connecting device 4 is positioned in a predetermined resting position R, the tubular segment 20 surrounds at least a portion of the body 40. The tubular segment 20 is (optionally) configured to restrict movement of the body 40 relative to the receiving portion 20 when the connecting device is in the predetermined resting position R. In Figure 1D, the through opening 21 is arranged such that at least a portion of the tubular segment is below its position (e.g., the through opening 21 is arranged at the upper end of the tubular segment 20). The tubular segment 20 is arranged vertically to allow the connecting device 4 to pass upward through it. The area / part of the receiving position 20 with the through opening is optionally configured to coincide with the predetermined resting position R (for example, the through opening 21 may be arranged in a part of the receiving part 20, which coincides with the position of the connecting device 4 when arranged in its predetermined resting position R; for example, the through opening 21 may be arranged at the upper end of the tubular section 20).

[0067] The connecting device 4 includes a body 40 configured to be removably connected to one or more connecting terminals 30 of one or more submarine cables 3, such that the body 40 encloses the one or more terminals 30 within an inner cavity 41 of the body 40, which is preferably configured to be watertight. The connecting device 4 is also configured to be inserted upward (i.e., partially or entirely in the vertical direction) through a through-hole 21 of the marine positioning system 2 to allow the body 40 to be positioned at a predetermined resting position R relative to the receiving part 20 of the marine positioning system 2.

[0068] System 1 includes a corresponding blocking device 5 (e.g., one or more) configured to be selectively arranged in blocking position "a". In the blocking position, the blocking system 5 interacts with the connecting device 4 and the receiving part 20 of the marine positioning system to selectively hold the connecting device 4 in a predetermined resting position R.

[0069] Figure 1D shows the connecting device 4 arranged at a predetermined resting position R relative to the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea. Figure 1D illustrates a particular embodiment in which one or more blocking devices 5 are part of the body 40 of the connecting device 4. However, it should be noted that this arrangement of one or more blocking devices 5 is for illustrative purposes only, as in other compatible embodiments, one or more blocking devices 5 may be arranged as part of the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea. Furthermore, the marine connecting system 1 may alternatively be configured such that at least a portion / subgroup / set of one or more blocking devices 5 is part of the body 40 and / or such that at least a portion / subgroup / set of one or more blocking devices 5 is part of the marine positioning system 2.

[0070] Figure 1D also shows that the marine positioning system 2 includes a main connector 25, which is designed to connect to the floating marine structure 6, including the generator 60. The main connector 25 can be configured to provide a mechanical connection that allows the floating marine structure 6 to rotate relative to the marine positioning system 2 (e.g., for the purpose of turning with the wind).

[0071] Figure 1D illustrates that the marine positioning system 2 includes an optional hollow section surrounded by a wall to allow the connecting device 4 to be lifted upwards from a predetermined resting position R. This hollow section is arranged above a tubular section 20 (e.g., above a through-opening 21), wherein the hollow section is configured as a tubular section having a larger cross-sectional area than the through-opening, for example by having a cross-sectional area that increases with height (e.g., the tubular section is configured as an inverted truncated cone). At the junction of the hollow section and the through-opening 21, there is an optional support surface (around the through-opening).

[0072] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments of a marine connection system 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention, wherein system 1 further includes a floating marine structure 6 having a generator 60. The embodiments of Figures 2A to 2B are compatible with the embodiments of Figures 1A to 1D.

[0073] Generator 60 is configured as a wind turbine 60 (although in some compatible embodiments, generator 60 can be configured as any other type of offshore generator, such as a solar panel). Floating offshore structure 6 is configured to be mechanically connected to offshore positioning system 2 (which can be configured as offshore mooring structure 2) (e.g., mechanically connected to a floating body 22 pre-deployed at sea for mooring structure 2), such that floating offshore structure 6 is configured to rotate with the wind relative to offshore positioning system 2. Offshore positioning system 2 is connected to the seabed F. Figure 2A specifically illustrates the floating offshore structure 6 such that most of the structure is positioned above water level W.

[0074] The floating offshore structure 6 of Figures 2A to 2B also includes an optional pivot 61, which is configured to be mechanically connected to the pre-deployed offshore mooring structure 2 (e.g., via the main connector 25), such that the connection between the floating offshore structure 6 and the pre-deployed offshore mooring structure (e.g., exclusively) is provided by the connection between the pivot 61 and the offshore positioning system 2.

[0075] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a preferred and optional embodiment in which the pivot column 61 is configured to connect to the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea, such that the vertical axis 611 of the pivot column 61 about which it rotates in the wind (also referred to as the pivot axis 611) is aligned (e.g., within a predetermined tolerance) with the through opening 21 of the marine positioning system 2 (e.g., perpendicularly aligned with the center of the through opening 21), such that when the connecting device 4 is inserted upward through the through opening 21, the connecting device 4 is inserted upward in the direction aligned with the vertical axis 611 of the pivot column 61.

[0076] Figures 3A to 3D show the different positions of the connecting device 4 relative to the rest of the system 1 according to the first aspect of the invention, which may be system 1 according to Figures 2A and 2B. Figures 3A to 3D show enlarged views of the pivot column 61 of the floating offshore structure 6 suitably connected to the offshore positioning system 2.

[0077] The system 1 shown in Figures 3A to 3D also includes a lifting system 62 configured to connect to the connecting device 4 to lift the connecting device 4 upward from a predetermined resting position R (shown in Figure 3A). Figures 3A to 3D show an optional and preferred configuration in which the lifting system 62 is configured as part of the floating offshore structure 6 and is configured to lift the connecting device 4 upward from the predetermined resting position R (i.e., in a pre-deployed mooring structure at sea) to place the connecting device 4 in a working position S (shown in Figure 3C) within the floating offshore structure 6.

[0078] The embodiments shown in Figures 3A to 3D illustrate an optional configuration in which the lifting system 62 is arranged in the pivot column 61 of the floating offshore structure 6 (e.g., within the pivot column 61) (preferably, the lifting system 62 is aligned with the pivot axis 611 to lift the connecting device 4 in the direction of the pivot axis 611), and is configured to lift the connecting device 4 upward from a predetermined resting position R, preferably through the internal hollow portion of the pivot column 61, to place the connecting device 4 in a working position within the pivot column 61 of the floating offshore structure 6.

[0079] The lifting system 62 may include a cable 620 and a traction element 62 (e.g., a motor for providing traction force to pull the cable 620). The cable 620 may be configured to connect to a connecting device 4 (e.g., a connection portion to the connecting device). Therefore, the cable may include a mechanical connector suitable for connection to the connecting element 4, such as a mechanical clamp or hook. In some embodiments, the lifting system 62 may be configured as a winch.

[0080] The main body 40 of the connecting device 4 may also include a connecting part 42 (see Figures 4A to 4C), which is configured to be connected to a lifting system 62 for lifting the connecting device 4.

[0081] Figure 3A shows the connecting device 4 arranged in a predetermined resting position R relative to the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea, while Figure 3C shows the connecting device 4 arranged in a working position S relative to the floating offshore structure 6. Figure 3B shows the connecting device 4 being lifted from the predetermined resting position R toward the working position S. Figure 3D shows the connecting device 4 being conveniently removed from the connecting terminals 30 of one or more submarine cables 3, so that the connecting terminals 30 can be connected to the switching device 64 of the floating offshore structure 6. The switching device 64 can be supported by a support element 65 of the floating offshore structure 6 (e.g., configured as a platform 65 or a platform 65), wherein the support element 65 is connected to the rest of the floating offshore structure 6 via a bearing system configured to allow the floating offshore structure 6 (e.g., a pivot column 6) to rotate relative to the support element 65, which is further securely (e.g., indirectly, i.e., via an intermediate element) connected to the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea. Preferably, the support element 65 can be arranged above the water level W. The support element 65 is widely compatible with any implementation of the system 1 described above, independent of the characteristics of the connecting device 4.

[0082] Figures 4A to 4C illustrate three different embodiments of the connection device 4 according to the second aspect of the invention, which are compatible with the system 1 of the first aspect of the invention, such that any feature described for the connection element 4 of Figures 4A to 4C can be included in the connection device 4 of the system according to any of the embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1D, Figures 2A to 2B and Figures 3A to 3D.

[0083] For each of the embodiments in Figures 4A to 4B, two side views and two top views are provided: the left-hand figure shows the configuration of the corresponding connecting device 4 when the blocking device 5 is not in the blocking position "a" (note that this position is indicated by the reference numeral "b" in the figure), while the two right-hand figures show the configuration of the corresponding connecting device 4 when the blocking device 5 is arranged in the blocking position "a".

[0084] In all three embodiments of Figures 4A to 4C, one or more blocking devices 5 are configured such that when arranged in the blocking position “a”, one or more blocking devices 5 are configured to prevent the connecting device 4 (e.g., the body 40 of the connecting device 4) from passing downward through the through opening 21, thereby ensuring that the connecting device 4 is held / locked in the predetermined resting position R.

[0085] Figure 4A depicts a connecting device 4 including multiple blocking devices 5. The blocking devices 5 are configured as corresponding mechanical connectors that can move between a retracted position "b" and a blocking position "a". In the retracted position "b", the blocking device 5 retracts to abut against the body 40, allowing the body 40 to pass through the through opening 21. In the blocking position "a", the blocking device 5 extends from the body 40 to engage with the receiving part 20 of the pre-deployed mooring structure 2 at sea, thereby preventing the body 40 from passing through the through opening 21 (e.g., downwards).

[0086] Figure 4A illustrates an optional feature in which the connecting device 4 further includes one or more elastic devices 43 connected to one or more blocking devices 5. These elastic devices 43 are configured to provide resistance between the one or more blocking devices 5 and the body 40, forcing the blocking devices 5 toward the blocking position "a". Therefore, in order to position the one or more blocking devices 5 in the retracted position "b", the resistance provided by these elastic devices 43 must be overcome. The connecting device 4 may also include a retraction device (not shown in Figure 4A) configured to overcome the resistance provided by the elastic devices 43. Alternatively, the connecting device 4 may include one or more mechanical actuators (also identified by the same reference numeral 43 in Figure 4A) connected to the one or more blocking devices 5 and configured to selectively move them between their retracted position "b" and their blocking position "a".

[0087] Although not shown in the figures, when the connecting device 4 includes the elastic device 43, the connecting device 4 may also include a separate cover (or sheath) configured to be inserted vertically downward around the connecting device 4. This cover may include one or more sidewalls configured such that when the cover is inserted and arranged around the connecting device 4, it contacts the blocking device 5 and forces it back to its retracted position "b". The weight of the cover itself may be configured to overcome the resistance exerted on the blocking device 5 by the elastic device 43.

[0088] Furthermore, the connecting device 4 of FIG4A also includes a connecting portion 42, which is configured to connect to the lifting system 62 of the system according to the first aspect of the invention (e.g., the lifting system 62 arranged at the floating offshore structure 6). The connecting portion 42 of FIG4A is particularly suitable for being clamped by a clamping element 621 arranged at the end of the cable 620 of the lifting system 62.

[0089] Figure 4B depicts an alternative connecting device 4, wherein the blocking device 5 is configured to selectively provide an additional (i.e., increased) width to the connecting device 4 when the blocking device 5 is arranged in the blocking position "a", wherein the additional width is a width provided by the connecting device 4 that is greater than the width of the through opening 21 of the receiving section 20, thereby holding the connecting device 4 in its predetermined resting position R.

[0090] The blocking device 5 of Figure 4B is configured as an element outside the main body 40. The blocking device 5 is arranged as a contact interface between the connecting device 4 and the marine positioning system 2 when the connecting device 4 is arranged in a predetermined resting position R, to hold the connecting device in the predetermined resting position R relative to the marine positioning system 2 of the marine connecting system 1 according to the first aspect of the invention. The blocking device 5 of the connecting device 4 shown in Figure 4B is particularly suitable for use when the marine positioning system 2 includes a hollow section surrounded by walls, to allow the connecting device 4 to be raised upward from the predetermined resting position R and arranged above the through opening 21, wherein the hollow section is preferably configured as a tubular section having a larger cross-sectional area than the through opening 21, for example by having a cross-sectional area that increases with height (e.g., the tubular section is configured as an inverted truncated cone).

[0091] The external blocking device 5 requires personnel or auxiliary mechanical (or electromechanical) devices to position it at the blocking position "a", i.e., around the main body 40 of the connecting device 4. The external blocking device 5 can be configured to engage with the connecting device 4.

[0092] Figure 4C illustrates a third embodiment of a connecting device 4 for a system 1 according to a first aspect of the invention, comprising a plurality (four) of blocking devices 5 fixedly / attached to the exterior of a body 40 and configured as extensions projecting from the body 40, thereby providing a specific cross-sectional shape to the body 40. In the case of Figure 4C, the specific cross-sectional shape corresponds to a circle with four planar protrusions extending from the body 40, with adjacent blocking devices 5 at 90-degree angles. However, it should be noted that this specific geometry is given only for illustrative purposes, and other geometries are compatible with the invention.

[0093] The connecting device 4 in Figure 4C requires at least a portion (e.g., through opening 21) of the receiving portion 20 of the marine positioning system 2 to be configured to adapt to a specific cross-sectional shape of the body 40, such that the connecting device 4 is only allowed to pass through said portion of the receiving portion 20 when the specific cross-sectional shape of the body 40 is aligned with the geometry of the receiving portion 20. Therefore, the portion of the receiving portion 20 configured to adapt to the specific cross-sectional shape of the body 40 can be configured such that when the specific cross-sectional shape of the body 40 is aligned with the geometry of said portion of the receiving portion 20, the connecting device 4 is allowed to be inserted upward through the receiving portion 20 to allow the connecting device 4 to be positioned in a predetermined resting position R. Therefore, when the connecting device 4 (once inserted upward into the resting position R) is rotated relative to the receiving portion 20 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the connecting device 4, which may be a vertical axis) such that the specific cross-sectional shape of the body 40 is no longer aligned with a portion / segment of the receiving portion 20 having the same specific cross-sectional shape (e.g., reaching a misaligned position), the connecting device 4 is prevented from being pulled out downward through the receiving portion 20.

[0094] The connecting device 4 depicted in Figures 4B and 4C is particularly suitable for a hook (or similar) at the end of the cable 621 of the lifting system 62. However, it should be noted that any of the connecting devices 4 in the foregoing embodiments are broadly compatible with all the different configurations described above for the connecting element 42.

[0095] Figures 5A to 5E depict different views of the connecting device 4 of Figure 4A. In particular, Figures 5C and 5E show cross-sectional views of the connecting device 4. The connecting device 4 of Figures 4A and 5A to 5E also includes a corresponding retraction device 44, which is configured to overcome the resistance provided by the elastic device 43 to position the blocking device 5 in the retracted position "b". The retraction device 44 can be configured to be manually actuated (e.g., the retraction device 44 can be configured with a corresponding screw that is configured to be manually tightened). Alternatively, the retraction device 44 may include an automatic actuator configured to overcome the resistance of the elastic device 43 to position the blocking device 5 in the retracted position "b".

Claims

1. A marine connection system (1), comprising: A marine positioning system (2) includes a receiver (20) having a through opening (21), and the marine positioning system (2) is preferably configured as a marine mooring structure, such as a tension leg platform (TLP). One or more submarine cables (3), wherein each submarine cable (3) includes one or more connecting terminals (30); A connecting device (4) includes a body (40) configured to be removably connected to one or more connecting terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3), such that the body (40) encloses the one or more connecting terminals (30) within an inner cavity (41), the inner cavity (41) preferably being watertight; wherein the connecting device (4) is further configured to be inserted upward through the through-hole (21) of the marine positioning system (2) to allow the body (40) to be arranged in a predetermined resting position (R) relative to the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2); as well as One or more blocking devices (5) are configured to be selectively arranged in a blocking position (a), in which the one or more blocking devices (5) interact with the connecting device (4) and the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2) to selectively hold the connecting device (4) in the predetermined resting position (R).

2. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the receiving part (20) includes a tubular segment, wherein the through opening (21) is part of the tubular segment, and wherein the tubular segment is preferably configured such that when the connecting device (4) is arranged in the predetermined resting position (R), the tubular segment surrounds at least a portion of the body (40) to restrict the relative movement of the body (40) relative to the receiving part (20).

3. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a floating offshore structure (6) comprising a generator (60), the generator (60) preferably being configured as a wind turbine (60), wherein the floating offshore structure (6) is configured to be mechanically connected to the offshore positioning system (2), preferably to a float (22) of the offshore positioning system (2), such that the floating offshore structure (6) is configured to rotate with the wind relative to the offshore positioning system (2).

4. The system (1) according to claim 3, wherein the floating offshore structure (6) further comprises a pivot (61) configured to be mechanically connected to the offshore positioning system (2), such that the floating offshore structure (6) is configured to be connected to the offshore positioning system (2) via the connection of the pivot (61) to the offshore positioning system (2). Preferably, the pivot (61) is configured to be connected to the marine positioning system (2) such that the vertical geometric axis (611) of the pivot (61) about which it rotates with the wind is aligned with the through opening (21) of the marine positioning system (2) within a predetermined tolerance, such that when the connecting device (4) is inserted upward through the through opening (21), the connecting device (4) is inserted upward in the direction aligned with the vertical geometric axis (611) of the pivot (61).

5. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a lifting system (62) configured to be connected to the connecting device (4) to lift the connecting device (4) upward from the predetermined resting position (R).

6. The system (1) according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the lifting system (62) is configured to lift the connecting device (4) upward from the predetermined resting position (R) to arrange the connecting device (4) at the working position (S) of the floating offshore structure (6), wherein preferably: The lifting system (62) is part of the floating offshore structure; and / or The lifting system (62) is arranged in the pivot (61) of the floating offshore structure (6) and is configured to lift the connecting device (4) upward from the predetermined resting position (R), preferably through the internal hollow portion of the pivot (61), to arrange the connecting device (4) in the working position (S) of the pivot (61) of the floating offshore structure (6).

7. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body (40) of the connecting device (4) further includes a connecting portion (42) configured to be connected to the lifting system (62) for lifting the connecting device (4) upward from the predetermined resting position (R).

8. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more blocking devices (5) are configured such that when arranged in the blocking position (a), the one or more blocking devices (5) prevent the body (40) of the connecting device (4) from passing downward through the through opening (21). Preferably, the one or more blocking devices (5) are further configured such that when arranged in the blocking position (a): The one or more blocking devices (5) provide additional width to the body (40), the additional width being greater than the width of the through opening (21); and / or The one or more blocking devices (5) are engaged between the main body (40) and the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2).

9. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one set of the one or more blocking devices (5) is part of the body (40), wherein: The set includes one or more blocking devices (5) fixed to the exterior of the body (40) and configured to protrude from the body (40), thereby providing the body (40) with a specific cross-sectional shape; wherein at least a portion of the receiving portion (20) has a geometry configured to adapt to the specific cross-sectional shape of the body (40), such that the connecting device (4) is allowed to pass through the portion of the receiving portion (20) only when the specific cross-sectional shape of the body (40) is aligned with the geometry of the receiving portion (20); and / or The set includes one or more blocking devices (5) of corresponding mechanical connectors configured to move between a retracted position (b) and a blocking position (a), in which the blocking device (5) retracts to abut against the body (40) so that the body (40) is allowed to pass through the through opening (21), and in the blocking position (a) the blocking device (5) extends from the body (40) so that the body (40) is prevented from passing through the through opening (21).

10. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one set of the one or more blocking devices (5) is part of the marine positioning system (2), wherein preferably, the set includes one or more blocking devices (5) configured to be disposed at the receiving part (20) and configured to engage with the connecting device (4).

11. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one or more of the one or more blocking devices (5) are configured as elements outside the body (40) and the marine positioning system (2), wherein the at least one or more blocking devices (5) are configured to be arranged as a contact interface between the connecting device (4) and the marine positioning system (2) when the connecting device (4) is arranged in the predetermined resting position (R) to hold the connecting device (4) in the predetermined resting position (R).

12. A connecting device (4) for connecting at least one submarine cable (3) to a marine positioning system (2) in a system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting device (4) comprises: A body (40) configured to be removably connected to one or more connecting terminals (30) of a submarine cable (3), such that the body (40) encloses the one or more terminals (30) within a cavity (41), wherein the body (40) is also configured to be inserted upward through a through-hole (21) of a receiver (20) of a marine positioning system (2) to allow the body (40) to be positioned relative to the marine positioning system (2) in a predetermined resting position (R), wherein the body (40) further includes: One or more blocking devices (5) configured to move between a retracted position (b) and a blocking position (a), in which the one or more blocking devices (5) retract to abut against the body (40) such that the body (40) is allowed to pass through the opening (21), and in which the one or more blocking devices (5) extend from the body (40) such that the body (40) is prevented from passing through the through opening (21); and The connecting part (42) is configured to be connected to the lifting system (62) of the floating offshore structure (6) for pulling the main body (40) upward from the predetermined resting position (R) to the working position (S) in the floating offshore structure (6). Preferably, the inner cavity (41) of the body (40) is configured to be watertight.

13. The connecting device (4) according to claim 12, further comprising: One or more mechanical actuators connected to the one or more blocking devices (5) and configured to selectively move the blocking device (5) between its retracted position (b) and its blocking position (a); and / or One or more elastic devices (43) are connected to the one or more blocking devices (5), wherein the one or more elastic devices (43) are configured to provide resistance between the one or more blocking devices (5) and the body (40), forcing the blocking devices (5) toward the blocking position (a), such that in order to arrange the one or more blocking devices (5) in the retracted position (b), the resistance provided by the one or more elastic devices (43) must be overcome.

14. A method for assembling the system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising: The connecting device (4) is connected to one or more connecting terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3) such that the body (40) of the connecting device (4) encloses the one or more terminals (30) within the cavity (41) of the connecting device (4). The connecting device (4) is inserted upward through the through-hole (21) of the marine positioning system (2) to position the main body (40) at the predetermined resting position (R) relative to the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2); and The one or more blocking devices (5) are arranged at the blocking position (a) such that the one or more blocking devices (5) interact with the connecting device (4) and the receiving part (20) of the marine positioning system (2) to hold the connecting device (4) at the predetermined resting position (R).

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: A floating offshore structure (6) with a generator (60) is connected to the offshore positioning system (2), the generator (60) preferably being configured as a wind turbine (60). Connect the lifting system (62) to the connecting device (4); The connecting device (4) is lifted from the predetermined resting position (R) by the lifting system (62) to arrange the connecting device (4) in the working position (S) of the floating offshore structure (6). as well as Electrically connecting one or more terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3) to the generator (60), wherein preferably, this step further includes disconnecting and removing the connecting device (4) from the one or more terminals (30) before connecting the one or more terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3) to the generator (60).

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: Electrically disconnect one or more terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3) from the generator (60); Connect the lifting system (62) to the connecting device (4); wherein preferably, when the connecting device (4) has been previously disconnected from and removed from the one or more terminals (30), this step further includes connecting the connecting device (4) to the one or more connecting terminals (30) of the one or more submarine cables (3) such that the body (40) of the connecting device (4) encloses the one or more terminals (30) in the cavity (41); The lifting system (62) is used to lower the connecting device (4) from the working position (S) in the floating offshore structure (6) to the predetermined resting position (R); and The connecting device (4) is locked in the predetermined resting position (R) by the one or more blocking devices (5); Preferably, the method further includes: Disconnect the lifting system (62) from the connecting device (4); as well as The floating offshore structure (6) is disconnected from the offshore positioning system (2); and preferably the floating offshore structure (6) is removed from the offshore positioning system (2).

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