Automatic boat mooring device

Abstract

Mooring device for mooring boats (2), the device comprising a first bracket (3) for fixing the mooring device to a dock; a first vertical interface component (6) having a first support (54) for a mooring connector (A, B); a first float (1) coupled to the first vertical interface component; a first coupling module (4) arranged in between the first bracket and the first vertical interface component and being coupled to the first bracket and the first vertical interface component. The first bracket and the first vertical interface component are coupled by the first coupling module such that the first interface component is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the first bracket while maintaining the first interface component's vertical orientation.

Description

[0001] Automatic Boat Mooring Device

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of Nautics, and more specifically relates to the mooring of boats to a port as well as to fixed and floating docks or surfaces.

[0003] Older methods of mooring boats, mainly using buoys, bollards, anchors and ropes are most frequently used. New research so far has not brought an effective solution. However, every known method of mooring boats has its shortcomings and disadvantages resulting, e.g., in a large number of damaged vessels at the docks. The most frequently used method of mooring boats is with buoys that serve to prevent the moored boat from coming into direct contact with the dock. Buoys, however, often do not help to prevent contact under the influence of weather conditions such as winds, waves, and fluctuating water levels.

[0004] Another commonly used method is to use an anchor on the boat's side opposite to the dock, to keep the boat away from the dock. In any case, this is not an adequate solution because the anchor occasionally may loosen, which consequently may cause the boat to come into direct contact with the dock or surface where it is moored. Moreover, currently known methods of mooring require a lot of time and effort as well as human assistance. New research on mooring boats is most often based on suspending boats and keeping them away from the dock.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 4,250,827 A describes a device that uses telescopes with springs to buffer forward-backward motion. This device and probably also all other models that use springs in a similar way do not provide a good result, at least because the spring has a certain strength or spring stiffness, and the boat acts on the spring with uncertain forces when swinging. The spring cannot be adjusted. A strong spring is useless and a soft one will compress to the end, transferring the impact and thus damaging the device and the boat.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 5,361,716 A discloses a device having a spring fixed to a base on one side and fixed to a handle attached to a boat on the other side by bending the spring at an angle of 90° or in a semicircular fashion depending on the water level. Thus, the spring must be so weak that one can bend it in a semicircle with one hand and tie it to the boat with the other hand. However, the movement of the boat under the influence of the wave can have around 20 times more force than that spring and will not be prevented by the spring from impacting the port. U.S. Patent No. US 2,938,492 A discloses a device that uses a spring that is installed on a vessel, on the top of which a telescopic tube is fastened and attached to the dock. The device is not efficient because during waves and boat lowering the telescopic tube and spring touch the boat and damage it. it also is not aesthetic when the spring is attached to the boat and it is not efficient to dismantle it every time.

[0007] Thus, there is a need for an improved mooring device which at least partly overcomes the above-described disadvantages.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a boat mooring device which is at least one or some of the following: easily manufactured, robust, safe, practical for use, simple to use, flexible or easily adaptable, space-saving arrangeable at the dock, time-efficient in using, and / or requiring less human work for mooring than devices known from the state of the art.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention this object is achieved by a mooring device for mooring boats comprising a first bracket for fixing the mooring device to a dock, a first vertical interface component having a first support for a mooring connector, a first float coupled to the first vertical interface component, and a first coupling module arranged in between the first bracket and the first vertical interface component and being coupled to the first bracket and the first vertical interface component. The first bracket and the first vertical interface component are coupled by the first coupling module such that the first interface component is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the first bracket while maintaining the first interface component's vertical orientation.

[0010] The mooring device preferably further comprises a second bracket for fixing the mooring device to a dock, a second vertical interface component having a second support for the mooring connector, a second float coupled to the second vertical interface component, a second coupling module arranged in between the second bracket and the second vertical interface component and being coupled to the second bracket and the second vertical interface component, and preferably a bridge. The second bracket and the second vertical interface component preferably are coupled by the second coupling module such that the second interface component is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the second bracket while maintaining the second interface component's vertical orientation. The bridge preferably connects the first and second coupling modules with each other, more preferably horizontally. The first and / or second bracket may also be referred to as a leg, a flange or a limb and may be an element or assembly which is mountable at the dock, preferably at the quay wall, more preferably at a top edge, a front side or an upper side of the quay wall. In particular, within the scope of the present invention, the term dock or harbour may represent a quay wall or any periphery (e.g. surface) of a static or floating dock.

[0011] The first and / or second interface component may also be referred to as a vertical bar, a vertical rod or a vertical head and - in light of the present invention - can simply be an element, e.g. a rod, provided with the first and / or second support to accommodate the mooring connector and provided with a support for the coupling module. The coupling module may be an arm or rod.

[0012] The mooring device - in a top view - may be orientated substantially perpendicular with reference to the dock. The first and / or second coupling module may be coupled to the respective first and / or second bracket directly or via an extension rod. Using the extension rods may increase the distance of the respective interface components to the dock. Using the extension rod only at one of the coupling modules or using extension rods with different length at the first and second coupling module may change the orientation of the mooring device to the dock in a top view. An angle smaller than 90°, preferably between 30° and 60°, more preferably between 40° and 50°, particularly preferably 45° may be realized.

[0013] The described device preferably represents a support structure for an automatic mooring connector which is height-adjustable, preferably with respect to the water surface and independent from the water level and / or which is highly-f lexi ble adaptable to different dock structures and / or layouts.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first and the second coupling modules preferably are arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets, such that the first and the second coupling modules increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first and the second coupling modules preferably are arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets, such that the first and the second coupling modules approach each other with increasing distance from the dock. Preferably, the first and the second coupling modules are adapted such that the first and the second coupling module can be arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets either in a first configuration or in a second configuration. In the first configuration, the first and the second coupling modules may increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock, and in the second configuration, the first and the second coupling modules may approach each other with increasing distance from the dock. The arrangement of the first and the second coupling modules can preferably be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration by rotating each of the first and the second coupling module by 180° about their respective longitudinal axis. The device being transferrable from a first configuration to a second configuration preferably allows for using the device with different types of mooring connectors.

[0016] Preferably, the first and / or second coupling module each comprises an upper arm and a lower arm, wherein the upper and lower arms more preferably form a parallelogram mechanism together with the respective interface component and bracket. Stated differently, it is preferred that the upper and lower arm of the first coupling module forms a parallelogram mechanism with vertical sections of the first bracket and the first interface component. It is further preferred that the upper and lower arm of the second coupling module forms a parallelogram mechanism with vertical sections of the second bracket and the second interface component. Preferably the first and / or second upper and lower arms and the first and / or second bracket comprise respective upper and lower coupling points. A vertical distance of the upper and lower coupling points of the respective upper and lower arms at the respective first and / or second vertical interface component preferably is the same as a vertical distance of upper and lower coupling points of the respective upper and lower arms at the respective first and / or second bracket. The one or more of the coupling points preferably are hinges and / or shafts and / or may extend about an axis. One or more of the above features may contribute to a device having at least sub-components, i.e., the parallelogram mechanism, which are simple, cost-efficient and / or robust in construction.

[0017] Preferably, each of the upper arms and / or each of the lower arms comprises at least two rods each, the rods extending in parallel and / or horizontally offset along a longitudinal axis of the first and / or second coupling module. This may enhance structural strength of the coupling module and / or manageability of transferring the device from the first to the second configuration and vice versa. Preferably, the first and / or second float (also known as floater) is coupled to the first and / or second vertical interface component, more preferably via a holder, such that a distance between the first and / or second support and the first and / or second float preferably is adjustable. Preferably, the holder is a telescopic holder. Preferably, the first and / or second float is arranged underneath the respective interface component. Preferably, the first and / or second float is coupled to a respective frontal side of the first and / or second vertical interface component. Preferably, the first and / or second float is fixed to the respective vertical interface component with screws. With the adjustable float, the device may be height-adjustable with respect to the water surface in an easy manner and / or may be flexible in use.

[0018] Preferably, the first and / or second support comprises an upper support, formed on an upper part of the respective interface component and a lower support, formed on a lower part of the respective interface component. The upper and / or lower supports preferably are adapted to accommodate a counterpart such that the rotational degree of freedom is suppressed, more preferably, the upper and / or lower supports are square profiles, e.g., openings in the interface component having the shape of a square profile.

[0019] Preferably, the mooring device further comprises a spring and / or a shock absorber (damper), e.g., a spring-and-damper assembly or individual components. Preferably, each of the spring and / or the shock absorber is arranged with one end connected to the first and / or second bracket and with an opposite end connected to the respective first and / or second coupling module. The spring preferably is connected to the respective lower arm and the shock absorber preferably is connected to the respective upper arm. Movement of the coupling module and / or the interface component, e.g., in the waves, this way may be decelerated and / or smoother. Height adjustment of the mooring device may be enhanced.

[0020] According to a further aspect, which may be sold and / or claimed also independently of the above mooring device, the invention further relates to a mooring connector. Preferably, the above mooring device further comprises such a mooring connector.

[0021] The mooring connector may be adapted to moora boat, preferably with reduced human effort compared to the state of the art, more preferably (semi-)automatically. Preferably, the mooring connector can vary depending on the conditions of use. Preferably, mooring connectors of different types are available. Preferably, at least two different types of mooring connectors are available. The mooring device may comprise the mooring connector of a first type and / or the mooring connector of a second type.

[0022] The mooring connector of the first type comprises a first connector unit adapted to be coupled with the first interface component and a second connector unit adapted to be coupled with the second interface component. The first and the second connector units each comprises an adapter for coupling the respective connector unit to the respective interface component and a mooring interface. The mooring interface comprises a cable, preferably a steel cable, having a first and a second end and being at least partly arranged between the two guidance units. The guidance units may be fixed to or integral with the adapter.

[0023] The mooring interface may further comprise at least one tension mechanism being coupled to the respective first and / or second ends of the cable. The at least one tension mechanism is adapted to keep the cable under tension, preferably and in particular when the respective connector unit is coupled to the respective first and / or second interface component.

[0024] The mooring interface may further comprise a first and a second tension mechanism being coupled to the respective first and second ends of the cable, wherein the first tension mechanism is arranged at one guidance unit and the second tension mechanism is arranged at the other guidance unit. The first and second tension mechanisms are adapted to keep the cable under tension, preferably and in particular when the respective connector unit is coupled to the respective first and / or second interface component.

[0025] Preferably, the adapter of the first and / or second connector unit is shaped as to act as the counterpart to the supports of the interface components. Preferably, the adapter of the first and / or second connector unit comprises an upper adapter and a lower adapter, each of the upper and lower adapters being configured to engage with the upper and the lower supports. Preferably, each of the upper and lower adapters is shaped as a square profile and / or a hollow tube, more preferably a square tube housing.

[0026] Preferably, each of the upper and lower adapters is integrated with a respective one of the guidance units, preferably shaped as a square profile housing. Preferably, the first and second tension mechanisms are at least partly accommodated by the respective one of the guidance units. Preferably, the first and / or second tension mechanism comprises a tension spring coupled to a cable-and-spring-connector, wherein the respective first and second ends of the cable are coupled to the cable-and-spring-connector and wherein the spring preferably is coupled to the respective guidance unit, more preferably to an end section of the respective guidance unit, more preferably via a cap and a screw passing through the cap and preferably into a nut which preferably is fixed to a beginning of the tension spring. Preferably, the spring and the cable-and-spring-connector are axially movable in the respective guidance unit. The guidance unit may be shaped as a square profile housing. The cable-and-spring-connector may be a square connector.

[0027] Preferably, one or both of the guidance units comprises a thrust spring. The thrust spring preferably is arranged inside the guidance unit and at one end of the guidance unit where the cable passes out of the guidance unit. Preferably, a wheel is arranged at the one end of the guidance unit where the cable passes out of the guidance unit. The wheel may be any redirection component, preferably a redirection component that reduces friction. The cable may pass over the wheel. Alternatively or additionally, a protective element, preferably protective rubber, may be arranged at the one end of the guidance unit where the cable passes out of the guidance unit.

[0028] Preferably, the mooring device, more preferably the mooring connector, comprises a rope being elastically coupled between two holders. One of the holders may be coupled to the first connector unit and the other one of the holders may be coupled to the second connector unit, preferably by rings. An attachment means, preferably a hook or ring, may be positioned at the rope, preferably such that the attachment means is centred between the holders and / or between the first and second coupling module. Preferably, the rope is coupled between the two holders by springs, e.g., coil springs.

[0029] The mooring connector of the second type comprises a holder adapted to connect to the first and / or second support of the respective interface component, a seat adapted to at least partly accommodate a fore of the boat, and a spring, preferably a coil spring (spiral spring), being arranged between and coupled to the holder and the seat. The spring may be fixed on a lower side to the holder, and on an upper side to a support structure, which is connected to the seat. Preferably, the support structure is rotatably connected to the seat via a shaft, more preferably such that the seat can move up and down and can be fixed in a defined position, preferably with screws. The support structure may also be referred to as upper support structure, upper holder or support.

[0030] Preferably, the seat comprises a cut (opening) in its middle, at least two, radially extending arms, a toothed rod, a toothed safeguard (or pawl) and a gear. The seat may comprise three or more, preferably four or more radially extending arms. The arms may also be referred to as hands. Each of the at least two radially extending arms may have a buffer element preferably a wheel at a respective end. The cut passes through the seat from a front side to a rear side. The toothed rod passes through the cut. On the front side of the seat, a cross rod may be attached to a front part of the toothed rod, such that the cross rod and the toothed rod together form the shape of the letter T. The cross rod may be reinforced laterally with side rods being arranged between ends of the cross rod and a back end of the toothed rod, preferably such that the cross rod and the side rods form a triangle. The toothed safeguard may be arranged at the rear side of the seat, i.e., the rear side of the cut, and may be adapted to allow movement of the toothed rod only in one direction. The gear may be arranged at a front side of the seat, i.e., a front end of the cut.

[0031] Preferably, the mooring connector of the second type further comprises two arms being laterally coupled to the seat, preferably fixed with screws. The two arms preferably form the letter V and / or have on an upper side a limiter. At the beginning each of the arms preferably has a first joint, preferably to couple the arms to the seat. More preferably, each of the arms has a second joint in the middle, preferably wherein the second joint allows a rotational degree of freedom. Stated differently, each of the two arms preferably is divided into two parts being rotatably connected to each other, preferably by the second joint.

[0032] The mooring connector of the first and / or second type, in particular at least some of the above features, may contribute to allow for simple, quick and / or safe mooring. Moreover, the design of the mooring connector of the first type may contribute to low production costs, increased robustness, high flexibility in use and / or a space-saving arrangement.

[0033] According to a further aspect, which may be sold and / or claimed also independently of the above mooring device and / or mooring connector, the invention further relates to a hook adapted to hook with, e.g., the mooring connector. The invention relates to a hook of a first type, adapted to hook with the mooring connector of the first type, preferably to hook with the cable of this mooring connector. The hook preferably has a mounting section adapted to mount the hook to a boat. The invention further relates to a hook of a second type, adapted to hook with the mooring connector of the second type, preferably to hook with the cross rod of this mooring connector. The hook preferably has a mounting section adapted to mount the hook to a fore of a boat and the hook preferably comprises an eye (closed hook).

[0034] Preferably, the mooring device further comprises at least one, preferably two hooks of the first type. In other words, the mooring device may comprise at least one, preferably two hooks. Each of the hooks may be adapted to hook with the mooring connector of the first type, preferably to hook with the cable of the mooring connector. Each of the at least one hook may be provided with a mounting section adapted to mount the hook to a boat.

[0035] Preferably, the mooring device further comprises a hook of the second type. In other words, the mooring device may comprise a hook being adapted to hook with the mooring connector of the second type, preferably to hook with the cross rod. The hook may have a mounting section adapted to mount the hook to a fore of a boat. The hook preferably may further comprise an eye.

[0036] Preferably, the hook of the first and / or second type comprises a bow-shaped open hook and a closing mechanism. Stated differently, the hook of the first and / or second type comprises a base plate having a section shaped as a bow-shaped open hook and the hook of the first and / or second type further comprises a closing or locking mechanism. The closing mechanism preferably comprises a safeguard (or catch) adapted to open and close the bow shaped open hook, a biasing mechanism to bias the safeguard in a first position and a release mechanism to release the safeguard.

[0037] In one alternative, the first position may be a closed position and the biasing mechanism may comprise a spring to hold the safeguard in the closed position (the first position). The release mechanism may comprise a lever or a cable.

[0038] In another alternative, the first position may be an open position. The safeguard may comprise a guidance lever to widen the opening of the bow-shaped open hook, and the biasing mechanism may comprise a spring to hold the safeguard in the open position. The release mechanism may comprise a latch being biased, preferably by a compression spring, such that it holds the safeguard in a closed position, and a piston, preferably a push piston, configured to move the latch for releasing the safeguard such that it can move back to the first position. Preferably, the hook of the first and / or second type further comprises a laser light. Preferably the hook of the first and / or second type further comprises a controller (105) for controlling at least the piston and / or the laser light. These features, alone or in combination, may enhance (semi-)automatic mooring.

[0039] Preferably, the mounting section of the hook of the first and / or second type comprises two holders connected by toothed hinges and / or a push-pull-piston for adjusting an angle between the open hook and the mounting section.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, the mounting section of the hook of the first and / or second type preferably comprises a first hole for a first screw, a second hole for a second screw and an elongated hole (also referred to as cutout) for a tuning screw.

[0041] The hooks of the first and / or second type and / or the mooring device, alone or in combination, may be cost-efficient in production and / or practical in use, may contribute to simple, timeefficient and / or safe mooring, preferably requiring less human work for mooring than devices from the state of the art.

[0042] In other words, this invention solves a technical problem with a new device that is easily manufactured and practical for use. The essence of the invention is a new device for the mooring of boats to docks, whose connectors ensure the necessary height of the boat even when it is not moored, so that when the boat approaches the device it is automatically moored efficiently and safely. The device monitors and controls the movements of the moored boat during waves and winds, tides, ebbs, and when the water level falls and rises. The device is designed to secure the boat at the same time with several mechanisms that activate based on the strength of the boat's movement and allow the boat to rock in a controlled manner under the influence of smaller waves and control the movement of the boat under the influence of medium and strong waves, making the device efficient. When the weather conditions are good and there are no waves, this device with the connectors (A and B) always keep the boat moored in the same position, which means that less space is needed on the dock compared to other mooring methods. During waves and storms, the device with connector (A) monitors and limits the movements of the boat with cables attached to the springs, while the connector (B) monitors and limits the movements of the boat with a spring in a flexible way, on which the boat is connected to the front part. When it comes to stronger waves, the connector (A) also has a pressure spring that is activated to soften the strong movements, while the connector (B) has a spring that moves flexibly and attractively to absorb the movements. The arms of the device are connected to the base of the shaft and equipped with shock absorbers so that they move up and down during the waves, tracking and limiting the movements of the moored boat.

[0043] The invention further relates to the following aspects:

[0044] 1. Mooring device for mooring boats (2) comprising: a first bracket (3) for fixing the mooring device to a dock; a first vertical interface component (6) having a first support (54) for a mooring connector (A; B); a first float (1) coupled to the first vertical interface component (6); a first coupling module (4) arranged in between the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6) and being coupled to the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6); wherein the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6) are coupled by the first coupling module (4) such that the first interface component (6) is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the first bracket (3) while maintaining the first interface component's vertical orientation.

[0045] 2. The mooring device of aspect 1 further comprising: a second bracket (3') for fixing the mooring device to a dock; a second vertical interface component (6') having a second support (54) for the mooring connector (A; B); a second float (1') coupled to the second vertical interface component (6'); a second coupling module (4') arranged in between the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6') and being coupled to the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6'); and a bridge (9); wherein the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6') are coupled by the second coupling module (4') such that the second interface component (6') is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the second bracket (3') while maintaining the second interface component's vertical orientation; and wherein the bridge (9) connects the first and second coupling modules (4, 4') with each other, preferably horizontally. The mooring device of aspect 2, wherein the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') are arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets (3, 3'), such that the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock. The mooring device of aspect 2, wherein the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') are arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets (3, 3'), such that the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') approach each other with increasing distance from the dock. The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first and the second coupling module (4, 4') are adapted such that first and the second coupling module (4, 4') can be arranged at a respective one of the first and second brackets (3, 3') either in a first configuration or in a second configuration, wherein in the first configuration, the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock, and in the second configuration, the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') approach each other with increasing distance from the dock; wherein the arrangement of the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') can preferably be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration by rotating each of the first and the second coupling module (4, 4') by 180° about their respective longitudinal axis. The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first and / or second coupling module each comprises an upper arm (401) and a lower arm (402), wherein the upper and lower arms (401, 402) preferably form a parallelogram mechanism together with the respective interface component (6) and bracket (3). 7. The mooring device of aspect 6, wherein a vertical distance of upper and lower coupling points (57, 58) of the respective upper and lower arms (401, 402) at the respective first and / or second vertical interface component (6) is the same as a vertical distance of upper and lower coupling points (63, 64) of the respective upper and lower arms (401, 402) at the respective first and / or second bracket (3), wherein one or more of the coupling points (57, 58, 63, 64) preferably are shafts and / or hinges.

[0046] 8. The mooring device of aspect 6 or 7, wherein each of the upper arms (401) and / or each of the lower arms (402) comprises at least two rods (401a, 401b, 402a, 402b) each, the rods (401a, 401b, 402a, 402b) extending in parallel and / or horizontally offset along a longitudinal axis of the first and / or second coupling module (4).

[0047] 9. The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first and / or second float (1) is coupled to the first and / or second vertical interface component (6) via a respective holder (70), such that a distance between the first and / or second support (54) and the first and / or second float (1) preferably is adjustable, wherein the holder (70) preferably is a telescopic holder, wherein the first and / or second float (1) preferably is arranged underneath the respective interface component (6).

[0048] 10. The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first and / or second support (54) comprises an upper support (54a), formed on an upper part of the respective interface component (6, 6') and a lower support (54b), formed on a lower part of the respective interface component (6, 6'), wherein the upper and / or lower supports (54a, 54b) preferably are square profiles, more preferably openings in the interface component (6) having the shape of a square profile.

[0049] 11. The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, further comprising a spring (12) and / or a shock absorber or damper (10), preferably wherein each of the spring (12) and / or the shock absorber (10) are arranged with one end connected to the first and / or second bracket (3) and with an opposite end connected to a respective first and / or second coupling module (4), wherein the spring (12) preferably is connected to the respective lower arm (402) and the shock absorber (10) preferably is connected to the respective upper arm (401). The mooring device of any of the preceding aspects, further comprising the mooring connector (A; B). The mooring device of aspect 12, wherein the mooring connector (A) comprises a first connector unit (Al), adapted to be coupled with the first interface component (6) and a second connector unit (A2) adapted to be coupled with the second interface component (6), wherein the first and the second connector units (Al, A2) each comprises an adapter (27) for coupling the respective connector unit (Al, A2) to the respective interface component (6), and a mooring interface, wherein the mooring interface comprises a cable (22), preferably a steel cable, having a first and a second end and being at least partly arranged between two guidance units (172a, 127b), and at least one tension mechanism being coupled to the respective first and / or second ends of the cable (22), wherein the at least one tension mechanism is arranged at or between the two guidance units (127a, 127b), wherein the at least one tension mechanism is adapted to keep the cable (22) under tension, preferably when the respective connector unit (Al, A2) is coupled to the respective first and / or second interface component (6). The mooring device of aspect 13, wherein the first and the second connector units (Al, A2) each comprises a first and a second tension mechanism being coupled to the respective first and second ends of the cable (22), wherein the first tension mechanism is arranged at one guidance unit (127a) and the second tension mechanism is arranged at the other guidance unit (127b), wherein the first and second tension mechanisms are adapted to keep the cable (22) under tension, preferably when the respective connector unit (Al, A2) is coupled to the respective first and / or second interface component (6). The mooring device of aspect 13 or 14, wherein, in the first and / or second connector unit (Al, A2), the adapter (27) comprises an upper adapter (27a) and a lower adapter (27b), each of the upper and lower adapters (27a, 27b) being configured to engage with the upper and the lower supports (54a, 54b), wherein each of the upper and lower adapters (27a, 27b) preferably is a square profile and / or a hollow tube, more preferably a square tube housing 27. The mooring device of aspect 14, wherein each of the upper and lower adapters (27a, 27b) is integrated with a respective one of the guidance units (127a, 127b), preferably shaped as a square profile housing, and / or wherein the first and second tension mechanisms are at least partly accommodated by the respective one of the guidance units (127a, 127b). The mooring device of any of aspects 12-16, wherein the at least one tension mechanism, preferably the first and / or second tension mechanism comprises a tension spring (23) coupled to a cable-and-spring-connector (45), wherein one end of the cable (22) is coupled to the cable-and-spring-connector (45) and wherein the spring (23) preferably is coupled to the respective guidance unit (127a, 127b), more preferably to an end section of the respective guidance unit (127a, 127b), more preferably via a cap (69) and a screw (26) passing through the cap and preferably into a nut (65) which preferably is fixed to the tension spring (23). The mooring device of aspect 17, wherein the spring (23) and the cable-and-spring- connector (45) are axially movable in the respective guidance unit (127a, 127b), wherein the guidance unit (127a, 127b) preferably is shaped as a square profile housing. The mooring device of any of aspects 13-18, wherein one or both of the guidance units (127a; 127b) comprises a thrust spring (24), preferably arranged inside the guidance unit (127a; 127b) and at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit (127a; 127b); and / or a wheel or redirection component (25) being arranged at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit (127a; 127b), wherein the cable (22) passes over the wheel or redirection component (25); and / or a protective element, preferably protective rubber (37), arranged at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit. The mooring device of any of aspects 13-19, further comprising a rope (34) being elastically coupled between two holders (36), wherein one of the holders (36) is coupled to the first connector unit (Al) and the other one of the holders (36) is coupled to the second connector unit (A2), wherein an attachment means, preferably a hook (35) is positioned at the rope such that the attachment means (35) preferably is centred between the holders (36) and more preferably between the first and second coupling module (4), wherein the rope (4) preferably is coupled between the two holders (36) by springs (11). The mooring device of aspect 12, wherein the mooring connector (B) comprises a holder (15) adapted to connect to the first and / or second support (54) of the respective interface component (6); a seat (38) adapted to at least partly accommodate a fore of the boat; and a spring (28), being arranged between and coupled to the holder (15) and the seat (38). The mooring device of aspect 21, wherein the seat (38) comprises a cut or opening (42) in its middle, the cut passing through the seat from a front side to a rear side, at least two radially extending arms, each having a buffer element, preferably a wheel (39) at a respective end, a toothed rod (30) passing through the cut or opening (42), wherein, on the front side of the seat (38), preferably a cross rod (29) is attached to a front part of the toothed rod, such that the cross rod (29) and the toothed rod together form the shape of the letter T, wherein the cross rod (29) preferably is reinforced laterally with side rods (43) being arranged between ends of the cross rod (29) and a back end of the toothed rod (30), a toothed safeguard or pawl (31), preferably arranged at the rear side of the seat (38), the safeguard or pawl (31) is preferably adapted to allow movement of the toothed rod (30) only in one direction, and, a gear (44), preferably arranged at a front side of the seat (38). The mooring device of aspect 22, wherein the mooring connector (B) further comprises two arms (40) being laterally coupled to the seat (38), the two arms forming the letter V, and each of the two arms preferably is divided into two parts being rotatably connected to each other by a joint (41). The mooring device of any of aspects 12-23, further comprising at least one, preferably two hooks (5), each of the hooks (5) being adapted to hook with the mooring connector (A), preferably with the cable (22), and having a mounting section adapted to mount the hook (5) to a boat (2). The mooring device of any of aspects 12-23, further comprising a hook (7), the hook (7) being adapted to hook with the mooring connector (B), preferably with the cross rod (29), having a mounting section adapted to mount the hook (7) to a fore of a boat (2), wherein the hook (7) preferably further comprises an eye (13). The mooring device of aspect 24 or 25, wherein each of the hooks (5; 7) comprises a bow-shaped open hook (67) and a closing mechanism, wherein the closing mechanism comprises a safeguard or catch (46) adapted to open and close the bow shaped open hook (67), a biasing mechanism to bias the safeguard or catch (46) in a first position and a release mechanism to release the safeguard or catch (46). The mooring device of aspect 26, wherein the first position is a closed position and wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a spring (47) to hold the safeguard or catch (46) in the closed position, and wherein the release mechanism is a lever (49) or cable (48). 28. The mooring device of aspect 26, wherein the first position is an open position, wherein the safeguard or catch (46) comprises a guidance lever (144) to widen the opening of the bow-shaped open hook (67), wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a spring (108) to hold the safeguard in the open position, and wherein the release mechanism comprises a latch (110) being biased, preferably by a compression spring (109), in a position to hold the safeguard or catch (46) in a closed position, and a piston (106), preferably a push piston, configured to move the latch (110) for releasing the safeguard or catch (46) such that it can move back to the first position.

[0050] 29. The mooring device of any of aspects 24-28, wherein the hook (5; 7) further comprises a laser light (104) and / or a controller (105), preferably for controlling the piston (106) and / or the laser light (104).

[0051] 30. The mooring device of any of aspects 24-29, wherein the mounting section comprises a first hole for a first screw (18), a second hole for a second screw (20) and an elongated hole for a tuning screw (19); or wherein the mounting section comprises two holders (8) connected by toothed hinges (21) and / or a push-pull-piston (101) for adjusting an angle between the open hook (67) and the mounting section.

[0052] In the following, preferred embodiments of the invention are described by way of example with reference to the following figures. The embodiments are only exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. In particular, the invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show:

[0053] Figure 1 the boat mooring device in a first preferred embodiment in a side view;

[0054] Figure 2 a front view of the boat mooring device of Figure 1 with the connector of the first type installed and a boat moored to the device;

[0055] Figure 3 detail views of the connector of the first type in the cross-section;

[0056] Figure 4 top view of the boat mooring device of Figure 1 in the first configuration with a boat moored to the device with the connector of the first type;

[0057] Figure 5 the hook of the first type mounted to a boat; Figure 6 a detail view of the hook of Figure 5;

[0058] Figure ? a side view of a boat approaching the mooring device of Figure 1 with the connector of the first type;

[0059] Figure 8 a side view of a boat moored to the mooring device of Figure 1 with the connector of the first type;

[0060] Figure 9 a top view of the boat mooring device of Figure 1 in the second configuration with the connector of the second type installed;

[0061] Figure 10 a side view of the configuration of Figure 9;

[0062] Figure 11 a front view of the configuration of Figure 9;

[0063] Figure 12 detail views of the connector of the second type in a perspective view and in a front view;

[0064] Figure 13 a boat approaching the mooring device of Figure 9;

[0065] Figure 14 a boat moored to the mooring device of Figure 9;

[0066] Figure 15 a detail view of the hook of the second type;

[0067] Figure 16 an detail view of an alternative embodiment of the connector of the first type in the cross-section;

[0068] Figures 17 a hook in an alternative embodiment in a top view;

[0069] Figure 18 a front view of the hook of Figure 17 mounted to a boat and being horizontally orientated;

[0070] Figure 19 a front view of the hook of Figure 17 mounted to a boat and being flapped to a hull of a boat;

[0071] Figure 20 the hook of Figure 17 together with a controller;

[0072] Figure 21 a boat being equipped with a laser light approaching the mooring device of Figure 2 in a top view;

[0073] Figure 22 a boat being equipped with a laser light approaching the mooring device of Figure 2 in a side view; and Figure 23 a boat mooring device in a third preferred embodiment being equipped with an extension rod.

[0074] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the mooring device in a side view. In this view, the main structure of the mooring device is apparent. The device comprises a first bracket 3, e.g., an angle bracket, which acts as an interface to mount the mooring device to a dock, e.g., to a quay wall, preferably by screws 55. The device further comprises a first interface component 6, e.g., a head, which is provided with a support 54 (an interface) for a mooring connector (e.g., mooring connector A or B). The first interface component 6 may extend in a vertical direction, i.e., may be vertically oriented. There is provided a first coupling module 4 connecting the first interface component 6 with the first bracket 3. The first coupling module 4 is adapted such that the first interface component 6 can move up and down with respect to the first bracket 3 while maintaining the (e.g. vertical) orientation of the first interface component 6. In the present embodiment, the first coupling module 4 comprises an upper arm 401 and a lower arm 402. Stated differently, the upper arm 401 and the lower arm 402 may form the first coupling module 4. The upper and lower arms 401, 402 are coupled to the first bracket 3 and to the first interface component 6 such that a parallelogram mechanism is established. In particular, the first bracket 3 comprises at least one upper coupling point 64, e.g., an upper shaft or axis, and at least one lower coupling point 63, e.g., a lower shaft or axis, and the first interface component 6 also comprises at least one upper coupling point 58, e.g., an upper shaft or axis, and at least one lower coupling point 57, e.g., a lower shaft or axis. The upper and lower arms 401, 402 are coupled to the respective upper and lower coupling points, thereby forming the parallelogram mechanism.

[0075] The connection of the first coupling module 4 with the first bracket 3 is supported by a shock absorber (damper) 10 and a spring 12. The spring 12 is mounted with its first end to the first bracket 3 and with its second end to the lower arm 402. The shock absorber 10 is mounted with its first end to the first bracket 3 and with its second end to the upper arm 401. The spring 12 and damper 10 in this position may act as a spring-and-damper-unit and can balance, enhance or decelerate movement of the coupling module 4 and / or the interface component 6 depending on their deflection.

[0076] The first interface component 6 is provided with the support 54, which comprises an upper support 54a and a lower support 54b. The upper and lower supports 54a, 54b each may be shaped as a square profile (e.g., an opening in the interface component having the shape of a square profile), in better terms as a square housing. Screws 51 may be provided at the upper and lower supports 54a, 54b to fix a mooring connector at the support 54 and / or interface component 6.

[0077] The interface component 6 further is provided with a float 1. The float 1 is attached to the interface component 6 via a holder 70. The holder 70 is axially movable through a housing 71 and can be fixed at a desired position in the housing 71, preferably by screws 72. In other words, the float 1 may be attached to the interface component 6 via a telescopic holder. This way, the distance of the interface component 6 to a water surface can be adjusted depending on the type of mooring connector used or depending on the size of the boat for which the mooring connector is provided.

[0078] The mooring device of the present embodiment, i.e., the main structure, can be described in further detail with reference to Figure 4, which shows the mooring device in a top view. As it is apparent from Figure 4, the device comprises two subassemblies, which are connected to each other via a bridge 9. Stated differently, in addition to the first bracket 3, the fist interface component 6 and the first coupling module 4, the mooring device comprises a second bracket 3', a second interface component 6' and a second coupling module 4'. The structure of the second subassembly, i.e., the second bracket 3', the second interface component 6' and the second coupling module 4' may be identical to the structure of the first subassembly, i.e., the first bracket 3, the first interface component 6 and the first coupling module 4. The descriptions referring to the first subassembly may directly be transferred to the second subassembly. However, the second subassembly may lack a shock absorber 10 and / or a spring 12. Alternatively, a shock absorber 10 and a spring 12 may be arranged at both subassemblies or a spring 12 may be arranged at one subassembly and a shock absorber 10 may be arranged at the other subassembly.

[0079] The first coupling module 4 and the second coupling module 4' increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock. Stated differently, in the present embodiment, a vertical midplane (e.g. a symmetry plane) of the first bracket 3 and a vertical midplane (e.g. a symmetry plane) of the first interface component 6 are offset to each other, i.e., having a first distance to each other. A first angle between the first coupling module 4 and the vertical midplane of one of the first bracket 3 and the first interface component 6 may be at least 10°, preferably at least 15° and / or at most 30°, preferably at most 25°. A vertical symmetry plane of the second bracket 3' and a vertical symmetry plane of the second interface component 6' are offset to each other, i.e., having a second distance to each other. The second distance may be identical to the first distance. In the mooring device, the second coupling module 4' may be arranged symmetrical with reference to the first coupling module 4.

[0080] The bridge 9 is arranged between the first coupling module 4 and the second coupling module 4'. Preferably the bridge 9 is fixed to the first and / or second coupling module 4, 4' via screws or clips. The bridge may comprise a first rod 91 and a second rod 92 being parallel and at distance to the first rod 91 in a top view. The second rod 92 may be in one horizontal plane together with the first rod 91. The second rod 92 is longer than the first rod 91. The first and second rods 91, 92 may be connected at their end points with side rods 93, 94. The rods 91,

[0081] 92, 93, 94 may form an isosceles trapezoid. The angle of the second rod 92 to the side rods

[0082] 93, 94 may be identical to the first angle.

[0083] As shown in Figure 4, the mooring device is arranged in a first configuration. The coupling modules 4, 4' - in top view - may extend approximately in the shape of a V. In the first configuration, the bridge 9 is arranged between the coupling modules 4, 4' with the first rod 91 facing the dock. However, the mooring device preferably can also be arranged in a second configuration. In the present embodiment, transforming the mooring device from the first to the second configuration can preferably be done, e.g., by first turning the bridge 9 by 180° about the first rod 91. Secondly, the coupling modules 4, 4' can either be flapped or folded towards the bridge 9 or, alternatively, the coupling modules 4, 4' can be turned by 180° about their longitudinal axis. In any case, in their new position, the first and second coupling modules 4, 4' approach each other with increasing distance from the dock. In this arrangement, the mooring device is in its second configuration as shown, e.g., in Figure 9.

[0084] Turning back to Figure 4 and focussing on the first and / or second coupling module 4, 4', the respective upper arm 401, 401' and / or the lower arm 402, 402' comprises two rods extending in parallel. The coupling module 4 may thus be shaped in a triangle or rectangle profile. Stated differently, the respective upper arm 401, 401' may comprise a first rod 401a, 401a' and a second rod 401b, 401b' and the respective lower arm 402, 402' may comprise a first rod 402a, 402a' and a second rod 402b, 402b'. This design may contribute to increased stability and / or rigidity of the mooring device. When the mooring device is in the first configuration (Fig. 4), the bridge 9 may be attached to the first rods 401a, 401a' and when the mooring device is in the second configuration (Fig. 9), the bridge 9 may be attached to the second rods 401b, 401b'.

[0085] Figure 2 shows the mooring device in the first configuration in a front view. For improving the presentation of the functional principle of the mooring connector A, the mooring connector A is shown in cross section. As it is apparent from Figure 2, the mooring connector A of the first type comprises a first connector unit Al and a second connector unit A2. The first and second connector units Al, A2 may be formed identically. An enlarged view of the connector unit A2 in cross section is provided in Figure 3. The description of connector unit A2 may also be applicable to connector unit Al.

[0086] As it is apparent from Figure 2, the first and second connector units Al, A2 are configured to be accommodated by the support 54, i.e. the upper and lower support 54a, 54b of the respective first and second interface component 6, 6'. The first and second connector units Al, A2 are adapted to elastically hold a cable 22 such that at least a part of the cable 22 runs substantially vertically and at a distance to the respective first and second interface component 6, 6' to provide an interface for a boat 2 to moor at the cable 22, preferably with hooks 5. The distance of the vertical sections of the cables 22 of the first and second connector unit Al, A2 is smaller than the distance of the first and second interface components 6, 6' to each other. This way, a boat can be moored at the cables 22 at a proper distance to the interface components 6, 6' and coupling modules 4, 4'. This way, damage of a moored boat by the mooring device can preferably be avoided, preferably even when the boat is swinging, e.g., due to wind or heavy sea.

[0087] One preferred embodiment of the connection units Al, A2 will be described with reference to the second connection unit A2 as shown in Figure 3. The second connection unit A2 may be of identical or similar structure. The description of the second connection unit A2 may thus be applicable to the first connection unit Al. The connection unit A2 comprises an adapter 27 for coupling the connector unit A2 to the first interface component and a mooring interface. The mooring interface of the present embodiment comprises two guidance units 127, the cable 22 and first and second tension mechanisms. The two guidance units 127 are shaped as hollow tubes, e.g., having a square profile or square housing, forming cavities in their inside. In the present embodiment, the guidance units 127 themselves form the adapter 27, i.e., an upper adapter 27a and a lower adapter 27b is formed by the respective upper guidance unit 127a and lower guidance unit 127b. The upper and lower adapters 27a, 27b are configured to fit in the respective upper and lower supports 54a, 54b of the interface component 6'. The cable 22 is at least partly arranged between the two guidance units 127 forming the vertical section of cable 22 for mooring a boat 2. Coupled to respective ends of the cable 22 are one first tension mechanism (coupled to a first end of the cable 22) and one second tension mechanism (coupled to a second end of the cable 22). The first tension mechanism is arranged in the cavity of the first guidance unit (e.g., upper guidance unit 127a) and the second tension mechanism is arranged in the cavity of the second guidance unit (e.g., lower guidance unit 127b). In other words, the first and second tension mechanisms are at least partly accommodated by the respective one of the guidance units 127.

[0088] The first and second tension mechanisms each comprises a tension spring 23 and a cable-and- spring-connector 45. The spring 23 may be a coil spring (spiral spring) and is coupled to a first side of a cable-and-spring-connector45. At an opposite side of the cable-and-spring connector 45, the cable 22 is connected to the tension mechanism. So, as it is apparent from Figure 2, respective first and second ends of the cable 22 are coupled to the cable-and-spring-connector 45. While the spring 23 at one end is coupled to the first side of the cable-and-spring- connector 45, the spring 23 with its opposite side is coupled to the respective guidance unit 127 thereby fixing the tension mechanism and thus the cable 22 to the guidance unit 127 and thus to the adapter 27. In the present embodiment, the spring 23 is coupled to an end section of the guidance unit 127 via a cover or cap 69 and a screw 26 passing through the cap 69 and into a nut 65 which is fixed at the tension spring 23. In this arrangement, the spring 23 and the cable-and-spring-connector 45 are movable along a longitudinal axis of the respective guidance unit 127, thereby providing an elastically support for the cable 22. In other words, with this arrangement, a tension mechanism fixed to the guidance unit 127 (and thus, via the adapter 27, to the interface component 6) is provided such that the cable 22 is flexibly supported but kept under tension, in particular when the connector unit A2 is coupled to the interface component 6', such that a section of the cable 22 is arranged between the upper and lower guidance units 127 and the cable 22 in this section runs substantially vertical. This arrangement may allow simple and / or safe mooring at the cable 22.

[0089] In addition to the tension mechanism, each of the guidance units 127 of the present embodiment comprises a thrust spring 24 which is arranged inside the guidance unit 127 and at one end of the guidance unit 127 opposite to the end section where the cap 69 is mounted. The thrust spring 24 thus is arranged at the end of the guidance unit 127 where the cable 22 passes out of the guidance unit 127. This end may also be covered by a cap 74 through which the cable 22 can pass. The thrust spring 24 may be any elastic buffer element, e.g., a coil spring.

[0090] At this end, the guidance unit is also provided with a wheel 25. The wheel 25 is coupled to and / or supported by the thrust spring 24. In this arrangement, the cable 22 passes from one first cable-and-spring connector 45 through the thrust spring 24 and out of the first guidance unit 127, then over a first wheel 25 and over a second wheel 25 into the second guidance unit 127 and through the second thrust spring to the second cable-and-spring connector 45. Having the mooring connector A assembled this way, may contribute to a compact and / or robust mooring device.

[0091] Each guidance unit 127 may further be equipped with a protective element, e.g., a protective rubber 37, which is arranged at the one end of the guidance unit 127 where the cable 22 passes out of the guidance unit 127 (the end of the guidance unit 127 provided with the wheel 25). These protective elements may act as additional safety elements to prevent a moored boat 2 from being damaged by the mooring device, especially when there is wind or heavy sea.

[0092] Referring to Figure 4, it is apparent that the mooring connector A of the first type further comprises two holders 36, 36' which extend approximately parallel to a water surface on which the float 1 is swimming and - in a top view - approximately parallel to the coupling modules. In more detail, the first connector unit Al comprises a first holder 36 and the second connector unit A2 comprises a second holder 36'. The holders 36, 36' have a first and a second end, respectively. With the first end, the holders 36, 36' can be attached to the respective connector units Al, A2 directly, more specifically to the respective adapter 27 and / or guidance unit 127, or the holders 36 can be attached to the respective interface components 6, 6'. At the first ends, the holder 36, 36' may comprise a ring, a clip or any other attachment means to attach the holders 36, 36' to the respective connector units Al, A2 and / or to the respective interface component 6. 6', preferably by using screws. In any case, the holders 36, 36' at their second ends are connected to each other via two springs 11, 11' and a rope 34 extending therebetween. In the middle of the rope 34, there is provided an attachment means, e.g., a ring or hook 35 which is configured such that a boat 2 can moor with the attachment means at the fore of the boat 2.

[0093] In the shown embodiment, the mooring device in a top view is axially symmetric having a vertical symmetry plane. With the mooring device, a boat 2, which in general has a fore that also is approximately axially symmetric in a top view, can be moored easily and safely at three points. Two points at the sides of the boat 2 interfering with the respective cable 22 and one at the fore of the boat 2 interfering with the attachment element 35. The cables 22 as well as the attachment means 35 are elastically supported, e.g., by springs 11, 23 and may balance swinging of the boat 2 due to wind and / or moving water, e.g., in rivers or due to waves at the sea.

[0094] A boat 2 which is equipped with respective hooks and / or other suitable mooring means at its sides and fore can easily moorat the mooring device, preferably automatically or at least semi- or almost automatically. Stated differently, there preferably is less human interaction with the mooring device of the preferred embodiment required compared to conventional mooring with a rope at a buoy or bollard.

[0095] Figure 5 shows an example of a suitable mooring means representing a counterpart to the mooring device with the mooring connector of the first type A and being attached at a side of the boat 2. According to the present example, a hook 5 forms the suitable mooring means. Within this disclosure, the hook 5 may be regarded as either being an individual device or as being part of the mooring device. A hook 5 is attached to the boat 2 at the left side (portside) and right side (starboard) of the boat 2, preferably underneath the railing but above the water surface. The hook 5 further comprises a bracket 8 with which it is fixed to the boat 2, preferably by screws 61. The hook 5 may be coupled to the bracket 8 via toothed hinges 21 allowing to adjust an angle of the hook to the hull of the boat 2 and / or to the water surface. The angle of the hook 5 to the hull of the boat preferably can be adjusted between 0° and 150°. The hook 5 can be flapped towards the hull of the boat 2 such that it is aligned with the hull and it can be flapped such that it is approximately parallel to the water surface and / or deck of the boat 2.

[0096] The hook 5 in more detail is shown in Figure 6. At the top of the figure, the connection of hook 5 (more specifically a base plate of hook 5) to the brackets 8 via the toothed hinges 21 is shown. The toothed hinges 21 can be rotated over several locking positions (represented by the teeth) about an axis through which a shaft or screw 66 passes. With the tightening torque of screw 66, it is adjustable how easily the hook 5 can be flapped with reference to the bracket

[0097] 8.

[0098] The hook 5 comprises an open hook 67 and a locking or closing mechanism. In more detail, the base plate of hook 5 in general is shaped as to provide the bow-shaped open hook 67 and the open hook 67 can be closed by a safeguard or catch 46. The safeguard 46 is adapted to open and close the bow-shaped open hook 67. This may form the locking or closing mechanism. This functionality may contribute to an easy and safe mooring at the mooring device, i.e., at the cable 22. The safeguard 46 is biased in a first position by a biasing mechanism. The first position in the present embodiment is a closed position, so, a position in which the safeguard 46 closes the open hook 67. The biasing mechanism comprises a biasing member, e.g. a spring 47. The spring 47 in the present embodiment is a torsion spring that is rotatable about a shaft 50 and biased between two nipples. One nipple is positioned at the base plate of hook 5 and the other one is positioned at the safeguard 46. The safeguard 46 and preferably also the base plate of hook 5 is shaped, such that the safeguard 46 automatically opens the open hook 67 when a force presses against the safeguard 46 and in the direction towards the open hook 67. This way, a cable, e.g. the cable 22 approaching the hook 5 will automatically be caught in the open hook 67 which is subsequently automatically closed by the biased safeguard 46. There is a lever 49 provided with the closing mechanism. The lever 49 is coupled with the safeguard 46 such that - when the lever 49 is pulled - the safeguard 46 opens the open hook 67 against the force of the biasing member. This way, a cable that is caught in the hook 67 closed by the safeguard 46 can be released. While in this example the lever 49 is provided, any suitable release mechanism can be used instead of the lever 49, e.g., a cable (as shown in Figure 15).

[0099] Figures 7 and 8 show a boat 2 approaching and mooring with the mooring device. The mooring device is adjusted such that the mooring connector A is at a desired height aligned with the hooks 5 of the boat 2 for mooring. In particular the telescopic holder 70, 71 of the float 1 may be adjusted in height to have the mooring connector A at the desired height. The behaviour or movement of the mooring device together with movement of water or change in water level may be apparent from Figure 8. While the upper schematic of Figure 8 shows a boat 2 moored to the mooring device at low water level, the lower schematic of Figure 8 shows the boat 2 moored to the mooring device at heigh water level. The distance of the mooring connector A to the water surface does not change since the float 1 swims on the water and the coupling module is rotatably mounted to the dock and the interface component 6. The boat 2 is safely moored to the mooring connector A without being exposed to forces that could originate from water movement in combination with a rather rigid mooring system. The parallelogram mechanism and / or the spring-and-damper unit (spring 12, shock-absorber 10) may contribute to the safe mooring of the boat 2 and to prevent damages on the boat 2 caused by the mooring device or dock, e.g., due to swinging and movements of the boat or mooring device, e.g., due to heavy sea.

[0100] Figure 9 shows the mooring device in the second configuration with a mooring connector of a second type B. In this configuration, the second rod 92 faces the dock and the first and second coupling modules 4, 4' approach each other with increasing distance from the dock. Preferably, the mooring device can be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa. Such a transfer can preferably be achieved by turning the bridge 9 and / or the coupling modules 4, 4'. As it is apparent from Figure 9, the bridge 9 is turned by 180° about its first rod 91 in contrast to the first configuration, as shown in Figure 4. The coupling modules 4, 4' subsequently either have been flapped towards the bridge 9 or, preferably, the coupling modules 4, 4' have been turned by 180° about their longitudinal axis. In this case, the bridge 9 may be coupled to the second rods 402b, 402b' of respective arms of the first and second coupling modules 4, 4', which in the above description with reference to Figure 4 were described as lower arms 402, 402' (now being above the respective arms 401, 401' since the coupling modules 4, 4' have been turned). The mooring connector B is coupled to the first and second interface components 6, 6' at the supports 54.

[0101] Figure 10 shows a boat 2 moored to the mooring device in the second configuration (with the mooring connector B of the second type). Depending on the size of the boat 2 it might be necessary to lower the mooring device down, sometimes so far, that a part of the device is already under water. The telescopic holder 70, 71 of the float 1 may be designed to allow the float 1 with its holder 70 to be inserted into the housing 71 from two sides, i.e. from below or from above. So, if the holder 70 is inserted in the housing 71 from below and completely fed through the housing 71, and the mooring connector B still is too high, e.g. for mooring a rather small boat 2, the holder 70 of the float 1 can simply be turned upside down and fed through the housing 71 from above to further lower the mooring connector B. Figure 11 shows the mooring device with mooring connector B in a front view. The mooring connector B comprises a holder 15 with which it is coupled to the first and second interface component 6, 6'. The holder 15 in the present embodiment comprises four square profiles having an identical profile than the adapters 27 of the mooring connector of the first type A. In other words, the holder 15 is adapted to connect to the first and / or second support 54 of the respective interface component 6, 6'. This way, the mooring connector B fits into the same support 54 (i.e., upper support 54a and lower support 54b of each of the interface components 6, 6') than the mooring connector A. The mooring device, more specifically the interface components 6, 6' of the present invention may be configured to be coupled with both type of mooring connectors A, B, i.e., the mooring connector of the first type A and the mooring connector of the second type B. This contributes to high flexibility in using the mooring device.

[0102] The mooring connector B comprises a seat 38 which is coupled to the holder 15 via a spring 28 such that the seat 38 is arranged above the holder 15 and / or the spring 28 protrudes upwards over the holder 15. The spring 28 preferably is a spiral spring, e.g., a coil spring and preferably is mounted in an upright position. At its lower end, the spring 28 of the present embodiment is provided with a lower support structure 56 (lower holder 56) and on its upper end, the spring 28 is provided with an upper support structure 16 (upper holder 16). The spring is mounted to the holder 15 via its lower support structure 56, preferably with screws 76. The spring is mounted to the seat 38 via its upper holder 16, preferably by a shaft 62. The seat 38 is rotatably mounted at the upper support structure 16 of the spring 28 by the shaft 62. An angle of the seat 38 to the vertical orientated spring can be adjusted. In other words, the seat 38 can move up and down and / or can be fixed in a defined position, preferably with screws.

[0103] The mooring connector B is at least partly shown in a perspective view in a schematic at the top left corner of Figure 12. The mooring connector B in a front view is shown in the schematic at the lower right corner of Figure 12. As it is apparent from Figures 11 and 12, the seat 38 comprises a plurality of, e.g. four, radially extending arms. The seat 38 is adapted to at least partly accommodate a fore of the boat. At the ends of the arms, the seat 38 comprises buffer elements to prevent damages on the fore of the boat. These buffer elements may be wheels 39. As it is best shown in the front views of the mooring connector B, the seat 38 comprises a cut or opening 42 in its centre or middle. The cut 42 may be a through-hole which passes through a main structure of the seat 38. In other words, the cut 42 passes through the seat 38 from a front side of the seat 38 to a rear side of the seat 38.

[0104] The mooring connector B further comprises a toothed rod 30 passing through the cut 42, preferably such that a part of the toothed rod 30 extends out of the cut 42 in a rear direction and a part of the toothed rod 30 extends out of the cut 42 in a forward direction. In the present embodiment, the toothed rod 30 is provided with a tension spring 75 connecting a rear end of the toothed rod 30 with the seat 38. A toothed safeguard or pawl 31 is arranged at the rear side of the seat 38, i.e., the rear side of the cut 42. The safeguard 31 is rotatably coupled to the seat 38, e.g. at a shaft 60, and adapted to interfere with the toothed rod 31. The teeth of the toothed rod and the teeth of the safeguard 31 both may have different inclinations on a forward side of the teeth and on a rear side of the teeth. The teeth of the safeguard 31 interfering with the teeth of the toothed rod 30 may allow movement of the toothed rod 30 only in one direction, preferably the rearward direction. The safeguard 31 may be forced or biased by a spring or cable 33 to interfere with the toothed safeguard 31. The safeguard 31 may be provided with a connector or ring 32 for interacting with the cable or spring 33. A gear 44 may be arranged at a front side of the seat 38, i.e., a front side of the cut 42. While the toothed rod 30 in the present embodiment basically is a rod provided with teeth, in other embodiments it simply may be a rod provided with any other structure that allows interaction with the safeguard 31, such as, e.g., friction surfaces. Consequently, the safeguard 31 may be provided with a structure suitable to interfere with the rod 30. In the present embodiment this is one or more teeth, but in other embodiments this structure may differ and may, e.g., be a friction surface.

[0105] The toothed rod, at its part that extends in the forward direction (so, on the front side of the seat 38), may be connected to a cross rod 29. In the present embodiment, an end part of the toothed rod 30 is connected to a middle part of the cross rod 29. The cross rod 29 and the toothed rod 30 together form the shape of the letter T. In the present embodiment, the cross rod 29 is reinforced laterally with side rods 43. The side rods 43 are arranged between each of the ends of the cross rod 29 and a rear end of the toothed rod 30, such that the cross rod 29 and the side rods 43 form a triangle.

[0106] The mooring connector B further comprises two arms (hands) 40. In the present embodiment, the arms 40 are laterally coupled to the seat 38 forming the letter V. More precisely, the arms 40 are fixed to the seat 38 with screws 53. On an upper side, at least a first part of each of the two hands 40 is provided with a limiter 59. The limiter basically is a rail extending with the first part of the arms 40 and providing a guidance forthe rod 29. The rod 29 thus is guided between the limiter 59 and the first part of the arms 40. The first part of the arms 40 also may be provided with a joint 52 in the area of the seat 38. The first part of the arms 40 is coupled to a respective second part of the respective arm 40 by a joint 41. The joint 41 rotatably connects the two parts of the respective arms. The first part of the arms 40 may be the part adjacent to the seat 38 while the second part of the arms may be a part at a distance to the seat 38.

[0107] Figures 13 and 14 show a boat 2 approaching and mooring to the mooring device in the second configuration with the mooring connector of the second type B. Preferably, the boat 2 can moor to the mooring device with a suitable attachment device mounted to the fore of the boat 2, e.g. hook 7. The hook 7 may hook to the cross rod 29 of the mooring connector B. When the boat 2 hooks to the cross rod 29, the boat may push the cross rod 29 towards the seat 38 until the fore of the boat is at least partly accommodated in the seat 38 safely. The safeguard 31 is adapted such that it does not stop a movement of the cross rod 29 towards the seat. However, as soon as the boat 2 has moored safely, the safeguard 31 prevents the cross rod 29 from moving back (away from the seat 38), e.g., when the boat swings on the water. This may contribute to preventing the mooring connector B from damaging or scratching the fore of the boat 2 when the boat 2 is moored. As soon as the boat 2 has been removed from the mooring device, the safeguard 31 can be released. The toothed rod 30 and with the toothed rod 30 the cross rod 29 will then move back in the forward direction, e.g., due to a force of spring the 75. This way, the mooring device is again ready for accommodating a boat 2.

[0108] In other words, the mooring connector B may comprise a seat 38 and a coupler (e.g., the cross rod 29) for coupling to the boat 2. The coupler may be attached to a ratchet mechanism that allows the coupler to move towards the seat 38 but prevents movement in the opposite direction. The ratchet mechanism may be spring biased such that the coupler moves away from the seat 38 when the ratchet mechanism is released.

[0109] Figure 15 shows an example of a suitable mooring means representing a counterpart to the mooring device with the mooring connector of the second type B. The mooring means is attached to a fore of the boat 2. According to the present example, a hook 7 forms the suitable mooring means. Within this disclosure, the hook 7 may be regarded as either being an individual device or as being part of the mooring device. The hook 7 as described below may replace a hook 17 as it is in general positioned at the fore of a boat ex-factory. This may improve performance and / or useability of the mooring device. The hook 7 is in particular adapted to hook with the mooring connector B, preferably with the cross rod 29. The hook 7 comprises a mounting section adapted to mount the hook 7 to a fore of the boat 2. The hook 7 further comprises a closed hook, e.g. an eye 13 which might replace an eye which is provided at a fore of a boat ex-factory (and may be needed to be demounted to mount the hook 7). The mounting section of the hook 7 may comprise three screws 18, 19, 20. While screws 18 and 20 are provided in circular holes, screw 19 may be provided in a cutout or elongated hole. This may allow to axially move screw 19 for tuning or fitting to already present screw holes in the hull of the boat 2.

[0110] The hook 7 comprises an bow-shaped open hook 67 and a locking or closing mechanism. The closing mechanism comprises a safeguard or catch 46 adapted to open and close the bowshaped open hook 67. In more detail, a base plate of the hook 7 is shaped to form the bowshaped open hook. The safeguard 46 is biased - by a biasing mechanism - in a position such that the open hook is closed (a first position). The biasing mechanism comprises a biasing member, e.g. a spring 47. The spring 47 in the present embodiment is a torsion spring that is arranged between two nipples. One nipple is positioned at the base plate of hook 7 and the other one is positioned at the safeguard 46. The hook 7 further comprises a release mechanism, e.g. a lever or cable 48 to release the safeguard 46 (so, to move the safeguard from the closed position to an open position in which an entry to the open hook 67 is free). In the present embodiment, the release mechanism is provided by a cable 48 coupled to the safeguard 46. The safeguard 46 is rotatably mounted on the base plate of hook 7 and when the cable is pulled, the safeguard 46 is moved to the open position.

[0111] Figure 16 shows an alternative embodiment of the connector of the first type A in crosssection. Most components of the connector A are identical or similar to the components of the previously described connector A and therefore a description of these components may be omitted. The connector A may comprise two connector units Al and A2. Figure 16 only shows the connector unit A2. The connector unit Al preferably is identically or similarly designed. As well as the previously described connector units Al, A2, the connector unit A2 of Figure 16 may comprise an adapter 27 for coupling the connector unit A2 to the interface component 6' and a mooring interface. The mooring interface of the connector unit A2 comprises two guidance units 127a, 127b, the cable 22 and a tension mechanism. While the adapter 27, the two guidance units 127a, 127b and preferably the cable 22 are identical to the connector unit A2, the main difference of the connector unit of the first embodiment A2 and the connector unit of the alternative embodiment A2 is the tension mechanism. The connector unit A2 of Figure 16 comprises only one tension mechanism. This tension mechanism may be connected between both ends of the cable 22. The cable 22 runs through the guidance units 127a, 127b, guided by wheels 25, and the ends of the cable 22 are connected by the tension mechanism preferably outside of the guidance units 127a, 127b, preferably at a vertical section opposite to the vertical section that is provided for mooring the boat 2. In other words, in cross section, the cable 22 togetherwith the tension mechanism may be substantially rectangular in shape, and a wheel 25 preferably may be provided in each corner of the rectangular shape. The tension mechanism in this embodiment comprises a tension spring 23 and a tuning element 90 for adjusting a total length of the tension mechanism. The tuning element 90 may comprise a screw and an eye. While the tuning element 90 may be connected with a first end to one end of the spring 23, one end of the cable 22 may be connected to the other end of the spring 23 and the other end of cable 22 may be connected to a second end of the tuning element, in other words, the cable 22 preferably forms a closed loop together with the tension mechanism (i.e., the spring 23 and the tuning element 90). In this embodiment, thrust springs 24 may be arranged directly adjacent to the tension mechanism and may be supported at rear ends of respective upper and lower guidance units 127a, 127b, preferably outside of the guidance units 127a, 127b.

[0112] Figures 17-21 show a furtherexample of a suitable mooring means representing a counterpart to the mooring device. The mooring means in this embodiment may be a hook 5*. While the mooring means in this embodiment is described to be adapted for mooring with the mooring connector of the first type A, it preferably may also be adapted to be used with hook 7 for mooring with the mooring connector of type B and / or the basic principle of hook 5* can preferably be transferred to hook 7.

[0113] As it will best be seen in Figures 17 and the upper schematic of Figure 20, the hook 5* basically comprises an identical structure as the hook 5. In other words, the hook 5* may comprise a structure for coupling the hook 5* to a boat 2 (the structure may be identical with hook 5), an open hook 120, a closing or locking mechanism being biased by a biasing mechanism and a release mechanism. However, there are distinct differences of hook 5* to hook 5. First, the locking mechanism of hook 5* comprises not only a safeguard 146 but also a first piston 107. The safeguard 146 is biased to an open position, preferably by a spring 108, and can be closed by activating the first piston 107. The safeguard comprises an extended lever forming - in an open position - the shape of the letter V together with a base plate of hook 5* in a top view. With this design, the open hook 120 may easily catch e.g. cable 22 to hook with, since the cable 22 is guided by the lever of the safeguard 146 into the open hook 120. The safeguard 146 can be moved in a closed position to close the open hook 120 by the piston 107. Thus, when mooring a boat with hook 5* to the mooring connector A, the hook 120 first catches the cable 22 and subsequently the hook 120 gets closed. This might either be forced by the cable 22 pressing against a surface of safeguard 146, thereby closing the safeguard 146, or by activating the piston 107 to close the hook 120. In a preferred embodiment, safeguard 146 may be coupled with a switch or sensor (e.g., sensors 116, 117 via coupling 114) such that an electric signal can be provided indicating that the safeguard 146 is opened and / or closed. The release mechanism may comprise a latch 110 adapted to interfere with the safeguard 146. The latch 110 preferably is biased, preferably by a spring 109, such that it holds the safeguard 146 in a closed position as soon as the safeguard 146 has been moved into the closed position. A second piston 106 may be provided to move the latch 110 against the biasing force, thereby releasing the safeguard 146. The first piston 107 may be a pull piston, the second piston 106 may be a push piston. While it is preferred to use hydraulic, pneumatic, magnetic or electric pistons being electrically controlled, in alternative embodiments an electric motor or electric magnet may replace the first and / or second piston 107, 106.

[0114] Hook 5* and / or the boat 2 may comprise a laser light 104. Preferably, laser 104 can be adjusted during assembly so that it shines horizontally and / or parallel to the water surface and / or fore of the boat. The laser light 104 may be used for guidance when anchoring the boat in the mooring device. This can best be seen in Figures 21-22.

[0115] Referring to Figures 18 and 19, the hook 5* may further be equipped with a mechanism for adjusting an angle of the hook (i.e., an angle of the base plate of the hook 5*) to the hull of the boat 2 and / or to the water surface. In the present embodiment, a push-and-pull piston 101 is provided for adjusting the respective angle. Preferably there are further provided one or more sensors for determining the position of the hook 5* (e.g. two switches or sensors 102). One sensor 102 is arranged to get activated when the hook is completely flapped to the hull of the boat, see Figure 18, the other sensor 102 is arranged to get activated when the hook is oriented parallel to the boat deck (or water surface), see Figure 19.

[0116] There may further be provided a controller 105 for controlling the hook 5* and / or the laser light 104 (see Figure 20, in particular the lower schematic). The controller may comprise a human-machine-interface (HMI) with several lights, windows and or items indicating a status of one or more of the following: Safeguard 146 opened / closed; Safeguard 146 moving into the opened / closed position; Hook being flapped to the hull; Hook being orientated horizontally; Hook moving upwards / downwards; Laser Light 104 switched on / off. The HMI may comprise several buttons and / or switches for activating the laser light 104 and / or a movement of the hook and / or safeguard 146.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the HMI comprises a switch 130 to activate the laser light 104 via the controller 105. When the laser light 104 is activated with switch 130, the controller 105 simultaneously activates a signal light 126 at the HMI. The HMI comprises a switch 133 for activating a movement of push piston 106. The HMI may be provided with momentary switches 131 and 132 for activating the push-pull piston 101 in a first or second direction. This way, the hook can automatically be raised or lowered. The HMI further comprises a signaling light 124 indicating that the hook moves, light 122 indicating that the hook is completely flapped to the hull and light 123 indicating that the hook is in a horizontal position. Light 123 may be in electrical communication with the upper sensor 102, light 122 may be in electrical communication with the lower sensor 102. The HMI comprises a light 124 indicating that the safeguard 146 is open. This light may be in electrical communication with the sensor 117. Sensor 117 may be provided at the hook 5* such that it gets pressed by the safeguard 146 when the safeguard 146 is open. There may also be provided a sensor 116 at the hook 5*. Sensor 116 may be provided such that it gets pressed by the safeguard 146 when the safeguard 146 is closed. Sensor 116 may be in electrical communication with a light 125 of the HMI.

[0118] A switch 134 may be provided at the HMI. When the switch 134 is activated, the controller 105 may activate the pull piston 107. However, pull piston 107 is preferably arranged in a circuit such that it can freely move together with the safeguard 146 when the piston is not activated by the switch 134. This way, the safeguard 146 can also be closed due to pressure by the cable 22 as described above. Using he hook 5* and / or the controller 105 may enhance automatic or semi-automatic mooring of a boat and / or may further simplify mooring.

[0119] Figure 23 shows an adaption of the boat mooring device. The boat mooring device as described with reference to the above figures is configured to moor a boat substantially perpendicular to the dock or quay wall. The adaption of the mooring device as shown in Figure 23, may be beneficial for changing the orientation of the moored boat 2 towards the dock. While this adaption is shown with reference to the first configuration of the mooring device with the mooring connector of the first type A only, this adaption can also be used with the second configuration of the mooring device with the mooring connector of the second type B, as it will be apparent to the skilled reader. As it is apparent from Figure 23, one coupling module 4' is coupled directly to the dock via the bracket 3', as in the other embodiments. However, the other coupling module 4 is coupled, preferably via a bracket, to an extension rod 100. This extension rod 100 is mounted to the dock, preferably via a bracket. This way, the orientation of the mooring device vis-a-vis the dock or quay wall changes. The extension 100 may be available in different lengths. The angle of the mooring device to the dock or quay wall may be an angle of the vertical symmetry plane of the mooring device to the dock or quay wall. The angle may be changed by using or not using the extension rod 100 or by changing the length of extension rod 100. The angle may be less than 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 40° to 50°, particularly preferably 45°. It is thus possible to install the mooring device to the dock or quay wall in such a manner, that a boat can be moored with an angle of less than 90° to the dock or quay wall, e.g. an angle between 30° and 60°, preferably between 40° and 50°, preferably 45°. In particular for mooring at rivers, this may be beneficial.

[0120] At least some embodiments of the present disclosure can be described in other words as follows:

[0121] This device is only used for parallel mooring in the front part of the ship, the "bow of the boat", in a safe and efficient way, so that while parking we automatically moor to the device which is fixed on the dock. In orderto achieve maximum efficiency, this device is designed to be used with two different connectors, so that users of the device, depending on the model of the vessel, have the opportunity to choose the necessary connector as the best option for mooring their boat. The device can be used for mooring all standard boats that have a front part with a steep and sharp bow, figure 2. This device has two legs (3), four arms (4), two connector bridges (9), two heads (6), two floaters (1), the connector (A and B) and hooks (5 and 7). The head (6) has square profiles above and below it (54) for mounting the connectors (A and B). The legs (3) are made to be fixed with screws (55) to the dock which on the front vertical side has a lower axis (63) and an upper axis (64) to connect the hands (4), figure 1, which connect with a bridge (9). Two identical hands (4), stay parallel and are connected with a bridge (9) near the legs (3), figure 7. When using the connector (A), we fix the hands (4) with the bridge (9) so that they extend away from the head (6), Figure 7. When we use the connector (B), we fix the hands in the opposite direction, so that they approach the head (6), Figure 8. Two joined hands are fixed on two legs on the lower shafts (63), on the side where they are connected with the bridge (9), and the other two hands are fixed on the upper axes (64) placed in parallel to the lower hands, and on the other side the hands are connected vertically with the two heads (6) on the lower shafts (57) and the upper shafts (58) with the same distance as the legs, so that the front of the device, the head and the connectors during the up and down movement are always vertical, figure 12. Two shock absorbers (10) are attached to the legs and upper arms and two springs (12) are attached to the legs and lower arms, figure 1.

[0122] For the connector (A) we use two hooks (5). The efficient place for connection is in the middle of the bow part of the boat, on the left and right side under the protective tire (14) figure 7. In that place the hooks (5) are mounted, one on the left side and the other on the right side . The hooks (5), figure 14, have their own brackets (8) which are fixed with 4 screws (61) to the boat, picture 11. The hooks and brackets are connected by toothed hinges (21), which serve to strongly fix the hooks with screws (66) in a horizontal position during use, Figs 2 and 3, and to lower them in a vertical position when not in frequent use, Fig 11. The hooks (5 and 7) are formed from stainless steel plates tightened at the beginning and widened at the bottom in the shape of a triangle, where in the outer part, widened in the form of an arc, they have an open hook (67) with a mechanism for closing the hook, which is fixed in the inner part of the hooks (5). The hook mechanism (5), figure 14, consists of a safeguard (46) which is attached to a shaft (50) where there is a spring (47) to hold the safeguard in the closed position and a lever (49) with which we push the safeguard to release it from the device. The hook (7), figure 15, has a mechanism similar to the hook (5), except that instead of the lever (49) there is a cable (48), which is mounted on the upper part of the bow of the boat in order to, by pulling the cable, release the safeguard and disconnect the boat from the device. The connector (A), figures 2 and 3, is part of the device to which the boat is automatically connected by using the hooks (5). The connector (A) consists of two identical mechanisms which are connected by a cable. The mechanism of connector (A) consists of a cable (22), a tension spring (23), a thrust spring (24), a wheel (25), a protective rubber (37), a cable and spring connector (45), a square tube housing (27), cap (69 and 74) and screws (26). The screw (26) passes through the back cover (69) and is screwed into the nut (65) which is fixed at the beginning of the tension spring (23) which is attached on the other side to the cable (22) with a square connector (45) ) which moves freely back and forth through the housing (27), but cannot rotate, so we can use the screws (26) to tighten the springs and cables as needed. On the square profiles (54) on the left and right heads (6), the connectors (A) are mounted and fixed with screws (51) so that the distance between the two connectors is equal to the distance between the two hooks (5) which are fixed on the boat, figures 2 and 3. The floats (1) with their housing (71) are mounted on the left and right heads(6) with screws (68). The float has a telescopic holder (70) that passes through its housing (71) and is fixed with screws (72) which serves to keep the connector at the correct height of the boat. The tension spring (12) serves to lighten the front part of the device enabling us to use a smaller float. The shock absorbers (10) have the same two-sided resistance and eliminate uncontrolled oscillations of the device during waves, making it more stable, figure 1. When the device is mounted and fixed on the dock, we measure the height between the water surface and the hooks (5 ) to the boat and fix the float (1) so that the center of the head (6) stands straight with the hooks (5) which are fixed to the boat.

[0123] To connect the boat to the connector (A), it is important to guide the boat towards the center of the device slowly between the two connectors (A) which are always vertical and at the height of the hooks (5). If we do not move in the right direction, the cables (22) serve as guides and help to guide and moor to the device. Firstly, we pull the boat (2) with a rod towards the device, figure 13, to verify the tuning, and after that we can connect to the device directly by driving the boat slowly towards the device. After connecting the boat to the connector (A), we secure the front of the boat with a rope (34) that is fixed to the rings (73) on the holder (36) where there are springs (11) and in the middle there is a hook (35) ) that we tie to the top of the boat. When we untie the boat, we do the opposite: we release the hook (35) and the hooks (5). The boat connected to the device with the connector (A) (figures 2 and 3) oscillates in a controlled and limited manner by the cables (22) by tensioning the springs (23) that control the movements of the boat and the springs (24) that serve to stop the stronger movements with a slight up and down movement of the front of the device.

[0124] The connector (B), Figure 6, is designed for connection to the boat, at the beginning of the bow on the lower front of the boat where the hook (17), is usually location Figure 12. In the boat we remove the bow hook (17) and in its place we mount the hook (7), figure 15. The hook (7) is dedicated to the automatic connection to the connector (B) and in the lower part there is a closed hook (13), which replaces the old hook (17) of the bow of the boat. The hook (7), for mounting on the boat has a hole for the screw (18), a cutout for the second screw (19) so that the screw can be furthered away and brought closer to fit the same holes where the hook was (17 ) and at the tip of the hook, a hole forthe third screw (20 ). When mounting the device, the holder (15) of the connector (B) is inserted into the square profiles (54) on the left and right head (6), figure (5). In the middle of the holder (15), the spiral spring (28) is fixed in a vertical position with the lower holder (56) with screws (65). At the tip of the spring the upper holder (16) is fixed, which is connected to the shaft (62) with the seat (38), which can move up and down on the shaft and be fixed in the right position depending on the angle of the front of the boat. The seat has four wheels (39) on which the boat rests, two arms (40) that are attached to the seat with screws (53). The arms (40) are spread out in the shape of the letter V, at the beginning they each have one joint (52), in the middle there is a joint (41) to be tuned according to the boat and they serve to steer the boat straight to the device (B). For connection (B), the float (1) can be mounted on the opposite side, on its box (71), especially when it comes to a low boat, and it is necessary to lower the connector (B) to level it with the hook (7), figure 5. The connector device (B) is leveled by adjusting the float (1) so that the height of the rod (29) is level with the top of the hook (7), picture 9. In the central part of of the seat (38) figure 6, in the cutout (42) a mechanism with a toothed rod (30) is installed, which moves back and forth through the cutout (42) On the front side, this rod is attached to another rod (29) in the form of the letter T, which is reinforced laterally with the rods (43) in the form of the letter V, and moves by sliding between the hands (40) and the limiter ( 59). On the back side of the cutout (42), on the shaft (60) a toothed safeguard (31) is fixed on the toothed rod (30) that limits its movement in one direction only, so that the boat moving towards the device, figure 9, with the hook (7) is connected to the rod (29) picture 4, and pushes the triangular mechanism forward until the boat is completely fixed with the seat (38), picture 5. The tension spring (75) serves to keep the mechanism in a position ready for mooring which is fixed to the seat (38) and the end of the rod (30). The safeguard (31) keeps the boat tight on the seat. This safeguard on the upper side has a ring (32) to which the cable (33) is attached and serves to pull the safeguard from the toothed rod (30). At the beginning of the cut (42) a gear (44) is fixed with which we can manually move the mechanism and tighten the boat on the seat if necessary, figure 6. The moored boat with the connector (B) during waves and winds sways in a controlled and limited manner.

[0125] Since the spring (28) is fixed up and down so as not to rotate, the spring keeps the rear of the boat in check by allowing minimal left and right movement and keeps the boat in a parallel position. For mooring a boat up to two tons, the suitable dimensions of the spring (28) are: height 40 cm, length 11 cm and thickness 12 mm or preferably, stated differently, length 40 cm, outside diameter 11 cm and inside diameter 8.6 cm.

Claims

Claims1. Mooring device for mooring boats (2) comprising: a first bracket (3) for fixing the mooring device to a dock; a first vertical interface component (6) having a first support (54) for a mooring connector (A; B); a first float (1) coupled to the first vertical interface component (6); a first coupling module (4) arranged in between the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6) and being coupled to the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6); wherein the first bracket (3) and the first vertical interface component (6) are coupled by the first coupling module (4) such that the first interface component (6) is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the first bracket (3) while maintaining the first interface component's vertical orientation.

2. The mooring device of claim 1 further comprising: a second bracket (3') for fixing the mooring device to a dock; a second vertical interface component (6') having a second support (54) for the mooring connector (A; B); a second float (1') coupled to the second vertical interface component (6'); a second coupling module (4') arranged in between the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6') and being coupled to the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6'); and a bridge (9); wherein the second bracket (3') and the second vertical interface component (6') are coupled by the second coupling module (4') such that the second interface component (6') is movable upwards and downwards with respect to the second bracket (3') while maintaining the second interface component's vertical orientation; and wherein the bridge (9) connects the first and second coupling modules (4, 4') with each other, preferably horizontally.

3. The mooring device of claim 2, wherein the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') are adapted such that first and the second coupling module (4, 4') can be arranged at the respective one of the first and second brackets (3, 3') either in a first configuration or in a second configuration, wherein in the first configuration, the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') increase in distance from each other with increasing distance from the dock, and in the second configuration, the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') approach each other with increasing distance from the dock; wherein the arrangement of the first and the second coupling modules (4, 4') can preferably be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration by rotating each of the first and the second coupling module (4, 4') by 180° about their respective longitudinal axis.

4. The mooring device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second coupling module (4, 4') each comprises an upper arm (401) and a lower arm (402), wherein the upper and lower arms (401, 402) preferably form a parallelogram mechanism together with the respective interface component (6, 6') and bracket (3, 3').

5. The mooring device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second float (1, 1') is coupled to the first and / or second vertical interface component (6, 6') via a respective holder (70, 70'), such that a distance between the first and / or second support (54, 54') and the first and / or second float (1, 1') preferably is adjustable, wherein the holder (70, 70') preferably is a telescopic holder, wherein the first and / or second float (1, 1') preferably is arranged underneath the respective interface component (6, 6').

6. The mooring device any of the preceding claims, further comprising the mooring connector (A), wherein the mooring connector (A) comprises a first connector unit (Al), adapted to be coupled with the first interface component (6) and a second connector unit (A2) adapted to be coupled with the second interface component (6'), wherein the first and the second connector units (Al, A2) each comprisesan adapter (27) for coupling the respective connector unit (Al, A2) to the respective interface component (6, 6'), and a mooring interface, wherein the mooring interface comprises a cable (22), preferably a steel cable, having a first and a second end and being at least partly arranged between two guidance units (127a, 127b), and at least one tension mechanism being coupled to the respective first and / or second ends of the cable (22), wherein the at least one tension mechanism is arranged at or between the two guidance units (127a, 127b), wherein the at least one tension mechanism is adapted to keep the cable (22) under tension, preferably when the respective connector unit (Al, A2) is coupled to the respective first and / or second interface component (6, 6').

7. The mooring device of claim 6, wherein the at least one tension mechanism comprises a tension spring (23) coupled to a cable-and-spring-connector (45), wherein one end of the cable (22) is coupled to the cable-and-spring-connector (45) and wherein the spring (23) preferably is coupled to the guidance unit (127a, 127b), more preferably to an end section of the guidance unit (127a, 127b), more preferably via a cap (69) and a screw (26) passing through the cap and preferably into a nut (65) which preferably is fixed to the tension spring (23).

8. The mooring device of claim 6 or 7, wherein one or both of the guidance units (127a, 127b) comprises a thrust spring (24), preferably arranged inside the guidance unit (127a; 127b) and at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit (127a; 127b); and / or a wheel (25) being arranged at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit (127a; 127b), wherein the cable (22) passes over the wheel (25); and / or a protective element, preferably protective rubber (37), arranged at one end of the guidance unit (127a; 127b) where the cable (22) passes out of the guidance unit.

9. The mooring device of any of claims 6-8, further comprising a rope (34) being elastically coupled between two holders (36), wherein one of the holders (36) is coupled to the first connector unit (Al) and the other one of the holders (36) is coupled to the second connector unit (A2), wherein an attachment means, preferably a hook (35) is positioned at the rope such that the attachment means (35) preferably is centred between the holders (36) and more preferably between the first and second coupling module (4), wherein the rope (4) preferably is coupled between the two holders (36) by springs (11).

10. The mooring device of any of claims 1-5, further comprising the mooring connector (B)„ wherein the mooring connector (B) comprises a holder (15) adapted to connect to the first and / or second support (54) of the respective interface component (6); a seat (38) adapted to at least partly accommodate a fore of the boat; and a spring (28), being arranged between and coupled to the holder (15) and the seat (38).

11. The mooring device of claim 10, wherein the seat (38) comprises a cut or opening (42) in its middle, the cut passing through the seat from a front side to a rear side, at least two radially extending arms, each having a buffer element, preferably a wheel (39) at a respective end, a toothed rod (30) passing through the cut or opening (42), wherein, on the front side of the seat (38), preferably a cross rod (29) is attached to a front part of the toothed rod, such that the cross rod (29) and the toothed rod together form the shape of the letter T, wherein the cross rod (29) preferably is reinforced laterally with side rods (43) being arranged between ends of the cross rod (29) and a back end of the toothed rod (30), a toothed safeguard or pawl (31), preferably arranged at the rear side of the seat (38), the safeguard or pawl (31) is preferably adapted to allow movement of the toothed rod (30) only in one direction, and, a gear (44), preferably arranged at a front side of the seat (38).

12. The mooring device of any of claims 5-11, further comprising at least one, preferably two hooks (5), each of the hooks (5) being adapted to hook with the mooring connector (A), preferably with the cable (22), and having a mounting section adapted to mount the hook (5) to a boat (2).

13. The mooring device of any of claim 10 or 11, further comprising a hook (7), the hook (7) being adapted to hook with the mooring connector (B), preferably with the cross rod (29), having a mounting section adapted to mount the hook (7) to a fore of a boat (2), wherein the hook (7) preferably further comprises an eye (13).

14. The mooring device of claim 12 or 13, wherein each of the hooks (5; 7) comprises a bow-shaped open hook (67) and a closing mechanism, wherein the closing mechanism comprises a safeguard or catch (46) adapted to open and close the bow shaped open hook (67), a biasing mechanism to bias the safeguard or catch (46) in a first position and a release mechanism to release the safeguard or catch (46).

15. The mooring device of claim 14, wherein the first position is a closed position and wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a spring (47) to hold the safeguard or catch (46) in the closed position, and wherein the release mechanism is a lever (49) or cable (48); or wherein the first position is an open position, wherein the safeguard or catch (46) comprises a guidance lever (144) to widen the opening of the bow-shaped open hook (67), wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a spring (108) to hold the safeguard in the open position, and wherein the release mechanism comprises a latch (110) being biased, preferably by a compression spring (109), in a position to hold the safeguard or catch (46) in a closed position, and a piston (106), preferably a push piston, configured to move the latch (110) for releasing the safeguard or catch (46) such that it can move back to the first position.

Images