Magnet stowage unit, system and method

Abstract

A Magnet Stowage Unit (MSU) for enabling users to releasably stow strong magnets suitable for assisting users in maintaining a position on or in the vicinity of a ferrous structure, when the magnets a

Description

Introduction Aspects of the present invention relate to a Magnet Stowage Unit (MSU) for enabling users to releasably stow strong magnets suitable for assisting users in maintaining a position on or in the vicinity of a ferrous structure, when the magnets are not in use. Aspects further relate to kits comprising a magnet stowage unit and one or more tethered magnets. Aspects of the present application may have particular use by commercial divers for enabling the movement and use of tethered magnets for use when working underwater. Background When commercial divers are working underwater, they often use strong magnets for various purposes. For example, strong magnets may have an attractive force that is liable to cause injury to phalanges, particularly fingers, if the phalanges were to get between a strong magnet and a ferrous material when attaching. Generally, strong magnets require substantial physical effort to detach from ferrous materials once attached. A short tether or lanyard is typically attached to the magnet and the lanyard is attached to the diver, typically via a piece of the diver’s apparel, their harness or at least one other ancillary piece of equipment worn by the diver. The diver attaches the magnet to any ferrous metal part of a subsea structure, for example an offshore platform or a ship, above or below the waterline. The diver can then hang from the magnet via the lanyard without sinking and without being separated from the structure by underwater currents. The diver can additionally work using both hands rather than having to use one hand to hold on to the structure. Conventionally, magnets may be provided as a loose article or may be clipped or tethered to a user’s apparel or ancillary equipment. For example, magnets may have a carabiner, D-ring or other clasp which may be clipped directly onto a harness or other items worn by the user, or magnets may be indirectly connected to a harness or other items worn by the user by the provision of a tether, such as a rope, chain, wire or the like. A magnet may conventionally be carried in a pocket or, where the user is a diver, magnetically attached to a diver’s air tank. A diver’s air tank, in particular a commercial diver’s air tank, will typically comprise air or a combination of helium and oxygen. Either option of carrying the magnet in a pocket or magnetically attaching the magnet to a diver’s air tank may aid in inhibiting the likelihood of accidental magnetic coupling possibly occurring between the face of the magnet and a ferrous structure that the diver, in this example, approaches close to. However, a magnet can be accidentally displaced when a magnet is dropped from a pocket, fumbled and / or dropped. Further issues may arise when a diver magnetically attaches the magnet to a gas storage vessel which may be positioned on the diver’s back. In one or more embodiments, the gas storage vessel may be a diving cylinder, bailout bottle, or air tank. In certain embodiments where the gas storage vessel may be a bailout bottle, the bailout bottle’s typically curved surface may result in accidental dislodgment of the magnet if it is struck, during the diver’s entry into the water and / or due to underwater currents. In addition, repeated attachment and detachment of the magnet may result in scratches forming on the dive cylinder surface, which may result in increased corrosion. For some divers, access to the dive cylinder during a dive may also be challenging due to mobility and / or size issues in reaching the magnet positioned on a tank behind them. Additionally, the use of non-ferromagnetic dive cylinders, such as aluminium dive cylinders, provides for a difficulty wherein the cylinders used do not enable the magnet to be magnetically attached. Depending on the location of the magnet on or about the user, strong magnetic fields emanating from the magnet may also interfere with, and damage, navigational compasses which are commonly used by commercial divers. Summary According to the first aspect of the present invention there is provided a magnet stowage unit comprising three layers 1, 2, 3, the three layers comprising an inner layer 1 comprising a ferromagnetic material and two outer layers 2, 3, wherein each of the two outer layers comprise a non-magnetic material. The inner layer is disposed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer. The MSU further comprises an attachment means which may also be described as a coupling configured to releasably secure the MSU to a user. The coupling may comprise a simple aperture through a portion of the magnet storage unit through which a connector such as a rope, chain, wire or other tether may be threaded to attach the MSU to the user or a portion of their equipment or clothing, such as a harness, a belt or any other ancillary equipment. Optionally, the coupling may comprise at least one form of carabiner, D-ring, clip, shackle or connector. One or more embodiments in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention provide a magnet stowage unit which provides an accessible and secure means for repeated stowage and release of a method for use by a user, such as a diver. To inhibit accidental dislodgement of the MSU from the connector, the coupling may be releasably or permanently attached or integrally formed with the MSU. Permanent attachment may be achieved by welding, locking, gluing or otherwise joining the coupling to a connector. Releasable attachment may be achieved by the use of one or more of a clip, screw, carabiner, hook and loop technology (e.g. Velcro™) or other means for releasable fastening. According to one or more embodiments, the magnet stowage unit may be a dive magnet stowage unit. Such units may be configured for use underwater for extended periods without, or at least limited, damage. This may be achieved by the provision of one or more layers comprising or being coated with a waterproof material. For example, the unit may comprise waterproof outer layers configured to block, or at least inhibit, the ingress of water to all or a part of the inner layer. This may inhibit corrosion of the inner ferromagnetic layer by water. Optionally, the inner ferromagnetic layer may be waterproof to inhibit degradation of the active layer of the magnetic stowage unit. Optionally, each of the layers of the device may be waterproof. In one or more embodiments of the dive magnet stowage unit, the dive magnet stowage unit is configured to receive a dive magnet. The dive magnet in these one or more embodiments is for releasable coupling of a diver to a ferrous metal part of a subsea structure. A magnet may be stowed on the MSU, carried to a subsea worksite having a ferromagnetic portion, removed from the MSU and magnetically engaged with the ferromagnetic portion to assist in maintaining the user at a desired height and / or position, thereby countering the effects of ocean currents, swell and / or variations in buoyancy while breathing underwater. After use, the magnet may be replaced on the magnet stowage unit. A waterproof layer may be achieved by the provision of a material which is naturally waterproof, including but not limited to plastics, resins, ceramics, and corrosion resistant metals or alloys. Optionally or in addition, layers may be coated or sealed with a waterproof material. Waterproof coatings may include resins, plastics, varnishes, sacrificial metals or any other suitable waterproof material which may be applied. The term sacrificial metal shall be understood as meaning a metal or metal alloy which is more reactive than a metal it is configured to protect, and which is configured to preferentially corrode or degrade in place of the protected metal. For slidably receiving a magnet, the magnetic stowage unit may be provided a generally flat surface portion, at least equal to the size of the magnet face to be received (i.e. a magnet receiving face), and have a barrier-free edge portion to the magnet receiving face, wherein the barrier-free region is equal to or wider than the width of the magnet face at its narrowest part. The term “generally flat” shall be understood to mean, in this context at least, that the surface is devoid of any protrusions which may inhibit a magnet from being slid onto or across the surface. Optionally, the receiving surface may extend across the entirety of one or both outer layers of the magnet stowage unit. Optionally, the receiving surface is wholly unbounded. That is, no rim, lip or other protruding portion is provided about or adjacent the slide surface of any of the periphery of the receiving surface. In one or more embodiments, a top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet is provided with one or more protrusions, rim portions or lips about a portion of the outer layer perimeter. The one or more protrusions, rim portions or lips may be provided intermittently about the perimeter or a portion of the perimeter or may extend about the entirety of the perimeter save for a single gap sized to enable a magnet to be slidably stowed or removed from the magnet stowage unit. At least one of the outer layers may be provided with a top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet. The MSU can be made to a different length and width to accommodate magnets with different diameters, and it can also be made with layers of different thicknesses to achieve the desired level of attraction between the MSU and a particular strength of magnet (e.g., thicker outer layers for use with stronger magnets). According one or more embodiments, the surface area of the top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet is from 1,000 mm2 to 40,000 mm2 Such a surface area may be suitable for receiving a single magnet or multiple magnets. For example, the surface area may be from 1000 mm2 to 40,000 mm2, from 1.200 mm2 to 35,000 mm2, from 1,400 mm2 to 30.000 mm2, from 1,600 mm2 to 25,000 mm2, from 1,800 mm2 to 20,000 mm2, from 2,000 mm2 to 15,000 mm2, from 2,500 mm2 to 10,000 mm2. Optionally, the surface area is from 1,600 mm2 to 10,000 mm2. In one embodiment, the MSU can be attached to a D-ring on the user’s harness via the coupling which in one or more embodiments may be a 90-degree twist-shackle in order to maintain the MSU's position flat against the body. This may improve magnet accessibility and / or be more comfortable for the user to carry. However, other coupling methods could be used, for example, if the MSU was to be attached to a tool bag where the resting position of the magnet is not so important a carabiner may be appropriate. The MSU may be used to efficiently carry a magnet; for example, a strong magnet. The magnet is attracted to the ferrous metal within the MSU. The strength of attraction between the magnet and the MSU may be moderated by the outer layers of the MSU. The strength of attraction between the magnet and the MSU can be moderated in this way to inhibit an attraction occurring between a stowed magnet and other ferrous materials beyond the MSU. For example, to inhibit an attraction occurring that is too strong between a stowed magnet and other ferrous materials beyond the MSU. To achieve a suitably moderated attractive force between the magnet and the MSU, in one or more embodiments each of the outer thickness layers of the MSU may have a thickness from 0.5mm to 10 mm. For example, either or both outer layers of the MSU may have a thickness of 1mm to 8mm, 2 mm to 6mm, 2.5mm to 5mm or 3mm to 4mm. The thickness of each outer layer of the MSU may be the same or different. Optionally, each of the outer layers of the MSU has a thickness from 1mm to 4mm. For such MSU’s the magnetic field of the magnet may be completely or almost completely contained when it is attached to the MSU. This may inhibit unintentional attachment of the magnet to subsea structures and / or damage to navigational compasses or other sensitive equipment. According to one or more embodiments, the inner layer of the MSU comprises a ferromagnetic material comprising a thickness from 0.5mm to 10 mm. For example, the inner layer may have a thickness of 1mm to 8mm, 2 mm to 6mm, 2.5mm to 5mm or 3mm to 4mm. Optionally the inner layer has a thickness from 1mm to 4mm. Such thicknesses may provide suitable rigidity and stability of the MSU without resulting in excessive weight. In one or more embodiments, the outer layers of the magnet stowage unit comprise a corrosion resistant material selected from one or more of stainless steel, natural or synthetic rubber, resin, or plastic. In one embodiment, all or a part of the ferromagnetic inner layer is coated or encased by a corrosion resistant material comprising a polycarbonate, an acrylic, a thermoplastic polyester, a polyvinyl chloride or austenitic stainless steel. Such materials may greatly reduce corrosion and at least inhibit, the MSU from being damaged by the repeated attachment of a magnet. According to one or more embodiments, the outer layers of the magnet stowage unit may comprise any suitable material that is corrosion resistant and suitably inhibits the MSU from being damaged by repeated attachment of a magnet. For example, any suitable austenitic stainless may be used. Any suitable ferromagnetic material may be used to form part or all of the inner layer. Suitable materials may include metals such as, iron, cobalt, nickel, gadolinium, neodymium, or a ferromagnetic alloy or ceramic comprising one or more such metals, such as steel. Optionally, the inner layer may comprise steel, such as mild steel which is steel comprising 0.05% to 0.25% carbon by weight. Materials such as mild steel may corrode when exposed to the maritime environment if left unprotected, and for this reason it is beneficial to protect it from corrosion. According to one or more embodiments, the ferromagnetic inner layer is protected, at least partially, from corrosion. This may be achieved by any suitable means, including but not limited to galvanisation or electroplating. Optionally or additionally, all or part of the ferromagnetic layer may be coated or encased with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. These coatings create a barrier between the ferromagnetic material, such as steel, and the outside environment and therefore limit corrosion. A coating applied to the inner layer may also inhibit direct contact with the outer layers of the MSU and therefore may limit any effect from dissimilar metal corrosion in the event that one or more of the outer layers comprise a metal. A user may use the magnet by gripping it by its handle and moving it in a downward direction until it slides off the MSU. After using the magnet in a particular location, the user can remove the magnet from the subsea metal structure, place it back onto the MSU and move to another location as required. Where more than one magnet is required, the magnetic stowage unit may be sized to permit multiple magnets to be stored on a single magnet receiving face. Optionally, or in addition, magnet receiving faces may be provided on both sides of the magnet stowage units. That is, each of the outer layers may provide a magnet receiving face. Thus, according to one or more embodiments the magnetic stowage unit is configured to slidably receive one or more magnets on the exposed outer surface of each of the two outer layers. According to one embodiment the magnetic stowage unit is held together using corrosion resistant bolts. In the example shown in the drawings, the MSU is assembled using stainless steel rivets / bolts to limit corrosion. Using rivets or bolts with low-profile heads inhibits any obstruction to the magnet when placing it back onto the MSU after use. Bolts made of different materials (e.g. Brass or plastic) and different styles may be used to secure the layers together, or rivets may be used instead of bolts, but this would make disassembly difficult if not impossible without the destruction of the rivets or one or more parts of the MSU. According to a second aspect, there is provided a kit comprising a magnet stowage unit according to the first aspect and one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may be dive magnets, resistant to corrosion when used in an underwater environment for extended period. Such magnets, may be protected by any suitable means, including by or more of galvanisation, electroplating, or coating or encasing at least a portion of the magnet with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. The one or more magnets may be strong magnets as defined herein. Optionally, the one or more magnets may comprise a handle for a user to grip the magnet in use. Further optionally, the one or more magnets may be comprised of neodymium. According to one or more embodiments, the one or magnets comprise a tether for attaching the magnet to a user or to a harness or ancillary equipment worn by a user. Thus, the magnet may be used to magnetically tether the user to a ferrous object such as scaffolding and other ferrous structures. In one or more embodiments, the tether comprises a metal cord or chain. Such tethers may be resistant to breakage and able to withstand holding a user against underwater currents and / or string winds. Optionally, such tethers or any metal portions thereof, may be protected by any suitable means, including by or more of galvanisation, electroplating, or coating or encasing at least a portion of the magnet with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. Brief description of the drawings Specific embodiments of the disclosed technology will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. For consistency, like elements in the various figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. FIG. 1 illustrates a three-dimensional view of the MSU in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a lateral view of the MSU in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a three-dimensional view of the MSU in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a top-plan view of the MSU in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a coupling in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a fastening element in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed description One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, solely by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings and photographs in which: FIG. 1, shows an MSU in perspective view in accordance with one or more embodiments. The illustrated MSU comprises a three-layer construction 1, 2, 3 and bolts 7, and illustrated is a twist shackle 6 for providing coupling in position when assembled. In one or more embodiments, the MSU may be shaped so as to maximise the surface area available for attachment of the magnet. For a magnet of a given diameter, the length and width may be sufficient to accommodate the entire working face of the magnet. The illustrated MSU has a shape providing space for the bolts 7, 8 and the twist shackle 6 in the comers, while simultaneously accommodating the entire face of the magnet. In one or more embodiments, to allow for the user to slide the magnet off the MSU when necessary, there may be no bolt used in the comer opposite the coupling. For example, when the user needs to use the magnet, the magnet may be gripped by its handle and moved in a downward direction until it slides off the MSU, i.e. in a direction towards a barrier-free edge portion. After using the magnet in a particular location, in one embodiment, the user will be able to remove the magnet from the subsea metal structure, place it back onto the MSU and move to another location as required. In one or more embodiments the top surface of the MSU may be configured to slidably receive a magnet and may be provided with one or more protrusions, rim portions or lips about a portion of the outer layer perimeter. The one or more protrusions, rim portions or lips may be provided intermittently about the perimeter or a portion of the perimeter or may extend about the entirety of the perimeter save for a single gap sized to enable a magnet to be slidably stowed or removed from the magnet stowage unit. Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown the MSU’s three-layer construction from a lateral view. The MSU may be constructed of three metal layers 1, 2, 3. In one or more embodiments, the metal sheet used to construct the MSU layers 1, 2, 3, may be cut, for example, using CNC laser cutting to ensure accuracy and standardised dimensions. Any suitable ferromagnetic material may be used to form part or all of the inner layer 1. Suitable materials may include metals such as iron, cobalt, nickel, gadolinium, neodymium, or a ferromagnetic alloy or a ceramic comprising one or more such metals. In one embodiment, the middle ferrous metal layer 1 may further be composed from steel, and in one embodiment the steel used may be mild steel, which is steel comprising 0.05% to 0.25% carbon by weight. In another embodiment, the middle ferrous layer may have a thickness from 0.5mm to 10mm. For example, the inner layer may have a thickness of 1mm to 8mm, 2 mm to 6mm, 2.5mm to 5mm or 3mm to 4mm. Optionally the inner layer has a thickness from 1mm to 4mm. Such thicknesses may provide suitable rigidity and stability of the MSU without resulting in additional weight beyond operational efficiency. The ferromagnetic inner layer may further be constructed to be protected from corrosion. This may be achieved by any suitable means, including but not limited to galvanisation or electroplating. Optionally or additionally, all or a part of the ferromagnetic layer may be coated or encased with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. These coatings create a barrier between the ferromagnetic material, such as steel, and the outside environment and therefore limit corrosion. A coating applied to the inner layer may also inhibit direct contact with the outer layers of the MSU and therefore, may limit any effect from dissimilar metal corrosion in the event that one or more of the outer layers comprise a metal. In another embodiment, layers may be coated or sealed with waterproof coatings which may include resins, plastics varnishes, sacrificial metals or any other suitable waterproof material which may be applied. The term sacrificial metal shall be understood as meaning a metal or metal alloy which is more reactive than a metal it may be configured to protect, and which may be configured to preferentially corrode or degrade in place of the protected metal. Optionally, or in addition to, a waterproof layer may be constructed with naturally waterproof materials, including but not limited to plastics, resins, ceramics, and corrosion resistant metals or alloys. In one or more embodiments, the outer layers 2 and 3 substantially comprise stainless steel, which may be beneficial for a number of reasons; for example, stainless steel is austenitic, which the skilled person will understand means that the material is non-magnetic. In one or more embodiments, the stainless steel is an alloy of iron, carbon, chromium and nickel. In one or more embodiments, the stainless steel may be any suitable marine-grade stainless steel alloy. Additionally, stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, suiting it well for use in a subsea environment. Given this non-magnetic property, the thickness of each of the layers 2, 3 may be used to moderate the degree to which a magnet of a particular strength may be attracted to the MSU. Further, stainless steel has a high structural rigidity, ensuring durability. According to one or more embodiments of the magnet stowage unit, the outer layers of the magnet stowage unit may comprise a stainless steel of marine grade (316 / A4). Stainless steel comprises iron and carbon, and stainless steel 316 is an alloy forther comprising other constituents of chromium, nickel and molybdenum. For example, stainless steel 316 further comprises other constituents in the alloy including 16 wt.% to 18 wt.% chromium, 10 wt.% to 12 wt.% nickel, and 2 wt.% to 3wt. % molybdenum. For example, in addition to iron and carbon, stainless steel 316 may comprise 16 wt.% chromium, 10 wt.% nickel and 2 wt.% molybdenum. In one or more embodiments, the stainless steel is 304 stainless steel. 304 stainless steel does not comprise molybdenum, and may comprise in addition to iron and carbon, 18 wt.% to 20 wt.% chromium and 8 wt.% to 11 wt.% nickel. For example, 304 stainless steel may comprise 18% wt.% chromium and 8 wt.% nickel. In one or more embodiments, the stainless steel is any stainless steel in the 300 series. For example, a 300 series stainless steel may, in addition to iron and carbon, comprise 15 wt.% to 35 wt.% chromium, or 18 wt.% to 30% chromium, or 16 wt.% to 18% wt.% chromium; 5 wt.% to 25 wt.% nickel, or 6 wt.% to 20 wt.% nickel, or 10 wt.% to 12 wt.% nickel, or 8 wt.% to 11 wt.% nickel. Optionally, a 300 series stainless steel may comprise 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.% molybdenum, or 1 wt.% to 4 wt.% molybdenum, or 2 wt.% to 3 wt.% molybdenum. Optionally, a 300 series stainless steel may comprise trace elements in any suitable amount including one or more of phosphorous, sulfur, manganese, and silicon. In one or more embodiments, for example, each of the three layers 1, 2, 3 of the MSU may measure 75mm x 75mm in width and length, 17 and 18, respectively. Each of the four comers 10, 11, 12, 13 may be rounded with a 3mm radius. The outer layers 2, 3 may be 1.5mm in depth and the middle layer 1 may be 1mm in depth. The MSU dimensions stated here are provided as an example and are based on the stowage of a circular magnet with a diameter of 75 mm and a pulling strength of 250 kg; however, this example is not limiting and the MSU may be manufactured in various shapes and sizes to accommodate magnets of different sizes and strengths. The skilled person will understand that this example is provided for illustrative purposes only. Additionally, each of the layers 1, 2, 3 may have three holes 4, 5 drilled through, such that the holes 4,5 may pass completely though each layer 1, 2, 3 allowing the coupling 6 and bolts 7,8 to pass through the layers 1, 2, 3. The coupling 6 may, for example, be an attachment shackle pin or a twist shackle. However, the skilled person will understand that there are many different types of coupling which may be suitable, and these examples are non-limiting. In one or more embodiments, for example, each of the holes 4, 5 may have a diameter of 6mm and each hole 4, 5 may be positioned 4mm from the comer edges 14, 15, 16 of the layer. The stainless-steel layers 2, 3, via the twist shackle 6 and bolts 7. 8, may therefore be bolted to either side of layer 1. According to one or more embodiments, the magnetic stowage unit is held together using fastening elements, which in one embodiment may be described as corrosion resistant bolts or fixings. In the example shown, the MSU is assembled using stainless steel rivets / bolts to limit corrosion and because they have a low-profile head which minimises any obstruction to the magnet when placing it back onto the MSU after use. Bolts made of different materials (e.g. Brass or plastic) and different styles may be used to secure the layers together, or rivets may be used instead of bolts, however this would make disassembly impossible without their destruction. In one or more embodiments, bolts 7, 8, shown in more detail in FIG. 6, may be M5 x 4mm length rivet bolts with a head diameter of 10mm and may be composed from stainless steel. Additionally, M5 spring / curved washers 9, also shown in FIG. 6, may be used between the bolt and the face of the outer layers 2, 3 of the MSU to maintain tension, and a thread locker may be used on the bolt threads to ensure securely tightening. The twist shackle 6 may also be made from 316 A4 grade stainless steel with a pin that measures 4mm in diameter and has a jaw gap of 8mm. Bolts 7, 8 may be used on the two laterally opposite comers of the MSU, with the twist shackle 6 in the top comer, leaving the bottom comer of the MSU clear. Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown an MSU in perspective view with its constituent parts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) shown in exploded view and how they may be assembled in accordance with one or more embodiments. In the present example the two holes 5 may be used for the bolts to pass through and another hole 4 for the twist shackle 6. The three layer constmction 1, 2, 3, and the bolts with spring washers 7, 8, 9, may be used to hold the layers together as shown in this example. Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown the MSU of FIG. 1 in a top-plan view. An arrow 19 is illustrated on the outer surface 2 (i.e. the magnet receiving face) showing one suitable direction for slidably releasing a magnet from the generally flat outer surface 2 of the MSU. The arrow 19 points towards a barrier-free edge portion of the magnet receiving face. A magnet may be slidably released in any suitable direction towards the barrier-free edge portion of the magnet receiving face. As a magnet is moved in the direction towards the barrier-free edge portion, the contact between the magnet and the magnet receiving face is released as the magnet is passed over the edge of the barrier-free edge portion. In the inverse direction shown by the arrow 19, a magnet can be suitably received on the magnet receiving face. A magnet may be slidably received in any suitable direction from the barrier-free edge portion of the magnet receiving face. For example, in use the magnet is placed onto the magnet receiving face at a barrier-free edge portion and moved in the general direction towards the coupling and between the bolts to slidably receive the magnet. For example, in use the magnet is moved on the magnet receiving face in the general direction towards the barrier-free edge portion and between the bolts to slidably release the magnet from the magnet receiving surface. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a coupling 6. In one or more embodiments, the coupling, the 90-degree twist shackle 6 may be secured to a D-ring on the user’s belt or harness, so that the MSU lies flat against the body. This may allow repeated access to the magnet and provide comfort by inhibiting the edges of the MSU from rubbing against the user’s body. In one or more other embodiments, the coupling 6 comprises a simple aperture through a portion of the MSU through which a connector such as a rope, chain, wire or other tether may be threaded to attach the MSU to the user or a portion of their equipment or clothing, such as a harness, a belt or any other ancillary equipment. To at least inhibit, accidental dislodgement of the MSU from the connector, the coupling 6, which in one embodiment may be a twist shackle, may be releasably or permanently attached or integrally formed with the MSU. Permanent attachment may be achieved by welding, locking, gluing or otherwise joining the coupling to the connector. Releasable attachment may be achieved by the use of one or more of a clip, screw, carabiner, hook and loop technology (e.g. Velcro™) or other releasable fastening. According to one embodiment, there is provided a kit of the MSU and one or more magnets which may include a tether for attaching the one or more magnets to a user or to a harness or ancillary equipment worn by a user. Thus, the one or more magnets may be used to magnetically tether the user to a ferrous object such as scaffolding and / or other ferrous structures. In this example, the one or more magnets may be dive magnets, resistant to corrosion when used in an underwater environment for extended period. Such magnets, may be protected by any suitable means, including one or more of galvanisation, electroplating, or coating or encasing at least a portion of the magnet with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. In one or more embodiments, the tether may comprise a metal cord or chain. Such tethers may be resistant to breakage and able to withstand holding a user against underwater currents and / or string winds. Optionally, such tethers or any metal portions thereof, may be protected by any suitable means, including by or more of galvanisation, electroplating, or coating or encasing at least a portion of the magnet with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin. Although only a few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. As used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or the phrase “in an embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. As used herein, the term “strong magnet” generally refers to magnets with a pulling force of about 135 kg or more, in particular 150 kg or more, and even more particularly 165 kg or more. For example, a typical strong magnet may have a pulling force of 250 kg. For example, a strong magnet may have a pulling force of 135kg, or 150kg, or 165 kg, or 250 kg. The pulling force of a magnet can be measured using any suitable method. One suitable method of measuring the pulling force of a magnet is the pull test, which involves a hook with a measuring device and a plate, which are attached to the magnet to be measured. According to one suitable way of performing the pull test, the hook, measuring, device and plate are slowly pulled away from the magnet via force exerted through the hook until sufficient force to free the magnet from the plate is exerted. The measuring device records the maximum force required to free the magnet from the plate, which refers to the pulling force of the magnet. Generally, magnets are measured and rated in kg. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present). In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of the invention. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise. In view of the foregoing description, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention. The scope of the present disclosure includes any novel feature or combination of features disclosed therein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, not incompatible therewith, irrespective of whether it relates to the claimed invention or mitigate against any or all of the problems addressed by the present invention. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features during prosecution of this application or of any such further application derived therefrom. In particular, with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claims may be combined with those of the independent claims and features from respective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate manner and not merely in specific combinations enumerated in the claims.

Claims

2519Claims1. A magnet stowage unit comprising three layers (1, 2, 3), the three layers comprising:a first outer layer (2) and a second outer layer (3) and an inner layer (1) disposed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer,wherein the inner layer comprises a ferromagnetic material and each of the first and second outer layers comprise a non-magnetic material; andwherein the magnet stowage unit further comprises a coupling (6) for releasably attaching the magnet stowage unit to a user.

2. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 1, wherein the coupling comprises a harness or other ancillary equipment.

3. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 2, wherein the unit is a dive magnet stowage unit, and the two outer layers (2, 3) comprise a waterproof, non-magnetic material.

4. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 3, wherein the dive magnet stowage unit is configured to receive a dive magnet, said dive magnet for releasable coupling of a diver to a ferrous metal part of a subsea structure.

5. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the outer layers is provided with a top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet.

6. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 5, wherein the top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet is provided with one or more protrusions, rim portions or lips about a portion of the outer layer perimeter.

7. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the outer layers (2, 3) has a thickness from 0.5mm to 10 mm.

8. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 7. wherein each of the outer layers has a thickness from 1mm to 4mm.17 07 259. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the ferromagnetic inner layer has a thickness from 0.5mm to 10 mm.

10. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 9, wherein ferrous material inner layer has a thickness from 1 mm to 4 mm11. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the ferromagnetic inner layer (1) is corrosion resistant, and the corrosion resistance is provided by one or more of a galvanisation coating, an electroplating coating, a coating or an encasement of all or a part of the ferromagnetic inner layer with a corrosion resistant paint, polymer, plastic or resin, or a corrosion resistant ferromagnetic material comprised in the inner layer.

12. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the ferromagnetic inner layer comprises iron, cobalt, nickel, gadolinium, neodymium, or a ferromagnetic alloy or ceramic.

13. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the outer layers (2, 3) comprise a corrosion resistant material selected from one or more of stainless steel, natural or synthetic rubber, resin, or plastic.

14. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 11, wherein the coating or encasement of all or a part of the ferromagnetic inner layer is a corrosion resistant material comprising a polycarbonate, an acrylic, a thermoplastic polyester, a polyvinyl chloride or austenitic stainless steel.

15. A magnet stowage unit according to any of claims 5-14, wherein the surface area of the top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet is from 1,000 mm2 to 40,000 mm2.

16. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 15, wherein the surface area of the top surface configured to slidably receive a magnet is from 1600 mm2 to 10,000 mm2.

17. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the unit is configured to receive a plurality of magnets.

18. A magnet stowage unit according to claim 17, wherein the unit is configured to slidably receive one or more magnets on the exposed outer surface of each of the two outer layers.

19. A magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the magnet stowage unit is removably attachable to a diver’s harness or other equipment by coupling (6).

20. A magnet stowage unit according to any previous claim, wherein the magnet stowage unit is fastened using corrosion resistant bolts or fixings (7,8,9).

21. A kit comprising a magnet stowage unit according to any preceding claim and a magnet.

22. A kit according to claim 21, wherein the magnet comprises a tether for attaching the magnet to a user or to a harness of ancillary equipment worn by a user.

23. A kit according to claim 22, wherein the tether comprises a metal cord or chain.

24. A kit according to claims 21, 22, or 23, wherein the magnet comprises a handle for a user to grip the magnet in use.

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