Hook for securing objects, actuating device, and a kit of parts

Abstract

Hook for securing objects, in particular objects positioned below a water level, comprising a hook member, a latch for selectively blocking the access opening, wherein the latch is connectable to the hook member, an actuating device configured for actuating the latch, wherein the actuating device is actuatable between: a first active release state, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to release the access opening such that an object can engage with the hook member, and a passive release state, wherein the actuating device allows the latch to release the access opening when a force is exerted on the latch, for example exerted by an object, and a blocking state for securing an object engaged with the hook member, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to block the access opening, wherein the actuating device is attached to the hook member.

Description

[0001] Hook for securing objects, actuating device, and a kit of parts

[0002] The present invention relates to a hook for securing objects, an actuating device, and a kit of parts.

[0003] Hooks are often used to displace and / or lift objects. Some examples of these objects are (semi-)finished products, prefab products, or cargo. Said products need to be transported to a specific location in order to incorporate them into a finished product. Said specific location may be a construction site. The objects can be lifted and / or displaced by a hook, when the objects are connected to and / or integrally part of a shackle or sling. The hook allows to co-act with the shackle or sling. Hooks are not solely applied on operations on land, but are also deployed for subsea operations. The number of assets that is located underwater is increasing over time, for example drilling platforms. In particular the number of assets related to sustainability purposes, such as wind turbines, is even more increasing. The need to conduct subsea lifting and / or displacing operations, therefore, also increases. The circumstances under which the subsea operations are performed may vary over time. In particular during specific weather conditions may affect the accuracy and / or reliability of the hook. For example due to weather conditions, wherein the velocity of water particles is relatively large.

[0004] A first objective of the invention is to improve the ease of use of the hook.

[0005] A second objective of the invention is to provide a hook which requires a low level of maintenance and / or easy replacement of parts of the hook.

[0006] A third objective of the invention is to improve the security level of the hook, in particular the structural integrity.

[0007] The invention thereto proposes a hook, such as an underwater hook, for securing objects, in particular objects positioned below a water level. Securing can also be understood as, but not limited to, locking, retaining, holding. The hook can conduct operations below a water level. It is conceivable that the securing, lifting, and / or displacing operations are at least partially below a water level. It is therefore conceivable that the hook is an underwater hook. Said securing, lifting, and / or displacing operations may also be partially operated above a water level, for example when objects need to be transported from a subsea location towards a location on land or vice versa. The hook comprises a hook member comprising a first part and a second part, which are mutually enclosing an access opening of the hook member. The hook member can engage with objects, such as cargo. The hook further comprises a latch for selectively blocking the access opening. This allows to release the access opening when engagement of the hook member with an object is desired. Also, the latch can block the access opening to prevent disengagement of an object that is secured by the hook member. Furthermore, when the access opening is blocked, other objects are not allowed to engage with the hook member.

[0008] Preferably, the latch is at least movable within an accommodating space formed by the hook member. This contributes to the structural integrity of the hook, in particular of the latch. The movement of the latch within the accommodation space provides protection regarding the structural state of the latch. Said movement involves that the latch is significantly less prone to contact with objects that are outside the accommodation space. This may lower the risk of damages that arise due to said contact. In particular when objects, such as cargo, are relatively heavy, large, and / or rigid. Mainly unintentional contact of a protruding latch with said objects that are located outside the accommodation space of the hook member may cause damages. Furthermore, the protruding latch may get trapped to a loose object having one or more openings, such as a fence, or the like, which may lead to damages to the latch. Also, the hook lifts and / or displaces objects. When objects that are secured by the hook member are arrived at the desired location, the objects need to be disengaged. It is conceivable that the (dis)engagement of said objects may cause damages to the protruding latch when the (dis)engagement process has taken place in a relatively careless and / or imprudent manner. This may be particularly the case when said objects are relatively heavy wherefore the magnitude of the forces are relatively high as well which may lead to a relatively uncontrolled (dis)engagement process. When the latch is in a protruding state, the latch may be significantly more vulnerable to damages cause by an (dis)engaged object. In particular in subsea operations the visibility of the operator during the engaging and / or disengaging process is relatively limited. This increases the risk of contact between a protruding latch and an object, and consequently the risk of damages of the latch. Furthermore, specific circumstances, such as weather conditions and / or subsea conditions, may cause a displacement of the orientation of the hook from a substantially vertical orientation towards a substantially horizontal orientation. In said horizontal orientation, it is conceivable that the weight of an object that is secured by the hook member can exert such a force on the latch that said weight pushes the latch to a protruding, release configuration.

[0009] Consequently, said object can unintentionally disengage with the hook member, which may lead to risky situations, in particular when the weight of said object is relatively heavy. By allowing the latch to be movable with the accommodation space, said risk can be eliminated. It is also conceivable that the latch is movable outside the accommodating space. This allows to increase an actual extent of the access opening compared to the configuration wherein the latch is movable within the accommodation space. This is because said movement of the latch outside the accommodating space prevents that the latch is at least partially blocking a part of the access opening when moved inside the accommodation space.

[0010] The latch is, directly or indirectly, connected or connectable to the hook member. This allows the latch to be detached from the hook member. The hook further comprises an actuating device configured for actuating the latch, wherein the actuating device is actuatable between a first active release state, a passive release state, and a blocking state. Said states contribute to the ease of use of the hook. In the first active release state, the actuating device causes the latch to release the access opening such that an object, in particular a chain component, a masterlink, a synthetic sling or a steel wire rope, can engage with the hook member. In the first active release state, the access opening is released such that the access opening substantially free of the latch. This allows the hook member to relatively easy engage with said objects. In the passive release state, the actuating device allows the latch to release the access opening when a force is exerted on the latch by an object located outside the accommodating space. In the passive release state, the access opening is closed. The access opening can be released when the latch is moved inside the accommodating space. The latch may be moved inside the accommodating space by for example, but not limited to, pushing or pulling of the latch or exerting a (counter)force on the latch. This allows objects, such as cargo, to be lifted and / or displaced easily and fast. In the blocking state, the actuating device causes the latch to block the access opening, wherein the blocking state is suitable for securing an object engaged with the hook member. The latch can block the access opening, such that an object that is secured within the hook member is not allowed to disengage, for example unintentionally. Furthermore, when the access opening is blocked, other objects are not allowed to engage with the hook member. In particular, the blocking state is configured for blocking an object which is engaged with the hook member and / or for blocking an object located outside the accommodating space to engage with the hook member. Typically, the actuating device is actuatable manually and / or remotely with an underwater vehicle. It is conceivable that a user, such as a diver, manually actuates the actuating device. It is also conceivable that the actuating device is actuated by an underwater vehicle, for example by a gripper of an underwater vehicle, wherein the underwater vehicle is preferably at least partially positioned below a water level. The actuating device is preferably, directly or indirectly, attached or attachable to the hook member. This may allow the actuating device to be detached from the hook member, for example during maintenance or when replacement is required.

[0011] In a particular embodiment the hook further comprises a base element, which is attached to the hook member. The presence of the base element may provide an easier configuration to attach the actuating device to the hook member. This may allow a simplified and more robust configuration between the latch and the actuating device. In this embodiment, the actuating device, the latch, and / or the hook member are connected to the base element. It is conceivable that the base element and the hook member are at least partially integrated parts, which may allow an improvement of the structural integrity of the hook. In a particular embodiment, it is imaginable that the latch is connectable to the base element and / or the hook member. This may be beneficial in the light of maintenance and / or replacement of the latch. It is also conceivable that the actuating device is attached to the hook member. This may be beneficial in the light of a relatively small and compact size of the hook. Throughout this document the term hook member can also be understood as a combination of a base element and a hook member.

[0012] In another embodiment the hook further comprises at least one transfer structure, which is, directly or indirectly, connected or connectable to the hook member and / or preferably the base element, wherein the at least one transfer structure is configured to actuate the latch based on actuation of the actuating device. The transfer structure transfers an actuating movement of the actuating device to the latch. Said transfer structure enables to actuate the latch without directly contacting the latch. The actuation of the latch can take place at a distance of the latch due to the transfer structure in between the latch and the actuating device. The objects secured by the hook member are often heavy weight objects. Said distant actuation contributes to the safety of an operator as it can be prevented that the operator has to operate close by the heavy weighted objects. Consequently, the transfer structure contributes to an operator friendly actuating movement. Furthermore, the distant actuation may prevent damages to the actuating device, since the actuating device is located further away from the engaging and disengaging area near the latch and / or the access opening of the hook member. The at least one transfer structure is preferably provided with a housing for covering the at least one transfer structure. Typically, the hook is applied under circumstances wherein heavy weighing objects are present. Said objects may cause damages to the transfer structure, even when slowly and / or partially contacting the transfer structure. Said housing may prevent damages to the transfer structure. Typically, the at least one transfer structure comprises in particular a transfer element and an engaging member for co-acting with the actuating device. The transfer element is preferably a bar, in particular a rigid bar.

[0013] Optionally, the engaging member comprises a first engaging element comprising a first contacting portion for abutting against the actuating device, in particular an abutting portion of the activation element of the actuating device. This allows to retain the latch in a first active release state. The engaging member preferably further comprises a second engaging element comprising a second contacting portion for abutting against an abutting portion. This allows to retain the latch in an blocking state.

[0014] Preferably, the first engaging element and the second engaging element are inclined in a direction away from each other. This allows to move the first engaging element and the second engaging element inside and outside a path of the activation element. When the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element are within said path, the activation element can activate and / or contact the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element. This allows to actuate the engaging member and consequently the position of the latch. It is conceivable that the first engaging element and the second engaging element have a substantially corresponding length. Preferably, the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element are at least partially curved, bevelled or tapered shaped. Said configuration may ease and / or smoothen the contact, preferably partially sliding contact, between the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element and the activation element. In another embodiment, the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element extends further away from a centre of the engaging member with respect to the other one. This allows to increase a distance between the different states.

[0015] In a particular embodiment, the actuating device is provided with an activation element for activating the at least one transfer structure, in particular the engaging member of the at least one transfer structure, wherein the activation element preferably comprises an abutting portion. Said activation element allows to transfer an actuating movement to the latch via the transfer structure.

[0016] Typically, the engaging member and the hook member and / or preferably the base element are mutually connected via at least one first hinge, and / or wherein the engaging member and the transfer element are mutually connected by at least one fourth hinge, and / or wherein the transfer element and a connecting element are mutually connected by at least one third hinge, and / or wherein the connecting element and / or the hook member and / or preferably the base element and the latch are connected by at least one second hinge. The first hinge, second hinge, third hinge, and / or fourth hinge allow a rotational movement. This contributes to transfer an actuation by the operator of the actuating device towards the latch. Optionally, the transfer structure further comprises a connecting element, wherein the connecting element is connected to the second hinge and the third hinge.

[0017] Preferably, a path between the at least one first hinge and the at least one second hinge is at least partially free of the at least one third hinge and / or the at least one fourth hinge. This contributes to the functioning of the transfer structure, in particular to optimally transfer the actuating movement.

[0018] In a typical embodiment, the activation element is an adjustable activation element, wherein a position of the adjustable activation element is adjustable with respect to the actuating device, wherein the adjustable activation element comprises an abutting portion. The adjustable activation element allows to adjust a position of the activation element with respect to the actuating device. Optionally, the actuating device, in particular the adjustable activation element, comprises at least one adjusting member, such as an adjusting screw, for adjusting a position of the adjustable activation element. Preferably, the actuating device comprises at least two adjusting members, wherein the adjusting members are preferably located in a substantially horizontal direction with respect to each other. It is also conceivable that the adjusting members are located in a substantially vertical direction with respect to each other. The adjustability of the activation element simplifies to adjust and to optimize the position of the latch, preferably after potential wear during use. The adjustment of the position of the activation element can be realized by applying the adjusting member, such as an adjusting screw. Said adjustment of the adjusting member involves an easier and / or less complex operation in order to adjust the position of the latch.

[0019] During operational use of the hook, the use of the hook itself and / or wear of the hook affects the state of the parts of the hook, for example the effectiveness and / or reliability of the parts of the hook, but also the position of the parts. It is conceivable that due to the use and / or wear one or more parts experience play and / or free movement. This may result in a reduction of the structural integrity of the hook. The adjustability of the activation element increases the reliability of the system. Furthermore, maintenance of the hook, in particular the latch, is easier to conduct. The play and / or free movement of the latch can be reduced by adjusting the position of the activation element, for example by tighten or loosen the at least one adjusting member. Consequently, the maintenance can take place in a relatively limited time period compared to the situation where the latch needs to be detached and afterwards attached again to the hook.

[0020] In a specific embodiment, the actuating device is further actuatable in a second active release state, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to release the access opening such that an object, in particular a synthetic sling or steel wire rope, can engage with the hook member, wherein preferably the second contacting portion of the second engaging element, in particular a lower portion, and the abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the second active release state. In said second active release state, the latch releases the access opening such that an object can engage with the hook member. In said second active release state the actuating device is held in a release position without the need of holding the actuating device in the active release state. Said second active release state is in particular beneficial to easily engage objects with the hook member. Said states contribute to the ease of use of the hook.

[0021] In a particular embodiment, the second contacting portion of the second engaging element and the abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the blocking state, and / or wherein the first contacting portion of the first engaging element and the abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the first active release state, and / or wherein the activation element and the engaging member are free of mutual contact in the passive release state. The abutting portion of the activation element prevents the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element to move. This prevents a pivoting movement of the engaging member, which prevents a movement of the latch. Consequently, the latch does not move to a different state, which contributes to a reliable system for the operator.

[0022] In an embodiment, the actuating device comprises at least one spring, preferably multiple springs, configured for positioning the actuating device, in particular the activation element, such that the actuating device is in the blocking state when the actuating device is not actuated. The at least one spring, preferably multiple springs, are configured for positioning the actuating device in a neutral position, in particular a blocking state, when the actuating device is not actuated by a user, an operator, or a underwater vehicle. This allows the hook, in particular the latch, to return to the blocking state when the actuating device is not actuated. Consequently, when an object is secured by the hook member, and subsequently the actuating device is, for example unintentionally, no longer actuated by a user, an operator or an underwater vehicle, for example due to specific circumstances, such as malfunctioning of said vehicle or specific weather conditions, the actuating device and / or latch remains in its blocking state. This prevents an object to disengage with the hook member, in particular the secured object remains secured and is not allowed to freely move outside the hook member, when said actuating device is no longer activated. Furthermore, an object located outside the accommodating space cannot enter the accommodating space when the actuating device and / or the latch are in the blocking state. Therefore, the presence of the at least one spring contributes to the safety level of the hook. In a particular embodiment, the at least one spring can be a tension spring and / or a compression spring.

[0023] In an embodiment, the actuating device further comprises at least one fastening member. Said fastening member allows to fasten and / or open the actuating device. This allows to relatively easy replacement parts of the actuating device, such as the at least one spring.

[0024] Preferably, at least part of the hook member is at least partially curved. This allows the hook member to engage smoothly with other objects, such as a shackle, master link, chain components, synthetic sling or steel wire rope.

[0025] Optionally, the first part of the hook member is detachable. This allows to attach another first part of the hook member. This is particularly beneficial when specific operations require another configuration of the first part. Furthermore, in the light of replacement it is beneficial to easily replace the first part of the hook member. In particular as the first part faces the typically heavy loaded objects, the frequency of replacement of the first part of the hook member may be higher relative to the other parts of the hook member.

[0026] Typically, the first part of the hook member extends in a direction away from the second part of the hook member, wherein the first part is preferably at least partially curved. This allows to relatively easy disengage objects that are secured by the hook member. Said objects can slide along said first part. It is also conceivable that the first part of the hook member extends in a direction towards the second part of the hook member. This allows to relatively easy engage objects with the hook member. Said first part can then steer said objects towards the access opening.

[0027] Preferably, a first end of the latch is configured for abutting against the first part of the hook member, in particular in the passive release state and / or the blocking state. This prevents the latch to move outside the accommodating space. Hence, this may prevent damages to the latch due to contact, for example uncontrolled contact, of objects to the latch. Optionally, the first part of the hook member and / or the first end of the latch are at least partially provided with a protective layer. This may diminish abrasion of said first part and / or said first end. The hook may further comprise at least one retaining member, which is, directly or indirectly, connected or connectable to the hook member, in particular the base element, wherein the retaining member is configured for co-acting with a control device, such as an underwater vehicle or a crane. The retaining member preferably comprises at least one opening and / or at least one through hole. The presence of a retaining member allows easy displacement and / or replacement of the hook. The hook can be displaced for example by a user, an operator, an underwater vehicle, or a crane.

[0028] Optionally, the actuating device is provided with a housing for covering the actuating device. Typically, the hook is applied under circumstances wherein heavy loaded objects are present. Said objects may cause damages to the actuating device, even when slowly and / or partially contacting the actuating device. Said housing may prevent damages to the actuating device.

[0029] Preferably, the hook member, preferably at least part of the transfer structure, and the actuating device are formed by integrated parts. This may contribute to the structural integrity of the device. It is also conceivable that the hook member, preferably at least part of the transfer structure, and the actuating device are at least partially integrated parts.

[0030] With respect to the actuating device itself, the advantages as listed above in relation to the actuating device may be realized and which advantage are here copied in by reference.

[0031] Kit of parts, in particular for forming a hook according to the present invention, comprising at least one hook member according to any of the preceding claims; at least one latch according to any of the preceding claims; and at least one actuating device according to any of the preceding claims. The same benefits as elucidated with respect to the hook apply mutatis mutandis to the kit of parts.

[0032] The present invention will hereinafter be further elucidated based on the following non-limitative exemplary embodiments shown in the following figures, wherein: Figure 1 shows a schematic overview of the hook according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the actuating device is in a blocking state.

[0033] - Figure 2 depicts a schematic overview of the hook according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the actuating device is in a first active release state.

[0034] - Figure 3 shows a schematic overview of the hook according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the actuating device is in a passive release state.

[0035] Figure 4 shows a schematic overview of the hook according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the actuating device is in a second active release state.

[0036] - Figure 5 shows a schematic overview of the hook according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the hook 100, wherein the actuating device is in a blocking state. The hook comprises a base element 101 provided with a hook member 102. The hook member comprises a first part 103 and a second part 104, in particular a first end of the hook member 102 and a second end of the hook member 102. The first part 103 and the second part 104 mutually enclose an access opening 120 (not shown in Figure 1 , see for example Figure 2) of the hook member 102. The access opening 120 allows objects, such as shackles, synthetic slings, master link, chain components or steel wire ropes to enter - or to be entered into - an accommodating space 107. In the accommodating space 107 objects, such as shackles, slings, or steel wire ropes, can be accommodated while said objects are engaging with the hook member 102. In this embodiment at least a part of the hook member 103 is at least partially curved, in particular the portion of the hook member 102 that defines a boundary of the accommodating space 107. This allows the hook member 102 to engage smoothly with other objects, such as a shackle, a master link, chain components, a synthetic sling, or a steel wire rope. In this particular embodiment, the latch 105 is connected to the hook member 102, in particular to the second part 104 of the hook member 102. The latch 105 and the hook member 102 are rotatably connected via a second hinge 112. The latch 105 can be actuated by an actuating device 106. The actuating device 106 is attached to the base element 101. In this particular embodiment, the actuating device 106 comprises four springs 114. The springs 114 are configured for positioning the actuating device 106 in a neutral state, in particular in the blocking state, when the actuating device 106 is not actuated. The actuating device 106 can for example be actuated by a user, an operator or an underwater vehicle. In a particular embodiment, the springs 114 are tension springs or compression springs.

[0038] The hook 100 further comprises at least one transfer structure 108. The transfer structure 108 can actuate the latch 105 based on actuation of the actuating device 106. The at least one transfer structure 108 is connected to the base element 101 and the hook member 102, in particular the second part 104 of the hook member 102. The transfer structure 108 comprises an engaging member 110. The engaging member 110 can co-act with an activation element 109 of the actuating device 106.

[0039] When the actuating device is actuated from the first active release state to the blocking state, the activation element 109 translationally moves in a direction wherein the springs 114 are becoming in their neutral position, an activation element 109 of the actuating device 106 contacts with a second contacting portion 117 of the second engaging element 123 of the engaging member 110. Consequently, the activation element 109 causes a path 125 of the activation element 109 to be free of the second engaging element 123. As a result, the engaging member 110 pivots with respect the first hinge 111 and / or the base element 101 , which causes the first engaging element 122 to be moved on the path 125 of the activation element 109. Said pivotal movement of the engaging member 110 displaces a fourth hinge 124 which causes the transfer element 118 to translationally move in a direction away from the accommodating space 107.

[0040] During said translational movement, the transfer element 118 displaces the third hinge 113 in a direction away from the accommodating space 107, preferably while the transfer element 118 is at least partially pivoting with respect to the third hinge 113 and / or at least a part of the latch 105. Said displacement of the third hinge 113 leads to a pivotal movement of the latch 105 with respect to the second hinge 112. This is because the transfer element 118 is connected to the latch 105 by the third hinge 113, and the third hinge 113 is connected to the second hinge 112 by a connecting element. Due to said pivotal movement, the latch 105 moves from its position into the accommodating space 107 towards a position wherein the latch blocks the access opening of the first part 103 of the hook member 102 and the second part 104 of the hook member 102. Consequently, the access opening 120 is blocked. Due to said contact between the second contacting portion 117 and the abutting portion 121 , the engaging member 110 is prevented to rotate with respect to a first hinge 111. Consequently, the transfer structure 108, in particular the transfer element 118, does not allow a movement of the latch 105, for example when objects located outside or inside the accommodating space 107 are exerting forces on the latch 105. When the latch 105 and / or actuating device 106 is in the blocking state, an object, such as a shackle, is not allowed to engage with the hook member 102. Also, an object located outside the accommodating space 107 is not allowed to engage with the hook member 102. The latch 105 then blocks said object.

[0041] When the actuating device is actuated from the passive release state to the blocking state, the activation element 109 translationally moves in a direction wherein the lower springs 114 are moving towards their neutral position, the activation element 109 contacts with a second contacting portion 117 of the second engaging element 123 of the engaging member 110. The movement of the activation element 109 does not cause a pivotal movement of the engaging member 110. This is because a path 125 of the activation element 109 is free of the second engaging element 123. This is a result of the blocking state wherein the second engaging element 123 is moved away from the path 125 of the activation element 109 by the translational movement of the activation element 125.

[0042] Figure 2 depicts a schematic overview of the hook 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the actuating device 106 is in a first active release state.

[0043] When the actuating device 106 is actuated from a blocking state to a first active release state, the activation element 109 of the actuating device 106 is translationally moved in a direction wherein the upper springs 114 are becoming increasingly compressed. The activation element 109 then contacts a first contacting portion 116 of the first engaging element 122 of the engaging member 110. Consequently, the activation element 109 causes a path 125 of the activation element 109 to be free of the first engaging element 122. As a result, the engaging member 110, which is mutually connected to the base element 101 via at least one first hinge 111 , pivots with respect to the first hinge 111 and / or the base element 101 - which causes the first engaging element 122 to be moved on the path 125 of the activation element 109 - such that said pivotal movement displaces a fourth hinge 124 which causes a transfer element 118 to move in a direction opposite to the translating direction of the activation element 109, in particular the transfer element 118 is translationally moved in a direction towards the accommodating space 107. Pivoting in this sense may be understood as, but not limited to, turning, rotating, and / or moving. During said translational movement, the transfer element 118 displaces the third hinge 113 in a direction towards the accommodating space 107, preferably while the transfer element 118 is at least partially pivoting with respect to at least a part of the latch 105. Said displacement of the third hinge 113 leads to a pivotal movement of the latch 105 with respect to the second hinge 112. This is because the transfer element 118 is connected to the latch 105 by means of the third hinge 113 and the third hinge 1 13 and the second hinge 112 are connected by a connecting element. Due to said pivotal movement, the latch 105 moves to a position within the accommodating space 107, preferably moving until the latch 105 at least partially abuts the second part 104 of the hook member 102. Consequently, the access opening 120 of the hook member 102 is released, which allows objects, such as a synthetic sling or steel wire rope, to enter - or to be entered into - the accommodating space 107 and / or allows the hook member 102 to engage with objects, such as shackles, synthetic slings, or steel wire ropes. In said first active release state, the first contacting portion 116 is contacting the abutting portion 121 of the activation element 109 of the actuating device 106. Said contact between the first contacting portion 116 of the first engaging element 122 and the abutting portion 121 of the activation element 109 keeps the latch in a position wherein the access opening 120 is released.

[0044] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the hook 100, wherein the actuating device is in a passive release state. When the actuating device 106 is actuated from the blocking state to the passive release state, the activation element 109 translationally moves in a direction wherein the lower springs are becoming increasingly compressed. The activation element 109 contacts with the second contacting portion 117 of the second engaging element 123 of the engaging member 110 and translationally moves or slides further such that the activation element 109 is in a position wherein the activation element 109 does not restrict the pivotal movement of the engaging member 110. In particular, the activation element 109 is in a position outside of a rotational space of the engaging member 110. Consequently, in the passive release state, the latch 105 is (or remains) blocking objects that are secured by the hook member 102 to disengage. In the passive release state, the latch 105, however, does not block objects that are positioned outside the accommodating space 107. The latch 105 can be moved, for example by a pushing movement of said objects against the latch 105 and / or a pushing movement of the latch 105 against said objects, such that the access opening is at least partially released. This allows said objects to be secured within the hook member 102. As the pivotal movement of the engaging member 110 is not restricted by the activation element 109, the movement of the latch can be facilitated by the transfer element 118 and / or the engaging member 110, and said movement is not restricted by the transfer element 118 and / or the engaging member 110. The transfer structure 118 is preferably provided with a housing 127. The actuating device 106 is preferably provided with a housing 128.

[0045] Figure 4 depicts an embodiment of the hook 100, wherein the actuating device 106 is in a second active release state. The operator can actuate the actuating device 106 from the passive release state to the second active release state. In order to do so, the operator has to move the latch 105 within the accommodating space 107 such that the latch 105 releases the access opening 120. Due to the movement of the latch 105 by the operator, the latch 105 pivots with respect to the second hinge 112. Said pivotal movement of the second hinge 112 leads to a displacement of the third hinge 113, since the third hinge 113 and the second 112 are mutually connected by a connecting element. Said displacement of the third hinge 113 causes the transfer element 118 to move in a direction towards the accommodating space 107. Consequently, the fourth hinge 124 also displaces in a direction towards the accommodating space 107. Said displacement of the fourth hinge 124 causes the engaging member 110 to pivot with respect to the first hinge 111. Said pivotal movement causes the second engaging element 123 to be moved on the path 125 of the activation element 109. When the actuator - after moving the latch 105 within the accommodating space 107 - actuates the actuating device 106 from the passive release state to the second active release state, the activation element 109 of the actuating device 106 is translationally moved in a direction wherein the upper springs 114 are becoming increasingly compressed. The activation element 109 then abuts against a lower portion of the second contacting portion 117 of the second engaging element 123. The movement of the activation element 109 is limited due to the abutment against the lower portion of the second contacting portion 117. The engaging member 110 is not allowed to pivot in a direction such that the path 125 of the activation element 109 is free of the second engaging element 123 again. This is because the pivotal movement of the engaging member 110 is restricted here, since the latch 105 is already releasing the access opening 120 such that the latch 105 cannot move any further within the accommodating space 107. Said configuration allows the latch 105 to release the access opening 120, as the actuating device 106 cannot move back to its neutral state, which is the blocking state, because said movement to the blocking state is prohibited by the restricted pivotal movement of the engaging member 110.

[0046] In order to actuate the actuating device 106 to a different state than the second active release state, for example to block the access opening 120, the operator needs to actuate the actuating device 106 towards the passive release state. After that the path 125 of the activation element 109 becomes free again of the second engaging element 123. The second active release state is beneficial in case multiple objects have to be secured to the hook member 102. As the latch 105 cannot return to the blocking state, the operator can relatively easy engage said objects.

[0047] In Figure 5, a particular embodiment of the hook 100 is shown. In said embodiment, the activation element 109 is an adjustable activation element. Said adjustable activation element 109 comprises at least on adjusting member 109, in particular an adjusting screw. In this embodiment, at least two adjusting members 109 are applied, wherein said adjusting members 109 are preferably located in a substantial horizontal direction with respect to each other. The adjusting member 109 allows to adjust the position of the at least one adjustable activation element 109 with respect to the at least one actuating device 106. An adjustment of the position of the adjustable activation element has consequences for the interaction between the activation element 109 and the engaging member 110. Due to said adjustment, the position of the activation element 109 with respect to the engaging member 110 changes as well, also without actuation of the actuating device 106. As a result, a translational movement of the activation element 109 leads to a different position of contacting of the activation element 109 with the first engaging element 122 and / or the second engaging element 123 of the engaging member 110. In particular due to abrasion of, but not limited to, the transfer structure 108, the engaging member 110, the first hinge 111 , the second hinge, 112, the third hinge 113, the fourth hinge 124, and / or the latch 105, the accuracy of the interaction between for example the engaging member 110 and the activation element 109 and / or the transfer structure 106 and the latch 105 may decrease, which may involve that the actuation of the actuating device 106 by the operator or the underwater vehicle may not lead to a precise actuation of the latch 105. By adjusting the position of the activation element 109 said accuracy can be improved, which is in particular beneficial as the adjusting member 109 can be relatively easy be adjusted.

Claims

Claims1 . Hook for securing objects, in particular objects positioned below a water level, comprising:- a hook member comprising a first part and a second part, which are mutually enclosing an access opening of the hook member,- a latch for selectively blocking the access opening, wherein the latch is at least movable within an accommodating space formed by the hook member, wherein the latch is connectable to the hook member,- an actuating device configured for actuating the latch, wherein the actuating device is actuatable between: o a first active release state, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to release the access opening such that an object, in particular a sling or a steel wire rope, can engage with the hook member, and o a passive release state, wherein the actuating device allows the latch to release the access opening when a force is exerted on the latch, for example exerted by an object, and o a blocking state for securing an object engaged with the hook member, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to block the access opening, wherein the actuating device is attached to the hook member,- at least one transfer structure, which is, directly or indirectly, connected or connectable to the hook member, wherein the at least one transfer structure is configured to actuate the latch based on actuation of the actuating device, wherein the actuating device is provided with an adjustable activation element for activating the at least one transfer structure, wherein a position of the adjustable activation element is adjustable with respect to the actuating device, wherein the actuating device comprises at least one adjusting member for adjusting a position of the adjustable activation element.

2. Hook according to claim 1 , further comprising a base element, which is attached to the hook member, wherein the base element and the hook member are preferably at least partially integrated parts.

3. Hook according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one transfer structure comprises a transfer element and an engaging member for co-acting with the actuating device.

4. Hook according to claim 3, wherein the engaging member comprises a first engaging element comprising a first contacting portion, and a second engaging element comprising a second contacting portion.

5. Hook according to claim 4, wherein the first engaging element and the second engaging element are inclined in a direction away from each other, preferably wherein the first engaging element and / or the second engaging element are at least partially curved, bevelled or tapered shaped.

6. Hook according to any of the claims 3-5, wherein the engaging member and the hook member are mutually connected via at least one first hinge, and / or wherein the engaging member and the transfer element are mutually connected by at least one fourth hinge, and / or wherein the transfer element and a connecting element are mutually connected by at least one third hinge, and / or wherein the connecting element and / or the hook member and the latch are connected by at least one second hinge.

7. Hook according to claim 6, wherein a path between the at least one first hinge and the at least one second hinge is at least partially free of the at least one third hinge and / or the at least one fourth hinge.

8. Hook according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating device is further actuatable in a second active release state, wherein the actuating device causes the latch to release the access opening such that an object, in particular a synthetic sling or a steel wire rope, can engage with the hook member, wherein the second contacting portion of the second engaging element, in particular a lower portion, and an abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the second active release state.

9. Hook according to claim 4,- wherein the second contacting portion of the second engaging element and an abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the blocking state, and / or- wherein the first contacting portion of the first engaging element and an abutting portion of the activation element are mutually contacting in the first active release state, and / or- wherein the activation element and the engaging member are free of mutual contact in the passive release state.

10. Hook according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating device comprises at least one spring, preferably multiple springs, configured for positioning the actuating device, in particular the activation element, such that the actuating device is in the blocking state when the actuating device is not actuated.11 . Hook according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first part of the hook member extends in a direction away from the second part of the hook member, wherein the first part is preferably at least partially curved and / or wherein a first end of the latch is configured for abutting against the first part of the hook member, in particular in the passive release state and / or the blocking state.

12. Hook according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one retaining member, which is, directly or indirectly, connected or connectable to the hook member, or in particular the base element, wherein the retaining member is configured for co-acting with a control device, such as an underwater vehicle or a crane.

13. Hook according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating device is provided with a housing for covering the actuating device.

14. Actuating device according to any of the preceding claims.

15. Kit of parts for forming a hook according to any of claims 1 -13, comprising:- at least one hook member according to any of claims 1 -13;- at least one latch according to any of claims 1 -13; and- at least one actuating device according to any of claims 1 -13.

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