Elongate mooring member

Abstract

Elongate flexible tensile mooring member (1) comprising at least one elongate portion (20), comprising a first end (22), an opposed second end (24), defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, and a first engagement feature (26) located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof. The mooring member further comprises at least one connector portion (2) comprising a first end (4), an opposed second end (6) and a second engagement feature (8a, 8b) located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof. Each second engagement feature is configured in use to provide for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion. On engagement of a connector portion at a first end thereof with a first elongate portion, and on engagement of the connector portion at a second end thereof with a second elongate portion, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured in use to move within at least two planes of movement.

Description

[0001] Elongate Mooring Member

[0002] The present invention relates to an elongate flexible tensile mooring member. The present invention also relates to a method of production of an elongate flexible tensile mooring member.

[0003] Background of Invention

[0004] Traditional mooring systems comprise a traditional chain formed from overlapping chain links. The production of traditional chains is labour, energy and time intensive with a high carbon footprint. Each link needs to be forged and bentto the required shape to connect to a further link. There are high costs associated with the materials used and the complexity of the production of the chains. The durability of the traditional chains is high but the chains are subject to wear and tear at the point at which links overlap. Typically, a traditional chain having a 100 mm steel diameter and a 1000T break strength has a weight of approximately 219 kg / m.

[0005] Manufacturing of traditional chains has become bottlenecked due to the nature of the capital intensive industry.

[0006] There is therefore a need for a mooring system which is economical and efficient to produce with a reduced carbon footprint, whilst maintaining the same durability as traditional chains.

[0007] Summary of Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an elongate flexible tensile mooring member comprising:

[0009] at least one elongate portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, in which the elongate portion(s) further comprises a first engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof; and

[0010] at least one connector portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, in which the connector portion(s) further comprises a second engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof, in which each second engagement feature is configured in use to provide for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion;

[0011] in which on engagement of a connector portion at a first end thereof with a first elongate portion, and engagement of the connector portion at a second end thereof witha second elongate portion, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured in use to move within at least two planes of movement.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for producing an elongate flexible tensile mooring member in which the method comprises:

[0013] obtaining at least one elongate portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, in which the elongate portion(s) further comprises a first engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof;

[0014] obtaining at least one connector portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, in which the connector portion(s) further comprises a second engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof, in which each second engagement feature is configured in use to provide for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion; and connecting the second engagement feature at the first end of a connector portion to a first engagement feature at a first end of a first elongate portion, and connecting the second engagement feature at the second end of the connector portion to a first engagement feature at a second end of a further elongate portion,

[0015] such that on engagement, the mooring system is configured in use to move within at least two planes of movement.

[0016] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention is robust (i.e. not prone to damage). The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention has an adaptive design and may comprise any suitable number of elongate portions and / or connector portions having predetermined shapes and / or dimensions depending on the particular requirements for the elongate flexible tensile mooring member.

[0017] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention does not require capital and labour intensive methods of production to forge linkages. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention is formed from reliable, releasable connections between connector portions and elongate portions allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, maintenance and repair. In particular, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured in use to provide for improved ease of inspection, maintenance, repair and / or replacement without requiring the whole member to be disassembled.

[0018] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can be provided as a kit of parts comprising a plurality of elongate portions and a plurality of connector portions. The kit of parts allows for the elongate flexible tensile mooring member to be easily transported to site and assembled on site. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can therefore betransported as a kit of parts allowing for the use of smaller deployment vehicles than those required for the transport of conventional chains.

[0019] The length of the elongate flexible tensile mooring member can be adjusted easily and efficiently by selecting the required number of elongate portions and connector portions depending on the particular circumstances.

[0020] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is preferably configured for use in an offshore environment.

[0021] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention provides for a high friction interface with a seabed.

[0022] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured such that tensile forces are uniformly distributed along the length of the elongate flexible tensile mooring member. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured such that overlapping loading paths, such as those provided in conventional chain link mooring members, are eliminated. As a result, the stress concentrations along the elongate flexible tensile mooring member are preferably significantly reduced oreliminated resultingin improved fatigue resistance. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is preferably less prone to failure resulting in an improved lifespan for the mooring member.

[0023] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured in use to provide for controlled movement of the elongate portion relative to the connector portion, such as for example relative rotation and / or articulation.

[0024] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member may be formed from a simplified method of manufacture in comparison to conventional chain linked members. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member does not require the forging and welding of chain links and as such the complexity of the method of manufacture, the carbon footprint and the manufacturing and labour costs associated with the elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention are significantly reduced in comparison to conventional chain linked member. Furthermore, due to the reduced complexity in manufacturing, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member can be formed at any suitable location without requiring specialised infrastructure. Therefore, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member reduces the reliance on long-haul shipments and supply chain constraints associated with conventional chain linked members. The present invention therefore is configured to enable rapid deployment of the elongate flexible tensile mooring members when and where required.

[0025] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member has a reduced weight compared to conventional chain linked members of the same length while maintaining or exceeding the minimum breaking load (MBL) of conventional R4 or R5 chains. In particular, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member has a weight of no more than 80%, preferablyno more than 70%, preferably no more than 60% of the weight of a conventional chain linked member of the same length.

[0026] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member may be configured in use to be retrofitted to existing mooring architectures, including floating offshore wind platforms, oil and gas moorings, and subsea installation. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is preferably configured in use to ensure for seamless integration with industry-standard anchor connections. The two planes of movement may extend at any suitable angle relative to each other. Preferably, the two planes of movement are transverse to each other.

[0027] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member may be moveable between an extended position configured for use in mooring an item, and a stowed position, having reduced dimensions compared to the extended position, for ease of transport.

[0028] The stowed position preferably comprises aligning the longitudinal axes of the elongate portions to extend substantially parallel to and adjacent the longitudinal axis of adjacent elongate portions within the mooring member providing for a reduced length of the member.

[0029] In one embodiment, the connector portion comprises an intermediate connector body extending between the first and second ends of the connector portion. The intermediate connector body is preferably configured in use to space the second engagement features located at or adjacent end of the connector portion away from each other.

[0030] In one embodiment, a single connector portion providing a pair of spaced apart second engagement features extends between adjacent elongate portions. The pair of spaced apart second engagement features are preferably provided by a single, integral connector portion.

[0031] In one embodiment, the intermediate connector body of the connector portion is nonarticulated between the first and second ends thereof.

[0032] In one embodiment, in the stowed position, at least a portion of the connector portion extending between the first ends of the connected elongate portions extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongate portions.

[0033] In the stowed position, the mooring member may be provided in a stacked configuration comprising a plurality of layers.

[0034] For example, the mooring member may be provided in a stacked configuration comprising a first layer of elongate portions and connector portions positioned above at least a second layer of elongate portions and connector portions. Within each layer, the longitudinal axes of each elongate portion preferably extends substantially parallel to each other. Within each layer, at least a portion of each connector portion (extending between the connected first ends of the elongate portions) preferably extendssubstantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to the elongate axis of the adjoining elongate portion(s).

[0035] The second engagement feature at the first end of the connector portion is preferably configured in use to releasably engage a first engagement feature of an elongate portion to provide a first point of engagement defining a first engagement axis. Preferably, the second engagement feature at the first end of the connector portion is rotatable relative to the first engagement feature about the first engagement axis.

[0036] The second engagement feature at the second end of the connector portion is preferably configured in use to releasably engage a first engagement feature of a further elongate portion to provide a second point of engagement defining a second engagement axis. Preferably, the second engagement feature at the second end of the connector portion is rotatable relative to the first engagement feature about the second engagement axis. The first engagement axis defined by the first point of engagement of the connector portion preferably extends at an angle to the second engagement axis defined by the second point of engagement.

[0037] The first and second engagement features may form a universal joint between the connector portion and the elongate portion.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first engagement axis defined by the first point of engagement of the connector portion preferably extends substantially parallel to the second engagement axis defined by the second point of engagement of the connector portion. The first and second engagement features may be complementary male and female engagement features.

[0039] The or each first engagement feature may be selected from: a protrusion, a shaft, an opening, or a channel.

[0040] The or each second engagement feature of the connector portion may be a complementary engagement feature (for engagement with a corresponding first engagement feature) selected from: an opening, a channel, a protrusion, or a shaft. The at least one connector portion preferably comprises a front face, an opposed rear face and a pair of side portions extending therebetween. Afirst channel definingthe first engagement axis preferably extends between the front and rear faces at the first end of the connector portion.

[0041] A second channel defining the second engagement axis preferably extends between the pair of side portions at the second end of the connector portion.

[0042] The first engagement axis may extend at any suitable angle to the second engagement axis. In one embodiment, the first engagement axis extends substantially perpendicular to the second engagement axis.Preferably the first engagement axis of a connector portion extends substantially parallel to the first engagement axis of a connected further connector portion.

[0043] Preferably the second engagement axis of a connector portion extends substantially parallel to the second engagement axis of a connected further connector portion.

[0044] The connector portion may comprise a first connector unit configured in use to be provided at a first end of the connector portion, a second connector unit configured in use to be provided at a second end of the connector portion, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween.

[0045] A first end of the first connector unit provides the first end and the first engagement axis of the connector portion.

[0046] A first end of the second connector unit provides the second end and the second engagement axis of the connector portion.

[0047] The first connector unit is preferably moveable, for example rotatable, relative to the intermediate portion of the connector portion.

[0048] The second connector unit is preferably moveable, for example rotatable, relative to the intermediate portion of the connector portion.

[0049] Preferably, the first and second connector units are each moveable, for example rotatable, relative to the intermediate portion of the connector portion.

[0050] In one embodiment, one of the first or second connector units is fixedly mounted relative to the intermediate portion of the connector portion. For example, one of the first or second connector units may form an integral unit with the intermediate portion.

[0051] The intermediate portion preferably comprises a first end connected or connectable to the first connector unit, and a second end connected or connectable to the second connector unit.

[0052] The first end of the intermediate portion preferably comprises a third engagement feature for engaging, preferably releasably engaging, a first connector unit.

[0053] The second end of the intermediate portion preferably comprises a third engagement feature for engaging, preferably releasably engaging, a second connector unit.

[0054] Each of the first and second connector units preferably comprises a first end defining a second engagement feature (for connecting to a corresponding elongate portion) and a second opposed end defining a fourth engagement feature.

[0055] The fourth engagement feature of the connector unit(s) is preferably configured in use to engage, forexample releasably engage, a third engagement feature(s) of the intermediate portion.The third engagement feature at one or both ends of the intermediate portion is preferably configured in use to engage, preferably releasably engage, a corresponding fourth engagement feature of a connector unit to provide a third point of engagement defining a third engagement axis.

[0056] The third and fourth engagement features may be complementary male and female engagement features.

[0057] Preferably, the second end of the connector unit is rotatable about the third engagement axis defined by engagement of the third and fourth engagement features.

[0058] In one embodiment, the or each third engagement axis extends at an angle to the second engagement axis defined by the connected connector unit. Preferably, the third engagement axis extends substantially perpendicular to the second engagement axis defined by the connected connector unit.

[0059] The intermediate portion preferably defines a pair of spaced apart third engagement axes (each being located at or adjacent a corresponding end of the intermediate portion). In one embodiment, a first end of the intermediate portion comprises a third engagement feature defining a third engagement axis, and a second end of the intermediate portion comprises a third engagement feature defining a further third engagement axis. Preferably, the third engagement axis defined at a first end of the intermediate portion extends substantially parallel to the third engagement axis defined at a second end of the intermediate portion.

[0060] The or each third engagement feature may be selected from: a protrusion, a shaft, an opening, or a channel.

[0061] The or each fourth engagement feature of the connector portion may be a complementary engagement feature (for engagement with a corresponding third engagement feature) selected from: an opening, a channel, a protrusion, or a shaft. The elongate portion may comprise a single, longitudinal member.

[0062] The at least one elongate portion preferably comprises a pair of spaced apart longitudinal members extending between the first and second ends thereof and defining a channel extending therebetween. Each of the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members are preferably adjoined to each other at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof to provide the elongate portion.

[0063] The elongate portion preferably further comprises a first shaft located at or adjacent the first end thereof. The first shaft preferably extends between and connects the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members together.The elongate portion preferably further comprises a second shaft located at or adjacent the second end thereof. The second shaft preferably extends between and connects the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members together.

[0064] The first and / or second shafts are preferably configured in use for removeable engagement to one or more of the longitudinal members of the elongate portion.

[0065] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member preferably further comprises a body member configured in use to be mounted on the elongate portion.

[0066] For example, the body member is preferably configured in use to be mounted within a channel located between the pair of longitudinal members of the elongate portion. The body member is preferably configured for push fit engagement within the channel located between the pair of longitudinal members.

[0067] The body member is preferably configured in use to be received within the channel and secured in position by compressive forces on engagement with the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members.

[0068] The body member may be configured in use to be mounted on and to encompass at least a portion of the elongate portion.

[0069] The body member may be a buoyancy aid.

[0070] The body member may be a weight.

[0071] The body member may be a protective element.

[0072] The body member may be a mechanical damage protection device to restrict or eliminate damage to the elongate portion and / or connector portion. The body member may be configured in use to extend along and surround the majority of the length (as measured between the first and second ends) of the elongate portion. The first and second ends of the elongate portion may extend beyond the body member.

[0073] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can therefore be customised to the particular requirements for the member, by including one or more buoyancy aids and / or weights at predetermined locations along the length of the member.

[0074] The body member may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the body member has an l-shaped cross-section. The central portion of the l-shaped crosssection is preferably configured in use to extend through the channel located between the pair of longitudinal members. Each end portion of the l-shaped cross-section preferably extends across the respective opening into the channel located between the pair of longitudinal members to retain the body member in position.

[0075] In one embodiment, the at least one connector portion preferably comprises a front face and an opposed rear face. A first shaft preferably extends between the front and rearfaces of the connector portion at or adjacent a first end thereof. A second shaft preferably extends between the front and rear faces of the connector portion at or adjacent a second end thereof.

[0076] The first shaft may extend at any suitable angle relative to the second shaft. The first shaft preferably extends in a direction extending substantially parallel to the second shaft. The connector portion is preferably rotationally symmetrical about a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof. In addition, the connector portion is preferably rotationally symmetrical about a centrally located transverse axis.

[0077] The first and / or second shafts are preferably configured in use for removeable engagement with the front and / or rear faces thereof. One or more, preferably each, end of the first and / or second shafts are preferably configured in use for removeable engagement with the front and / or rear faces thereof.

[0078] The first engagement feature of the or each elongate portion preferably comprises an opening or channel located at or adjacent a first end thereof.

[0079] The first engagement feature of the or each elongate portion preferably comprises an opening or channel located at or adjacent a second end thereof.

[0080] The first engagement axis, as defined by the opening or channel, at the first end of the or each elongate portion preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the second engagement axis, as defined by the opening or channel, at the second end of the or each elongate portion.

[0081] The first engagement axis, as defined by the opening or channel, at the first end of the or each elongate portion preferably extends substantially parallel to the second engagement axis, as defined by the opening or channel, at the second end of the or each elongate portion.

[0082] The connector portion and / or elongate portion may be composed of any suitable materials, such as for example one or more metal(s) and / or alloy(s), such as for example high tensile steel (for example stainless steel) and / or corrosion resistant alloys The elongate flexible tensile mooring member may be composed of corrosion resistant materials, such as steel and / or corrosion resistant alloys, in order to reduce and / or eliminate corrosion related issues over the lifetime of the member, thereby improving fatigue resistance of the member.

[0083] Brief Description of Figures

[0084] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a connector portion according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an elongate portion according to one embodiment of the present invention in a disassembled configuration;Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a body member according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0086] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a body member according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a body member according a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a body member according a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of the body member of Figure 3 engaged with the elongate portion of Figure 2;

[0090] Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a connector portion according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0091] Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view from above of an elongate flexible tensile mooring member comprising a plurality of connector portions as shown in Figure 8 together with a plurality of elongate portions as shown in Figure 2 in a stowed configuration;

[0092] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of a view from above of the elongate flexible tensile mooring member as shown in Figure 9;

[0093] Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a side view of the elongate flexible tensile mooring as show in Figure 9;

[0094] Figure 12 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view from above of an elongate flexible tensile mooring member comprising a plurality of connector portions as shown in Figure 8 together with a plurality of elongate portions as shown in Figure 2 each engaged to a body portion as shown in Figure 3 in a stowed configuration;

[0095] Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of a view from above of the elongate flexible tensile mooring member as shown in Figure 12;

[0096] Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a side view of the elongate flexible tensile mooring as show in Figure 12;

[0097] Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of an elongate portion accordingto a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0098] Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of a body portion in engagement with the elongate portion of Figure 15 accordingto a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0099] Figure 17 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view from above of an elongate flexible tensile mooring member comprising a plurality of connector portionsand intermediary portions as shown in Figure 8 together with a plurality of elongate portions as shown in Figure 2 each engaged to a body portion as shown in Figure 6 in a stowed configuration;

[0100] Figure 18 is a schematic illustration of a view from above of the elongate flexible tensile mooring member as shown in Figure 17;

[0101] Figure 19 is a schematic illustration of a side view of the elongate flexible tensile mooring as show in Figure 17;

[0102] Detailed Description

[0103] With reference to Figures 1 to 7, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member 1 comprises a plurality of connector portions 2. Each connector portion 2 comprises a first end 4 and an opposed second end 6. The connector portion 2 further comprises a second engagement feature 8a, 8b located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends 4, 6 thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the second engagement features 8a, 8b are channels. It is however to be understood that the connector portion 2 may have any suitable engagement features.

[0104] A first channel 8a extends between opposing front 10 and rear 12 faces of the connector portion 2. A second channel 8b extends between opposed side portions 14, 16 of the connector portion 2. The longitudinal axis of the first channel 8a extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second channel 8b. It is however to be understood that the first and second channels 8a, 8b may extend at any suitable angle relative to each other.

[0105] As shown in Figure 2, the elongate portion 20 comprises a first end 22 and an opposed second end 24, and defines a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The elongate portion 20 further comprises a first engagement feature in the form of a first shaft 26 located adjacent the first end, and a second engagement feature in the form of a second shaft 28 located adjacent the second end thereof.

[0106] The elongate portion 20 comprises a pair of spaced apart longitudinal member 30, 32. Each of the first and second shafts 26, 28 are releasably engageable to the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members 30, 32 of the elongate portion.

[0107] In the assembled configuration, a channel is formed between the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members 30, 32.

[0108] As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member 1 may further comprise a body member 36. As shown in Figure 7, the body member 36 may be configured in use to be mounted within a channel located between the pair of longitudinal members 30, 32 of the elongate portion 20. The body member 36 isconfigured in use to be received within the channel 34 and secured in position by compressive forces on engagement with the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members 30, 32 as shown in Figure 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the body member 36 has an l-shaped transverse cross-section. It is however to be understood that the body member 36 may have any suitable transverse cross-sectional shape.

[0109] The body member 36 may be a weight or a buoyancy member.

[0110] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate further embodiments for body members 36 for mounting on the elongate portion 20 to protect the elongate portion from external forces and / or ingress of dirt and / or abrasion. Each body member 36 defines at least one cavity, and in some embodiments a pair of spaced apart cavities, for receiving the elongate portion (in particular the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members 30, 32) therein such that the body member 36 surrounds and protects at least a portion of the elongate portion 20. The body members 36 used in connection with the elongate portion 20 may vary along the length of the mooring member 1 depending on the particular requirements for the mooring member. In some embodiments, one or more elongate portions may be free from contact with a body member, whilst at predetermined locations along the length of the member 1 body members may be mounted as required. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can therefore be customised to the particular requirements for the member, by including one or more buoyancy aids and / or weights and / or protective sleeves in the form of the body member 36 at predetermined locations along the length of the member.

[0111] In use, the first shaft 26 of the elongate portion 20 is received within the first channel 8a of the connector portion 2 to define a first point of engagement defining a first engagement axis. The elongate portion 20 is rotatable at a first end 22 thereof relative to the first end 4 of the connector portion 2 about the first engagement axis.

[0112] A second shaft 28 of a further elongate portion 20 (of identical shape and dimensions) is received within the second channel 8b of the connector portion 2 to define a second point of engagement defining a second engagement axis. The further elongate portion 20 is rotatable at a second end 24 thereof relative to the second end 6 of the connector portion 2 about the second engagement axis.

[0113] Further connector portions and elongate portions may be releasably engaged to provide an elongate flexible tensile mooring member having the required length and being moveable within two planes of movement due to the first engagement axis extending substantially perpendicularto the second engagement axis.

[0114] It is to be understood that the shape and / or dimensions of one or more connector portions and / or one or more elongate portions may vary along the length of the mooring member. It is also to be understood that the engagement features provided by theconnector portions and elongate portions may vary and are configured for complementary releasable engagement.

[0115] With reference to Figures 8 to 14, the connector portion 2 comprises a first connector unit 40 configured in use to be provided at a first end 4 of the connector portion 2, a second connector unit 42 configured in use to be provided at a second end 6 of the connector portion 2, and an intermediate portion 44 extending therebetween.

[0116] A first end 46 (or free end) of the first connector unit 40 provides the first end 4 and the first engagement axis of the connector portion 2.

[0117] A first end 48 (or free end) of the second connector unit 42 provides the second end 6 and the second engagement axis of the connector portion 2.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector unit 40 is rotatable relative to the intermediate portion 44 of the connector portion 2. The second connector unit 42 is rotatable relative to the intermediate portion 44 of the connector portion 2.

[0119] The intermediate portion 44 comprises a first end 50 connectable to the first connector unit 40, and a second end 52 connectable to the second connector unit 42.

[0120] The intermediate portion 44 comprises a pair of spaced apart plate members 56a, 56b. The first end 50 of the intermediate portion 44 comprises a third engagement feature in the form of a shaft 54, configured in use to join the pair of plate members 56a, 56b together. The shaft 54 is also configured in use to releasably engage the channel 60 provided at the second end 64 of the first connector unit 40.

[0121] The second end 52 of the intermediate portion 44 comprises a third engagement feature in the form of a shaft 58 configured in use to join the pair of plate members 56a, 56b together. The shaft 58 is also configured in use to releasably engage the channel 62 provided at the second end 66 of the second connector unit 42.

[0122] Each of the first and second connector units 40, 42 comprises a first end 46, 48 defining a second engagement feature in the form of a channel 8a (for connecting to a corresponding elongate portion) and a second opposed end 64, 66 defining a fourth engagement feature in the form of a channel 60, 62.

[0123] The shafts 54, 58 and corresponding channels 60, 62 define a third point of engagement defining a third engagement axis.

[0124] The longitudinal axes of the shafts 54, 58 are arranged to extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0125] Each of the third engagement axes extend substantially perpendicular to the second engagement axis defined by the channel 8a at the first end 46, 48 of the connector units.In use, the first connector unit 40, at a first end thereof, is connected to a first elongate portion 20 defining a first point of engagement defining a first engagement axis, and the second connector unit 42 is connected, at a first end thereof, to a further elongate portion defining a second point of engagement defining a second engagement axis. Each connector unit 40, 42 provides for independent rotation of the corresponding elongate portion 20 about the first and / or second engagement axes.

[0126] The intermediate portion 44 provides for independent rotation of each of the first and second connector unit 40, 42, at the second opposed ends thereof, about the third engagement axes.

[0127] As shown in Figures 9 to 14, this arrangement enables the mooring member 1 to be stacked efficiently in a stowed position with significantly reduced dimension providing for ease of transport. The elongate portions 20 are positioned adjacent to each other within each layer, with the longitudinal axes thereof aligned with each other. The connector portions are located at each end of the elongate portions and are rotatable to ensure for efficient stacking of the elongate portions. The compact nature of the mooring member in the stowed position results in reduced associated transport costs. Furthermore, the risk of damage to the mooring member du ring transportation is reduced compared to conventional mooring systems.

[0128] With reference to Figures 15 and 16, in the elongate portion 120 is a single elongate member. The single elongate member 120 comprises a first end 122 and an opposed second end 124, and defines a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The elongate portion 120 further comprises a first channel 126 located adjacent the first end 122, and a second channel 128 located adjacent the second end 124 thereof. The channels 126, 128 are configured for engagement with complementary engagement features provided by a corresponding connector portion (not shown).

[0129] In the illustrated embodiment, the mooring member further comprises a body portion 136 mounted on the elongate portion 120. The body portion 136 is a substantially tubular member defining a central cavity shaped and dimensioned to receive a portion of the elongate portion 120 located between the first and second ends 122, 124 thereof. The body portion 136 in the illustrated embodiment is a protective member configured to substantially surround the central region of the elongate portion 120 thereby protecting from mechanical fatigue, dirt ingress and / or water ingress.

[0130] The body portion 136 may have any suitable shape and / or dimensions. Figures 17 and 19 illustrate the mooring member comprising the body portions in a compact, stowed position,

[0131] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention does not require capital and labour intensive methods of production to forge linkages. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention is formed from reliable,releasable connections between connector portions and elongate portions allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, maintenance and repair.

[0132] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can be provided as a kit of parts comprising a plurality of elongate portions and a plurality of connector portions. The kit of parts allows for the elongate flexible tensile mooring member to be easily transported to site and assembled on site. The elongate flexible tensile mooring member can therefore be transported as a kit of parts allowing for the use of smaller deployment vehicles than those required for the transport of conventional chains.

[0133] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member is preferably configured for use in an offshore environment.

[0134] The elongate flexible tensile mooring member of the present invention provides for a high friction interface with a seabed.

Claims

Claims1. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member comprising:at least one elongate portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, in which the elongate portion(s) further comprises a first engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof; andat least one connector portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, in which the connector portion(s) further comprises a second engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof, in which each second engagement feature is configured in use to provide for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion;in which on engagement of a connector portion at a first end thereof with a first elongate portion, and engagement of the connector portion at a second end thereof with a second elongate portion, the elongate flexible tensile mooring member is configured in use to move within at least two planes of movement, in which the connector portion(s) comprises an intermediate connector body extending between the first and second ends of the connector portion, in which the intermediate connector body is configured in use to space the second engagement features located at or adjacent each end of the connector portion away from each other.

2. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 1 , in which the at least two planes of movement extend perpendicular to each other.

3. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in either of claims 1 and 2, in which a single connector portion providing a pair of spaced apart second engagement features extends between adjacent elongate portions.

4. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the member is configured in use to be moveable between an extended position configured for use in mooring an item, and a stowed position, having reduced dimensions compared to the extended position, for ease of transport, and in which in the stowed position the longitudinal axes, as defined as extending between the first and second ends thereof, of adjacent elongate portions are arranged to extend substantially parallel to each other.

5. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the second engagement feature at the first end of the connector portion is configured in use to releasably engage a first engagement feature of an elongate portion to provide a first point of engagement defining a first engagement axis, and in which the second engagement feature at the second end of the connector portion is configured in use to releasably engage a first engagement feature of a further elongate portion to provide a second point of engagement defining a second engagement axis, and in which the first engagement axis defined by the first point of engagement of the connector portion extends at an angle to the second engagement axis defined by the second point of engagement.

6. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, in which the first engagement feature is selected from: a protrusion, a shaft, an opening, or a channel; and in which the second engagement feature of the connector portion is a complementary engagement feature selected from: an opening, a channel, a protrusion, or a shaft.

7. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 6, in which the at least one connector portion comprises a front face, an opposed rear face and a pair of side portions extending therebetween, and in which a first channel defining the first engagement axis extends between the front and rear faces at the first end of the connector portion.

8. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 7, in which a second channel defining the second engagement axis extends between the pair of side portions at the second end of the connector portion.

9. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, in which the first engagement axis extends substantially perpendicular to the second engagement axis.

10. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the at least one elongate portion comprises a pair of spaced apart longitudinal members extending between the first and second ends thereof and defining a channel extending therebetween, in which each of the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members are adjoined to each other at each of the first and second ends of the elongate portion.

11. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 10, in which the elongate portion further comprises a first shaft located at or adjacent the first end thereof, in which the first shaft extends between and connects the pair of spacedapart longitudinal members together, and a second shaft located at or adjacent the second end thereof, in which the second shaft extends between and connects the pair of spaced apart longitudinal members together.

12. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 11, in which the first and / or second shafts are configured in use for releasable engagement to one or more of the longitudinal members of the elongate portion.

13. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising a body member configured in use to be mounted within the channel located between the pair of longitudinal members.

14. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 13, in which the body member is a buoyancy aid or a weighting aid or a protective aid.

15. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 5, in which the connector portion comprises a first connector unit configured in use to be provided at a first end of the connector portion, a second connector unit configured in use to be provided at a second end of the connector portion, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween, in which the first connector unit provides the second engagement feature for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion, and in which the second connector unit provides the second engagement feature for releasable engagement to a corresponding first engagement feature of a further elongate portion.

16. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in claim 15, in which the second end of the first connector unit is rotatably mountable to the intermediate portion.

17. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in either of claims 15 and 16, in which the second end of the second connector unit is rotatably mountable to the intermediate portion.

18. An elongate flexible tensile mooring member as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the first and second engagement features are configured in use to form a universal joint.

19. A method for producing an elongate flexible tensile mooring member, in which the method comprises:obtaining at least one elongate portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, in which the elongate portion(s) further comprises a first engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof;obtaining at least one connector portion comprising a first end and an opposed second end, in which the connector portion (s) further comprises a second engagement feature located at or adjacent each of the first and second ends thereof, in which each second engagement feature is configured in use to provide for releasable engagement to a correspondingfirst engagement feature of an adjacent elongate portion, in which the connector portion(s) comprises an intermediate connector body extending between the first and second ends of the connector portion, in which the intermediate connector body is configured in use to space the second engagement features located at or adjacent each end of the connector portion away from each other; andconnectingthe second engagementfeature atthefirstend of an connector portion to a first engagement feature at a first end of a first elongate portion, and connecting the second engagement feature at the second end of the connector portion to a second engagement feature at a second end of a further elongate portion, such that on engagement, the mooring system is configured in use to move within two planes of movement.

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