Support apparatus for a mooring tensioner
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure GB2026050126_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] P001012WO Moreland IP SUPPORT APPARATUS FORA MOORING TENSIONER
[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to a support apparatus for a mooring tensioner, a mooring tensioner such as a drop-in mooring tensioner, a mooring or anchoring system, an (offshore) anchor, and a method of mooring or anchoring an (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure.
[0004] The support apparatus together with the mooring tensioner may be for mooring or anchoring an offshore structure, a floating structure, a vessel, a buoy or the like. Particularly, though not exclusively, the invention may be for mooring or anchoring an offshore wind turbine, such as a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0005] BACKGROUND TO INVENTION
[0006] Offshore structures, such as floating structures, wind turbines or platforms, may be moored by one or more mooring lines. A tension may be applied to the one or more mooring lines, for example, by the use of a tensioning apparatus. The application of tension may serve to moor the floating structure or platform at a desired location. The structure may be moored to the bottom of a body of water, e.g., seabed or ocean floor, by one or more anchors or piles.
[0007] A mooring system for coupling a mooring line(s) to an anchor may require assembly and / or configuration before a substantial mooring tension is applied to the mooring lines. Assembly and / or configuration may include direct or indirect connection of at least one mooring line to the structure to be moored and direct, or indirect, coupling of each mooring line to another structure, such as an anchor or pile located on the seabed.
[0008] Methods for assembling mooring systems may be complex, and may require manipulation, orientation, configuration and operation of various components and sub-systems. For example, known mooring systems may require use of multiple lines, such as pull-in and / or drop-in lines, to correctly orientate features of the system during an installation process. Such manipulation of components may increase an overall cost of installation, and may incur risks to operators and personnel. Furthermore, accessibility to components may be limited in use, or may be affected by environmental conditions such as weather, currents, tides, temperatures, or the like. In some instances, divers and / or underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) may be required to access components, which may incur substantial costs in addition to risks to the safety of personnel. Use of divers and / or ROVs may also be limited by environmental conditions.
[0009] Existing designs of support apparatus for an anchor have H-links or shackles connected directly onto the anchor.
[0010] Existing connection methods between ground chain and suction anchors have not been designed to accommodate sufficiently large azimuth offset angles for some scenarios, e.g., three-line mooring of Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (FOWT’s). Shackles and H-Links have been used offshore in oil and gas projects. However, these types of connection will not be able toP001012WO Moreland IP withstand a 60° offset at the high loads associated with required design conditions (e.g., where one line is broken). To reliably provide articulation for the design life of the FOWT bearings, there needs to be provided an improved interface with the anchor.
[0011] Future offshore floating wind projects envisage using suction anchors with a three-leg (3-leg) mooring system. The mooring system is likely to have very large ground chain running to a length of synthetic or steel rope, attached at the other end to the floating turbine hull. Some systems may use a bridle in the mooring line allowing lines to the floater to provide yaw stiffness.
[0012] A failure of a mooring line anywhere along the mooring line length (in the case of a mooring line incorporating a bridle below the bridle) would result in high offset angles being experienced. A cast loop is integrated into the pile. A shackle is passed through the loop and connects to the (147mm) ground chain end link.
[0013] It is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate one or more problems in the prior art.
[0014] It is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to provide a technically simple and / or commercially more cost-effective apparatus and method for mooring than in the prior art.
[0015] SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0016] The present invention relates to a support apparatus for a mooring tensioner, a mooring tensioner, a mooring or anchoring system, an anchor, a method of mooring or anchoring an (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure using an anchor(s), and a method of use of a mooring or anchoring system, e.g., according to the appended claims.
[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a support apparatus for or when used with a mooring tensioner. The support apparatus may comprise a first arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the support apparatus to an anchor or structure. The support apparatus may comprise a second arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the mooring tensioner to the support apparatus.
[0018] It is envisaged by the inventors that the support apparatus according to the present invention may provide an increased range of azimuth offset angles between a mooring tensioner or mooring line and an anchor, e.g., + / - 60°.
[0019] The support apparatus may find use in mooring or anchoring of a structure. The structure may be an offshore and / or floating structure, such as a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0020] The anchor may be a suction anchor or pile, a driven pile, gravity anchor or grouted pile. The support apparatus may comprise a drop-in arrangement to drop the mooring tensioner into the second arrangement. Herein, by “drop-in” may be meant that (at least) a portion of the mooring device may be received and / or retained in the second arrangement with the assistance of gravity.P001012WO Moreland IP The first arrangement may allow pivotal or partial rotational motion of the support apparatus relative to the anchor along or around a first (substantially vertical) axis.
[0021] The second arrangement may allow pivotal or partial rotational motion of the mooring tensioner relative to the support apparatus around a second (substantially horizontal) axis. The first axis and the second axis may be substantially orthogonal to one another.
[0022] The first arrangement and second arrangement may be adapted such that the combination of the support apparatus with the anchor and the mooring tensioner allows the support apparatus to pivot relative to the anchor and the mooring tensioner to pivot relative to the support apparatus. The combination may, therefore, mimic the action of a universal joint (uni-joint) by providing first and second degrees of at least partial rotational motion.
[0023] The first arrangement may comprise a hinge arrangement. The first / hinge arrangement may comprise a pillar and post bearing(s) / hole(s) arrangement. The pillar may be provided on the support apparatus.
[0024] The post bearings may comprise first and / or second female portions or recesses, e.g., at first and / or second ends of the first arrangement, which first and / or second female portions may mate with first and / or second ends of the pillar, respectvely.
[0025] The first and second posts bearings may be disposed in opposing orientations, e.g., the first post bearing may be disposed downwardly and the second post bearing may be disposed upwardly. The first and second post bearings may face one another. The first and / or second post bearings may be provided on respective first and / or second post bearing members which may be fixed, e.g., welded, to the anchor.
[0026] The first arrangement and the second arrangement may be fixed together, e.g., integrally and / or rigidly fixed together. The first arrangement and the second arrangement may comprise a single arrangement member.
[0027] The second arrangement / arrangement member may comprise first and second plate members, e.g., cheek plates. The first and second plate members may extend from the arrangement member and / or the pillar. A surface of the first plate member may face a surface of the second plate member.
[0028] The arrangement member may comprise a through-hole through which the pillar may extend. In such way, rotational articulation of the arrangement member around the pillar may be allowed.
[0029] Facing surfaces of the first and second plate members may be provided with first and second complementary tracks or slots for engaging first and second opposing protrusions of a / the mooring tensioner.
[0030] The tracks or slots may be adapted to receive and lock the first and second protrusions (of the mooring device) therein.
[0031] The / each track may comprise a ramp for receiving the mooring tensioner.P001012WO Moreland IP The / each track may comprise a recessed portion such as a groove, channel or the like. The / each track may comprise a raised portion which may be moulded, welded or otherwise fixed to the respective plate member.
[0032] The / each track may comprise a one-way track such as disclosed in GB 2 624 178 A (Flintstone Technology Limited), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0033] The support apparatus may comprise a drop-in arrangement, e.g., to drop the mooring tensioner into the tracks. The drop-in arrangement may be provided, mounted or formed on the support apparatus, preferably so as to pivot or at least partially rotate around a / the first axis with the support apparatus. When viewed from a / the front, the drop-in arrangement may be provided between first and second ends of the first arrangement / arrangement member and / or between (the) first and second plate members
[0034] The mooring tensioner may be attached to a mooring line. The mooring line may be a line, rope and / or chain.
[0035] (The) first and second plate members may form a porch structure for receiving the mooring tensioner.
[0036] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a mooring tensioner. The mooring tensioner may comprise an attachment arrangement for pivotally or at least partially rotatably attaching the mooring tensioner to a support apparatus. The mooring tensioner may comprise a further attachment arrangement for attaching the mooring tensioner to a mooring line.
[0037] It will be appreciated that the mooring tensioner may function as a connector and as a tensioner.
[0038] The mooring tensioner may comprise a main body. The attachment arrangement and further attachment arrangement may be provided at opposing ends of the main body.
[0039] The mooring tensioner may comprise a guide portion (e.g., guide wheel) for guiding a portion of a mooring line.
[0040] The guide portion may be movably (e.g., rotatably) connected to or mounted on the main body.
[0041] The further attachment arrangement may comprise a lock.
[0042] Preferably the mooring line may comprise or at least partially comprises a chain.
[0043] Advantageously when in an engaged position the lock may restrain and / or abut at least one link of the chain. Advantageously the at least one link of the chain may be in contact with the guide portion.
[0044] Advantageously when in a disengaged position the lock may not restrain the chain. Thus, when the lock is disengaged, tension may be applied to the mooring line.
[0045] The mooring tensioner may be used with or adapted for use with a support apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention. The support apparatus may be a supportP001012WO Moreland IP apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention. The second arrangement may comprise or connect with the attachment arrangement of the mooring tensioner.
[0046] The mooring tensioner may be arranged or adapted to allow the mooring line to pivot or partially rotate around a further axis which may be substantially parallel to the second axis of the support apparatus.
[0047] The mooring tensioner may be adapted such that in situ) the second axis and the further axis are in fixed (parallel) relation to one another.
[0048] The mooring tensioner may be receivable and / or retainable in the support apparatus. The mooring tensioner may be adapted to be dropped-into the support apparatus.
[0049] The mooring tensioner may comprise at least one pin or trunnion configured to be received in a (respective) seat or pocket of the support apparatus.
[0050] The mooring tensioner may comprise a pair of pins or trunnions. The pair of pins or trunnions may define or be coincident with an axis (e.g., the second axis) about which the mooring tensioner may rotate when installed in the support apparatus, e.g., when seated on respective seats or pockets of the support apparatus.
[0051] The mooring tensioner may comprise an element which may extend or may be biased to extend, e.g., selectively extend, the at least one pin or trunnion.
[0052] The element and / or the at least one pin or trunnion may be configured to engage with the track(s) for guiding the mooring tensioner.
[0053] The element may comprise a plunger, e.g., a sprung plunger.
[0054] The mooring tensioner may comprise a line engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring tensioner to a mooring line. The line engaging apparatus may comprise the further attachment arrangement.
[0055] It will also be appreciated that the anchor and support apparatus may provide freedom of movement of the mooring line in one axis, and that the support apparatus and mooring tensioner may provide freedom of movement in another axis, the one axis and the other axis preferably being orthogonal to one another.
[0056] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a mooring or anchoring system comprising one or more or a plurality of support apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention and / or one or more or a plurality of mooring tensioners according to the second aspect of the present invention.
[0057] Beneficially only one of the support apparatus may be provided with a mooring tensioner according to the second aspect of the present invention. In such case, each of the other support apparatus may be provided with a mooring connector. The mooring tensioner and / or mooring connector(s) may each connect a respective anchor to a respective mooring line. By this arrangement the (single) mooring tensioner can be used to apply tension to the mooring system.P001012WO Moreland IP Advantageously the mooring or anchoring system may comprise a plurality of support apparatus according to the present invention. The / each support apparatus may be provided on a respective anchor.
[0058] A / the structure (to be moored or anchored by the mooring or anchoring system) may be a floating or buoyant structure.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment there may be provided three support apparatus substantially equally spaced from and / or around a / the periphery of the structure to be moored. Each support apparatus may be provided on a respective anchor. Adjacent support apparatus may be spaced around the periphery of the structure to be moored by 120°.
[0060] The mooring / anchoring system may comprise a mooring system for a floating structure. The mooring / anchoring system may comprise one or more anchors or piles. The / each support apparatus may be coupled to the structure and / or to a / the (respective) anchor. The / each mooring tensioner and the mooring device(s) / connector(s) may each be coupled to the structure by a / the respective mooring line. The mooring / each tensioner may be installed or installable in the (respective) support apparatus.
[0061] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure adapted to be moored / anchored or when moored / anchored by a mooring / anchoring system according to third aspect of the present invention.
[0062] Advantageously the (offshore) structure may comprise an (offshore) wind turbine, e.g., a Floating / buoyant Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0063] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of mooring or anchoring a (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure.
[0064] The method may comprise using the mooring / anchoring system according to the third aspect of the present invention.
[0065] The method may comprise one or more of (the steps of):
[0066] adapting the / each anchor so as to connect to a / the support apparatus;
[0067] connecting (e.g., welding) a support apparatus to the / each anchor;
[0068] connecting a (respective) mooring tensioner (or mooring device) to the / each support apparatus;
[0069] connecting a (respective) mooring line to the / each mooring tensioner (or mooring device); adjusting and / or tensioning the mooring line(s) so as to moor (tension) the offshore / floating / buoyant structure.
[0070] Adjustment of the tension may be made using the mooring tensioner.
[0071] The / each support apparatus may comprise a support apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.
[0072] The / each mooring tensioner may comprise a mooring tensioner according to the second aspect of the present invention.P001012WO Moreland IP Advantageously the (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure may comprise a (offshore) wind turbine, e.g., a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0073] A mooring tension may be applied to or released from the / each mooring tensioner by a (respective) mooring line during or after installation and / or uninstallation of the / each mooring tensioner on or from the (respective) support apparatus.
[0074] The mooring system may be at least partially submerged in use.
[0075] In an example, the / each support apparatus may be mounted on, e.g., coupled to, a / a respective anchor, e.g., to a bulkhead thereof.
[0076] The above summary is intended to be merely exemplary and non-limiting. It should be understood that features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present disclosure or below relating to any specific embodiment of the disclosure may be utilised either alone or in combination with any other defined feature in any aspect or embodiment.
[0077] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0078] One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are:
[0079] Figure 1 a perspective view from one side and above of an anchor having a support apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0080] Figure 2 a perspective view of a portion of the support apparatus of Figure 1;
[0081] Figure 3 an outline perspective view of a further portion of the support apparatus of Figure 1 ;
[0082] Figure 4 a perspective view of a mooring tensioner according to an embodiment of the present invention for use with the support apparatus of Figure 1 ;
[0083] Figure 5 a perspective view from one side and above of the anchor and support apparatus of Figure 1 with the mooring tensioner of Figure 4 attached to the support apparatus;
[0084] Figure 6 a side view of the mooring tensioner being dropped-into the support apparatus;
[0085] Figure 7 a further side view of the mooring tensioner being dropped-into the support apparatus;
[0086] Figure 8 a series of views of a portion of a mooring system according to an embodiment of the present invention using one of the support apparatus and one of the mooring tensioners to secure a first mooring line to a structure;P001012WQ Moreland IP Figure 9 a series of views of another portion of the mooring system of Figure 8 using another of the support apparatus and a mooring connector to secure another mooring line to the structure;
[0087] Figures 10(a) and (b) schematic views from above of a three-line mooring system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0088] Figures 11(a) and (b) schematic views from above of the three-line mooring system of Figure 10(a) when a first of the three-lines has failed;
[0089] Figure 12(a) and (b) schematic views from above of the three-line mooring system of Figure 10(a) when a second of the three-lines has failed; and Figure 13 a schematic diagram of a (moored / anchored) structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0090] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0091] The present inventors are envisaging the use of a suction anchor(s) with a three-leg mooring or anchoring system. However, it will be appreciated that other anchoring arrangements can be envisaged.
[0092] The mooring or anchoring system is likely to have very large ground chain running to a length of synthetic or steel rope, attached at the other end to the floating turbine hull. Some systems may use a bridle in the mooring line allowing lines to the floater to provide yaw stiffness.
[0093] A failure of a mooring line anywhere along the mooring line length (in the case of a mooring line incorporating a bridle below the bridle) would result in the aforementioned high offsets.
[0094] In known systems a cast “loop” is integrated into the anchor (pile), an H-link or shackle is passed through the loop and connects to the mooring line (ground chain) end link.
[0095] For a laterally loaded anchor (suction pile) an optimum location for connection of the mooring line is typically approximately one third of the way up the anchor (pile). Connection points can be located elsewhere. However, this can lead to an increase in the required anchor / pile size.
[0096] If the connection to the ground chain requires articulation bearings to ensure reliable articulation, then it will not be possible to install such bearings and for them to reliably work for the life of the project if the connection point and location of the bearings is below the mudline. In the present invention it is, therefore, envisaged that all connection points to all anchors / suction piles will be located above the mudline. This will also have the following benefits:
[0097] • Possible for all mooring components in the intact lines to be visually inspected in the case of a line break.
[0098] • Possible for all mooring components to be disconnected and recovered / replaced. • Eliminates the risk of trenching.
[0099] Whilst the increase in required pile size associated with the present invention may require one to move the connection points for all suction piles from the optimal position to a point aboveP001012WO Moreland IP the mudline, the Inventors note that one benefit of moving the connection point above the mudline is to avoid “trenching.”
[0100] Trenching is a phenomenon previously observed in some oil and gas installations. Chain motions below the mudline, close to the pile disturb and weaken the soil which is carried away in suspension. Large trenches can appear and reduction of holding capacity of >30% is possible. A number of factors determine the risk of trenching for any given project, but the more dynamic the mooring system in the region of the pile, the greater the risk. For example, if an uplift of 15° is predicted at the anchor, this is substantial. Failure of one mooring line could induce much wider motions in the remaining (intact) lines. Connecting to the anchors (piles) above the mudline eliminates all risk of trenching. In the present invention, azimuth offset angle ranges of + / - 30° are possible.
[0101] Referring now to Figures 1 to 13, there is illustrated a support apparatus, generally designated 105, according to an embodiment of the present invention. There is also illustrated a mooring tensioner, generally designated 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a mooring or anchoring system, generally designated 114, according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a method of use of the mooring or anchoring system 114 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment the mooring tensioner 110 comprises a ‘drop-in tensioner’. The mooring tensioner 110 beneficially performs functions of connecting and tensioning.
[0102] The support apparatus 105 is a support apparatus for the mooring tensioner 110. The support apparatus 105 comprises a first arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the support apparatus 105 to an anchor 120, and a second arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the mooring tensioner 110 to the support apparatus 105.
[0103] It is envisaged by the inventors that the support apparatus 105 according to the present invention can provide an increased range of azimuth offset angles between a mooring tensioner 110 or mooring line and an anchor 120, e.g., + / - 60°.
[0104] Beneficially, the anchor 120 is a suction pile, a driven pile, gravity anchor or a grouted pile. The support apparatus 105 finds use in mooring of an offshore and / or floating / buoyant structure 122, such as a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0105] The first arrangement allows pivotal or partial rotational motion of the support apparatus 105 relative to the offshore anchor 120 along or around a first (substantially vertical) axis X.
[0106] The second arrangement allows pivotal or partial rotational motion of the mooring tensioner 105 relative to the support apparatus 105 around a second (substantially horizontal) axis Y.
[0107] The first axis X and the second axis Y are substantially orthogonal to one another.
[0108] The first arrangement and second arrangement are adapted such that the combination of the support apparatus 105 with the anchor 120 to be moored and the mooring tensioner 110 allows the support apparatus 105 to pivot relative to the anchor 120 to be moored and the mooringP001012WO Moreland IP tensioner 110 to pivot relative to the support apparatus 105. The combination, therefore, mimics the action of a universal joint (uni-joint) by providing first and second degrees of at least partial rotational motion.
[0109] The first arrangement comprises a hinge arrangement. The first / hinge arrangement comprises a pillar 160 and post bearing(s) / hole(s) 161 arrangement. The pillar 160 is provided on the support apparatus 105.
[0110] The post bearings 161 comprise first and / or second female portions or recesses, e.g., at first and / or second ends of the pillar 160, which first and / or second female portions mate with first and / or second ends of the pillar 160.
[0111] The first and second post bearings 161 are disposed in opposing orientations, e.g., the first post bearing being disposed downwardly and the second post bearing being disposed upwardly. The first and second post bearings 161 face one another. The first and / or second post bearings 161 are provided on respective first and / or second post bearing members which are fixed, e.g., welded, to the anchor 120.
[0112] The first arrangement and the second arrangement are fixed together, e.g., integrally and / or rigidly fixed together. The first arrangement and the second arrangement comprise a single arrangement member 162.
[0113] The second arrangement / arrangement member 162 comprises first and second plate members 118a, 118b, e.g., cheek plates. The first and second plate members 118a, 118b extend from the arrangement member 162 and / or from the pillar 160. A surface of the first plate member 118a faces a surface of the second plate member 118b. The arrangement member 162 comprises a through-hole 163 through which the pillar 160 extends so as to allow rotational articulation of the arrangement member 162 around the pillar 160.
[0114] The facing surfaces of the first and second plate members 118a, 118b are provided with firstand second complementary tracks 116a, 116b or slots for engaging first and second opposing protrusions of the mooring tensioner 110.
[0115] The tracks 116a, 116b or slots are adapted to receive and lock the first and second protrusions therein.
[0116] The / each track 116a, 116b comprises a ramp 117a, 117b for receiving the mooring tensioner 110.
[0117] The / each track 116a, 116b comprises a recessed portion such as a groove, channel or the like. The / each track 116a, 116b can also or alternatively comprise a raised portion which is moulded, welded or otherwise fixed to the respective plate member.
[0118] The / each track 116a, 116b can beneficially comprise a one-way track as disclosed in GB 2 624 178 A (Flintstone Technology Limited) the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0119] The support apparatus 105 comprises a drop-in arrangement 127, e.g., to drop the mooring tensioner 110 into the tracks 116a, 116b. The drop-in arrangement 127 is provided,P001012WO Moreland IP mounted or formed on the support apparatus 105 so as to pivot or at least partially rotate around a / the first axis X with the support apparatus 105. When viewed from a / the front, the drop-in arrangement 127 is provided between first and second ends of the first arrangement / arrangement member 162 and / or between (the) first and second plate members 118a, 118b.
[0120] The mooring line 140 can be a line, rope and / or chain.
[0121] The first and second plate members 118a, 118b form a porch structure for receiving the mooring tensioner 110.
[0122] Referring to Figures 4 to 8, there is illustrated the mooring tensioner 110. The mooring tensioner 110 comprises an attachment arrangement 145 for pivotally or at least partially rotatably attaching the mooring tensioner 110 to the support apparatus 105 and a further attachment arrangement 150 for attaching the mooring tensioner 110 to a mooring line 140.
[0123] The mooring tensioner 110 comprises a main body 170. The attachment arrangement 145 and further attachment arrangement 150 are provided at opposing ends of the main body 170.
[0124] The mooring tensioner 110 comprises a guide portion 172 (e.g., guide wheel) for guiding a portion of a mooring line 140. The guide portion 1702 is movably (e.g., rotatably) connected to or mounted on the main body 170.
[0125] The further attachment arrangement 150 comprises a lock 174 provided on the main body 170. The mooring line 140 is typically a chain. When in an engaged position, the lock 174 restrains and / or abuts at least one link of the chain. Advantageously the at least one link of the chain is in contact with the guide portion 172. When in a disengaged position, the lock 174 does not restrain the chain. Thus, when the lock 174 is disengaged, tension may be applied to the mooring line 140.
[0126] The support apparatus 105 is a support apparatus as hereinbefore described. In such case, the second arrangement comprises or connects with the attachment arrangement 145 of the mooring tensioner 110.
[0127] The mooring tensioner 110 is arranged to allow the mooring line 140 to pivot or partially rotate around a further axis Z which is substantially parallel to the second axis Y of the support apparatus 105.
[0128] The mooring tensioner 110 is adapted such that the second axis Y and the further axis Z are in fixed (parallel) relation to one another.
[0129] The mooring tensioner 110 is receivable and / or retainable in the support apparatus 105. The mooring tensioner 110 can comprise at least one pin or trunnion 155 configured to be received in a seat or pocket of the support apparatus 105.
[0130] The mooring tensioner 110 comprises a pair of pins or trunnions 155. The pair of pins or trunnions 155 coincides with second axis Y about which the mooring tensioner 110 can rotate when installed in the support apparatus 105, e.g., when seated on respective seats or pockets of the support apparatus 105.
[0131] The mooring tensioner 110 comprises an element which extends or is biased to extend,P001012WO Moreland IP e.g., selectively extend, the at least one pin or trunnion 155. The element and / or the at least one pin or trunnion can be configured to engage with the track(s) 116a, 116b for guiding the mooring tensioner 110. The element can comprise a plunger, e.g., a sprung plunger.
[0132] The mooring tensioner 110 comprises a line engaging apparatus 135 for coupling the mooring tensioner 110 to a mooring line 140. The line engaging apparatus 135 beneficially comprises the further attachment arrangement 150.
[0133] It will be appreciated that support apparatus 105 and mooring tensioner 110 together act as a universal joint (uni-joint).
[0134] It will also be appreciated that the anchor 120 and support apparatus 105 provide freedom of movement of the mooring line 140 in one axis X, and that the support apparatus 105 and mooring tensioner 110 provide freedom of movement in another axis Y, the one axis X and the other axis Y being orthogonal to one another.
[0135] Referring again to Figures 1 to 13, there is provided a mooring or anchoring system, generally designated 114, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The mooring or anchoring system 114 comprises one or more or a plurality of support apparatus 105 as hereinbefore described and / or one or more or a plurality of mooring tensioners 110 as hereinbefore described. Beneficially only one of the support apparatus 105 is provided with a mooring tensioner 110. In such case, each of the other support apparatus 105 are provided with a mooring connector 175. The mooring tensioner 110 and / or mooring connector(s) 175 each connect (via a respective support apparatus 105) a respective anchor 120 to a respective mooring line 120. By this arrangement the (single) mooring tensioner 110 can be used to apply tension to the mooring or anchoring system 114.
[0136] Referring to Figures 6 to 9, the mooring or anchoring system 114 comprises a plurality of support apparatus 105. The support apparatus 105 are each provided on a periphery of an anchor 120.
[0137] In a preferred embodiment there are provided three anchors 120 substantially equally spaced around the periphery of the structure 122 to be moored. Adjacent support apparatus 105 are spaced around the periphery of the structure 122 to be moored by 120°.
[0138] The mooring system or anchoring 114 comprises a mooring system for structure 122. The mooring system or anchoring 114 comprise an anchor 120 or pile. The support apparatus 105 is / are coupled to the anchor 120. The mooring tensioner 110 can be coupled to the anchor 120 or pile by a / the (respective) mooring line 140. The mooring tensioner 110 is / are installed in the support apparatus 105.
[0139] Referring to Figures 6 to 9, there is illustrated an anchor 120 adapted to be used in a mooring or anchoring system 114 as hereinbefore described.
[0140] Advantageously the structure 122 to be moored comprises an offshore wind turbine, e.g., a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).P001012WO Moreland IP Referring to Figures 5 to 9, there is shown an anchor 120 for use in an embodiment of the present invention, the anchor 120 comprising an (offshore) anchor for a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0141] Referring to Figures 5 to 9, there is illustrated a method of mooring or anchoring a (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure 122. The method comprises using the mooring system or anchoring 114 hereinbefore described.
[0142] The method comprises one or more of (the steps of):
[0143] adapting the anchor(s) 120 so as to connect to the support apparatus 105; connecting (e.g., welding) one or more support apparatus 105 to the offshore anchor 120; connecting a mooring tensioner 110 to the / each support apparatus 105;
[0144] connecting a mooring line 140 to the / each mooring tensioner 110;
[0145] adjusting the mooring line(s) 140 so as to moor (tension) the structure 122.
[0146] Advantageously the structure 122 comprises an offshore wind turbine, e.g., a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
[0147] A mooring tension can be applied to the mooring tensioner 110 by a (respective) mooring line 140 during installation and uninstallation of the mooring tensioner 110 on the support apparatus 105.
[0148] The mooring system or anchoring 114 can be at least partially submerged (underwater) in use. In an example, the support apparatus 105 can be mounted on, e.g., coupled to, a hull / bulkhead of an anchor such that the / each support apparatus 105 is submerged in use, beneficially underwater but above the seabed / mudline.
[0149] Installation methodology typically comprises or includes:
[0150] 1. Deploying the Anchor Handling Vessel (AHV) main winch wire and connecting to the mooring line 140 at a connecting link shackle.
[0151] 2. Connecting the Multi-Quick Connect (MQC) winch line to the MQC on back deck of anchor / vessel.
[0152] 3. AHV main winch to take tension load of the free hanging mooring line 140.
[0153] 4. Deploy the MQC connector and MQC winch line over the stern of the vessel.
[0154] 5. Commence operations to pull in the MQC winch line whilst lowering the mooring line.
[0155] 6. Line up within the specified range of inclination angles.
[0156] Herein there are provided three support apparatus 105 substantially equally spaced around the periphery of the structure 122 to be moored, one on each of three anchors 120. Adjacent support apparatus 105 are spaced around the periphery of the structure 122 to be moored by 120°. For situations with three-line mooring systems for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (FOWT), the Inventors envisage seeing very high azimuth angle ranges for the Accidental Limit State condition (loss of one mooring line). Typically, a requirement of + / -600of azimuth rotation is required. The invention can accommodate this range, with little impact on the design of the anchor (hull) 120. The anchor interface brackets may require to be cast brackets.P001012WO Moreland IP Referring to Figures 10a to 12b, there is shown a number of possible situations. Firstly, in Figures 10a and 10b there are provided three mooring lines A, B, C with mooring line C perpendicular to a hull of the (offshore) structure 122. Therein, the three-line mooring system 114 is intact.
[0157] Referring next to Figures 11a and 11b, it is envisaged that mooring line A has broken. Mooring line C shows azimuth rotation approaching 120° in an anti-clockwise direction relative to the hull of the structure 122.
[0158] Referring next to Figures 12a and 12b, it is envisaged that mooring line B has broken. Mooring line C shows azimuth rotation approaching 120° in a clockwise direction relative to the hull of the structure 122.
[0159] From Figures 10a to 12b, considering the potential azimuth offsets between the mooring line A, B, C and each anchor 120, it is possible that due to the FOWT moving off-station, together with the inherent freedom of the FOWT in the yaw-axis, that a range of motion of + / - 60° must be accommodated. This range is significantly higher than previous requirements, and designers need to consider the consequences for the design of equipment at the mooring line A, B, C to anchor 120 interface.
[0160] It will be appreciated that the embodiment(s) of the present invention hereinbefore described is / are given by way of example only, and are not meant to be limiting of the scope of the invention.
[0161] Although the disclosure has been described in terms of particular embodiments as set forth above, it should be understood that these embodiments are illustrative only and that the claims are not limited to those embodiments. Those skilled in the art will be able to make modifications and alternatives in view of the disclosure, which are contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention and / or of the appended claims. Each feature disclosed or illustrated in the present specification may be incorporated in any embodiments, whether alone or in any appropriate combination with any other feature disclosed or illustrated herein.
[0162] REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0163] 105 support apparatus 110 mooring tensioner
[0164] 114 mooring system 120 (offshore) anchor
[0165] 122 structure X first axis
[0166] Y second axis Z further axis
[0167] 118a, b plate members 116a, b tracks
[0168] 117a, b ramp 135 line-engaging apparatus 140 mooring line 145 attachment arrangement 150 furtherattachment arrangement 155 pins or trunnions
[0169] 160 pillar 161 post
[0170] 162 arrangement member 163 through-holeP001012WO Moreland IP 170 main body 172 guide portion 174 lock 175 mooring connector A, B, C mooring lines 127 drop-in arrangement
Claims
P001012WO Moreland IP CLAIMS1. A support apparatus for or when used with a mooring tensioner, such as a mooring tensioner for an anchor, the support apparatus comprising a first arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the support apparatus to an anchor or structure, and a second arrangement for pivotally attaching / retaining the mooring tensioner to the support apparatus.
2. A support apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein:the support apparatus comprises a drop-in arrangement to drop the mooring tensioner into the second arrangement; and / orthe support apparatus provides a range of azimuth offset angles between a mooring tensioner or mooring line and an anchor of + / - 60°; and / orthe support apparatus is adapted to be used in mooring or anchoring of a structure, such as an offshore and / or floating structure, such as a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT); and / or the anchor is a suction anchor or pile, a driven pile, gravity anchor or a grouted pile.
3. A support apparatus as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein:the first arrangement allows pivotal or partial rotational motion of the support apparatus relative to the anchor along or around a first (substantially vertical) axis; and / orthe second arrangement allows pivotal or partial rotational motion of the mooring tensioner relative to the support apparatus around a second (substantially horizontal) axis; and optionally the first axis and the second axis are substantially orthogonal to one another.
4. A support apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first arrangement and second arrangement are adapted such that the combination of the support apparatus with the anchor and the mooring tensioner allows the support apparatus to pivot relative to the anchor and the mooring tensioner to pivot relative to the support apparatus.
5. A support apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein:the first arrangement comprises a hinge arrangement;the first / hinge arrangement comprises a pillar and post bearing(s) / hole(s) arrangement; and optionallythe pillar is provided on the support apparatus; and / orthe post bearings comprise first and / or second female portions or recesses, such as at first and / or second ends of the first arrangement, which first and / or second female portions mate with first and / or second ends of the pillar; and optionally furtherP001012WO Moreland IP the first and second posts bearings are disposed in opposing orientations, and / or the first and second post bearings face one another, and / or the first and / or second post bearings are provided on respective first and / or second post bearing members which are fixed to the anchor.
6. A support apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein:the first arrangement and the second arrangement are fixed together, such as integrally and / or rigidly fixed together; and / orthe first arrangement and the second arrangement comprise a single arrangement member.
7. A support apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein:the support apparatus comprises a drop-in arrangement to drop a / the mooring tensioner into the second arrangement, in such case optionally, the drop-in arrangement is provided, mounted or formed on the support apparatus, optionally so as to pivot or at least partially rotate around a / the first axis with the support apparatus; and / or when viewed from a / the front, the drop-in arrangement is provided between first and second ends of the first arrangement / arrangement member and / or between (the) first and second plate members; and / or; and / orthe second arrangement / arrangement member comprises first and second plate members, such as cheek plates; and / orthe arrangement member comprises a through-hole through which a / the pillar extends so as to allow rotational articulation of the arrangement member around the pillar;wherein optionallythe first and second plate members extend from a / the arrangement member and / or the pillar; and / ora surface of the first plate member faces a surface of the second plate member.
8. A mooring tensioner, such as when used with a support apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 7, the mooring tensioner comprising an attachment arrangement for pivotally or at least partially rotatably attaching the mooring tensioner to a / the support apparatus and a further attachment and / or locking arrangement for attaching and / or locking / retaining the mooring tensioner to a mooring line.
9. A mooring tensioner as claimed in claim 8, wherein:the mooring tensioner comprises a main body, wherein optionally the attachment arrangement and further attachment arrangement are provided on or at opposing ends of the main body; and / orP001012WO Moreland IP the mooring tensioner comprises a guide portion (such as a guide wheel) for guiding a portion of a mooring line, wherein optionally the guide portion is movably / rotatably connected to or mounted on a / the main body; and / orthe mooring line comprises a chain; and / orthe further attachment arrangement comprises a lock; and optionally in such case when in an engaged position the lock restrains and / or abuts at least one link of a / the chain, and optionally the at least one link of the chain is in contact with the guide portion, and / or when in a disengaged position the lock does not restrain the chain such that when the lock is disengaged, tension can be applied to a / the mooring line; and / or in any casethe support apparatus is a support apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 7 invention, wherein optionally in such case the second arrangement comprises or connects with the attachment arrangement of the mooring tensioner; and / orthe mooring tensioner is arranged to allow a / the mooring line to pivot or partially rotate around a further axis, which further axis is optionally substantially parallel to the second axis of the support apparatus; and / orthe mooring tensioner is receivable and / or retainable in the support apparatus; and / or the mooring tensioner comprises a line-engaging apparatus for coupling the mooring tensioner to a / the mooring line, the line engaging apparatus optionally comprising the further attachment arrangement; and / orthe anchor and support apparatus provide freedom of movement of the mooring line in one axis, and the support apparatus and mooring tensioner provide freedom of movement in another axis, the one axis and the other axis optionally being orthogonal to one another.
10. A mooring system or anchoring comprising one or more or a plurality of support apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 7 and / or one or more mooring tensioners according to either of claims 8 or 9.
11. A mooring or anchoring system as claimed in claim 10, wherein one of the support apparatus is provided with a mooring tensioner according to either of claims 8 or 9, wherein optionally each of the other support apparatus are provided with a mooring tensioner or mooring connector; and optionally furtherthe mooring tensioner and the mooring connector(s) each connect a respective anchor to a respective mooring line.
12. A mooring or anchoring system as claimed in either of claims 10 or 11, wherein:the mooring system comprises a plurality of support apparatus;the / each support apparatus is provided on a respective anchor;the structure is an offshore / floating / buoyant structure; and / orP001012WO Moreland IP there are provided three support apparatus substantially equally spaced around a / the periphery of the structure to be moored, each support apparatus being provided on a respective anchor, adjacent support apparatus being spaced around the periphery of the structure to be moored by 120°.
13. A mooring or anchoring system as claimed in any of claims 10 to 12, wherein:the mooring / anchoring system comprises a mooring system for a floating structure; the mooring / anchoring system comprises one or more anchors or piles;the support apparatus is coupled to the structure and / or to a / the (respective) anchor; the mooring tensioner and / or the mooring device(s) is / are each coupled to the structure by a / the respective mooring line; and / orthe mooring tensioner is installed or installable in a / the respective support apparatus.
14. A structure, such as an offshore / floating / buoyant structure, adapted to be moored by a mooring or anchoring system according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein optionallythe structure comprises an (offshore) wind turbine, such as a Floating / buoyant Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT).
15. A method of mooring or anchoring an (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure using the mooring or anchoring system according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein optionally the method comprises one or more of:adapting the / each anchor so as to connect to a / the support apparatus;connecting or welding a (portion of a) support apparatus to the / each anchor; connecting a (respective) mooring tensioner or mooring device to the / each support apparatus;connecting a (respective) mooring line to the / each mooring tensioner or mooring device; adjusting and / or tensioning the mooring line(s) so as to moor and / or anchor and / or tension the (offshore / floating / buoyant) structure and / or the mooring system.