Subsea Mooring Connector with Self-Actuating Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea connectors for mooring lines face challenges such as complex removable parts and inefficiencies in connection and disconnection processes, particularly when used with remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), which can be cumbersome and require additional resources.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a first and second portion with a releasable lock arrangement using movable lock members that are resiliently biased, allowing for rotational movement and easy connection/disconnection, facilitated by a through-bore and cam-like mechanisms for secure engagement and disengagement, enabling efficient tension transfer between mooring lines and structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If removable locking pins are used to secure the connector portions, then the connection can be securely maintained, but the device complexity increases and the connection/disconnection process becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the separate locking pin component entirely and integrates the locking function directly into the connector body through resilient lock members that are permanently attached, eliminating the need for removable parts while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the connector structure itself by integrating resilient lock members into the housing, combining the securing mechanism with the main body rather than using separate removable components
2Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms with multiple parts are used, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates and ROV intervention becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient lock members automatically engage with the bayonet coupling mechanism without requiring separate locking actions, and the cam mechanism automatically disengages the locks during rotation, making the operation self-actuating rather than requiring manual intervention for each locking element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses resilient (spring-loaded) lock members that dynamically respond to the coupling forces, automatically engaging and disengaging based on the relative movement between connector portions rather than requiring static manual positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple removable components are provided for connection, then the adaptability and secure mounting are improved, but the productivity and speed of connection/disconnection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lock members are pre-positioned and spring-loaded within the housing, ready to engage immediately when the connector portions are brought together, eliminating the need for sequential assembly of multiple components during the connection process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution simplifies the connection and disconnection process, enhances operational efficiency, and reduces the need for complex parts, making it easier to use with ROVs and improving the overall reliability and ease of maintenance of subsea mooring systems.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one movable lock member may be resiliently movable (e.g., against an action of a spring or biasing arrangement) from the first position to a second position and to a third position by insertion of the first portion into the second portion
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a mooring, marine, subsea, underwater or offshore connector (5) comprising: a first portion (10); a second portion (15); and an arrangement (20) for releasably locking the first portion (10) and the second portion (15), wherein the releasable lock arrangement (20) comprises at least one movable lock member (25) which is biased towards a first position. The/each lock member (25) is movable against the action of a biasing arrangement (20) by insertion of the first portion (10) into the second portion (15) and/or by removal of the first portion (10) from the second portion (15). The connector (5) comprises an arrangement for rotating the first portion (10) relative to the second portion (15) when the first portion (10) is inserted into and/or withdrawn from the second portion (15). Embodiments provide at least one opposing or facing pair of movable lock members (25, 25b); and at least one pair of biasing members (60a, 60b); a first end of the/each biasing member (60a, 60b) being connected to a first movable lock member (25a), and a second end of the/each biasing member (60, 60b) being connected to a second movable lock member (25b).