GB2555503A

GB2555503A - Mooring method

Info

Publication number: GB2555503A
Application number: GB1707671.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Taylor Richard
Original assignee: Flintstone Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Flintstone Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2016-08-01
Filing date: 2017-05-12
Publication date: 2018-05-02
Also published as: GB201707671D0

Abstract

A method of installing a mooring line 120 or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of: providing a mooring line, which may comprise a rope, chain, cable or the like. Providing a retention and tensioning device 125 comprising a first portion of a connector 100b, wherein the first portion of the connector is adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector 100a and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in the mooring line. Then connecting the device to the mooring line, for example by loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line. An optional step in the procedure is the installation a subsea anchor 60, for example a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA). The subsea anchor may comprise the second connector portion which is compatible with the first connector portion on the retention and tensioning device. A device for use with this method is also claimed, the device comprising a subsea connector with first and second portions, means for connecting the first and second portions, and means for rotationally aligning the first and second portions.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Mooring method Abstract Title: Mooring method (57) A method of installing a mooring line 120 or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of: providing a mooring line, which may comprise a rope, chain, cable or the like. Providing a retention and tensioning device 125 comprising a first portion of a connector 100b, wherein the first portion of the connector is adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector 100a and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in the mooring line. Then connecting the device to the mooring line, for example by loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line. An optional step in the procedure is the installation a subsea anchor 60, for example a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA). The subsea anchor may comprise the second connector portion which is compatible with the first connector portion on the retention and tensioning device. A device for use with this method is also claimed, the device comprising a subsea connector with first and second portions, means for connecting the first and second portions, and means for rotationally aligning the first and second portions.

At least some of the priority details shown above were added after the date of filing of the application.

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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Step 6: BTC Connection Sequence

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Step 2: Mooring Line Connection

155a'

Due to cost and weight, we may need to design a simplified version of the BTC. Effectively a hook.

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CHAIN

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Figure 23

MOORING METHOD

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method of installing a mooring line and an apparatus for mooring a structure. The mooring line may be a mooring line for an offshore vessel or structure.

BACKGROUND TO INVENTION

Offshore structures, such as floating structures or floating platforms, can be moored by mooring lines. This can include attaching one or more mooring lines to the structure to be moored and applying a tension to each of the mooring lines. The necessary tension can be applied to the mooring lines, e.g. by using winches that may be provided on the structure to be moored or on a separate, independent vessel.

In order to connect a line or lines, e.g. wire, chain or synthetic lines for the installation, mooring or anchoring of equipment used subsea or underwater, e.g. in oil, gas, offshore wind and tidal energy industries, there needs to be a means of connecting and disconnecting the line or lines.

A coupling apparatus may be used for connecting the mooring lines from the structure to a seabed or the like. The apparatus may include a guide that can direct a free end of a mooring line towards a surface to enable adjustment of the tension in the mooring lines, e.g. by a winch located on a vessel.

A tension may be applied to each of the mooring lines. The application of tension may serve to moor the floating structure or platform in desired position.

The coupling apparatus may include a locking device to prevent the effective length of the mooring line from changing once the floating platform is in the desired position.

The installation and maintenance of such a mooring apparatus in an offshore or underwater environment may require high levels of skill, the use of divers, operators, and/or Remotely Operated underwater Vehicles (ROVs), and may incur significant expense and risk. The general manoeuvrability and capabilities of ROVs is limited, and thus undertaking intricate tasks in an underwater environment may be prohibitively complex and time consuming.

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.

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 method and apparatus for mooring than in the prior art.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a mooring line or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of:

providing a mooring line;

providing a retention and tensioning device comprising a first portion of a connector, the first portion of the connector adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in the mooring line; and loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line.

The first portion of the mooring line may be an end portion of the mooring line. The step of loading of the device with a first portion of the mooring line may comprise retainably loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line.

The device and the mooring line, when the device is loaded with and/or connected to the mooring line and/or when the mooring line is under tension, may be considered to be the mooring line assembly.

At least a portion of the mooring line, and in particular at least one end of the mooring line, may comprise a chain. At least a portion of the mooring line may be a chain, wire, rope, or the like, or may comprise at least in part a polymeric material, e.g. polyester, or the like.

The method may comprise a step of providing, or installing, a subsea anchor. The anchor may be, or may comprise, a pile, such as a suction pile or the like. The anchor may be a subsea formation. The anchor may be adapted for use on a seabed. The anchor may be at least partially submerged. The anchor may be installed on or below the subsea. The anchor may be installed by a vessel, such as a pile vessel. The step of installing the subsea anchor may comprise a step of driving the anchor into the seabed by means of a pile, such as a suction pile or the like. The step of installing the subsea anchor may comprise a step of removing a pile. The anchor may be a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA), or the like.

The method may comprise a step of providing a buoyant structure. The buoyant structure may be a structure to be moored. The structure may be a ship, a rig, a floating platform, or the like. The buoyant structure may be wind turbine, or a portion thereof. The structure may be a buoy, such as a submersible buoy, a semisubmersible buoy, a submerged turret production buoy, a submerged turret loading buoy or the like.

The method may comprise a step of lowering the mooring line assembly within a body of water. The method may comprise the step of lowering the mooring line and/or the device from a vessel and/or a first line. The method may comprise the step of extending the mooring line and/or the first line from the vessel.

The method may comprise a step of retaining the first portion of the connector by the second portion of the connector. The first portion of the connector may be positioned at a distal end of the device. The first portion of the connector may comprise a first, e.g. male, connector portion. The subsea anchor may comprise a second (complementary), e.g. female, connector portion, which may mate, e.g. connectably, securably, or retainably, with the first connector portion.

The second connector portion may be provided on one end of a second line, another end of the second line being connected to the anchor. The second connector may be provided on, or may comprise, at least one single axis joint or a dual axis joint, such as a universal joint.

A holder may be provided on the anchor to releasably hold the female connector portion, e.g. in a first disposition, e.g. a vertical disposition. This arrangement may facilitate lowering the male connector portion, e.g. vertically, into the female connector portion.

The method may comprise a step of raising and/or laterally moving the device and/or the mooring line assembly within a body of water. The raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly may be achieved by applying a pulling force, directly or indirectly, to the mooring line and/or the mooring line assembly. The raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly may be achieved by hauling in or winching the mooring line onto/into a vessel, or otherwise applying a tension to the mooring line.

The raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly may be achieved by relocating the vessel to which the mooring line and/or first and/or second line is directly or indirectly attached.

In the case of a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA), or the like, the step of raising the device and/or the mooring line assembly within a body of water may detach the second connector from a docking station, cradle, or the like. The second connector may remain connected to an anchor, such as a plate anchor, or the like.

The method may comprise a step of directly or indirectly attaching a second portion of the mooring line to the buoyant structure. The mooring line may be attached to the buoyant structure by means of a connector apparatus and/or methods of use as described in WO 2014/155094 A1 (by the present Applicant), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. The mooring line may be attached to the buoyant structure by means of a connector apparatus and/or methods of use of the apparatus as described GB 1706745.5 (by the present Applicant), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. The mooring line may be attached to the buoyant structure by means of a connector apparatus and/or methods of use of the apparatus as described GB 1706743.0 (by the present Applicant), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The method may comprise a step of connecting the first portion of the mooring line to a third line. The first portion of the mooring line may comprise a mounting element. The mounting element may be configured to permit connecting of the mounting element and/or the first portion of the mooring line to the third line. At least a portion of the third line may be a chain, wire, rope, or the like, or may comprise at least in part a polymeric material, e.g. polyester, or the like.

The method may comprise a step of applying a tension, directly or indirectly, to the third line. The method may further comprise a step of applying a tension, directly or indirectly, to the mooring line. Tension may be applied to the third line and/or the mooring line by means of a winch, motor, pulley or the like located on the vessel. Another line may be used in place of, or in addition to, the third line.

The method may comprise a step of adapting the device such that a line engaging device restrict or inhibits movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction. The device may be adapted to automatically, or semi-automatically, restrict or inhibit movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction. The method may further comprise a step of locking or adapting the device to restrict or inhibit movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction. The first direction may be a direction away from the device. The at least a portion of the mooring line may be the second portion of the mooring line. The device may be adapted to permit uni-directional movement of the mooring line through and/or around or about the device.

The method may comprise a step of removing a portion of the mooring line, such as the first portion of the mooring line. The removal may be by means of cutting or the like. Beneficially, removal of an excess portion of the mooring line prevents further entanglement with the device the anchor, ROVs, divers, or the like.

The method may comprise a step of detaching the first, second or third line from the device and/or the mooring line assembly.

The method may comprise a step of attaching a portion of the mooring line, such as the first portion of the mooring line, to a floatation device, such as a buoy or the like. Beneficially, the floatation device module holds an excess portion of the first mooring line away from the device.

It should be understood that any or all of the steps described herein may be implemented together, in isolation, in any practical order, and that each step may independently be executed by one or more operators, and/or using one or more vessels, wherein the operators and/or vessels may vary between steps.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a mooring line or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of:

providing a first line;

providing a retention and tensioning device comprising a first portion of a connector, the first portion of the connector adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in a mooring line; and connecting the device to the first line.

The step of connecting the device to the first line may comprise directly or indirectly connecting the device to the first line.

The method may further comprise the step of loading, such as retainably loading, the device with a portion of the mooring line.

The indirect connection of the device to the first line may be via the mooring line.

The following statements may apply to any of the foregoing aspects of the present invention.

According to an embodiment of the present invention there is provided a device, e.g. the retention and tensioning device.

The device may comprise a first portion of a connector.

The first portion of the connector may be a subsea, mooring or underwater connector. The connector may comprise the first portion, a second portion and/or means for connecting the first portion and the second portion, and/or means for rotationally aligning the first portion with the second portion.

The first and/or second portions may be adapted to be connected to a respective line, such as a respective mooring line or chain. The second portion may be adapted to sit in, be received by, and/or releasably retained in or by, a cradle.

The means for rotationally aligning the first and second portion may comprise means carried by or provided on the first and/or second portion. The means for rotationally aligning may comprise a first alignment member at least partly spanning across a bore, such as an internal bore, of the first or second portion. The first alignment member may be partially transverse to the bore with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first or second portion.

The means for rotationally aligning may comprise a second alignment member, such as a rotational alignment member, provided by the other of the first or second portion. The first and second alignment members may co-act when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

The first portion may comprise a male part.

The second portion may comprise a female part.

The means for connecting may comprise means for releasably connecting.

The means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion may comprise first and second means carried by, or provided on, the first and second portions, respectively. The first and second means may comprise the first and second alignment members, respectively.

The first and second means may co-act, in use, when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

The first means may comprise at least one first surface. The second means may comprise at least one second surface. An at least one first surface(s) and a second surface may abut one another and/or rotate with respect to one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.

The first means may comprise at least a first prong or tooth, and advantageously first and second prongs or teeth. The first and second prongs or teeth may be diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each prong or tooth may be disposed on a respective radial portion of an end of the first means. A slot or recess portion may be provided between the first and second prongs or teeth.

The male part may comprise a cylindrical portion, e.g. a cylindrical mid-portion. The female part may comprise a bore, e.g. a cylindrical bore, e.g. within which the cylindrical portion is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

The second means may comprise an elongate or cross member or alignment bar. The elongate member may at least partly span, e.g. diametrically span, the female part, e.g. the bore. The elongate member may comprise an outer (upper) facing curved surface and may be substantially cylindrical or elliptical in cross-section.

In use, insertion of the male part into the female part may cause the first means and second means to rotationally co-act or ride over one another, thereby relatively (longitudinally) rotating the male part and the female part into a pre-selected or predetermined rotational disposition.

The first prong or tooth, and where provided second prong or tooth, may provide the at least one first surface, which may comprise an outer surface thereof.

The/each prong or teeth/tooth may comprise one or more of: a first chamfered, sloping or angled side surface, a second chamfered, sloping or angled side surface (preferably disposed symmetrically with the first side surface), a flat/planar inner surface which may comprise a surface of the slot, and a curved outer surface. The flat planar inner surface may taper or flare outwards towards an end of the prong or tooth.

A first side surface of a first tooth may be continuous with a first side surface of a second tooth. A second side surface of a first tooth may be continuous with a second side surface of the second tooth.

The elongate member may provide the at least second surface, which may comprise an outer surface thereof, e.g. said outer (upper) facing curved surface.

Once in the pre-selected rotational disposition the first and second prongs may be disposed on respective first and second sides of the elongate member. A portion of the male part between the prongs or teeth (e.g. a root or web portion), e.g. base of the slot portion may be adjacent or in contact, e.g. abutting contact, with the elongate member.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise a first aperture in the male part, e.g. diametrically or width-wise spanning the cylindrical portion of the male part.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise at least one second aperture, e.g. a pair of diametrically opposed apertures, in the female part.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise a pin, e.g. a load (bearing) pin, removably receivable within the first and second apertures when such are aligned.

Beneficially, the first and second apertures are aligned in said pre-selected rotational disposition.

In use, an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) may be used to mate and/or release the first and second parts, e.g. subsea/underwater, and/or to insert and/or remove the pin.

The pin may have a tapered end, which may facilitate insertion thereof into the apertures.

The device, e.g. the retention and tensioning device, may comprise an apparatus for mooring a structure.

The apparatus may comprise a first portion, e.g. for receiving a portion of a line extending from a structure.

The apparatus may comprise a guide portion, e.g. for guiding a/the portion of a line received by the first portion. The guide portion may be movably, e.g. pivotably or rotatably, connected or connectable to the first portion.

The apparatus may comprise a second portion, e.g. for connecting or coupling the apparatus to a seabed or a further structure located thereon. The second portion may be movably, e.g. pivotably or rotatably, connected or connectable to the first portion and/or guide portion.

The apparatus may comprise or define an axis, e.g. a rotational axis. The first portion, the second portion and/or the guide portion may be arranged to be movable, e.g. rotatable or pivotable, around or about the axis of the apparatus. In other words, the first portion, the guide portion and/or the second portion may be coaxially arranged relative to each other. The coaxial arrangement of the first portion, guide portion and/or second portion may permit the first portion, guide portion and/or second portion to be aligned relative to each other during pull-in and/or tensioning a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus or a portion thereof, e.g. in use. This may reduce out of plane strain acting on the apparatus and/or a line, e.g. in use, e.g. during pull-in and/or tensioning of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus or a portion thereof. This may lead to a reduction of losses, e.g. due to friction between a line under tension and the apparatus, e.g. during pull-in and/or tensioning of a line. It other words, the coaxial arrangement may facilitate pull-in and/or tensioning of a line.

The apparatus may comprise a line engaging device. The line engaging device may be or comprised in a chain stopper or means for engaging a chain. The line engaging device may be or comprise a means for engaging a chain as described in WO 2015/150770 (by the present applicant), which is hereby incorporated by reference. The line engaging device may be configured to permit movement of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus, in a first direction relative to the apparatus, e.g. in a direction towards the guide portion. The line engaging device may be configured to prohibit movement of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received or threaded through the apparatus, in a second direction relative to the apparatus, e.g. in a direction towards a structure. The line engaging device may be movably connected or connectable to the first portion. For example, the line engaging device may be connected to the first portion so that the line engaging device may be moveable, e.g. rotatable or pivotable and/or slidable, relative to the first portion.

The line engaging device may be connected or connectable to the first portion to be movable, actuatable and/or operable between a first position and a second position. The line engaging device may be configured to be moveable, operable and/or actuatable from the first position to the second position, e.g. when tension is applied to at least one end, e.g. a free end, or at least two ends, e.g. a free end and a distal end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus. The line engaging device may be configured to be moveable, operable and/or actuatable from the second position to the first position, e.g. when tension is released from at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus. For example, in use, a distal end of a line, which may be connected or connectable to a structure may be tensioned or be under tension.

The apparatus may be or be configured to be operable, moveable and/or actuatable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration of the apparatus, the line engaging device may be in the first position. In the second configuration of the apparatus, the line engaging device may be in the second position. In the first configuration of the apparatus, the first and second portions may be arranged relative to each other such that a longitudinal axis of the first portion may be substantially in line, collinear or coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the second portion. The apparatus may be configured or arranged such that in the first configuration of the apparatus, a/the longitudinal axis of the apparatus may be substantially in line, collinear or coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a line or a portion thereof extending from a structure. The apparatus may be configured or arranged such that in the first configuration of the apparatus the axis may be substantially co-planar with a longitudinal axis of a line or portion thereof extending from a structure and/or the axis extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a line or portion thereof extending from a structure. In the first configuration of the apparatus, out of plane strain acting on the apparatus and/or a line may be reduced.

In the first or second configuration, the line engaging means may be configured to engage or be engageable with a line or portion thereof, e.g. to prevent movement of a line in the second direction.

In the second configuration of the apparatus, the first portion and second portion may be arranged relative to each other such that a/the longitudinal axis of the first portion may extend at an angle relative to a/the longitudinal axis of the second portion. The apparatus may be configured such that in the second configuration of the apparatus a/the longitudinal axis of the first portion extends at an angle, e.g. an acute angle, relative to a longitudinal axis of a line or portion thereof extending from a structure. This may reduce out of plane strain acting on the apparatus and/or a line e.g. in use, e.g. during pull-in and/or tensioning of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus or a portion thereof. This may lead to a reduction of losses, e.g. due to friction between a line under tension and the apparatus, e.g. during pull-in and/or tensioning of a line.

In the first or second configuration, the line engaging means may be configured to disengage or be disengageable, e.g. partially or fully disengage or be disengageable, from a line or portion thereof, e.g. to prohibit movement of a line or portion thereof in the first direction.

The apparatus may be configured or arranged, e.g. the guide portion may be connected or connectable to the first portion, such that the axis of the apparatus may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a/the longitudinal axis of the first portion. The apparatus may be configured or arranged, e.g. the guide portion may be connected or connectable to the first portion, such that a/the longitudinal axis of the first portion may intersect the axis of the apparatus.

The second portion may be configured to receive, mount and/or support a mounting element of a line, e.g. a mounting element connected to at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus. For example, the second portion may mount a mounting element of a line, when tension on at least one end of a line is released. This may permit secure parking or holding of an end of a line, e.g. a free end of a line.

The second portion may be configured to align a mounting element connected to at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus, relative to the apparatus. The second portion may be configured to align at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus, relative to the apparatus. This may maintain a line or an end of a line, e.g. a free end of a line, in alignment relative to the apparatus. For example in cases where the line may be or comprise a chain, the configuration of the second portion may prevent misalignment or bending of parts of a chain. This may reduce strain, damage and/or wear of a line/chain. The configuration of the second portion may facilitate connection of a wire, e.g. work wire, to a line, e.g. a mounting element of a line, e.g. during a pull-in and/or tensioning process.

The apparatus may comprise a groove or recess and/or a protrusion. The groove or recess and/or protrusion may be part of or comprised in the second portion. The groove or recess and/or protrusion may be shaped for mounting and/or supporting a mounting element of a line, e.g. a mounting element connected to at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus. The groove or recess and/or protrusion may be arranged and/or shaped to cooperate with a further protrusion of a mounting element, e.g. a mounting element connected to at least one end, e.g. a free end, of a line, e.g. a line or a portion thereof, which may be received in or threaded through the apparatus, e.g. to enable mounting of a mounting element on the apparatus, e.g. the second portion.

The apparatus may comprise a first connector portion. The first connector portion may be part of or comprised in the second portion. The first connector portion may be (provided) for complementary mating with a corresponding second connector portion. The first connector portion may be part of or comprised in a subsea or underwater connector, e.g. a subsea or underwater mooring connector. The first connector portion may be moveably, e.g. rotatably or pivotably, connected or connectable to the second portion.

The second portion may be configured to connect or couple the apparatus to another line or a portion thereof e.g. a line extending from a seabed or a further structure located thereon. The second portion may be configured to be moveably, e.g. rotatably or pivotably, connected or connectable to another line or a portion thereof, e.g. a line extending from a seabed or a further structure located thereon.

The apparatus for mooring a structure may be hingedly or pivotably connected to the first portion of the connector.

It should be understood that the features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present invention or below relating to any specific embodiment of the invention may be utilised, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other aspects ofthe present invention will now be described, byway of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which:

Figure 1a Figure 1b	an exemplary representation of a mooring configuration for a structure; a further exemplary representation of a mooring configuration for a structure;
Figure 2	a representation of a step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8	a representation of an intermediate stage in the execution of the mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 10	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 11	a representation of a moored structure;
Figure 12	a representation of a step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 13	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 14	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 15	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 16	a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 18 a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19 a representation of a further step in a mooring method, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20 a representation of a moored structure;

Figure 21 a perspective view of the retention and tensioning device, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 22 a side view of a retention and tensioning device, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention; and Figure 23 a front view of the retention and tensioning device, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Referring firstly to Figure 1a, there is shown an exemplary representation of a mooring configuration for a structure, the mooring configuration generally denoted 5. The mooring configuration is representative of a wind application, i.e. mooring of a wind turbine 10. The wind turbine 10 is moored by three mooring lines 15a, 15b, 15c. A predominant direction of the wind is denoted by arrow 20. As can be seen from Figure 1a, in such a mooring configuration, a tensioner 25 may only be used in one of the mooring lines.

Similarly, Figure 1b shows a further exemplary representation of a mooring configuration for a structure, the mooring configuration generally denoted 30. The mooring configuration is representative of a wind application, i.e. mooring of a wind turbine 35. The wind turbine 35 is moored by six mooring lines 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d, 40e, 40f. A predominant direction of the wind is denoted by arrow 45. As can be seen from Figure 1b, in such a mooring configuration, tensioners 50a, 50b may only be used in two of the mooring lines.

Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a representation of a first step in a mooring method, generally denoted 55, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 55 comprises installing a subsea anchor 60. In the embodiment shown, the anchor 60 is a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA). One would appreciate that in other embodiments encompassing the inventive concept of the present invention, the anchor 60 may be, or may comprise, a pile, such as a suction pile or the like. In the embodiment shown, the anchor 60 is installed on a seabed 65 by a pile vessel 70. The anchor 60 is adapted for use on the seabed 65. The step 55 of installing the subsea anchor 60 comprises a step of driving the anchor into the seabed 65 by means of a pile 75. Further, the step 55 of installing the subsea anchor 60 comprises a step of removing the pile 75, as can be seen with reference to Figure 3. An ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) 80 may be used to adapt or configure the pile75 and/or anchor 60 as required during the installation step 55.

Referring to Figure 3, there is shown a representation of a second step in a mooring method, generally denoted 85, according to a first embodiment ofthe present invention. The step 85 comprises providing a buoyant structure 90. The buoyant structure 90 is a structure to be moored. The structure 90 is a wind turbine. One would appreciate that in other embodiments encompassing the inventive concept of the present invention, the buoyant structure 90 may be a ship, a rig, a floating platform, a portion of a wind turbine, a buoy, such as a submersible buoy, a semisubmersible buoy, a submerged turret production buoy, a submerged turret loading buoy or the like. One would appreciate that numerous wind turbine configurations are possible, such as fully installed, or just a floating pedestal. The anchor 60 can be seen embedded in the seabed 65. The anchor is connected to a second portion 100a of a connector, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 21 to 23. The second portion 100a is connected to the anchor by means of a chain 105. The second portion 105a is located within a holder 110. The holder 110 holds the second portion 100a at a substantially vertical disposition.

Referring to Figure 4, there is shown a representation of a third step in a mooring method, generally denoted 115, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 115 comprises lowering a mooring line 120 and a device 125 from the vessel 70. The device 125 comprises a first portion 100b of the connector. The first portion ofthe connector comprises a male connector portion 101b. The second portion 100a of the connector comprises a female connector portion 101a. The first portion 100b of the connector is positioned at a distal end of the device 125. Notably, the device 125 is loaded with a portion of the mooring line 120 before it is lowered into the body of water.

Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a representation of a fourth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 130, according to a first embodiment ofthe present invention. The step 130 comprises retaining the first portion 100b of the connector by the second portion 100a of the connector. The first portion of the connector comprises a male connector portion. The male connector portion 101b is shown inserted vertically into the female connector portion 101a. The ROV 80 is used to mate the first and second connection portions 100a, 100b by inserting a pin 405 (shown in Figure 22).

Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a representation of a fifth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 140, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 140 comprises raising the device 125 and the mooring line 120 assembly within the body of water. The raising of the device 125 and the mooring line 120 Is achieved by relocating the vessel 70 to which the mooring line 120 is attached. However, one would appreciate that in other embodiments encompassing the inventive concept of the present invention, the raising of the device 125 may be achieved by applying a pulling force to the mooring line 120 by winching the mooring line 120 onto the vessel 70.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, wherein the anchor 60 is a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA), the step 140 of raising the device 125 and the mooring line 120 within the body of water detaches the second connector 100a from the holder 110.

Referring to Figure 7, there is shown a representation of a sixth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 140, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 140 comprises attaching a second portion of the mooring line 120to the buoyant structure 90. The mooring line 120 is attached to the buoyant structure by means of a connector apparatus 155a, 155b. A first portion 155a of the mooring line connector apparatus 155a, 155b comprises means for connecting to the mooring line 120. One would appreciate that the first portion 155a of the mooring line connector 155a, 155b may comprise a universal joint, or the like. That is, the first portion 155a of the mooring line connector 155a, 155b allows rotational movement around or about a transverse axis of the first portion 155a of the mooring line connector 155a, 155b with respect to the mooring line 120. The second portion 155b of the mooring line connector 155a, 155b comprises means for connecting to the structure 90 allowing rotational movement around or about a transverse axis of the second portion 155b of the mooring line connector 155a, 155b with respect to the structure 90.

Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a representation of an intermediate stage, generally denoted 160, in the execution of the mooring method. The mooring line 120 is connected to the anchor 65 and the structure 90.

Referring to Figure 9, there is shown a representation of an eighth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 170, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 170 comprises connecting a first portion of the mooring line 120a to a third line 175. The first portion of the mooring line 120a may comprise a mounting element (not shown). The mounting element may be configured to permit connecting of the first portion of the mooring line 120a to the third line 175. One would appreciate that at least a portion of the third line 175 may be a chain, wire, rope, or the like, or may comprise at least in part a polymeric material, e.g. polyester, or the like. The ROV 80 performs the operation of connecting the first portion of the mooring line 120a to the third line 175.

Referring to Figure 10 there is shown a representation of a ninth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 180, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 180 comprises applying a tension to the third line 175. As such, the step 180 applies a tension to the mooring line 120. Tension is applied to the third line 175 and the mooring line 120 by means of a winch, motor, pulley or the like located on the vessel 70. The step 180 may also comprise a step of adapting the device 125 such that a line engaging device restrict or inhibits movement of at least a portion of the mooring line 120 relative to the device 125 in a first direction, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 21,22 and 23.

Referring to Figure 11 there is shown a representation, generally denoted 190 of the moored structure 90, following completion of the aforementioned steps. It will be appreciated that the method may comprise a step of removing a portion of the mooring line 120, such as the first portion 120a of the mooring line 120. The removal may be by means of cutting or the like, by means of the ROV or by use of one or more divers. One would also appreciate that in other embodiments encompassing the inventive concept of the present invention, the method may comprise a step of attaching a portion of the mooring line 120, such as the first portion of the mooring line 120a, to a floatation device (not shown), such as a buoy or the like.

Referring now to Figure 12, there is shown a representation of a first step in a mooring method, generally denoted 200, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 200 comprises installing a SEPLA 60’. The step corresponds to the first step 50 of the first in the mooring method according to the first embodiment as shown in Figure 2.

Referring to Figure 13 there is shown a representation of a second step in a mooring method, generally denoted 205, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 205 comprises attaching a second portion of the mooring line 120’ to a buoyant structure 90’. The mooring line 120’ is attached to the buoyant structure by means of a connector apparatus 155a’, 155b’. A first portion 155a’ of the mooring line connector apparatus 155a’, 155b’ comprises means for connecting to the mooring line 120’. One would appreciate that the first portion 155a’ of the mooring line connector 155a’, 155b’ may comprise a universal joint, or the like. That is, the first portion 155a’ of the mooring line connector 155a’, 155b’ allows rotational movement around or about a transverse axis of the first portion 155a’ of the mooring line connector 155a’, 155b’ with respect to the mooring line 120’. The second portion 155b’ of the mooring line connector 155a’, 155b’ comprises means for connecting to the structure 90’ allowing rotational movement around or about a transverse axis of the second portion 155b’ of the mooring line connector 155a’, 155b’ with respect to the structure 90’. The step 205 shown in Figure 13 is similar to the step 150 shown in Figure 7, with an exception that in Figure 13 the mooring line 120’ is connected to the vessel 70’, whereas in Figure 7 the mooring line 120 is connected to the subsea anchor 60, as described with reference to Figures 2 to 6.

Referring to Figure 14 there is shown a representation of a third step in a mooring method, generally denoted 210, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 210 comprises lowering a further line 215 and a device 125’ from the vessel 70’. One would appreciate that in a variant of the second embodiment that encompasses the inventive concept the present invention, the mooring line 120’ is also extended/lowered in conjunction with the lowering of further line 215, such that the device 125’ is lowered in the body of water. Alternatively, the mooring line 120 may feed through a connection, hook, loop of the like of the device 125’, such that only the further line 215 is a portion of the mooring line 120’. The device 125’ comprises a first portion 100b’ of the connector. The first portion of the connector comprises a male connector portion 101b’. The second portion 100a’ of the connector comprises a female connector portion 101a’. The first portion 100b’ of the connector is positioned at a distal end of the device 125’. Notably, the device 125’ is loaded with a portion of the mooring line 120’ before it is lowered into the body of water.

Referring to Figure 15, there is shown a representation of a fourth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 220, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 220 comprises retaining the first portion 100b’ of the connector by the second portion 100a’ of the connector. The first portion of the connector comprises a male connector portion. The male connector portion 101b’ is shown inserted vertically into the female connector portion 101a’. The ROV 80’ is used to mate release the first and second connection portions 100a, 100b by inserting a pin 405 (see Figure 22).

Referring to Figure 16, there is shown a representation of a fifth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 230, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 230 comprises raising the device 125’ within the body of water. The raising of the device 125’ and/or the line 215’ is achieved by relocating the vessel 70’ to which the line 215’ is attached. However, one would appreciate that in other embodiments encompassing the inventive concept of the present invention, the raising of the device 125’ may be achieved by applying a pulling force to the mooring line 120’ by winching the mooring line 120’ onto the structure 90’.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, wherein the anchor 60’ is a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA), the step 230 of raising the device 125’ and the mooring line 120’ and the line 215 within the body of water detaches the second connector 100a’ from the holder 110’.

Referring to Figure 17, there is shown a representation of an intermediate stage, generally denoted 240, in the execution of the mooring method. The mooring line 120’ is connected to the anchor 65’ and the structure 90’. The line 215 (as shown in Figure 16) has been removed. One would appreciate that steps to remove line 215 may have included using the ROV 80’ to detach the line 215 from the mooring line 120’ or the device 125’, and winching or pulling the line 215 onto the vessel 70’.

Referring to Figure 18, there is shown a representation of an seventh step in a mooring method, generally denoted 250, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The step 250 comprises connecting a first portion of the mooring line 120a’ to a line 255. The first portion of the mooring line 120a’ may comprise a mounting element (not shown). The mounting element may be configured to permit connecting of the first portion of the mooring line 120a’ to the line 255. One would appreciate that at least a portion of the line 255 may be a chain, wire, rope, or the like, or may comprise at least in part a polymeric material, e.g. polyester, or the like. The ROV 80’ performs the operation of connecting the first portion of the mooring line 120a’ to the line 255.

Referring to Figure 19 there is shown a representation of an eighth step in a mooring method, generally denoted 260, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The step 260 comprises applying a tension to the line 255. As such, the step 260 applies a tension to the mooring line 120’. Tension is applied to the line 255 and the mooring line 120’ by means of a winch, motor, pulley or the like located on the vessel 70’. The step 260 may also comprise a step of adapting the device 125’ such that a line engaging device restrict or inhibits movement of at least a portion of the mooring line 120’ relative to the device 125’ in a first direction, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 21,22 and 23.

Referring to Figure 20 there is shown a representation, generally denoted 270 of the moored structure 90’, following completion of the aforementioned steps. It will be appreciated that the method may comprise a step of removing or retaining an excess portion of the mooring line 120’, as already described with reference to Figure 11.

Referring to Figure 21, there is shown a perspective view of the retention and tensioning device, generally denoted 300, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention. The device comprises a first portion of a connector 305. The connector comprises the first portion 305, a second portion 310 and a means for connecting the first portion 305 and the second portion 310, and a means for rotationally aligning the first portion 305 with the second portion 310, as will now be described.

The first portion 305 is adapted to be connected to a respective line, such as a respective mooring line 315 (shown in Figure 22). The second portion 310 is adapted to sit in a cradle 320.

The means for rotationally aligning the first and second portions 305, 310 comprises means provided on the first and second portions 305, 310. The means for rotationally aligning comprises a first alignment member 325 at least partly spanning across an internal bore 330 of the second portion 310. The first alignment member 325 is transverse to the bore 330 with respect to a longitudinal axis of the second portion 310. The first portion 305 comprises a male part 370. The second portion 310 comprises a female part. The means for connecting comprises means for releasably connecting. The first and second means co-act, in use, when the first 305 and second 310 portions are mated.

The first means comprises a first surface 340. The second means comprises a second surface (not shown). The first surface 340 and the second surface abut one another and may rotate with respect to one another around a longitudinal axis when the first 305 and second 310 portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.

The first means comprises first and second prongs 350a, 350b. The first and second prongs 350a, 350b are diametrically opposite one another. A recess portion 355 is provided between the first and second prongs 350a, 350b.

The male part 370 may comprise a cylindrical mid-portion 360. The female part 375 may comprise a cylindrical bore 330. The cylindrical portion 360 is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

The second means comprise the alignment member 325, which is an elongate bar. The alignment member 325 diametrically spans the bore 30. The alignment member 325 comprises an upper facing curved surface (not shown). One would appreciate that the alignment member 325 may be a bolt, or other substantially cylindrical element.

In use, insertion of the male part 370 into the female part 375 may cause the first means and second means to rotationally co-act or ride over one another, thereby relatively (longitudinally) rotating the male part 370 and the female part 375 into a preselected or pre-determined rotational disposition.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 21, the first prong 350a and second prong 350b provide a first surface. Each prong comprises one a first chamfered and sloping surface and a second chamfered and sloping surface, disposed symmetrically with the first side surface. A flat planar surface 380 tapers outwards towards an end of the prong. A first side surface of the first prong 350a is continuous with a first side surface of the second prong 350b. A second side surface of a first prong 250a is continuous with a second side surface 350b of the second prong.

The alignment member 325 provides the second surface, which comprises an outer surface thereof, e.g. said outer (upper) facing curved surface.

Once in a pre-selected rotational disposition, the first and second prongs 350a, 350b are disposed on respective first and second sides of the elongate member 325. A portion of the male part 370 between the prongs 350a, 350b, e.g. base of the slot portion, is adjacent to the alignment member 325.

The means for connecting the first portion 305 and the second portion 310 comprises a first aperture 390 in the male part 370, e.g. diametrically and width-wise spanning the cylindrical portion 360 of the male part 370.

The means for connecting the first portion 305 and the second portion 310 comprises a pair of diametrically opposed apertures 395 in the female part 375.

The means for connecting the first portion 305 and the second portion 310 comprises a pin 405, e.g. a load (bearing) pin 405, removably receivable within the first 390 and second 395 apertures, when such are aligned.

The retention and tensioning device of Figure 21 will now be described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. In Figure 22, there is shown a side view of the retention and tensioning device of Figure 21, generally denoted 400, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention. In Figure 22, the first connector portion 305 and the second connector portion 310 are shown mated. Further, the device 400 is loaded with a portion of a mooring line 315. In Figure 23, there is shown a front view of the device of Figure 21, also generally denoted 400, according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention. In Figure 22, the first connector portion 305 and the second connector portion 310 are shown mated. For purposes of clarity, the mooring line 315 is omitted from Figure 23.

The device comprise a first portion 410, e.g. for receiving the portion of the mooring line 315 extending from a structure.

The device comprises a guide portion 415 for guiding the portion of the line 315 received by the first portion 410. The guide portion 415 is rotatably connected to the first portion 410.

The device 400 comprises a second portion 430 for connecting the device 400 to a further structure, as described above with reference to Figure 21.

The apparatus comprises an axis X. The first portion 410, the second portion 430 and the guide portion 415 are arranged to be rotatable around the axis X of the device 400. In other words, the first portion 410, the guide portion 415 and the second portion 430 are coaxially arranged relative to each other. The coaxial arrangement of the first portion 410, guide portion 415 and the second portion 430 permits the first portion 410, guide portion 415 and second portion 430 to be aligned relative to each other during pull-in and/or tensioning the line 315

The device 400 comprises a line engaging device 450. In the embodiment shown, the line 315 is a chain. The line engaging device 450 comprises a means for engaging a chain 315. The line engaging device 450 may be configured to permit movement of the line 315, in a first direction 455 relative to the device 400, e.g. in a direction towards the guide portion 315. The line engaging device 450 may be configured to prohibit movement of the line 315. The line engaging device 450 is movably connected to the first portion 410. That is, the line engaging device 450 is connected to the first portion 410 so that the line engaging device 450 is pivotable, relative to the first portion 410. The guide portion 415 is connected or connectable to the first portion 410, such that the axis X of the device 400 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first portion 410.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the present invention herebefore described are given by way of example only and are not meant to limit the scope of thereof in any way

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention provide benefits over the prior art.

08 17

Claims

1. A method of installing a mooring line or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of:

5 providing a mooring line;

providing a retention and tensioning device comprising a first portion of a connector, the first portion of the connector adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in the mooring

10 line; and loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the mooring line is an end portion of the mooring line.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the step of loading of the device with a first portion of the mooring line comprises retainably loading the device with a first portion of the mooring line.

20

4. The method of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a portion of the mooring line comprises a chain.

5. The method of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the method comprises a step of providing, or installing, a subsea anchor.

6. The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the anchor is, or comprises, a pile.

7. The method of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the anchor is a Suction Embedded Plate Anchor (SEPLA).

8. The method of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises a step of providing a buoyant structure to be moored.

9. The method of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the method comprises a step of 35 lowering the mooring line assembly within a body of water.

01 08 17

10. The method of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the method comprises the step of lowering the mooring line and/or the device from a vessel and/or a first line.

5

11. The method of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the method comprises the step of extending the mooring line and/or the first line from the vessel.

12. The method of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method comprises a step of retaining the first portion of the connector by the second portion of the connector.

13. The method of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first portion ofthe connector is positioned at a distal end of the device.

14. The method of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first portion of the connector 15 comprises a first connector portion and wherein the subsea anchor comprises a second connector portion, which is adapted to mate with the first connector portion.

15. The method of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the second connector portion is provided on one end of a second line, another end of the second line being connected

20 to the anchor.

16. The method of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the second connector is provided on, or comprises, at least one single axis joint or a dual axis joint.

25

17. The method of any of claims 1 to 16, wherein a holder is provided on the anchor to releasably hold the female connector portion in a vertical disposition.

18. The method of any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the method comprises a step of raising and/or laterally moving the device and/or the mooring line assembly within a

30 body of water.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly is achieved by applying a pulling force, directly or indirectly, to the mooring line and/or the mooring line assembly.

01 08 17

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein the raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly is achieved by hauling in or winching the mooring line onto/into a vessel, or otherwise applying a tension to the mooring line.

5

21. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein the raising of the device and/or the mooring line assembly is achieved by relocating the vessel to which the mooring line and/or first and/or second line is directly or indirectly attached.

22. The method of any of claims 18 to 21, wherein the step of raising the device 10 and/or the mooring line assembly within a body of water detaches the second connector from a docking station, cradle, or the like.

23. The method of any of claims 1 to 22, wherein the method comprises a step of directly or indirectly attaching a second portion of the mooring line to the buoyant

15 structure.

24. The method of any of claims 1 to 23, wherein the method comprises a step of connecting the first portion of the mooring line to a third line.

20 25. The method of any of claims 1 to 24, wherein the first portion of the mooring line comprises a mounting element.

26. The method of any of claims 1 to 25, wherein the mounting element is configured to permit connecting of the mounting element and/or the first portion of the

25 mooring line to the third line.

27. The method of any of claims 1 to 26, wherein at least a portion of the third line is a chain.

30

28. The method of any of claims 1 to 27, wherein the method comprises a step of applying a tension, directly or indirectly, to the third line and/or the mooring line by means of a winch, motor or pulley located on the vessel.

01 08 17

29. The method of any of claims 1 to 28, wherein the method comprises a step of adapting the device such that a line engaging device restrict or inhibits movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction.

5 30. The method of any of claims 1 to 29, wherein the device is adapted to automatically, or semi-automatically, restrict or inhibit movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction.

31. The method of any of claims 1 to 30, wherein the method comprises a step of 10 locking or adapting the device to restrict or inhibit movement of at least a portion of the mooring line relative to the device in a first direction.

32. The method of any of claims 1 to 31, wherein the first direction is a direction away from the device.

33. The method of any of claims 1 to 32, wherein the device is adapted to permit uni-directional movement of the mooring line through and/or around or about the device.

20 34. The method of any of claims 1 to 33, wherein the method comprises a step of removing a portion of the mooring line by means of cutting.

35. The method of any of claims 1 to 34, wherein the method comprises a step of detaching the first, second or third line from the device and/or the mooring line

25 assembly.

36. A method of installing a mooring line or mooring line assembly comprising the steps of:

providing a first line;

30 providing a retention and tensioning device comprising a first portion of a connector, the first portion of the connector adapted to be retained by a second portion of the connector and the device adapted to apply and/or maintain a tension in a mooring line; and connecting the device to the first line.

01 08 17

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the step of connecting the device to the first line comprises directly or indirectly connecting the device to the first line.

5 38. The method of claim 36 or 37, wherein the method comprises the step of loading, such as retainably loading, the device with a portion of the mooring line.

39. The method of any of claims 36 to 38, wherein the indirect connection of the device to the first line is via the mooring line.

40. A subsea connector for use in the method of claims 1 to 39, wherein the connector comprises the first portion and a second portion, means for connecting the first portion and the second portion, and means for rotationally aligning the first portion with the second portion.

41. The connector of claim 40, wherein the first and/or second portions is adapted to be connected to a respective line, such as a respective mooring line or chain.

42. The connector of claim 40 or 41, wherein the second portion is adapted to sit in, 20 be received by, and/or releasably retained in or by, a cradle.

43. The connector of any of claims 40 to 42, wherein the means for rotationally aligning the first and second portion comprises means carried by or provided on the first and/or second portion.

44. The connector of any of claims 40 to 43, wherein the means for rotationally aligning comprises a first alignment member at least partly spanning across a bore, such as an internal bore, of the first or second portion.

30 45. The connector claims 44, wherein the first alignment member is partially transverse to the bore with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first or second portion.

46. The connector of any of claims 40 to 45, wherein the means for rotationally aligning comprises a second alignment member, such as a rotational alignment

35 member, provided by the other of the first or second portion.

01 08 17

47. The connector of claim 46, wherein the first and second alignment members coact when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

5 48. The connector of any of claims 40 to 47, wherein the first portion comprises a male part and the second portion comprises a female part.

49. The connector of any of claims 40 to 48, wherein the means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion comprises first and second means

10 carried by, or provided on, the first and second portions, respectively.

50. The connector of any of claims 46 to 49, wherein the first and second means comprise the first and second alignment members, respectively.

15 51. The connector of any of claims 40 to 50, wherein the first and second means co-act in use, when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

52. The connector of any of claims 40 to 51, wherein the first means comprises at least one first surface, the second means comprises at least one second surface, and

20 at least one first surface(s) and a second surface abut one another and/or rotate with respect to one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.

53. The connector of any of claims 40 to 52, wherein the first means comprise first

25 and second prongs or teeth.

54. The connector of claim 53, wherein the first and second prongs or teeth are diametrically or width-wise opposite one another.

30 55. The connector of claim 53 or 11543, wherein a slot or recess portion is provided between the first and second prongs or teeth.

56. The connector of any of claims 48 to 55, wherein the male part comprise a cylindrical portion and the female part comprises a bore, within which the cylindrical

35 portion is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

01 08 17

57. The connector of any of claims 48 to 56, wherein the second means comprises an elongate or cross member or alignment bar, and wherein the elongate member at least partly spans the female part.

58. The connector of any of claims 48 to 57, wherein, in use, insertion of the male part into the female part causes the first means and second means to rotationally coact or ride over one another, thereby relatively rotating the male part and the female part into a pre-selected or pre-determined rotational disposition.

59. The connector of any of claims 53 to 58, wherein the/each prong or teeth/tooth comprises one or more of:

a first chamfered, sloping or angled side surface; a second chamfered, sloping or angled side surface;

15 a flat/planar inner surface which comprises a surface of the slot; and a curved outer surface.

60. The connector of any of claims 53 to 59, wherein a first side surface of a first tooth is continuous with a first side surface of a second tooth and/or a second side

20 surface of a first tooth is continuous with a second side surface of the second tooth.

61. The connector of any of claims 57 to 60, wherein the elongate member provide the at least second surface, which comprises an outer surface thereof.

25 62. The connector of any of claims 57 to 61, wherein, once in the pre-selected rotational disposition, the first and second prongs are disposed on respective first and second sides of the elongate member.

63. The connector of any of claims 48 to 62, wherein the means for connecting the

30 first portion and the second portion comprises a first aperture in the male part diametrically or width-wise spanning the cylindrical portion of the male part and at least one second aperture in the female part.

64. The connector of any of claims 40 to 63, wherein the means for connecting the first portion and the second portion comprises a pin removably receivable within the first and second apertures when such are aligned.

5 65. The connector of claim 64, wherein, in use, a remotely operated vehicle is used to mate and/or release the first and second parts and/or to insert and/or remove the pin.

01 08 17

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB1707671.2 Examiner: Chris Bennett