Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16G—BELTS, CABLES, OR ROPES, PREDOMINANTLY USED FOR DRIVING PURPOSES; CHAINS; FITTINGS PREDOMINANTLY USED THEREFOR
  • F16G11/00—Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes
  • F16G11/04—Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes with wedging action, e.g. friction clamps
  • F16G11/044—Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes with wedging action, e.g. friction clamps friction clamps deforming the cable, wire, rope or cord
  • F16G11/048—Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes with wedging action, e.g. friction clamps friction clamps deforming the cable, wire, rope or cord by moving a surface into the cable
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
  • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
  • B63B21/00—Tying-up; Shifting, towing, or pushing equipment; Anchoring
  • B63B21/04—Fastening or guiding equipment for chains, ropes, hawsers, or the like
  • B63B21/08—Clamping devices

Definitions

• the invention relates to the technical field of systems for blocking and unlocking a slender, substantially circular element, such as a cable or a rope.
• the main area of application is mooring of floating systems. More precisely, the main area of application concerns offshore energy production systems, including the anchoring of floats for wind turbines, “Oil and Gas” floats, floating photovoltaics, systems wave energy, floating substations, generation of energy vectors such as hydrogen or ammonia.
• the system can also be used in all areas requiring synthetic ropes to be held in position (aquaculture, sailing transport, fishing, lifting systems, boating, etc.)
• the slender element to be blocked can be a metal or synthetic cable, or a rope.
• Locking and unblocking systems are generally used in the field of boating, or in the field of anchoring or mooring boats or floating platforms, such as oil platforms or floating supports for wind turbines.
• the invention is more particularly intended for anchoring offshore oil platforms or for anchoring floating wind turbines.
• the anchor lines of a floating support have the main function of holding the support in position when the latter is subjected to the forces of wind, current and swell.
• a floating support such as a wind or oil platform
• anchor families for example, “single point mooring”: anchoring at a single point and “spread mooring”: multi-point anchoring
• anchor types which range from more or less anchoring taut (for example, “taut”: taut and “semi-taut mooring”: semi-tensioned anchor) to the catenary anchor.
• Anchor lines are made of chains, or metal cables, particularly steel, or synthetic cables or a combination of chains and cables.
• the choice of anchor type and material depends on the site (environmental conditions and water depth) and the function of the floating support (oil production, oil drilling, wind turbines, etc.).
• Anchor lines are subject to significant stress linked in particular to wind, current and swell. These stresses can generate risks of fatigue failure. anchor lines. In addition, these natural phenomena cause the floating support to move. Consequently, the anchor lines must have good resistance to induced forces and must allow limited movement of the floating support.
• the tensions in the anchor lines of such wind or oil platforms are very high (for example, of the order of 5,000 kN for a floating wind turbine with tensioned lines and of the order of 1,500 kN for a wind turbine floating catenary lines) and are not comparable to the tension values of cables or ropes encountered in boating (to hoist and adjust the sails of a sailboat for example), of the order of 35 to 40 kN in boating, or in escalation, which are much weaker.
• anchor lines can only be installed or replaced using heavy and expensive means. For example, to install or replace three anchor lines of a floating platform for a wind turbine and/or the associated blocking and unblocking systems, you need at least three large boats (one per line) whose daily rental is expensive . In addition, the installation and replacement of these anchor lines and/or blocking and unblocking systems can only be carried out during favorable weather conditions (low swell, low wind in particular). Therefore, to install or replace anchor lines, it is necessary to plan for a significant intervention time, significant and expensive resources and favorable weather conditions. In addition, it may be necessary to anticipate these installations and replacements to avoid interventions during periods of unfavorable weather conditions over a long period, particularly in winter. Thus, it is easy to understand that for this type of platform, the lifespan of the cables and the blocking and unlocking systems is essential and any wear must therefore be avoided. Additionally, installation should be quick and simplified as much as possible.
• splicing which consists of making a terminal loop at the end of the cable by passing it back into itself (“bury” type splice) or re-braiding it with itself ( “tuck” type splice). We can then attach different hanging systems to this splice.
• the splice does not allow adjustment of the length at the time of installation and a fortiori a modification of this adjustment over time.
• jaw locking systems such as that of patent application FR 3,001,517. This system consists of crushing the cable in the jaws over a short length of the cable, that is to say that the section of the cable changes from a substantially circular section to an oval and/or flattened section when it is crushed. This leads to rapid wear of the cable.
• blocking systems which consist of blocking the cable by placing it in a sheath which compresses the cable when this sheath is put under tension.
• Patent application WO 2012/172,272 (US 2014/223,967) relates to such a system.
• the system allows effective blocking.
• abnormal wear of the cable and/or sheath is noted because the cable may move slightly in the sheath, which causes friction between the sheath and the cable.
• the free end of the sheath (the one which is not anchored to the support) is only held in tension by the elastic tension cord, itself fixed to the sheath at a single point. It is not attached to the cable.
• the tension applied by the rope to the sheath at a single point therefore does not generate a uniform tension at this end of the sheath.
• the free end of the sheath is placed in an end piece secured to a spring which allows it to be kept in tension. In this case, the sheath cannot contract in this end and therefore cannot tighten on the cable at this end.
• the technical problem of the invention consists of designing a blocking and unlocking system for a slender element which allows adjustment both at the time of installation and after installation, including when the slender element to be blocked is under pressure.
• the blocking and unlocking system must be capable of blocking the slender element subjected to very high tensions, as is the case on the anchoring lines of floating wind turbines or oil platforms, by limiting the wear of the cable and the blocking and unlocking system to increase their lifespan and avoid any need to replace the slender element and/or the blocking and unlocking system over the entire life of the platform.
• the invention relates to a system for blocking and unlocking a slender, substantially circular element on a support comprising:
• - a substantially tubular envelope and formed by a sheath or by a structure, said envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end, the first and second orifices allowing the insertion and exit of the elongated element into the envelope,
• first fixing element capable of being fixed on the support, the first fixing element being fixed to the envelope at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the slender element
• a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fixing element and the second fixing element, so as to exert a tension force on the envelope, and thus a constriction of the envelope on the elongated element.
• the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement leading to the reduction of the diameter of the envelope on the elongated element at the level of the second end and thus its tightening.
• the invention relates to a system for blocking and unlocking a slender, substantially circular element on a support comprising:
• - a substantially tubular envelope and formed by a sheath or by a structure, said envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at said first end and a second orifice at said second end, said first and second orifices allowing the insertion and exit of said elongated element into the envelope,
• first fixing element capable of being fixed on said support, the first fixing element being fixed to said envelope at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the element slender,
• the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement causing the envelope to be tightened on the elongated element at the second end.
• the second fixing element comprises an external part enclosing a coaxial male body and a female body of the same axis and a movement device for moving along the axis of said male body and said female body, one of the male or female body towards the other of the male or female bodies, said male body comprising an external surface inclined relative to the axis and an internal surface allowing the passage of the elongated element, said female body comprising an internal surface conical whose angle is substantially equal to the angle of the inclined external surface of said male body relative to said axis, said male body advantageously comprising at least three independent parts so that the axial movement exerted by said displacement device causes a radial movement of said at least three independent parts so as to tighten said envelope on said elongated element near said second end.
• said internal surface of the male body comprises at least one convex curved portion.
• the movement device comprises a screw thread system, preferably a screw, a nut, capable of engaging in a thread or tapping of the external part.
• said movement device is designed to allow the movement of the female body towards the male body so that the male body only moves radially.
• the second fixing element comprises two annular parts connected together by strips curved towards said envelope, the second fixing element comprising a movement means for increasing or reducing the distance between the annular parts .
• said spacing means comprises a spring and/or a cylinder, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric cylinder.
• the second fixing element comprises a return means for the movement in a second movement, preferably opposite to said first movement, of one of the bodies relative to the other, said second movement causing the loosening of the envelope on the slender element.
• the system comprises a translation guide means for guiding the movement of the second fixing element, preferably, the guide means comprises a part with dovetail-shaped machining, the second fixing element comprising a extension whose shape is complementary to the dovetail.
• the envelope is fixed on the second fixing element.
• the envelope is a woven or braided or non-woven sheath comprising metal fibers and/or very high molecular weight polyethylene or aramid fibers.
• the envelope comprises a structure comprising at least one layer of wound armor, preferably in helical form.
• said second fixing element comprises a stopping device to limit the relative movement between said at least two bodies moving relative to each other.
• the invention also relates to a method of blocking and unlocking a slender element by a blocking and unlocking system as described above, in which, for blocking, at least the following steps are carried out: a) the elongated element in the system from one of said first or second orifices towards the other of said first and second orifices up to a blocking position, and preferably, tension is exerted on the elongated element, b) once the position blocking of the determined elongated element,
• the second fixing element is moved away from said first fixing element so as to exert tension on the envelope and then the second fixing element is blocked on the slender element by moving one of said at least two bodies in a first movement relative to the other, or
• the second fixing element is blocked on the elongated element by moving in a first movement one of said at least two bodies relative to the other, then the second fixing element is moved away from said first fixing element so as to exert tension on the envelope, c) if tension on the elongated element has been exerted, the tension is released on the elongated element and to unlock,
• the second fixing element is brought closer to said first fixing element so as to release the tension on the envelope then the second fixing element is released from the slender element by moving in a second movement, preferably opposite to the first movement, one of said at least two bodies relative to the other, or
• the second fixing element of the slender element is unlocked by moving in a second movement, preferably opposite to the first movement, one of said at least two bodies relative to the other then the second fixing element is brought closer to said first fixing element so as to release the tension on the envelope.
• said support is a floating platform and, before carrying out step b) for blocking, the floating platform is ballasted to increase its draft, and after step b), the floating platform is unballasted.
• Figure 1 represents a TLP type float (“Tension Leg Platform” in English meaning tensioned line platform) equipped with anchoring lines and blocking and unlocking systems according to the invention.
• Figure 2 represents a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention, in place on a cable.
• Figure 3 represents the operation of an example of a second fixing element of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 4 represents an example of the male body of a second fixing element of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 5 represents a 3D view of one embodiment of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 6 represents a male body in several parts according to a first variant of a second fixing element of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 7 represents the operating principle of a first variant of a second fixing element of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 8 represents an example of a first fixing element of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 9 represents a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention with the first variant of the second fixing element in the blocked position (a) and in the unlocked position (b).
• Figure 10 represents a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention with a spacing means.
• Figure 11 illustrates a partial view of the first variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 12 represents a sectional view of a second variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 13 represents a 3D view of a male body in a single independent part of the second variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 14 represents a sectional view of a third variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 15 represents a partial 3D view of the third variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• the invention relates to a system for blocking and unlocking a slender element on a support.
• the slender element can be a cable, metallic or synthetic, or a rope.
• the system of the invention is particularly suitable for synthetic cables because this type of cable includes more space between the fibers and/or strands and therefore they can be better subjected to constriction. Furthermore, the friction effects of this type of cable are greater than those of metal cables, which improves blocking.
• the blocking and unlocking system can advantageously include the slender element.
• the elongated element can be of “substantially circular” section.
• substantially circular we mean that it has an overall circular section but due to the potential presence of strands, it may have an external periphery that is not perfectly circular.
• the support can be a floating platform (oil, gas, wind, a boat for example), a person for climbing, a fixed structure for a lifting element, etc.
• the blocking and unblocking system includes:
• - a substantially tubular envelope and formed by a sheath or by a structure, the envelope comprising an interior volume and first and second ends, the envelope comprising a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end, the first and second orifices allowing the insertion and exit of the elongated element into the envelope,
• first fixing element capable of being fixed on the support, the first fixing element being fixed to the envelope at or near the first end, the first fixing element comprising a first opening for the passage of the slender element, this first fixing element allowing a connection (fixing) to the support and the resumption of tension forces
• the second fixing element surrounds the envelope while being secured to the exterior surface of the envelope at or near the second end
• a spacing means for increasing the distance between the first fixing element and the second fixing element, so as to exert a tension force on the envelope, a reduction in the diameter of the envelope and thus a constriction (a tightening) of the envelope on the slender element.
• the envelope exerts a constricting force on the slender element when the envelope is put under axial tension.
• the spacing means can be a spring or a cylinder.
• this spacing means can be achieved by a ballasting/deballasting means. Indeed, on a platform ballasted by the ballasting/deballasting means, the second fixing element can be blocked and at the time of deballasting by this same ballast/deballasting means, the first fixing element can go up with the platform (because it is fixed on the platform) and thus moves away from the second fixing element. Thus, it tightens the slender element by constriction.
• sheath is meant a material and/or a flexible and easily deformable (extensible) textile structure, preferably a woven or braided textile.
• the material and/or the textile structure is sufficiently deformable so that tension on the sheath causes a deformation of the material and/or the textile structure making it possible to reduce the diameter of the envelope and therefore to tighten the slender element. It is therefore advantageously the properties of the material and/or the structure which allow the tightening of the sheath on the slender element.
• the notions of “flexible” and “easily deformable” are understood in relation to the elongated element: in other words, the sheath is more flexible and more easily deformable than the elongated element.
• a deformable structure for example a layer of armor wrapped around the slender element.
• the armor ply is advantageously made of metallic material which deforms little, in itself, under the effect of tension. So here, it is through the shape of the helical structure that the envelope tightens on the slender element under the effect of tension. Indeed, by applying a longitudinal tension force on the sheet of helical armor, the diameter of the armor layer is reduced and therefore makes it possible to tighten the slender element.
• the envelope is deformable, that is to say that it has deformation capacities, in particular constriction (diameter reduction), greater than those of the slender element to allow the latter to be tightened.
• the envelope is substantially tubular because its section is between a coaxial external diameter and an internal diameter.
• the deformed envelope may no longer be perfectly tubular.
• the “substantially tubular” nature is understood at rest, that is to say without tension on the envelope.
• the envelope includes an interior volume and first and second ends (for example, the first end may be called an “upstream end” and the second end may be called a “downstream end”).
• first end may be called an “upstream end” and the second end may be called a “downstream end”.
• downstream end the first end may be called an “upstream end” and the second end may be called a “downstream end”.
• the interior volume differs between the rest position (without tension on the envelope) and the operating position where a tension is applied to the envelope and where the interior volume is therefore reduced due to the constriction of the envelope.
• the envelope is substantially elongated between its first and second ends, meaning that its length along the axis is the main (longest) dimension of the envelope.
• length we mean the length taken between the two ends of the envelope, with the envelope in the rest position and substantially rectilinear.
• the envelope comprises a first orifice at the first end and a second orifice at the second end for the insertion and exit of the elongated element into the envelope.
• these orifices have diameters greater than or equal to the external diameter of the slender element, when the envelope is in the rest position.
• the first and second orifices allow the passage of the elongated element into the envelope.
• the slender element can then be placed in the interior volume of the envelope, between its two ends. In the "rest" position of the envelope, the interior volume allows the sliding of the elongated element in the envelope whereas when the envelope is put under tension, the elongated element is blocked in the interior volume of the envelope .
• the distance (the length) between the first orifice and the second orifice can be greater than 5 times, preferably 15 times, the internal diameter of the envelope (that of the first and second orifices) in the rest position. Indeed, it is advantageous to have a sufficient length of envelope to have a sufficient clamping force thanks to the friction between the envelope and the elongated element over a large surface and distributed over the elongated element. According to another variant, the distance (the length) between the first orifice and the second orifice can be less than 15 times, preferably 10 times and more preferably 5 times, the internal diameter of the envelope (that of the first and second orifices) in the rest position. Indeed, as the second fixing element has been added, the tightening force has been improved and the length of the envelope can be reduced. This configuration is also advantageous for reducing the size of the system.
• the fixing of the envelope on the fixing element concerned can take place in a more or less extensive area, close to the the end concerned and preferably going as far as the end concerned.
• the first and second orifices are advantageously coaxial so that the tightening of the envelope on the elongated element is well distributed over the circumference and the length.
• the second fixing element comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other and a means for driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the first movement resulting in the reduction of the diameter of the envelope and thus the tightening of the envelope on the elongated element at the level of the second end.
• the envelope can be tightened on the elongated element at the level of the second end, uniformly over the entire circumference.
• the elongated element can no longer move at this end, unlike the systems of the prior art, which avoids friction and therefore wear of the envelope and that of the elongated element.
• the lifespan is therefore extended, which is particularly advantageous for floating offshore platforms such as floating wind turbines, to reduce costs and interventions linked to changes to slender elements, such as anchor cables and blocking systems. and associated unlocking.
• the system offers, unlike synthetic anchor cable fixing systems using splices, the possibility of direct installation of the anchor cable at the time of installation of the platform without having to resort to a external tensioning system. In fact, it is possible to pull on the cable during this installation and then block it at the desired length using the blocking and unblocking system. It is also possible to position the floating platform in a temporary position (for example by means of a ballast system) then gradually place it in the final position and hold it in this position by the cables held at the appropriate length by the locking and unlocking system.
• the second fixing element may comprise an external part enclosing a male body and a female body coaxial around the same axis (the male body and the female body forming two movable bodies the one relative to the other) and a movement device for moving along the axis (common to the male body and the female body), one of the male or female bodies towards the other of the male or female bodies female.
• the movement device thus corresponds to a means of driving a first movement of one of the bodies relative to the other.
• the external part can be cylindrical or at least include an internal diameter in which the male body and/or the female body can slide, driven by the displacement device.
• the male body may comprise an external surface inclined relative to the axis, for example this internal surface may be conical (at least partially conical) and the male body may also comprise an internal surface allowing passage of the envelope as well as that of the elongated element inside the envelope.
• the female body may include a conical (at least partially conical) internal surface with a cone angle substantially equal to the angle of the inclined (or conical) external surface of the male body relative to the axis.
• the internal surface of the male body constitutes a second opening.
• the second fixing element then surrounds the slender element.
• the external surface of the female body can for example be cylindrical to facilitate nesting and/or its sliding in the external part.
• the male body can comprise at least three independent parts so that the axial movement exerted by the displacement device causes a radial movement of the at least three independent parts so as to reduce the diameter of the envelope and thus to tighten the envelope on the elongated element near the second end.
• the envelope can be fixed integrally on the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body for example), preferably on the internal surface or at one end of the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body for example) or the end of the envelope can be blocked longitudinally between the at least three independent parts of the male body.
• the three independent parts are configured so that the internal diameter of the male body can be modified (increased or reduced) depending on their respective positions.
• the three independent parts allow a variation in the volume delimited by the internal surface of the male body, at least one of said male and female bodies being able to slide in the external part.
• the three independent parts can advantageously be distributed over the circumference of the elongated element so as to exert a blocking force (which can also be called tightening force, the tightening ensuring blocking) distributed over the circumference.
• a blocking force which can also be called tightening force, the tightening ensuring blocking
• These three independent parts can advantageously be separated from each other by circumferential clearances which allow the reduction of the internal diameter of the male body during tightening/blocking.
• the male body can comprise a single independent part, this single independent part being configured to allow a reduction in the internal diameter of the male body for tightening the male body on the elongated element.
• the male body can be made of a deformable material such as a plastic or an elastomer and/or can include grooves to facilitate the reduction in diameter of the male body. Indeed, thanks to the grooves, the elastic deformation of the male body is possible without causing cracks or rupture of the male body. With only one independent part, the system is simpler to assemble.
• the single independent part allows a variation of the volume delimited by the internal surface of the male body, at least one of the male and female bodies being able to slide in the external part.
• the envelope can be fixed integrally to the male body (on the at least three independent parts of the male body or on the single independent part of the male body for example), preferably on the internal surface or at one end of the male body ( of at least three independent parts of the male body or of the single independent part of the male body for example).
• the end of the envelope can be blocked longitudinally in the male body which serves as a longitudinal stop.
• the internal surface of the male body may comprise at least one convex curved portion.
• the internal surface of the male body has a portion curved towards the elongated element.
• This convex curved portion makes it possible to generate a progressive tightening of the body when the tightening is put in place, to distribute the stresses on the sheath and to avoid the concentration of stresses.
• the movement device can comprise a screw thread system, preferably a screw or a nut, capable of engaging in a thread or tapping of the external part.
• the movement device can allow both the first movement of one of the bodies towards the other to generate the reduction in diameter of the envelope and thus the blocking, as well as the second movement, in the opposite direction to the first movement, from one of the bodies in the direction to the other to generate unblocking by increasing the diameter of the envelope.
• this system is simple to implement.
• the movement device is designed to allow movement of the female body towards the male body so that the male body (the at least three independent parts or the single independent part for example) only moves radially.
• the female body moves along the axis towards the male body thus driving the male body radially by reducing the internal diameter of the male body.
• the blocking of the male body on the slender element occurs without friction, whereas friction could appear if the male body had at least partially axial movement at the time of blocking.
• This configuration is therefore particularly advantageous for reducing both wear of the envelope and that of the slender element.
• the second fixing element may comprise two annular parts (annular plates for example) connected together by strips curved in the direction of the envelope, the second fixing element comprising a means of movement for increasing or reducing the distance between the annular parts.
• the two annular pieces can in particular surround the envelope.
• the two annular parts can be separated from each other and thus allow the sliding of the slender element in the envelope; on the contrary, by bringing the two parts closer to each other, the blocking of the slender element in the envelope at the level of the second end by the contact between the slats and the envelope.
• the means of movement can be for example a cylinder, a cam system, a screw-nut system, etc.
• said spacing means may comprise a spring, a screw-nut system and/or a jack, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric jack.
• a spring such as a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric jack.
• the cylinder can be advantageous because the risk of seizure that the screw-nut system may present can be reduced and the effect of corrosion that the spring could undergo is also reduced.
• the spring has the advantage of ensuring one of the blocking or unlocking functions automatically.
• the screw-nut system allows manual actions allowing both blocking and unblocking.
• the second fixing element may comprise a return means for the movement in a second movement, preferably opposite to the first movement, of one of the bodies relative to the other, the second movement causing the casing to loosen on the slender element.
• loosen the system for example to modify the tension of the elongated element, particularly when it concerns an anchoring line which may creep or relax over time or which may require a modification of the voltage due to particular weather conditions (wind, thunderstorm, storm) and/or sea conditions (tide, swell, current).
• the return means may, in a non-limiting manner, comprise a lever.
• the second fixing element may comprise a return means for the movement along the axis of the male body and the female body, of the one of the male or female bodies in the direction opposite to the other of the male or female bodies, said return means preferably being a return spring or being constituted by said displacement device which is then reversible.
• the return means is configured for the movement of the female body in the direction opposite to the male body, the male body only generating a radial movement, so as to avoid any friction of the male body on the envelope and/or of the envelope on the slender element.
• the system can comprise a translation guide means, a slide for example, to guide the movement of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element.
• a translation guide means a slide for example, to guide the movement of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element.
• the translation guide means is configured so that the first and second (cylindrical) orifices are coaxial.
• the guide means may comprise a slide.
• the guide means may comprise a part with dovetail-shaped machining, the second fixing element comprising an extension whose shape is complementary to the dovetail. The complementary internal and external shapes of the dovetail allow effective guidance in a simple manner.
• the envelope can be fixed on the second fixing element, preferably, on an internal surface of the second fixing element, for example on the internal surface of the at least three independent parts of the male body or on the internal surface of the single independent part of the male body or even on the internal surface of the lamellae.
• the envelope is integral with the second fixing element, and by ensuring the movement of one of the bodies relative to the other, the diameter of the envelope can be increased or reduced, making it possible to allow sliding. of the slender element in the envelope or on the contrary, to ensure blocking.
• the envelope can be a woven or braided or non-woven sheath, the sheath comprising metal fibers and/or very high molecular weight polyethylene (HMPE) fibers, polyester or aramid (which has the added advantage of having a high coefficient of friction).
• HMPE very high molecular weight polyethylene
• aramid which has the added advantage of having a high coefficient of friction.
• This type of sheath allows effective clamping on the slender element, high resistance to friction and/or significant mechanical resistance.
• the sheath material can be TECHNORA® (Teijin Aramid, Netherlands) or DYNEEMA® (DMC, Netherlands).
• a polyester sheath can also be considered. Polyester has resistance to friction and an interesting coefficient of friction.
• the envelope may comprise a structure comprising at least one layer of wound armor, preferably in helical form.
• This structure allows a reduction in diameter when a tensile force is applied to the armor layer, while ensuring very high mechanical resistance, which is particularly interesting for the anchoring lines of floating platforms, such as platforms offshore oil or floating wind turbines.
• the second fixing element may comprise a stopping device to limit the relative movement (relative translation for example) between the at least two bodies movable relative to each other (between the male body and the body female for example).
• This stopping device can advantageously be adjusted (it can include an adjustment device) in order to better control the tightening.
• the stopping device may be a stopper.
• the invention also relates to a method of blocking and unlocking a slender element by a blocking and unlocking system as described above, in which, for blocking, at least the following steps are carried out: a) the elongated element in the blocking and unblocking system from one of the first or second orifices towards the other of the first and second orifices up to a blocking position, and preferably, a tension is exerted on the elongated element until to a blocking position, which is advantageous for floating platforms, in particular when the anchoring lines of these floating platforms are tensioned or semi-tensioned, b) once the blocking position of the slender element has been determined,
• the second fixing element is separated from the first fixing element using the spacing means, so as to exert a tension on the envelope, causing a constriction of the envelope and therefore a tightening of the envelope on the element elongated, then the second fixing element is blocked on the elongated element by moving in a first movement one of the at least two bodies relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving one of the annular parts relative to to the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies towards the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body towards the male body in such a way that the male body (that the other least three independent parts of the male body or the single independent part of the male body) moves only radially), or
• the second fixing element is blocked on the elongated element by moving in a first movement of one of the at least two bodies relative to the other, (for example by moving one of the annular parts towards the others or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies towards the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body towards the male body in such a way that the male body (that the at least three independent parts of the male body or the only independent part of the male body) only moves radially), then the second fixing element is moved away from the first fixing element so as to exert tension on the envelope.
• an anchor line for a wind turbine platform we can have a winch which makes it possible to maintain the tension in the anchor line initially for adjusting the length of the line. Then, we can block this position thanks to the blocking system which tightens the anchoring line in the envelope of the system and at the level of the second end of this envelope.
• the second end is advantageously that directed towards the seabed, while the first end is that directed towards the winch.
• the second fixing element is brought closer to the first fixing element so as to release the tension on the envelope then the second fixing element is released from the slender element by moving in a second movement, preferably opposite to the first movement, one of the at least two bodies relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving one of the annular parts towards the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies in the direction opposite to the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body in the direction opposite to the male body so that the at least three independent parts or the single independent part of the male body only moves radially) and possibly , the slender element can be pre-tensioned with a winch or any other tensioning means in order to avoid overloads at the level of the second fixing means, or
• the second fixing element of the elongated element is unlocked by moving in a second movement, preferably opposite to the first movement, one of the at least two bodies relative to the other (for example, by relatively moving the one of the annular parts relative to the other or by relatively moving one of the male or female bodies in the opposite direction to the other of these male or female bodies, preferably by moving the female body in the direction opposite to the body male so that the at least three independent parts or the single independent part of the male body only moves radially), then the second fixing element is brought closer to the first fixing element so as to release the tension on the envelope.
• the support can be a floating platform and before carrying out step b) for blocking, the floating platform can be ballasted to increase its draft, and after step b), the floating platform can be unballasted .
• FIG 1 illustrates in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a float F equipped with anchor lines L and blocking and unlocking systems 10 of the invention for blocking and unlocking anchor lines L.
• floats Of course other types of floats could be used: barges, semi-submersibles or spars.
• the float F is connected to the ground (to the seabed) by anchor lines L, here three anchor lines L, but of course a different number of anchor lines is possible without departing from the scope of the invention.
• the anchor lines L are connected on the one hand to anchors A placed or fixed on the ground (seabed) and on the other hand to a blocking and unblocking system 10 according to the invention, itself fixed on the float.
• a blocking and unlocking system 10 for each anchor line L.
• the blocking and unlocking systems 10 can be positioned above sea level, for example on the upper platform of the float, or below sea level (in this case, the blocking and unblocking system 10 is underwater).
• the float F in Figure 1 is a taut line float for which a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention is particularly advantageous.
• a taut line float requires good accuracy of line length/line tension to ensure operation and stability and it may be necessary to modify the setting of the length of the anchor lines or their tension during time, which is enabled by the blocking and unblocking system according to the invention.
• Figure 2 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a blocking and unlocking system 10 according to the invention.
• the blocking and unblocking system serves to block or unblock a slender element 14 such as a cable and in particular a synthetic cable.
• the blocking and unlocking system 10 comprises a first fixing element 12 fixed on the float (for example the float F in Figure 1), an envelope 11 (a textile sheath for example) and a second fixing element 13.
• the envelope 11 is fixed at a first end to the first fixing element 12 and at its second end to the second fixing element 13.
• a slender element 14, such as a cable, is placed in the blocking system and unlocking 10, particularly within of the envelope 11 from a first end of the envelope to its second end.
• the distance between the first and second fasteners can be varied. When it increases, a tension is then applied to the envelope 11 which causes a constricting effect of the envelope 11 on the elongated element 14 and thus allows blocking of the elongated element in the system in the current part of the envelope.
• current part we mean the part located far from the ends and therefore for the envelope, the part which is not in the first fixing element 12 nor in the second fixing element 13.
• the blocking and unlocking system is configured so that the elongated element 14 is blocked in the envelope 11 and in the second fixing element 13 and that the second fixing element 13 is located between the first fixing element 12 and the anchor point of the slender element (for example anchor A in Figure 1).
• the second fixing element 13 comprises at least two bodies movable relative to each other (not visible in the figure) so that a first movement of one of the bodies towards the other causes a reduction in the diameter of the envelope 1 1 and thus a blocking of the elongated element in the envelope 11 at the level of the second end in the second fixing element 13.
• the elongated element 14 can be subjected to a tension T in the direction of its another anchor point (anchor A in Figure 1 for example). This configuration is advantageous for tensioned or semi-tensioned anchor lines.
• Figure 3 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, an example of a second fixing element according to the invention.
• the second fixing element comprises a male body 15, a female body 16 and an external part 17.
• the second fixing element surrounds the elongated element 14 and the envelope 11, in which the elongated element 14 is placed in the envelope itself is fixed on the interior surface of the male body 15.
• the male body 15 comprises an inclined exterior surface, for example conical, capable of engaging in the conical interior surface of the female body 16.
• the female body 16 comprises a cylindrical outer surface corresponding substantially to the inner surface of the outer part 17.
• the male body 15 and the female body 16 can move relative to each other and one or both male and female bodies can move longitudinally relative to the external part.
• the second fixing element is in the “rest” position (i.e. “unblocked”).
• the elongated element 14 can slide in the envelope 11.
• the male body 15 has been moved towards the female body 16. Due to the contact parts between the male body 15 and the female body 16, this movement leads to a reduction in the internal diameter of the male body 15.
• the male body 15 can be in at least three independent parts, preferably separated by gaps, or it can be in a single independent deformable part to make the reduction in diameter possible, for example by a structure making this constriction possible, by using grooves in particular and/or by using a deformable material, such as an elastomer or a plastic.
• the male body 15 and female body 16 assembly is moved in the external part 17 to move the second fixing element (or at least part of it) away from the first fixing element (not shown) .
• This has the effect of stretching the envelope 11 upstream (that is to say in the direction of the first fixing element), of generating a constriction of the envelope and therefore a tightening of the envelope 1 1 on the slender element 14 in the current part.
• the elongated element may or may not be subjected to a tension T.
• Figure 4 illustrates in a schematic and non-limiting manner an example of a male body of a second fixing element.
• This male body comprises an inclined external surface S1, for example conical, and a convex curved internal surface S2 so as to limit the stress concentrations when tightening the envelope on the elongated element.
• Figure 5 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a three-dimensional view of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention, for blocking a slender element 14.
• the system comprises a first fixing element 12 which can be fix to a support such as a floating platform for example, a second fixing element 13 and an envelope 11 in which the elongated element 14 is able to be put in place and able to be blocked.
• the second fixing element 13 can be moved relative to the first fixing element 12, by a translation, preferably in the same direction as the tension force T which can be exerted on the elongated element 14.
• the first fixing element may comprise an extension 18 towards the second fixing element 13, this extension 18 here comprises dovetail-shaped machining but other solutions could be used.
• the second fixing element 13 comprises on its external part (on the external part for example) a machining of complementary shape 19 to that of the dovetail of the extension 18.
• the double arrow shows the movement in both directions which can be applied to the second fixing element 13.
• Figure 6 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a first variant of a second fixing element.
• the male body is in at least three independent parts 21.
• An envelope 11 is fixed or at least blocked longitudinally on the internal surface or the end of the independent parts 21 of the male body.
• Each independent part 21 comprises at least one inclined part 22 relative to the axis, on the external surface in order to engage in an internal conical surface (at least partially conical) of a female body not shown.
• a slender element 14 is placed in the envelope 1 1.
• the independent parts 21 comprise sockets 20 allowing the relative positioning of the different independent parts between them and facilitating the movement of the male body.
• the sockets 20 also prevent the envelope from getting stuck between two independent parts of the male body, which could create a pinch.
• the male body is in the “blocked” position. Indeed, in the "rest" (“unblocked") position, a clearance would separate the different independent parts at least at the level of the sockets 20.
• the clearance between the different independent parts gradually decreases until it becomes cancel in “blocked” position.
• Figure 7 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, the operating principle of the first variant of a second fixing element according to the invention.
• the second fixing element comprises a male body 15, a female body 16 and an external part 17 as well as a displacement device 25 consisting of a thread, such as a screw, capable of being placed in a thread of the external part 17.
• the envelope 11 is fixed or blocked longitudinally at the end on the interior surface of the male body 15.
• This interior surface is curved convex, that is to say curved in the direction of the envelope. 1 1
• the external surface of the male body 15 is at least partially inclined relative to the axis AA, for example, conical (at least partially conical), and the internal surface of the female body 16 is conical (also at least partially conical) and the surface angle inclined external surface of the male body 15 relative to the axis is substantially equal to the angle of the cone of the conical internal surface of the female body 16.
• the female body 16 When the screw 25 is screwed into the external part 17 by a rotational movement Rot, the female body 16 is driven in movement towards the male body 15.
• the longitudinal end of the male body 15 opposite the female body 16 is stuck by a shoulder of the external part 17 so that the male body cannot be driven in longitudinal movement along the axis AA (axis of the envelope and of the elongated element in the second fixing element, and which corresponds to the axis of the male body 15 and to the axis of the female body 16).
• the longitudinal movement of the female body 16 causes the radial movement of the male body 15 in the direction of the envelope 11, which causes a constriction of the envelope 1 1.
• Figure 8 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a first fixing element 12 according to an implementation of the invention.
• the envelope 11 is wedged between an internal part 30 with a conical upper surface 32 and an external housing 31 whose internal surface 33 is conical.
• the internal part 30 can be fixed by a flange to the external housing 31.
• Figure 9 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a blocking and unlocking system comprising a first fixing element 12 of Figure 8 and a second fixing element 13 corresponding to the first variant of Figure 7.
• the second fixing element is in the blocked position, the nut 25 being pushed as far as possible into the external part 17, the female body 16 then being in its maximum position towards the male body 15 and the male body 15 being at its maximum radial displacement in the direction of the envelope 11, which makes it possible to tighten the envelope 1 1 as much as possible towards the elongated element 14 at the level of the second end of the envelope 1 1.
• the second fixing element is in the “rest” (“unblocked”) position, the nut 25 being loosened as much as possible from the external part 17, the female body 16 then being in its maximum position in the direction opposite the male body 15 and the male body 15 being at its maximum radial displacement in the direction of the external part 17, which makes it possible to loosen as much as possible the envelope 11 of the elongated element 14 at the level of the second end of the envelope 11.
• the elongated element 14 can then slide freely in the second fixing element.
• Figure 10 illustrates a blocking and unlocking system with a first fixing element and a second fixing element whose principle is similar to that of Figure 9.
• the references which are identical to those of Figure 9 correspond to the same elements and will not be re-detailed.
• the blocking and unlocking system comprises a spacing means consisting of a spring 27 positioned between the first fixing element 12 and the second fixing element 13.
• the spring 27 is configured to automatically move the second fixing element away. fixing 13 of the first fixing element 12 and therefore thus generating a tension on the envelope 1 1, and therefore a constricting force of the envelope 11 towards the elongated element 14. To loosen the elongated element, it is possible to push manually or via equipment not shown (cylinder, lever with cam or other pushing device) the second fixing element 13 towards the first fixing element 12.
• the first fixing element 12 comprises a substantially cylindrical elongated extension 26 in the direction of the second fixing element 13, this substantially cylindrical elongated extension 26 serving as a guide to the longitudinal movement (translation) (along the axis of the elongated extension 26 which is also the axis of the envelope 1 1 fixed in the first fixing element 12 and in the second fixing element 13) of the second fixing element 13.
• the external part 17 of the second element fixing 13 can slide in the elongated extension 26 which is substantially cylindrical.
• spring 27 can be compressed (manually or by a pushing device) to introduce the slender element 14 into the blocking and unlocking system. Once the elongated element 14 is positioned at the desired position (and possibly tensioned to a predetermined tension value), the spring 27 can be decompressed. It will then relax and cause the envelope to be tensioned and thus tighten the envelope 11. on the elongated element 14 in the current part. Then, we can screw the nut 25 to move the female body towards the male body and thus cause the radial movement of the male body towards the elongated element 14 to tighten the envelope 11 on the elongated element 14 at the level of the second end. We could also screw in nut 25 before decompressing spring 27.
• Figure 1 1 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a partial three-dimensional view of a blocking and unlocking system of the invention.
• the second fixing element comprises a male body 16 identical to the first variant described previously.
• the male body 16 therefore comprises several independent parts (at least three) with interlockings 20 of these independent parts between them.
• the female body 16 is also in several parts which may or may not be independent and which are configured to engage in the inclined parts (corresponding to reference 22 in Figure 6) of the external surface of the independent parts of the male body 15.
• the nut 25 can be screwed to drive the female body 16 towards the male body 15 and thus cause the tightening of the casing on the elongated element 14.
• Figure 12 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a second variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• the blocking and unlocking system comprises a first fixing element 12, an envelope 11 and a second fixing element.
• a spring 27 positioned between the first fixing element 12 and the second fixing element serves as a spacing means.
• the spring 27 surrounds the envelope 11.
• the external surface of the male body 15 comprises a part inclined relative to the axis, for example conical, capable of engaging in the internal surface of the female body 16 which also comprises a conical part.
• the angle of the inclined part of the external surface of the male body 15 relative to the axis and the angle of the cone of the conical part of the internal surface of the female body 16 are substantially equal.
• the male body 15 is in a single independent part. So that the male body 15 can have its internal diameter reduced or increased, its structure and/or its material are configured to allow a variation of the internal diameter of the male body (for example, by grooves on the male body and/or by the use of an elastomeric or plastic material).
• a drive means for driving the female body 16 towards the male body comprises a lever 31 which drives a shaft (not shown) itself driving a cam 30 which acts to move the female body 16 apart. of the male body 15, when the cam is engaged on the female body.
• the spring 27 which acts as a means spacing of the second fixing element from the first fixing element, also serves as drive means for driving the female body 16 towards the male body 15.
• the male body 15 is driven radially towards the envelope 1 1 so that the internal diameter of the male body 15 decreases. Consequently, the diameter of the envelope 1 1 is also reduced at its second end (in the second fixing element), which causes a constriction of the envelope 1 1 on the elongated element, making it possible to block it at this second end.
• the second fixing element (the external part 17 in particular) may comprise an extension towards the first fixing element 12, which also includes an extension towards the second fixing element. These two extensions are configured to allow them to move in longitudinal translation relative to each other and thus serve as a guide for the movement in longitudinal translation of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element 12.
• Figure 13 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, an example of a male body 15 in a single independent part for the second variant of the blocking and unlocking system according to the invention, this second variant corresponding to that of the figure 12 described previously.
• the male body 15 comprises an external surface with at least one conical part S1 and an internal surface S2 on which the envelope is fixed.
• the conical portion S1 of the outer surface of the male body is designed to engage the inner surface of the female body (not shown).
• the male body 15 comprises several grooves R1 and R2 extending longitudinally along the axis of the male body 15 (the axis of the conical part S1 of the external surface of the male body 15 in particular), while not completely crossing the male body 15 longitudinally (the grooves do not open longitudinally).
• First grooves R1 extend longitudinally from a first longitudinal end E1 of the male body 15 and do not open out at the other longitudinal end E2. These first grooves R1 pass through the thickness of the male body 15: they extend radially from the external surface to the internal surface S2.
• Second grooves R2 extend longitudinally from a second longitudinal end E2 of the male body 15 and do not open out at the other longitudinal end E1. These second grooves R2 pass through the thickness of the male body 15: they extend radially from the external surface to the internal surface S2. This radial crossing of the first and second grooves of the thickness of the male body allows the male body 15 to deform and in particular the internal diameter to reduce.
• first and second grooves R1 and R2 which do not open longitudinally (that is to say which open into only one of the two first and second ends E1 and E2) makes it possible to maintain a male body 15 in a single independent part.
• the first and second grooves R1 and R2 are regularly distributed over the circumference of the male body 15, so as to generate a homogeneous deformation of the male body 15 over its circumference.
• first grooves R1 and the second grooves R2 follow one another in an alternating manner: this succession of first and second grooves R1 and R2 makes it possible to homogenize the deformation of the male body 15.
• the male body 15 is capable of having its internal diameter reduced (and its external diameter reduced) when it is engaged in the female body and when it is removed from the body female, the male body is capable of having its diameter increased to substantially regain its initial diameter, in the “rest” position.
• Figure 14 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a third variant of a blocking and unlocking system according to the invention.
• the blocking and unlocking system comprises a first fixing element 12, an envelope 11 and a second fixing element.
• a spring 27 positioned between the first fixing element 12 and the second fixing element serves as a spacing means.
• the spring 27 surrounds the envelope 11.
• the second fixing element comprises an external part 17, two annular parts 29a and 29b and a plurality of strips 28, each longitudinal end of which (in the axis of the second fixing element, that is to say of the envelope 1 1 in the second fixing element) is fixed to a separate annular part 29a/29b.
• the strips 28 are curved towards the elongated element to facilitate the tightening of the envelope 11 on the elongated element 14 when the two annular parts 29a/29b are brought together. 'one from the other.
• the second fixing element (the external part 17 in particular) may comprise an extension towards the first fixing element 12, which also includes an extension towards the second fixing element. These two extensions are configured to allow them to move in longitudinal translation relative to each other and thus serve as a guide for the movement in longitudinal translation of the second fixing element relative to the first fixing element 12.
• the second fixing element also includes drive means for driving one of the annular parts towards the other.
• This drive means comprises a lever 31 associated with a cam 30 which allows, depending on its position, to bring the annular part 29b closer to the annular part 29a (a first movement is then carried out allowing the tightening of the envelope 11 on the elongated element 14) or on the contrary, to move the annular part 29b away from the annular part 29a (a second movement is then carried out allowing the loosening of the envelope 11 of the elongated element 14).
• Figure 15 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a partial three-dimensional view of the third variant of the blocking and unlocking system corresponding to Figure 14.
• the spring 27 serves as a spacing means to move the second fixing element away from the first fixing element 12.
• the second fixing element comprises two annular parts 29a and 29b separated and spaced from one another via a plurality of strips 28 which are fixed, at each end to one of the two distinct annular parts 29a/29b .
• the envelope 1 1 is fixed on the slats 28, on the internal surface of the slats 28.
• a drive means makes it possible to move the annular parts 29a/29b apart or closer to each other.
• This drive means comprises a lever 31 which drives a shaft 32 in rotation, a cam being fixed on the shaft 32.
• the cam rotates around the axis of the shaft 32
• the annular part 29b can be moved away from or closer to the annular part 29a, thus respectively causing the unlocking of the envelope 11 of the elongated element 14 or, on the contrary, the blocking of the envelope 11 on the elongated element 14.
• the shaft 32 is advantageously pivotally connected to an external part (not shown in Figure 15 and corresponding to reference 17 in Figure 14).

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Clamps And Clips (AREA)
• Flexible Shafts (AREA)
• Installation Of Indoor Wiring (AREA)

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• 2022
  • 2022-06-24 FR FR2206309A patent/FR3137056B1/fr active Active
• 2023
  • 2023-06-09 WO PCT/EP2023/065505 patent/WO2023247216A1/fr not_active Ceased
  • 2023-06-09 EP EP23732063.5A patent/EP4544204A1/de active Pending
  • 2023-06-09 JP JP2024575390A patent/JP2025520680A/ja active Pending

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